MODULAR CABINET ASSEMBLIES AND RELATED METHODS

Abstract

A modular cabinet assembly includes a first cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a first compartment, the first cubby element having a front face extending between a first side and an opposing second side and encircling an opening to the first compartment. A second cubby element is similarly configured. The cubby elements can be stacked, or positioned side-by-side. A removable clip can secure the first cubby element to the second cubby element. In an embodiment, various cubby elements, of related widths can be provided, e.g., a first cubby element of width (x), a second cubby element of width (2×), a third cubby element of width (3×), and/or a fourth cubby element of width (1.5×). An embodiment can include a false back defining a hidden cavity and/or stacking brackets, for securely stacking cubby elements.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of each of U.S. Patent Application No. 63/579,453 filed Aug. 29, 2023, entitled MODULAR CABINET ASSEMBLIES AND RELATED METHODS, U.S. Patent Application No. 63/579,461 filed Aug. 29, 2023, entitled CASEGOOD FURNITURE SYSTEMS, ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS, U.S. Patent Application No. 63/581,822 filed Sep. 11, 2023, entitled CASEGOOD FURNITURE SYSTEMS AND ASSEMBLIES, MODULAR CABINET ASSEMBLIES, AND METHODS, and U.S. Patent Application No. 63/632,900 filed Apr. 11, 2024, entitled MODULAR CABINET ASSEMBLIES AND RELATED METHODS. Each of the foregoing applications is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

1. The Field of the Disclosure

The present disclosure relates to modular cabinet assemblies and related methods of assembly.

2. The Relevant Technology

Various forms of modular cabinets exist wherein the shelving thereof can be selectively adjusted to provide compartments of desired sizes. Although such modular cabinets are useful, they have significant shortcomings. For example, while some modular cabinets can be adjusted to provide compartments of different sizes, the outer housing of the modular cabinets is not adjustable in size, thereby limiting the functionality and usefulness of the cabinets. Furthermore, where the outer housing of modular cabinets can be adjusted, the extent of expansion and/or contraction of the cabinets is typically limited. As such, different sizes of modular cabinets (and replacement of such cabinets) is often required if significant changes are needed.

In addition, most modular cabinets require the use of elaborate and/or complicated mechanisms for assembling the cabinets and/or adjusting the shelves. Such mechanisms can increase the price of modular cabinets while simultaneously making them more difficult and time consuming to assemble and/or adjust.

In some embodiments, the assembly or adjustment of modular cabinets can require the use of tools, such as wrenches, screwdrivers and the like. For those who are not mechanically inclined, the required use of such tools can make use of the modular cabinet intimidating.

Accordingly, what is needed in the art are modular cabinets that overcome all or at least some of the above shortcomings and/or other shortcomings known in the art.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Principles of the present invention can be applied to a variety of modular cabinet assemblies, making the systems more efficient and useful, enabling the use of various parts in various modular cabinet assemblies.

In an embodiment, a modular cabinet assembly includes a first cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a first compartment, the first cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face encircling an opening to the first compartment, the first cubby element having a first width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face. A second cubby element can also be provided, having a box shaped configuration and bounding a second compartment, the second cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the second cubby element encircling an opening to the second compartment, the second cubby element having a second width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element. In an embodiment, the first width can be substantially equal to a height of the first cubby element, or the first width can be substantially equal to twice the height of the first cubby element. The second width can be substantially equal to a height of the second cubby element, or the second width can be substantially equal to twice the height of the second cubby element. The first and second cubby elements can be selectively secured to one another, either in a lateral side-by-side configuration, or stacked one atop another.

In any of the described embodiments, the assembly can include a top panel extending over and being removably secured to a top surface of at least one of the cubby elements.

In any of the described embodiments, the first width of the first cubby element can be substantially equal to the height of the first cubby element, and the second width of the second cubby element can be substantially equal to the height of the second cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments, the first width of the first cubby element can be substantially equal to twice the height of the first cubby element, and the second width of the second cubby element can be substantially equal to twice the height of the second cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments, the first width and the second width can be from about 10 to about 40 inches, or from about 10 to about 35 inches.

In any of the described embodiments, the height of the first and second cubby elements can be from about 6 to about 18, or about 6 to about 16 inches.

In any of the described embodiments, the first cubby element can be removably secured to the second cubby element by a removable clip that extends over a portion of the front face or back face of the first cubby element and the front face or back face of the second cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments, each cubby element can be open at a top of the cubby element. For example, when stacking cubby elements on top of one another, the open top of a first cubby element can be closed off by the bottom face of a second cubby element by stacking the second cubby element on top of such first cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments, each cubby element can include an alignment mechanism in a top surface of the cubby element, for coupling a top panel over the open top of such cubby element, when such cubby element is positioned as a top cubby element in a modular cabinet assembly that can include vertically stacked cubby elements.

In any of the described embodiments, each cubby element can include a bottom panel for coupling over and closing the open top of a cubby element positioned below such cubby element in the modular cabinet assembly, wherein an underside of the bottom panel mates with the alignment mechanism in the top surface of the cubby element positioned below such cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments, the alignment mechanism can comprise alignment rails on opposite sides of the top surface of the cubby element, alignment rails on each side of the top surface of the cubby element, and/or a plurality of alignment pegs.

Another exemplary modular cabinet assembly comprises a first cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a first compartment, the first cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face encircling an opening to the first compartment, the first cubby element having a first width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face. A second cubby element can also be provided, having a box shaped configuration and bounding a second compartment, the second cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the second cubby element encircling an opening to the second compartment, the second cubby element having a second width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element. A third cubby element can be provided having a box shaped configuration and bounding a third compartment, the third cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the third cubby element encircling an opening to the third compartment, the third cubby element having a third width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element. The first width can be (x) and can be substantially equal to a height of the first cubby element, so that the first compartment of the first cubby element is substantially square. The second width can be substantially equal to twice the first width (2×). The third width can be substantially equal to three times the first width (3×). The first, second and third cubby elements can be selectively secured to one another, directly or indirectly, either in a lateral side-by-side configuration, or stacked one atop another.

In any of the described embodiments, each of the first, second and third cubby elements can each have substantially the same height.

In any of the described embodiments, the assembly can include a fourth cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a fourth compartment, the fourth cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the fourth cubby element encircling an opening to the fourth compartment, the fourth cubby element having a fourth width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element, wherein the fourth width is substantially equal to 1.5 times the first width (1.5×).

In any of the described embodiments, the fourth compartment of the fourth cubby element can be rectangular.

In any of the described embodiments, the width of the third cubby element can be about 35 inches.

Another embodiment includes a modular cabinet assembly comprising a first row of cubby elements comprising a first cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a first compartment, the first cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face encircling an opening to the first compartment, the first cubby element having a first width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face. A second cubby element can be provided, having a box shaped configuration and bounding a second compartment, the second cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the second cubby element encircling an opening to the second compartment, the second cubby element having a second width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element, the second width being equal to 1.5 or 2 times the first width. The first cubby element can be removably secured to the second cubby element so that the second side face of the first cubby element is disposed against the first side face of the second cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments, the first row of cubby elements can comprise a third cubby element having a configuration identical to the second cubby element, the third cubby element being removably coupled to the first cubby element or the second cubby element so as to extend laterally therefrom.

In any of the described embodiments, the assembly can further comprise a second row of cubby elements disposed on top of or below the first row of cubby elements, the second row of cubby elements being comprised of a plurality cubby elements that are laterally coupled together in consecutive order, all of the cubby elements of the second row of cubby elements being identical to the first cubby element, wherein the first row of cubby elements has a first maximum lateral width and the second row of cubby elements has a second maximum lateral width that is equal to the first maximum lateral width.

In any of the described embodiments the modular cabinet assembly can further comprise a top panel extending over and being removably secured to a top surface of the first row of cubby elements or the second row of cubby elements; and a bottom panel extending over and being removably secured to a bottom surface of the other of the first row of cubby elements or the second row of cubby elements, the top panel being identical to the bottom panel.

In any of the described embodiments, the first width of the first cubby element can be about 16 inches and the second width of the second cubby element can be about 24 inches.

In any of the described embodiments, the first cubby element can be removably secured to the second cubby element by a removable clip that extends over a portion of the front face or back face of the first cubby element and the front face or back face of the second cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments, a pin can extend between the first row of cubby elements and the second row of cubby elements.

In any of the described embodiments, the first cubby element can have a first height extending between the top face and the opposing bottom face thereof that is equal to the first width and wherein the second cubby element has a second height extending between the top face and the opposing bottom face thereof that is equal to half of the second width.

Another embodiment is directed to a modular cabinet assembly comprising a first cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a first compartment, the first cubby element having a front face extending between a first side and an opposing second side and encircling an opening to the first compartment. A second cubby element can also be provided, having a box shaped configuration and bounding a second compartment, the second cubby element having a front face extending between a first side and an opposing second side and encircling an opening to the second compartment, the second side of the first cubby element being disposed against the first side of the second cubby element. A removable first clip can be provided, securing the first cubby element to the second cubby element by passing over a portion of the front face or back face of the first cubby element and over a portion of the front face or back face of the second cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments, the removable first clip can have a U-shaped configuration.

In any of the described embodiments the assembly can further comprise a first mounting slot being formed on the front face of the first cubby element, and a first mounting slot being formed on the front face of the second cubby element, the removable first clip being removably received within the first mounting slot of the first cubby element and the first mounting slot of the second cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments the assembly can further comprise the first cubby element and the second cubby element each having a back face opposite the front face thereof; and a removable second clip securing the first cubby element to the second cubby element by passing through the back face of the first cubby element and the back face of the second cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments, the assembly can further comprise a top panel disposed on a top surface of the first cubby element and the second cubby element, a pin extending between the top panel and the first cubby element or the second cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments, the assembly can further comprise a bottom panel disposed on a bottom surface of the first cubby element and the second cubby element, a pin extending between the bottom panel and the first cubby element or the second cubby element, the bottom panel being identical to the top panel.

In any of the described embodiments, the assembly can further comprise a bottom panel disposed on a bottom surface of the first cubby element and the second cubby element, a pin extending between the bottom panel and the first cubby element or the second cubby element.

In another embodiment, a modular cabinet assembly is provided comprising an array of cubby elements wherein each cubby element has a box shaped configuration and bounds a compartment, each cubby element also having a front face encircling an opening to the compartment thereof, the array of cubby elements comprising one or more rows of the cubby elements, each row of the cubby elements comprising at least two of the cubby elements removably coupled together in lateral alignment. A top panel is provided extending over and being removably secured to a top surface of the array of cubby elements. A bottom panel is provided extending over and being removably secured to a bottom surface of the array of cubby elements, the top panel being identical to the bottom panel.

In any of the described embodiments, the array of cubby elements can comprise at least 2 rows of the cubby elements that are vertically staked on top of each other.

In any of the described embodiments, the array of cubby elements can comprise at least 2 rows of the cubby elements arranged as an array of 2 or more vertically, 2 or more horizontally, or 2 or more in depth, pushed back-to-back.

In any of the described embodiments, the assembly can further comprise at least one pin extending between a top surface of the array of cubby elements and the top panel.

In any of the described embodiments the assembly can further comprise at least one pin extending between a bottom surface of the array of cubby elements and the bottom panel.

In any of the described embodiments the assembly can further comprise a plurality of feet threaded into the bottom panel.

Another embodiment is directed to a modular cabinet assembly comprising a plurality of cubby elements each having an identical configuration, each of the plurality of cubby elements having a box shaped configuration with a front face encircling an opening to a compartment. Each of the plurality of cubby elements includes a first cubby element removably coupled to a second cubby element, the second cubby element being disposed lateral to the first cubby element; and a third cubby element removably coupled to the first cubby element, the third cubby element being disposed vertically on top of the first cubby element.

Another embodiment is directed to a modular cabinet assembly comprising a plurality of cubby elements each having an identical configuration, each of the plurality of cubby elements having a box shaped configuration with a front face encircling an opening to a compartment. One or more of the cubby elements can include a false back defining a hidden cavity between the false back and a back panel.

In any of the described embodiments the plurality of cubby elements can include a first cubby element removably coupled to a second cubby element, the second cubby element being disposed lateral to the first cubby element; and a third cubby element removably coupled to the first cubby element, the third cubby element being disposed vertically on top of the first cubby element. Each of the first, second, and third cubby elements can include the false back defining a hidden cavity.

In any of the described embodiments the assembly can further include a plurality of foot anchors within a bottom panel of each cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments, a bottom panel of each cubby element can include a notch to allow passage of a cord from the hidden cavity into the compartment defined by the cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments the assembly can further include a plurality of bolts or feet that anchor into the foot anchors.

In any of the described embodiments the assembly can further include one or more stacking brackets that attach between a side panel and an upper panel extending between opposed side panels of the cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments the stacking brackets can include a notch that receives a bolt or foot anchored into a foot anchor in a bottom panel of an adjacent stacked cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments the assembly can further include one or more integrated latches for locking one cubby element to an adjacent stacked cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments the back panel can include a rear crossmember that includes an angled opening, for mounting the cubby element to a corresponding cleat mounted to a wall.

In any of the described embodiments the assembly can further include connecting hardware inserted into foot anchors that slide into a notch of a stacking bracket, for stacking one cubby element on top of another cubby element.

In any of the described embodiments the stacking brackets of adjacent side-by-side cubby elements can each include a notch that receives a bolt or foot anchored into a top panel that serves as a lid that is attached over the cubby elements that are attached side-by-side.

In any of the described embodiments the assembly can further include a clamp that clamps one side panel of one cubby element to an adjacent side panel of an adjacent cubby element, so as to connect the cubby elements side-by-side.

Any of the described features may be used in combination with any other described feature. These and other objects and features of the present will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments of the present disclosure will now be discussed with reference to the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a modular cabinet assembly.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the modular cabinet assembly shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a top front perspective view of a cubby element of the modular cabinet assembly shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a bottom front perspective view of the cubby element shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the cubby element shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a clip used in the modular cabinet assembly shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6A is a schematic view of alternative configurations for the clip shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of two of the cubby elements show in FIG. 1 coupled together by a front clip.

FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of the cubby elements show in FIG. 7 coupled together by a rear clip.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a pin used to couple together stacked cubby elements.

FIG. 10A is a top plan view of the bottom panel of the modular cabinet assembly shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 10B is a bottom plan view of the bottom panel shown in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the cubby elements shown in FIG. 7 having a drawer and a face plate coupled thereto.

FIG. 12 are schematic representations of alternative embodiments of the modular cabinet assembly shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 13 are schematic representations of alternative modular cabinet assemblies wherein the cubby elements thereof have different widths.

FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate alternative embodiments of a modular cabinet assembly, formed using a top panel and one or more cubby elements, each of which includes an open top, and an alignment mechanism for mating the top panel over the open top.

FIGS. 15A-15D illustrate another embodiment of a modular cabinet assembly, formed using a top panel and one or more cubby elements, each of which includes an open top, and an alternative alignment mechanism for mating the top panel over the open top.

FIGS. 16A-16D illustrate another embodiment of a modular cabinet assembly, formed using a top panel and one or more cubby elements, each of which includes an open top, and an alternative alignment mechanism for mating the top panel over the open top.

FIGS. 17-30 show various additional exemplary modular cabinet assemblies.

FIG. 31 illustrates how the optional top panel of the illustrated modular cabinet assembly can include electronics or other functionality embedded therein.

FIGS. 32A-33E illustrate how the present modular cabinet assemblies including one or more cubby elements can be integrated with one or more casegood furniture systems, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 34A-35B illustrates another embodiment of an exemplary modular cabinet assembly including one or more cubby elements.

FIG. 35C illustrates the exemplary modular cabinet assembly of FIGS. 34A-35B with the false back removed.

FIG. 35D illustrates the modular cabinet assembly of FIGS. 34A-35B, showing how two cubby elements can be secured together, stacked vertically.

FIGS. 36A-36B illustrate vertical stacking of several such cubby elements.

FIGS. 37A-37C illustrate the hidden cavity region of the cubby element, and use of integrated latches for securing a rear portion of the cubby elements together.

FIGS. 38 and 39A-39B illustrates a cross-sectional view, illustrating mechanisms for securing or mounting such cubby elements to a wall.

FIGS. 40A-40B illustrate the hidden cavity region of the cubby element, showing an alternative configuration for the integrated latches for securing cubby elements together.

FIGS. 41A-41C illustrate various mechanisms for securing cubby elements side-by-side.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Before describing the present disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particularly exemplified apparatus, systems, assemblies, methods, or process parameters that may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is only for the purpose of describing particular exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure in any manner.

All publications, patents, and patent applications cited herein, whether supra or infra, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

The term “comprising” which is synonymous with “including,” “containing,” or “characterized by,” is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

It will be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a “cubby element” includes one, two, or more cubby elements.

As used herein, the term “between” includes any referenced endpoints. For example, “between 2 and 10” includes both 2 and 10.

In addition, unless otherwise indicated, numbers expressing quantities, constituents, distances, or other measurements used in the specification and claims are to be understood as optionally being modified by the term “about” or its synonyms. When the terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” or the like are used in conjunction with a stated amount, value, or condition, it may be taken to mean an amount, value or condition that deviates by less than 20%, less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, or less than 0.01% of the stated amount, value, or condition.

As used in the specification and appended claims, directional terms, such as “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “up,” “down,” “upper,” “lower,” “proximal,” “distal” and the like are used herein solely to indicate relative directions and are not otherwise intended to limit the scope of the disclosure or claims.

Where possible, like numbering of elements have been used in various figures. Furthermore, multiple instances of an element and or sub-elements of a parent element may each include separate letters appended to the element number. For example, two instances of a particular element “10” may be labeled as “10A” and “10B”. In that case, the element label may be used without an appended letter (e.g., “10”) to generally refer to all instances of the element or any one of the elements. Element labels including an appended letter (e.g., “10A”) can be used to refer to a specific instance of the element or to distinguish or draw attention to multiple uses of the element. Furthermore, an element label with an appended letter can be used to designate an alternative design, structure, function, implementation, and/or embodiment of an element. For example, two alternative exemplary embodiments of a particular element may be labeled as “10A” and “10B”. In that case, the element label may be used without an appended letter (e.g., “10”) to generally refer to all instances of the alternative embodiments or any one of the alternative embodiments.

Various aspects of the present devices and assemblies may be illustrated by describing components that are coupled, attached, and/or joined together. As used herein, the terms “coupled”, “attached”, and/or “joined” are used to indicate either a direct connection between two components or, where appropriate, an indirect connection to one another through intervening or intermediate components. In contrast, when a component is referred to as being “directly coupled”, “directly attached”, and/or “directly joined” to another component, there are no intervening elements present. Furthermore, as used herein, the terms “connection,” “connected,” and the like do not necessarily imply direct contact between the two or more elements.

Various aspects of the present devices, assemblies, and methods may be illustrated with reference to one or more exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the terms “embodiment,” “alternative embodiment” and “exemplary embodiment” mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration,” and should not necessarily be construed as required or as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments disclosed herein.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. Although a number of methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice of the present disclosure, the preferred materials and methods are described herein.

Depicted in FIG. 1 is an embodiment of a modular cabinet assembly 10 incorporating features of the present disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, modular cabinet assembly 10 generally comprises a cubby element array 12 having a top surface 14 and an opposing bottom surface 16. Disposed on top surface 14 is a top panel 18 while disposed on bottom surface 16 is a bottom panel 20. Downwardly extending from bottom panel 20 are a plurality of feet 22.

As depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, cubby element array 12 is comprised of a plurality of discrete cubby elements 26 that are removably coupled together. For example, cubby element array 12 is comprised of discrete cubby elements 26A-26I. Although cubby element array 12 is shown as being formed of nine separate cubby elements 26A-26I, in other embodiments, as will be discussed below in more detail, alternative cubby element arrays/modular cabinet assemblies can be formed from any desired number of cubby elements 26. For example, any number of cubby elements 26 can be stacked vertically with a coupling engagement therebetween and/or any number of cubby elements can be laterally coupled together. In some embodiments, cubby elements 26 of a cubby element array all have identical configurations. In other embodiments, as will be discussed below, cubby elements 26 of a cubby element array/modular cabinet assembly can have two or more different widths and/or heights, but all other dimensions and features can be identical. In still other embodiments, some cubby elements can have different configurations than other cubby elements.

Turning to FIG. 3, cubby element 26A generally comprises a body 28 having a box shaped configuration and having an interior surface 29 that bounds a compartment 30. Body 28 has a front face 32 and an opposing back face 33 that both vertically extend between a top face 34 and an opposing bottom face 36 and that both laterally extend between a first side face 38 and an opposing second side face 40. Front face 32 is shown as encircling an opening 42 to compartment 30. Opening 42 can have a rectangular configuration while compartment 30 and/or body 28 can have rectangular transverse cross sections. Compartment 30 and/or body 28 can also have the configuration of a rectangular cuboid or a right square prism (e.g., rectangular prism).

Expressed in further detail, body 28 comprises a top panel 50 and an opposing bottom panel 52 that both extend between a first end 54 and an opposing second end 56. Top panel 50 and bottom panel 52 are spaced apart and can extend in parallel alignment. Extending between top panel 50 and bottom panel 52 at first end 54 is a first side panel 58 while extending between top panel 50 and bottom panel 52 at second end 56 is a second side panel 60. First side panel 58 and second side panel 60 are also spaced apart and can extend parallel to each other and perpendicular to top panel 50 and/or bottom panel 52. A back panel 62 extends vertically between top panel 50 and bottom panel 52 and extends laterally between first side panel 58 and second side panel 60. Front face 32 can be formed from converging side edges of top panel 50, bottom panel 52, first side panel 58, and second side panel 60. Each of panels 50, 52, 58, 60, and 62 can be planar, such as in the configuration of a board or panel, and can have a rectangular configuration.

Cubby element 26A/body 28 has a width extending between first side face 38 and second side face 40 that is typically equal to or greater than 10, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 30, 35, or 40 inches (25, 35, 40, 46, 51, 56, 61, 66, 71, 76, 89, or 102 cm) or is in a range between any two of the foregoing. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, cubby element 26A/body 28 can be made in two, three, four or more different sizes which can be mixed and matched when forming cubby element array 12. By way of example, one cubby element 26A/body 28 can be formed having a width extending between first side face 38 and second side face 40 that is 16 inches (41 cm) while a second cubby element 26A/body 28 can be formed having a width extending between first side face 38 and second side face 40 that is 24 inches (61 cm). Other dimensions can also be used.

In an embodiment, the cubby elements can be defined by a particular dimensional relationship. For example, in an embodiment, the width of a given cubby element can be equal, or substantially equal to the height of the cubby element. In another embodiment, the width of the cubby element can be equal or substantially equal to twice the height of the cubby element. As will be described herein, all cubby elements within a given modular cabinet assembly can have identically sized cubby elements, or two or more differently sized cubby elements can be employed, within the same modular cabinet assembly.

Cubby element 26A/body 28 has a height extending between top face 34 and opposing bottom face 36 that is typically equal to or greater than 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 or 16 inches (15, 20, 25, 30, 36, or 41 cm) or is in a range between any two of the foregoing. Commonly, the height is less than the width. Cubby element 26A/body 28 can also have a depth extending between front face 32 and opposing back face 33 that is typically equal to or greater than 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 or 22 inches (30, 36, 41, 46, 51, or 56 cm) or is in a range between any two of the foregoing. Cubby element 26A/body 28 can be comprised of wood, metal, plastic, composite, plywood, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), chip board or other materials commonly used in the formation of shelving, cabinets, or dressers.

Continuing with FIGS. 3 and 4, recessed on front face 32 is a first mounting slot 64 and a spaced apart second mounting slot 66. More specifically, first mounting slot 64 is recessed on first side panel 58 and is commonly centrally disposed between top face 34 and opposing bottom face 36. First mounting slot 64 includes a first slot portion 64A that extends laterally between first side face 38 and interior surface 29 and a second slot portion 64B that extends along interior surface 29 of first side panel 58 from first slot portion 64A toward back panel 62. As such, first mounting slot 64 has an L-shaped configuration. First slot portion 64A and second slot portion 64B commonly have a square or rectangular configuration but other shapes can also be used.

Second mounting slot 66 is formed complementary to first mounting slot 64. Specifically, second mounting slot 66 is recessed on second side panel 60 and is commonly centrally disposed between top face 34 and opposing bottom face 36 so as to be horizontally aligned with first mounting slot 64. Second mounting slot 66 includes a first slot portion 66A that extends laterally between second side face 40 and interior surface 29 and a second slot portion 66B that extends along interior surface 29 of second side panel 60 from first slot portion 66A toward back panel 62. As such, second mounting slot 66 also has a L-shaped configuration. First slot portion 66A and second slot portion 66B commonly have a square or rectangular configuration but other shapes can also be used.

Turning to FIG. 5, recessed on back face 33 of body 28 is a third mounting slot 68 and a spaced apart fourth mounting slot 70. More specifically, third mounting slot 68 is recessed on back panel 62 and is commonly centrally disposed between top face 34 and opposing bottom face 36 so as to be in horizontal alignment with first mounting slot 64. Third mounting slot 68 includes a first slot portion 68A recessed into back face 33 and extending laterally from first side face 38 a distance toward second side face 40. Third mounting slot 68 also includes a second slot portion 68B that projects into back face 33 at the end of first slot portion 68A so as to extend to or toward interior surface 29. In an embodiment, second slot portion 68B passes through back panel 62 and is recessed into interior surface 29 of first side panel 58. As such, third mounting slot 68 has an L-shaped configuration. First slot portion 68A and second slot portion 68B also commonly have a square or rectangular configuration but other shapes can also be used.

Continuing with FIG. 5, fourth mounting slot 70 is formed complementary to third mounting slot 68. Specifically, fourth mounting slot 70 is recessed on back panel 62 and is commonly centrally disposed between top face 34 and opposing bottom face 36 so as to be in horizontal alignment with both third mounting slot 68 and second mounting slot 66 (FIG. 3). Fourth mounting slot 70 includes a first slot portion 70A recessed into back face 33 and extending laterally from second side face 40 a distance toward first side face 38. Fourth mounting slot 70 also includes a second slot portion 70B that projects into back face 33 at the end of first slot portion 70A so as to extend to or toward interior surface 29. In an embodiment, second slot portion 70B passes through back panel 62 and is recessed into interior surface 29 of second side panel 60. As such, fourth mounting slot 70 has an L-shaped configuration. First slot portion 70A and second slot portion 70B also commonly have a square or rectangular configuration but other shapes can also be used.

Returning to FIG. 3, recessed into top face 34 is an upper coupling hole 74. As will be discussed below in more detail, upper coupling hole 74 is configured to receive a pin for coupling cubby element 26A/body 28 to an adjacent structure. Upper coupling hole 74 can pass through body 28/top panel 50 to interior surface 29 or may only be recessed into top surface 34 without passing through body 28/top panel 50 to interior surface 29. In an embodiment, upper coupling hole 74 is centrally formed between first side face 38 and second side face 40 and thus is likewise centrally formed between first mounting slot 64 and second mounting slot 66 and between third mounting slot 68 and fourth mounting slot 70. Upper coupling hole 74 can be centrally mounted between front face 32 and back face 33 but is more commonly disposed closer to back face 33 than front face 32.

Turning to FIG. 4, recessed into bottom face 36 is a lower coupling hole 76. As will be discussed below in more detail, lower coupling hole 76 is also configured to receive a pin for coupling cubby element 26A/body 28 to an adjacent structure. Lower coupling hole 76 can pass through body 28/bottom panel 52 to interior surface 29 or may only be recessed into bottom surface 36 without passing through body 28/bottom panel 52 to interior surface 29. In an embodiment, lower coupling hole 76 is centrally formed between first side face 38 and second side face 40 and thus is likewise centrally formed between first mounting slot 64 and second mounting slot 66 and between third mounting slot 68 and fourth mounting slot 70 (FIG. 5). Lower coupling hole 76 can be centrally mounted between front face 32 and back face 33 but is more commonly disposed closer to back face 33 than front face 32. In an embodiment, lower coupling hole 76 is vertically aligned with upper coupling hole 74 when cubby element 26A/body 28 is horizontally disposed. Coupling holes 74 and 76 typically have a diameter in a range between 1 mm and 8 mm with between 1 mm and 5 mm being more common. Other diameters can also be used.

Optionally formed on bottom face 36 of body 28 adjacent to each corner thereof are mounting holes 78A-D. When desired, such as when modular cabinet assembly 10 is formed without bottom panel 20 (FIG. 2), mounting holes 78A-D can each be used for removably coupling a leg to each corner of bottom face 36 or to any desired corner of bottom face 36. For example, depicted in FIG. 2 are legs 80A-80D. Each leg 80 has a leg body 82 and a threaded stem 84 projecting therefrom. Legs 80A-80D can be removably mounted to cubby element 26A/body 28 by manually threading threaded stem 84 of each leg 80A-80D into a corresponding one of mounting holes 78A-D. Other configurations of legs can also be used. Mounting holes 78A-D can comprise discrete holes formed on bottom surface 36, such as through the use of a drill, or they can comprise holes formed in metal inserts that are mounted on bottom surface 36.

As shown in FIG. 2, clips 90 can be used for removably coupling together cubby elements 26 that are adjacently disposed laterally. As depicted in FIG. 6, each clip 90 is U-shaped and generally comprises a base 92 and two spaced apart arms 94A and 94B outwardly projecting from a common side of base 92. As used in the specification and appended claims, a “U-shaped” clip need not have a configuration that is exactly in the shape of a “U” but also broadly covers other generally U-shaped configurations wherein the clip includes a base and two arms projecting from the same side of the base. For example, FIG. 6A shows alternative, non-exhaustive embodiments of U-shaped clips that can be used in modular cabinet assembly 10. Specifically, FIG. 6A shows a U-shaped clip 90A having rounded U-shaped arms, a U-shaped clip 90B having a C-shaped configuration, a U-shaped clip 90C having converging arms, and a U-shaped clip 90D having diverging arms. Other U-shaped configurations for clip 90 can also be used. Arms 94A and 94B can be resiliently flexible or can be rigid.

Turning to FIG. 7, during assembly, second side face 40 of cubby element 26A is disposed against or adjacent to first side face 38 of cubby element 26B so that second mounting slot 66 of cubby element 26A is aligned with and disposed adjacent to first mounting slot 64 of cubby element 26B. Clip 90 is then passed over front face 32 of cubby element 26A and front face 32 of cubby element 26B so as to secure cubby elements 26A and 26B together. More specifically, clip 90 is received within second mounting slot 66 of cubby element 26A and first mounting slot 64 of cubby element 26B so as to secure cubby elements 26A and 26B together. Aligned mounting slots 66 and 64 typically have a configuration complementary to clip 90 so that when clip 90 is received within aligned mounting slots 66 and 64, the outside face of clip 90, i.e., the outside face of base 92, is disposed flush with front face 32 of cubby elements 26A and 26B and the outside face of clip 90, i.e., the outside face of arms 94A and 94B, are disposed flush with interior surface 29 of side panels 60 and 58. Having clip 90 sit flush within mounting slots 66 and 64 helps prevent unwanted movement of clip 90, provides improved engagement between cubby elements 26A and 26B, prevents unwanted catching of objects on clip 90 as the objects are being inserted or removed from compartments 30, and provides a more finished appearance. In alternative embodiments, however, all of or a portion of mounting slots 64 and 66 can be eliminated. For example, first slot portion 64A, 66A and/or second slot portion 64B, 66B can be eliminated but clip 90 can still be positioned over adjacent portions of front face 32 of cubby elements 26A and 26B to secure them together.

With reference to FIG. 8, to further secure together laterally disposed cubby elements 26A and 26B, a clip 90 can also be received within aligned mounting slots 68 and 70. Specifically, second side face 40 of cubby element 26A is disposed against or adjacent to first side face 38 of cubby element 26B so that fourth mounting slot 70 of cubby element 26A is aligned with and disposed adjacent to third mounting slot 68 of cubby element 26B. Again, clip 90 has a configuration complementary to aligned mounting slots 68 and 70. As clip 90 is received within aligned mounting slots 68 and 70, clip 90 secures together the back end of cubby elements 26A and 26B and prevents or limits lateral separation therebetween. In addition, fitting clip 90 within recessed mounting slots 68 and 70 helps prevent unwanted movement of clip 90, provides improved engagement between cubby elements 26A and 26B, prevents unwanted catching of objects on clip 90 as the objects are being inserted or removed from compartments 30, and provides a more finished appearance. However, in an alternative embodiment, mounting slots 68 and 70 can be formed without slot portions 68A and 70A (FIG. 5). In this embodiment, clip 90 would be mounted by simply being inserted within slot portions 68A and 68B. Centering of the various mounting slots between top face 34 and bottom face 36 assists in alignment between different mounting slots and enables cubby elements to be laterally coupled together by clips 90 independent of whether a cubby element 26 is right side up or inverted, thereby simplifying assembly. However, in other embodiments, the mounting slots need not be centered between top face 34 and bottom face 36.

In an embodiment, only clips 90 are used to laterally secure together adjacent cubby elements 26. The use of just clips 90 provides an inexpensive coupling that is easy to manually assemble and disassemble. The use of clips 90 can eliminate the use of screws, bolts, pins or other fasteners that extend between adjacent cubby elements 26. In addition, the use of clips 90 enables coupling between adjacent cubby elements 26 without the required use of any tools, such as a screwdriver, pliers, or wrench. However, in alternative embodiments, fasteners, such as screws or bolts, can extend between adjacent cubby elements 26 and they can be positioned or secured using one or more tools. While use of a single clip centered at the front and rear of such coupled cubby elements is illustrated, it will be appreciated that alternatives are possible and within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, two clips could be used to couple two adjacent cubby elements, with such clips positioned at or towards the top and/or bottom of the coupled cubby elements, rather than positioned centrally. Two clips could similarly be positioned at or towards the top and bottom of the coupled cubby elements, at both the front and rear. Alternatively, two clips could be used to couple the front of the cubby elements together, with only one clip used at the rear, or vice versa (two clips at the rear, and one clip at the front). More than two clips could be used, at the front and/or rear. Various alternatives will be apparent to those of skill in the art in light of the present disclosure.

Returning to FIGS. 1 and 2, the depicted embodiment of cubby element array 12 is comprised of a first row 100 of cubby elements 26, a second row 102 of cubby elements 26, and a third row 104 of cubby elements 26. First row 100 comprises cubby elements 26A-26C laterally connected together in sequential order. Specifically, cubby elements 26A and 26B are laterally connected together by using clip 90 at the front and/or back ends, as discussed above, and cubby elements 26B and 26C are laterally connected together by using clip 90 at the front and/or back ends, as discussed above. Likewise, in second row 102, cubby elements 26D and 26E are secured together using clips 90 and cubby elements 26E and 26F are secured together using clips 90, in the same manner as discussed above. Finally, in third row 104, cubby elements 26G and 26H are secured together using clips 90 and cubby elements 26H and 26I are secured together using clips 90, in the same manner as discussed above.

Continuing with FIG. 1, assembled first row 100 has a top surface 106 and an opposing bottom surface 108 while assembled second row 102 has a top surface 110 and an opposing bottom surface 112, and assembled third row 104 has a top surface 114 and an opposing bottom surface 116. During assembly, first row 100 is stacked on top of second row 102 while second row 102 is stacked on top of third row 104. More specifically, bottom surface 108 of first row 100 is disposed on top surface 110 of second row 102 while bottom surface 112 of second row 102 is disposed on top surface 114 of third row 104. With reference to FIG. 2, to prevent movement between stacked rows 100, 102, and 104, and thus between vertically stacked cubby elements 26, such as between cubby elements 26A and 26D, one or more pins 120 are shown as being placed therebetween. Each pin 120 typically has a cylindrical configuration having a diameter complementary to the diameter of coupling holes 74 and 76 so that pins 120 can be removably received therein. Pins 120 are commonly made of metal to have desired strength properties. However, pins 120 can also be made of wood, plastic, composite, or other materials.

Typically, pins 120 are sized so that they can be manually received within coupling holes 74 and 76 so as to have a snug engagement therein. For example, with regard to stacked cubby elements 26A and 26D, pin 120 can be pressed into coupling hole 74 on top face 34. Coupling hole 74 can be formed, e.g., drilled to a depth, so that approximately half of the length of pin 120 extends into coupling hole 74 while the opposing other half of the length freely projects out above top surface 34. To help ensure that pin 120 is positioned to a proper depth within coupling hole 74, pin 120 can also be formed with a central flange. For example, depicted in FIG. 9 is a pin 120A having a cylindrical body 122 that extends between a first end 124 and an opposing second end 126. Radially outwardly projecting from body 122 centrally between first end 124 and second end 126 is a flange 128 that can act as a stop. Flange 128 can completely encircle body 122 but need not do so. In another embodiment, no flange may be present.

During use, pin 120A is pressed into coupling hole 74 until flange 128 comes to rest on top surface 34. Cubby element 26A is then placed on top of cubby element 26D so that the exposed top half of pin 120, 120A is received within lower coupling hole 76 formed on bottom face 36 (FIG. 4). The positioning of pin 120, 120A within the opposing coupling holes 74 and 76 ensures proper vertical alignment between coupling elements 26A and 26D and prevents lateral movement between coupling elements 26A and 26D. The use of pins 120/120A and coupling holes 74, 76 also provides an easy and removable coupling between adjacent cubby elements. In addition, by positioning coupling holes 74 and 76 so that they are vertically aligning on each cubby element 26 again enables cubby elements 26 to be used either right side up or inverted, thereby further simplifying assembly.

In an embodiment, only pins 120/120A are used to vertically secure together adjacent cubby elements 26. The use of just pins 120/120A provides an inexpensive coupling that is easy to manually assemble and disassemble. The use of pins 120/120A can eliminate the use of screws, bolts, or other fasteners (even clips) that extend between vertically adjacent cubby elements 26. In addition, the use of pins 120/120A enables coupling between adjacent cubby elements 26 without the required use of any tools, such as a screwdriver, pliers, or wrench. However, in alternative embodiments, fasteners, such as screws or bolts or clips, can extend vertically between adjacent cubby elements 26 and they can be positioned or secured using one or more tools.

Continuing with cubby element array 12 in FIG. 2, a separate pin 120, 120A can likewise be positioned between each stacked pair of cubby elements 26. The current embodiment depicts each cubby element 26 as having a single coupling hole 74 on top face 34 and a single coupling hole 76 on bottom face 36 so that a single pin 120, 120A can extend between vertically stacked cubby elements 26. However, in alternative embodiments, it is appreciated that at least 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 coupling holes 74 and 76 can be formed on top face 34 and bottom face 36, respectively, so that at least 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 pins 120, 120A can extend between vertically stacked cubby elements 26. It is appreciated that cubby elements 26 can first be coupled together vertically and then coupled together laterally or they can first be coupled together laterally and then coupled together vertically.

As previously discussed with regard to FIG. 2, modular cabinet assembly 10 includes top panel 18 and bottom panel 20. Depicted in FIG. 10A is a top plan view of bottom panel 20 while FIG. 10B depicts bottom plan view of bottom panel 20. As depicted, bottom panel 20 is a planar structure, such as in the form of a board or panel, having a top surface 132 and an opposing bottom surface 134 that are both rectangular and are typically planar and disposed in parallel alignment. Top surface 132 and bottom surface 134 each have a length extending between a first end 136 and an opposing second end 138 and a width extending between a front side 140 and an opposing back side 142. The length of bottom panel 20 varies and depends on the size of cubby element array 12 on which it is to be mounted. That said, the length of the bottom panel 20 can be substantially equal to a whole number multiple of the length of the cubby elements employed. For example, in FIG. 2, each row 100, 102, and 104 is formed of three consecutive cubby elements 26 secured together, as discussed above, so that each row has a maximum width extending between the opposing ends thereof.

The length of bottom panel 20 can be equal to the maximum width of row 104, which mounts on top of bottom panel 20, or can be slightly longer than the maximum width of row 104 so that when row 104 is mounted on top of bottom panel 20, bottom panel 20 slightly projects out from each end of row 104. For example, bottom panel 20 can project out from each end of row 104 by a distance between 0.5 cm and 4 cm with between 0.5 cm and 2 cm being more common, so as to form a protruding lip. Other dimensions can also be used. In alternative embodiments, when row 104 is formed of a different number of cubby elements 26, e.g., at least 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 cubby elements, and/or different sizes of cubby elements 26, the length of bottom panel 20 will be changed to match the maximum width of the newly sized row 104, i.e., the length will be the same as the maximum width of row 104 or will be sized to slightly project out therefrom.

Returning to FIG. 10A, top surface 132 of bottom panel 20 is shown having three spaced apart coupling holes 146 formed thereon. Coupling holes 146 typically have the same size/configuration as coupling holes 74, 76, as previously discussed, and are positioned so as to be vertically aligned with coupling holes 74, 76 when row 104 is properly mounted on top of bottom panel 20. For example, during one method of assembly, pins 120/120A are received within coupling holes 146 on top surface 132 bottom panel 20. Cubby elements 26G, 26H, and 26I are then placed on top surface 132 of bottom panel 20 so that the top exposed half of pins 120/120A are aligned with and received within coupling holes 76 (FIG. 4) of cubby elements 26G, 26H, and 26I. This use of pins 120/120A to facilitate coupling between cubby elements 26G, 26H, and 26I and bottom panel 20 enables proper alignment between bottom panel 20 and cubby elements 26G, 26H, and 26I/cubby element array 12 and also prevents unwanted lateral movement of bottom panel 20 relative to cubby elements 26G, 26H, and 26/cubby element array 12. Cubby elements 26G, 26H, and 26I can be laterally coupled together using clip 90 (FIG. 2), as previously discussed, before or after mounting cubby elements 26G, 26H, and 26I on bottom panel 20.

As depicted in FIG. 10B, bottom surface 134 has three spaced apart coupling holes 148 formed thereon. Coupling holes 148 typically have the same size/configuration as coupling holes 74, 76, 146 and are positioned so as to be in vertical alignment with corresponding coupling holes 146. Coupling holes 148 are typically not used on bottom panel 20 but are used when discussed below with regard to top panel 18.

Continuing with FIG. 10B, also formed on bottom surface 134 adjacent to each corner thereof are mounting holes 154A-D. When desired, mounting holes 154A-D can each be used for removably coupling legs 80A-80D (FIG. 2), respectively, to bottom surface 134. Legs 80A-80D can be removably mounted to bottom panel 20 by manually threading stem 84 of each leg 80A-80D (FIG. 2) into a corresponding one of mounting holes 154A-D. Other configurations of legs can also be used. Mounting holes 78A-D can comprise discrete holes that are formed on bottom surface 134, such as through the use of a drill, or they can comprise holes formed in metal inserts that are mounted on bottom surface 134.

Optionally formed on bottom surface 134 of bottom panel 20 are one or more recessed pockets. In the depicted embodiment, three spaced apart recessed pockets 158A, 158B, and 158C are formed having recessed channels 160A and 160B extending therebetween. Each pocket 158 can be used for mounting an electrical component 162 or other desired structure. Each electrical component 162 can comprise a controller, power socket, light, router, repeater, modem, speaker, wireless charger, or other electrical component. Channels 160A and 160B can be used to receive wires passing between pockets 158/electrical components 162. In alternative embodiments, bottom surface 134 can be formed with at least 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 or any other number of recessed pockets wherein the recessed pockets can be different sizes and/or different shapes. For example, in contrast to having three separate pockets 158A, 158B, and 158C formed on bottom surface 134, one enlarged recessed pocket can be formed thereon.

In an embodiment, top panel 18, as shown in FIG. 2, is identical to bottom panel 20 as discussed with regard to FIGS. 10A and 10B. As such, all of the above elements and alternatives discussed above with regard to bottom panel 20 are also applicable to top panel 18 and like elements between bottom panel 20 and top panel 18 are identified by like reference characters. The benefit of having top panel 18 and bottom panel 20 be of identical configuration is that the parts are interchangeable and fewer parts (SKUs) are needed for storage and transport.

During use, top panel 18 is optionally mounted on top of row 100/cubby element array 12. In this use, coupling holes 146 on top surface 132 and mounting holes 154 on bottom surface 134 of top panel 18 can go unused while pockets 158 may or may not receive electrical components. However, coupling holes 148 on bottom surface 134 can be used for coupling top panel 18 to the top of row 100, i.e., cubby elements 26A, 26B, 26C. For example, during assembly, pins 120/120A can be received within coupling holes 74 on top face 34 of each cubby element 26A, 26B, and 26C. Top panel 18 is then received on top of row 102, i.e., cubby elements 26A, 26B, and 26C, so that the top exposed half of pins 120/120A are aligned with and are received within coupling holes 148 on bottom surface 134 of top panel 18. This use of pins 120/120A to facilitates coupling between row 102 and top panel 18, enables proper alignment between top panel 18 and cubby element array 12 and prevents lateral movement of top panel 18 relative to cubby element array 12.

As depicted in FIG. 1, in one method of using modular cabinet assembly 10, cubby elements 26 can be used without covering or otherwise obstructing opening 42 to each compartment 30. However, in alternative embodiments, a drawer can be received within one or more of each cubby element 26 or facing can be mounted on one or more of each cubby element 26. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, a drawer 164 can be slidably received within compartment 30. Drawer 164 can be used with or without drawer slides or rails. Alternatively, a face plate 166 can be mounted on cubby element 26 to selectively cover or uncover opening 42. For example, face plate 166 can be mounted to cubby element 26 by hinges 168 and held in a closed position by a latch 170, such as a magnetic latch.

By varying the components of modular cabinet assembly 10, as depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, it is appreciated that a variety of different shaped modular cabinet assemblies can be formed. For example, cabinet assemblies can be formed having any desired number of vertically stacked and coupled cubby elements 26 (such as at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 or other number cubby elements 26) and/or any desired number of laterally coupled cubby elements 26 (such as at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 or other number cubby elements 26). In addition, the modular cabinet assemblies can be formed with or without top panel 18 and/or with or with bottom panel 20 and/or with or without feet 22 connected to bottom panel 20 or to cubby elements 26. By varying the different components, modular cabinet assemblies can be formed that fit a desired space and/or achieve a desired function. As needed, various components can be added, removed and/or rearranged to achieve other desired functions.

By way of example and not by limitation, depicted in FIG. 12 are a variety of different modular cabinet assemblies 10 that can be produced using the different components discussed herein. Specifically, row 180 shows that modular cabinet assemblies can comprise a single cubby element 26, two cubby elements 26 laterally secured together, three cubby elements 26 laterally secured together, or four cubby elements 26 laterally secured together. The cubby elements 26 can be laterally secured together using clips 90 as discussed herein. Each of the modular cabinet assemblies in row 180 need not include top panel 18, bottom panel 20, or feet 22. Row 182 shows the same modular cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 180 except that each modular cabinet assembly now includes a top panel 18 mounted thereon. Top panel 18 can be mounted using pins 120, 120A as discussed herein. Row 184 shows the same cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 182 except that each modular cabinet assembly now includes feet 22 mounted on the bottom face of select cubby elements 26. It is appreciated that feet 22 can be mounted on the bottom face of each of cubby elements 26 or on only some of the laterally coupled cubby elements 26.

Row 186 shows the same cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 184 except that the cubby elements 26 are now sitting on bottom panel 20 while feet 22 are now projecting from the bottom face of bottom panel 20. Again, pins 120, 120A can be used to couple bottom panel 20 to cubby elements 26. Row 188 shows the same modular cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 180 except that each cubby element 26 in row 188 is now stacked on top of a second cubby element 26, e.g., cubby element 26A is stacked on top of cubby element 26D using pin(s) 120, 120A to couple together, as previously discussed. Row 190 shows the same modular cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 188 except that each modular cabinet assembly now includes a top panel 18 mounted thereon. Row 192 shows the same modular cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 188 except that each modular cabinet assembly now includes feet 22 mounted on the bottom face of select cubby elements 26. Row 194 shows the same modular cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 190 except that each modular cabinet assembly now includes a bottom panel 20 on which each lower cubby elements 26 sits and is coupled therewith.

Row 196 shows the same modular cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 192 except that each cabinet assembly now includes a top panel 18 disposed on top of the upper cubby elements 26. Row 198 shows the same modular cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 194 except that each cabinet assembly now includes feet 20 mounted on bottom panel 20. Row 200 shows the same modular cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 188 except that each of the cubby element 26 in row 188 are now stacked on top of a third cubby element 26, e.g., cubby elements 26A and 26D are stacked on top of cubby element 26G and pin(s) 120, 120A are used to couple together. Row 202 shows the same cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 200 except that each modular cabinet assembly now includes a top panel 18 mounted thereon.

Row 204 shows the same modular cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 202 except that each cabinet assembly now includes feet 22 mounted on the bottom face of select cubby elements 26. Row 206 shows the same cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 202 except that each modular cabinet assembly now includes bottom panel 20 on which feet 22 are mounted. Row 208 shows the same cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 206 except that each stack of cubby elements 26 are now staked on top of a fourth cubby element. Row 210 shows the same modular cabinet assemblies as depicted in row 208 except that each stack of cubby elements 26 is now staked on top of a fifth cubby element. Row 210 also shows that one or more cubby elements 26 can be removed from between other cubby elements so as to leave an opening 212 for receiving any desired item such as a television, stereo, or the like.

Turning to FIG. 13, it is also appreciated that modular cabinet assemblies can be formed having cubby elements 26 of different widths. For example, FIG. 13 shows a cabinet assembly 220 having a first row 222 of cubby elements for stacking on top of a second row 224 of cubby elements. First row 222 comprises four cubby elements 26A, 26B, 26C, and 26D that are all laterally coupled together, as previously discussed, and wherein each of cubby elements 26A, 26B, 26C, and 26D each have the same width. In contrast, second row 224 only comprises three cubby elements 26J, 26K, and 26L that are all laterally coupled together. All of cubby elements 26J, 26K, and 26L have the same configuration as cubby element 26A except that cubby elements 26J and 26L have a width that is greater than the width of cubby element 26A. More specifically, whereas cubby element 26K has a width the same as cubby element 26A, cubby elements 26J and 26L have a width that is 1.5 times the width of cubby element 26A. For example, cubby element 26A can have a width of 16 inches (41 cm) while cubby elements 26J and 26L can each have a width of 24 inches (61 cm). Other widths can also be used, particularly where the dimensional relationship (where one cubby element has a width that is substantially 1.5 times the width of another cubby element) is maintained.

Using cubby elements 26 of two different sizes where one has a width that is substantially 1.5 times the width of the other but where all other dimensions are the same, has unique advantages. For example, using such cubby elements makes it easy to combine cubby elements of different sizes for achieving different functions. That is, larger cubby elements may be needed to hold larger objects. However, the resulting rows can have the same maximum width so that the rows can be easily aligned or stacked on top of each other. That is, rows 222 and 224 each have the same maximum width so they can be uniformly stacked in vertical alignment. In addition, the position of cubby element 26K in row 224 can be freely adjusted relative to cubby elements 26J and 26L without changing the maximum width of row 224.

Another example is modular cabinet assembly 228 which is shown in FIG. 13 and includes an upper row 230 for stacking on a lower row 232. Upper row 230 includes cubby elements 26A-26E which all have the same width while lower row 232 includes cubby elements 26M-26P. Cubby elements 26M and 26P have the same width as cubby elements 26A-26E while cubby elements 26N and 29P have a width that is 1.5 times the width of cubby elements 26A-26E. However, in this configuration, rows 230 and 232 again each have the same maximum width so that they can be easily aligned and stacked in vertical alignment.

Similarly, FIG. 13 shows a modular cabinet assembly 236 having an upper row 238 with six laterally coupled together cubby elements all have the same width and a lower row 240 having five laterally coupled together cubby elements. In this embodiment, three of the cubby elements in lower row 240 have the same width as the cubby elements in upper row 238 while the remaining two cubby elements in lower row 240 have a width that is 1.5 times the width of the cubby elements in upper row 238. Again, however, rows 238 and 240 each have the same maximum width so that they can be easily aligned and stacked in vertical alignment.

In alternative embodiments, modular cabinet assemblies can be formed having two or more vertically staked rows of cubby elements 26 where the cubby elements have other width ratios but still achieve the same above benefits. For example, in contrast to using cubby elements 26 where some have a width that is 1.5 times the width of others, in alternative embodiments, cubby elements 26 can be used where some have a width that is 2 times the width of other cubby elements. For example, a first row can have 1, 2, 3 or 4 or other number cubby elements and a second row can have 2, 4, 6, or 8 or other number cubby elements, respectively, (the cubby elements in the second row having a width that is 2 times the width of the cubby elements in the first row) where both rows have the same maximum width. In an embodiment, the cubby elements in the first row can have a width of 23.2 inches while the cubby elements in the second row can have a width of 11.6 inches (i.e., at least one cubby element in one row has a width that is 2× the width of another cubby element). Other dimensions having the desired ratios of 2×, or 1.5× can of course also be used. Furthermore, other number combinations of cubby elements can be used per row depending on the width ratio of the cubby elements being used. In addition, rows can be formed having one, two, or three cubby elements of different widths.

In the above embodiment where a modular cabinet is formed from first cubby elements having a first width and second cubby elements having a second width that is twice the size of the first width, there are also benefits in forming the first cubby elements so that they have a height equal to the first width and forming the second cubby elements so that they have a height equal to half of the second width. For example, in an embodiment, the first cubby elements can have a width of 11.6 inches and a height of 11.6 inches while the second cubby elements can have width of 23.2 inches and a height of 11.6 inches. The height of the first cubby element and the second cubby element are the same. Other dimensions, while maintaining the described dimensional relationships (e.g., where width is equal to height, or width is equal to twice the height, or width is equal to 1.5 times the height) can of course also be used.

By using cubby elements having the above height to width ratios, it is easy to produce modular cabinets having a front face that is either square or rectangular, as desired. For example, by using cubby elements having the above ratios of height and width, independent of the number of cubby elements used within each row, as long as all rows have the same maximum width, the front face of the modular cabinet can be made square by simply stacking addition rows or removing rows until the front face is square. In some embodiments it can be desirable to make the front face square to achieve a desired aesthetic appearance.

FIGS. 14A-14D, 15A-15D, and 16A-16D illustrate another further possible aspect of the present disclosure. FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate an alternative embodiment of a modular cabinet assembly 242, formed using a top panel 18′ and one or more cubby elements 26′, each of which omits at least the central portion of the top panel 50 of otherwise similar cubby elements 26. In other words, cubby elements 26′ are open at the top, rather than being closed, although when stacked one upon the other, as shown in FIGS. 14A-14B, the bottom panel 52 closes the opening 244 associated with the open top of a given cubby element. Each cubby element 26′ is otherwise similar to cubby elements 26, already described (e.g., including side panels 58 and 60, as well as back panel 62).

As shown, a stack of any number of cubby elements 26′ (e.g., two are shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B) can be topped with a top panel 18′, closing the opening 244 at the top of the uppermost cubby element 26′. Such a top panel 18′ is configured to nest onto, or mate with the highest stacked cubby element 26′. Any of various mechanisms for such mating or nesting can be used, non-limiting examples of which are shown in FIGS. 14A-16C. For example, FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate an embodiment where each cubby element 26′ (e.g., both cubby elements 26A′ and 26B′) includes one or more alignment rails 246. In FIG. 14B, alignment rails 246A and 246B are shown as provided at front and back, e.g., on cross-member 248 and back panel 62, respectively. Cross member 248 is somewhat similar to a portion of top panel 50 of the other illustrated cubby elements, except that it does not provide full, continuous coverage over the top of cubby element 26′, but includes an open top, defined by opening 244.

FIG. 14C illustrates top panel 18′, flipped over, illustrating how it can include a routed or recessed underside 250 adjacent the periphery, e.g., extending inward, allowing the top panel 18′ to nest over or mate with protruding alignment rails 246A, 246B on the top surface of each of the cubby elements 26′.

FIG. 14D illustrates cubby element 26A′, flipped over, illustrating how it can include recessed grooves 252 formed into the underside of bottom panel 52 (e.g., adjacent one or more of the peripheral edges), which allow the cubby element to nest or mate on top of another similar cubby element.

While the embodiment shown in FIGS. 14A-14D shows two alignment rails provided at the front and back of the cubby element, it will be appreciated that such alignment rails (or another alignment and mating mechanism) could be provided on the right and left sides, or more or less than two such alignment rails could be provided.

Referring to FIGS. 15A-15D, an embodiment of a modular cabinet assembly 254 formed from a top panel 18′, and cubby elements 26A″ and 26B″ is shown, which is similar to that of FIGS. 14A-14D, but where four alignment rails 246A-246D are provided at the front, back, and left and right sides of the top of each cubby element 26″. In addition to alignment rails 246A and 246B such as shown in FIGS. 14A-14D, the embodiment shown in FIGS. 15A-15D includes right and left alignment rails 246C and 246D, positioned at the top of the side panels 58, and 60, respectively. The top panel 18′ shown in FIG. 15C that mates over such alignment rails is shown as being identical to top panel 18′ of FIG. 14C. As shown in FIG. 15D, although 4 grooves could be formed to accommodate such alignment rails, FIG. 15D illustrates a simple routed or recessed underside 256, similar to the routed underside 250 of top panel 18′. The alignment rails 246A-246D simply nest inside of the recessed interior of underside 256, as will be apparent.

FIGS. 16A-16D show another exemplary modular cabinet assembly 258 formed from a top panel 18′, and cubby elements 26A″ and 26B″, which is similar to those of FIGS. 14A-15D, but where a plurality (e.g., four) of alignment pegs 260A-260D are provided at or near the corners of each cubby element 26″. The top panel 18′ shown in FIG. 16C that mates over such alignment pegs is shown as being identical to top panel 18′ of FIGS. 14C and 15C. As shown in FIG. 16D, although 4 grooves or holes corresponding to the pegs could be formed to accommodate such alignment pegs, FIG. 16D illustrates a simple routed or recessed underside 256, identical to the underside 256 of the bottom panel 52, shown in FIG. 15D.

FIGS. 17-31 illustrate another exemplary modular cabinet assembly, according to the present disclosure. Such an exemplary modular cabinet assembly can include first, second, and third cubby elements, each having a box shaped configuration and bounding a compartment, the cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face, and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face. The front face encircles an opening to the compartment of each respective cubby element, where each cubby element has a respective width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of each respective cubby element. The width of the first cubby element can be termed (x). The width of the second cubby element is substantially equal to twice that of the first cubby element (i.e., 2×). The width of the third cubby element is substantially equal to 3 times that of the first cubby element (i.e., 3×). In an embodiment, the width (x) of the first cubby element is also equal or substantially equal to a height of the first cubby element, e.g., so that the compartment of the first cubby element is substantially square. As with the other described embodiments, the first, second and third cubby elements are selectively secured to one another, directly or indirectly, either in a lateral side-by-side configuration, or stacked one atop another. Of course, the various cubby elements can be secured to one another, where some are stacked, and others are side-by-side.

In an embodiment, each of the first, second and third cubby elements can have the same height.

In an embodiment, the modular cabinet assembly includes a fourth cubby element, similarly configured as the other cubby elements, but where the width of the fourth cubby element is substantially equal to 1.5 times the width (x) of the first cubby element (i.e., the fourth cubby element has a width of 1.5×). In an embodiment, the fourth cubby element can be rectangular (e.g., even square), having a height that is substantially equal to the other cubby elements.

Referring to the Figures, various modular cabinet assemblies that can be formed, using such a combination of cubby elements are shown. In the figures, a first cubby element, having a width (x) is designated as first cubby element 26W. Second cubby element, having a width (2×) is designated as second cubby element 26X. Third cubby element, having a width (3×) is designated as third cubby element 26Y. Fourth cubby element, having a length or width (1.5×), and a height also equal to 1.5× is designated as fourth cubby element 26Z. Each of first, second and third cubby elements 26W, 26X, and 26Y are all shown as having the same height, (x). For example, FIG. 17 shows a modular cabinet assembly 262 formed from a first cubby element 26W, a second cubby element 26X and a third cubby element 26Y. Feet 22 and an optional top panel 18 are also shown as present. The terms “length” and “width” may be used interchangeably herein, when referring to the dimensional relationships of various cubby elements (e.g., length or width of x, 1.5×, 3×, etc.

FIG. 18 shows a modular cabinet assembly 264 formed from 3 first cubby elements 26W, and a third cubby element 26Y, with feet 22 and an optional top panel 18 also shown as present.

FIG. 19 shows a modular cabinet assembly 266 formed from 4 third cubby elements 26Y, with 3 of cubby elements 26Y turned vertically, with feet 22 and an optional top panel 18 also shown as present. An optional divider or shelf 265 is also shown as present.

FIG. 20 shows a modular cabinet assembly 268 formed from a third cubby element 26Y, and 4 fourth cubby elements 26Z, with feet 22 and an optional top panel 18 also shown as present. Optional doors or drawers 267 are also shown as present (e.g., attached over the otherwise open front of one or more such cubby elements).

FIG. 21 shows a modular cabinet assembly 270 formed from a third cubby element 26Y, and 2 fourth cubby elements 26Z, with feet 22 and an optional top panel 18 also shown as present. Optional doors or drawers 267 are also shown as present.

FIG. 22 shows a modular cabinet assembly 272 formed from 2 third cubby elements 26Y, and 4 fourth cubby elements 26Z, with feet 22 and an optional top panel(s) 18 also shown as present. Optional doors or drawers 267 are also shown as present. Any two adjacent fourth cubby elements 26Z could be interchanged with a third cubby element (which has the same width as 2 fourth cubby elements).

FIG. 23 shows a modular cabinet assembly 274 formed from two third cubby elements 26Y, and 8 fourth cubby elements 26Z, with feet 22 and an optional top panel(s) 18 also shown as present. Optional doors or drawers 267 are also shown as present. Any two adjacent fourth cubby elements 26Z could be interchanged with a third cubby element (which has the same width as 2 fourth cubby elements).

FIG. 24 shows a modular cabinet assembly 276 formed from two third cubby elements 26Y, and 8 fourth cubby elements 26Z, with feet 22 and an optional top panel(s) 18 also shown as present. Optional doors or drawers 267 are also shown as present. Fewer doors or drawers are provided in FIG. 24, as compared to FIG. 23. Otherwise the configurations can be identical. Any two adjacent fourth cubby elements 26Z could be interchanged with a third cubby element (which has the same width as 2 fourth cubby elements).

FIG. 25 shows a modular cabinet assembly 278 formed from 2 third cubby elements 26Y, with feet 22 and an optional top panel 18 also shown as present. Optional doors or drawers 267 are also shown as present, providing a different appearance and functionality, to the otherwise identical two cubby elements 26Y.

FIG. 26 shows a modular cabinet assembly 280 formed from 3 third cubby elements 26Y, with feet 22 and an optional top panel 18 also shown as present. Optional doors or drawers 267 are also shown as present, providing a different appearance and functionality, to the otherwise identical cubby elements 26Y (e.g., 2 cubby elements 26Y are provided with drawers, while the other cubby element 26Y is shown provided with sliding doors).

FIG. 27 shows a modular cabinet assembly 282 formed from 4 third cubby elements 26Y, with feet 22 and optional top panel(s) 18 also shown as present. Optional doors or drawers 267 are also shown as present, providing a different appearance and functionality, to the otherwise identical cubby elements 26Y (e.g., 2 cubby elements 26Y are provided with drawers, while the other 2 cubby elements 26Y are shown provided with sliding doors).

FIG. 28 shows a modular cabinet assembly 284 formed from 6 third cubby elements 26Y, with feet 22 and optional top panel(s) 18 also shown as present. Optional doors or drawers 267 are also shown as present, providing a different appearance and functionality, to the otherwise identical cubby elements 26Y (e.g., 4 cubby elements 26Y are provided with drawers, while the other 2 cubby elements 26Y are shown provided with sliding doors).

FIG. 29 shows a modular cabinet assembly 286 formed from 4 third cubby elements 26Y, and 4 fourth cubby elements 26Z with feet 22 and optional top panel(s) 18 also shown as present. Optional doors or drawers 267 are also shown as present, providing a different appearance and functionality, to the otherwise identical cubby elements 26Y (e.g., 2 cubby elements 26Y are provided with drawers, while the other 2 cubby elements 26Y are shown provided with sliding doors, and the cubby elements 26Z are provided with drawers).

FIG. 30 shows a modular cabinet assembly 288 formed from 4 third cubby elements 26Y, and 4 fourth cubby elements 26Z with feet 22 and optional top panel(s) 18 also shown as present. Optional doors or drawers 267 are also shown as present, providing a different appearance and functionality, to otherwise identical cubby elements (e.g., 2 cubby elements 26Y are provided with neither drawers nor sliding doors, while the other 2 cubby elements 26Y are shown provided with sliding doors, and the cubby elements 26Z are provided with drawers).

FIG. 31 illustrates how the optional top panel 18 can include electronics or other functionality embedded therein, e.g., microholes 290 for emission of sound from one or more embedded speakers, a display 292 that shows through the thin veneer associated with a side surface or top surface of the top panel 18, and/or an induction charger 294 for charging a smartphone or other mobile device 296. Additional details relative to such microholes and articles incorporating such is found in Applicant's application Ser. No. 18/178,319 filed Mar. 3, 2023, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CORRECTING SOUND LOSS THROUGH PARTIALLY ACOUSTICALLY TRANSPARENT MATERIALS, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Additional details relative to incorporation of electronic or other accessories into the top or elsewhere within such cubby element components, e.g., in combination with a thin veneer or the like, is found in Applicant's Application No. 63/579,461, entitled “CASEGOOD FURNITURE SYSTEMS, ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS, filed Aug. 29, 2023, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety, as well as Applicant's Application Docket No. 15605.615.1, entitled “CASEGOOD FURNITURE SYSTEMS, ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS, filed the same day as the present application, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Additional details relative to such induction chargers are found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 11,178,487 and 11,689,856, each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In an embodiment, one or more cubby elements can be replaceable or interchangeable with one or more casegood furniture assemblies described in Applicant's Applications noted above, entitled “CASEGOOD FURNITURE SYSTEMS, ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS, already herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. For example, in an embodiment any of the lowest cubby elements shown in FIGS. 17-30 including feet (e.g., cubby elements 26Y) could be replaced with such a casegood furniture assembly, e.g., where such casegood furniture assembly is configured to include the same footprint dimensions or dimensional relationships as described. In addition, the presently described cubby elements and the casegood furniture assembly described in such applications can share the same starting footprint of for example 35 inches×17.5 inches (e.g., for the third cubby element and the casegood furniture assembly), as well as possibly sharing the same foot placement, the same top panel lid attachment methods, and the same stacking mechanisms. FIGS. 32A-32F show exemplary combined furniture assemblies, that include both cubby element components and casegood furniture assembly components, showing some examples of how these two product offerings can interact.

For example, FIG. 32A shows an example 300 including a casegood furniture assembly 302 along a bottom row of the stack that makes up the overall furniture assembly 300, with a cubby element 26y having a length value of 3× (e.g., 35 inches in length), stacked on top of the casegood furniture assembly 302. Coupling of the bottom of the cubby element 26y to the top of the casegood furniture assembly 302 can use any coupling mechanism as described herein, within Applicant's other applications incorporated by reference, or otherwise. Stacked on top of cubby element 26y is illustrated two cubby elements 26z′ each having a length of 1.5× (each 17.5 inches in length), or another cubby element 26y. Illustrated cubby elements 26z′ (or 26y) are shown as provided with drawers, e.g., as in various of FIGS. 20-30). A top panel 18 is shown over the top row of cubby elements 26z′ (or 26y). In an embodiment, the top panel 18 (and the overall footprint dimensions) may be 17.5 by 35 inches. The cubby height associated with cubby elements 26y and/or 26z′ may be 6 to 8 inches (e.g., 7 inches), 8 to 10 inches (e.g., 9 inches), other values as noted herein, or otherwise.

It will be apparent that a wide variety of furniture assemblies can be formed from a combination of casegood furniture assemblies and cubby elements. FIG. 32B illustrates another example of such a furniture assembly 300a, including the casegood furniture assembly 302 at a bottom row (with illustrated coupled feet 22), with a cubby element 26y stacked on top of the casegood furniture assembly 302, and with 3 cubby elements 26w (or another cubby element 26y with 2 dividers) stacked on the top row). A top panel 18 is shown positioned over the top row of cubby element(s).

FIG. 32C illustrates another example of such a furniture assembly 300b, including the casegood furniture assembly 302 at a bottom row (with illustrated coupled feet 22), with a cubby element 26y stacked on top of the casegood furniture assembly 302, and with 3 cubby elements 26w (or another cubby element 26y with 2 dividers) stacked on over the cubby element 26y. A top row is stacked over cubby elements 26w, that includes two cubby elements 26z′ (or another cubby element 26y with 2 drawers). The dimensional relationships are such that cubby elements 26w have a length of x, cubby elements 26y have a length of 3×, and cubby elements 26z′ have a length of 1.5×. Casegood furniture assembly 302 includes a length of 3×, like cubby element 26y. As with the other illustrated configurations, a top panel 18 is shown positioned over the top row of cubby elements.

FIG. 32D illustrates another example of such a furniture assembly 300c, where instead of vertical stacking, the casegood furniture assembly and cubby elements are positioned side-by-side. The casegood furniture assembly 302 is shown at one side, with a particularly configured casegood top panel 18a coupled over the top of the casegood furniture assembly 302. Top panel 18a can be configured as described in more detail in Applicant's applications already incorporated by reference. Two cubby elements 26z′ each having a length of 1.5×, or a longer cubby element 26y (having a length of 3×), with a vertical divider and/or drawers, is positioned side-by-side, next to casegood furniture assembly 302, with a top panel 18 coupled or positioned over the top of cubby elements 26z′ or 26y. A plurality of feet 22 are shown coupled into a bottom panel of both casegood furniture assembly 302, and cubby elements 26z′ (or cubby element 26y). While drawers are shown within some cubby elements, such drawers may be present, or not.

FIG. 32E illustrates another example of a furniture assembly 300d, that is similar to that shown in FIG. 32D, but in which additional cubby elements have been stacked on top of the cubby elements 26z′ or 26y forming the bottom row of cubby elements, side-by-side relative to the casegood furniture assembly 302. In particular, three cubby elements 26w each having a width x have been stacked on top of the two bottom row cubby elements 26z′. Alternatively, this row could be formed from a single cubby element 26y having a width of 3×, with two vertical dividers provided, as shown. A top panel 18 is shown coupled over cubby elements 26w.

FIG. 32F showing furniture assembly 300e is similar to the configuration seen in FIG. 32E, but where an additional cubby element 26y has been added between cubby elements 26w and the top panel 18. It will be appreciated that a wide variety of furniture assemblies can be modularly assembled from a collection of such casegood furniture assemblies and various cubby elements. For example, using the 9 components seen in FIG. 32F (casegood furniture assembly 302, 2 cubby elements 26z′ each having a length of 1.5×, 3 cubby elements 26w each having a length of x, 1 cubby element 26y having a length of 3×, and the top panels 18 and 18a) any of the furniture assemblies shown in FIGS. 32A-32F can be formed. It will also be apparent that a wide variety of other furniture configurations, not shown, can also be formed.

FIG. 33A shows a simple stack of 3 identical or substantially identical cubby elements 26z′, each with a length of 1.5×, with a top panel 18b positioned thereover. This configuration is very similar to that shown in FIGS. 14A-16D, but shown with a vertical stack of 3 cubby elements, rather than just 2. FIG. 33B shows a side-by-side configuration for a furniture assembly, with a casegood furniture assembly 302 at one side, next to a cubby element 26z′. Top panels 18a and 18b are provided, over each side stack of the furniture assembly. FIG. 33C illustrates a configuration similar to that of FIG. 33B, but in which an additional cubby element 26z′ has been added to the stack shown at left. As shown, because of the complementary geometry and sizing of the cubby elements and the casegood furniture assembly, a flush top surface is provided in such a configuration, across top panels 18a and 18b. In other words, in an embodiment, the height of two cubby elements (e.g., 26z′) can be equal or substantially equal to the height of the casegood furniture assembly (e.g., 302). As shown in FIG. 33D, the two separate top panels 18a and 18b could be replaced with a single, integral top panel 18c as shown, that spans the top of both portions of the side-by-side stack of modular components. FIG. 33E illustrates another configuration, similar to that shown in FIG. 33A, but which includes only a single cubby element 26z′, and where the short legs 22 are replaced with longer legs 22′. It will be appreciated that a variety of leg configurations can be used with any of the described furniture assemblies.

Because the dimensions of the cubby element 26z′ may provide a square footprint (e.g., 17.5 by 17.5 inches), such a cubby element may be rotated to any desired direction (with the drawer or open front towards the front, left, back, or right) relative to any other cubby element or the top panel. This can allow one to provide openings or drawers of any given cubby element within any of the 4 lateral sides of the modular furniture assembly, independent of the selected orientation of any other cubby element.

FIGS. 34A-41C illustrate additional exemplary embodiments for cubby elements, which are shown as including additional features, e.g., such as a false back so as to accommodate cords, connection hardware, wall-securing hardware, and/or wall-mounting hardware, while hiding such items from view during normal use. Any such features may be provided within any described embodiments.

FIGS. 34A-34B illustrate a vertical stack of two cubby elements 26q which can have other features similar to those already described for other cubby element embodiments. Illustrated cubby element 26q includes a box shaped configuration with a front face 32 encircling opening 42, a bottom panel 52, a back panel 62, first and second side panels 58 and 60, and front and rear upper beams 50′ extending between opposed side panels 58 and 60 of the cubby element. A gap can be provided between back panel 62 and rear upper beam 50′ as will be shown and described hereafter. Back panel 62 and rear upper beam 50′ can be in the same vertical plane. No full coverage top panel is provided, but rather the cubby element is open at the top, defined by opening 244. Such opening is closed by bottom panel 52, once one cubby element is stacked over another cubby element. For the opening 244 in a top cubby within a stack of cubby elements, such opening may be closed by a separate top panel (e.g., 18′ or 18b such as those seen in FIGS. 14A-16D, and 33A-33E). Cubby element 26q can have any of the dimensions or dimensional relationships noted herein. The illustrated configuration is shown with a square footprint, having a length of 1.5× (e.g., 17.5 inches) and a depth of 1.5× (e.g., 17.5 inches).

Cubby elements 26q are also shown as including a false back 304, which defines a hidden cavity between false back 304 and back panel 62, and covers back panel and rear upper beam 50′. Such a false back and hidden cavity allows a user to hide cords, connection hardware, wall-securing hardware and wall-mounting hardware so that the cubby element looks like a solid enclosed cubby element, as apparent from FIGS. 34A-34B. FIGS. 34A-34B show the two cubby elements 26q from the front, with the false back 304 in place. FIG. 35A shows the cubby elements 26q from a rear isometric view, also with the false back 304 in place. FIG. 35B shows a view from the front, similar to that of FIG. 34B, but with the false back removed. As shown, the false back slides vertically within vertical slots 303 formed in the side panels 58 and 60 (see FIG. 35C), adjacent to, but spaced apart from back panel 62 and rear upper beam 50′. A horizontal slot 303′ can also be provided within bottom panel 52, if desired. The false back 304 can have a height so that it extends to be substantially flush with the top surface of side panels 58 and 60, as shown. As shown, the false back 304 can be substantially thinner than the other panels (e.g., panel 62, panel 58, and panel 60), so as to be lightweight, and easily removable. Each provided cubby element can include such a false back 304.

The hidden cavity defined between false back 304 and back panel 62 allows passage of power or other cords and the like through such space, while minimizing the visibility of such cords (which are unsightly). In an embodiment, the hidden cavity has a depth of from about 2 to about 6 inches, e.g., about 3 to about 4 inches (e.g., from about 10% to about 30%, or about 15% to about 25% of the total depth of the cubby element). The bottom panel 52 can include one or more notches 305 formed therein as shown, to allow passage of such a power or other cord from the hidden cavity, under the false back, and into the main compartment 30 defined by the cubby element. Such power cords could be used to route cords in a non-visible hidden way, up through any number of vertically stacked cubbies. Such power cord(s) could be used to power streaming boxes, gaming consoles, speakers, induction chargers, electronics within a “smart” cubby element top panel lid, or the like. As perhaps best seen in FIG. 35C, the notch 305 can pass through the entire thickness of bottom panel 52, and can be aligned with, and just forward of the slot 303′ which receives false back 304. Such a notch can be centered within the length of the bottom panel 52. In another embodiment, the notch may be offset, to one side or the other. While one notch is shown, a plurality of notches could be provided. Such a notch 305 allows a user to route a cord running in the hidden cavity into any specific cubby within a vertical stack of cubbies. Additional structures, e.g., such as wall-securing and/or wall-mounting hardware and the like (e.g., wall-securing hardware 307 and/or wall-mounting cleat 318) can also be hidden within the hidden cavity.

Such cubby elements can be stacked vertically, and/or side-by-side, as desired to form a desired modular furniture assembly formed by joining together a plurality of such cubby elements. The illustrated configuration includes a plurality of stacking brackets 306 attached between a respective side panel (58 or 60) and the front upper beam 50′ extending between side panels 58 and 60. The brackets thus span the front upper corner regions of each cubby element. Each bracket 306 is shown as including a notch 308 configured to receive a bolt or foot that can be anchored into a bottom panel of the adjacent stacked cubby element. While the notch is shown as open at the rear, other configurations may also be possible. The exemplary bracket structures are perhaps best visible in FIG. 35C. FIG. 35D illustrates a bottom isometric view, showing how the bottom panel 52 of each cubby element 26q includes a plurality of foot anchors (e.g., adjacent each of the 4 corners) 310. As shown, a bolt or foot 312 can be anchored into each desired foot anchor 310, and such bolts or feet 312 can engage within notches 308, so as to couple the bottom panel 52 of one cubby element 26q (located above) to the stacking brackets 306 of another cubby element 26q (located below). A casegood furniture assembly as described in Applicant's Application No. 63/579,461 or Applicant's Application Docket No. 15605.615.1, entitled “CASEGOOD FURNITURE SYSTEMS, ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS, filed the same day as the present application, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety, may include foot anchoring hardware and/or stacking brackets identical to that of the described cubby elements. This may allow cubby elements to be vertically stacked and coupled to such casegood furniture assemblies in the same manner, providing the user with great flexibility in how to configure any given collection of modular cubby elements and modular case good furniture assemblies when connecting them to one another. For example, the cubby elements can include threaded inserts 309 to which the stacking brackets 306 are attached (e.g., using bolts or thumbscrews 311 or the like to attach such a bracket 306, through the threaded inserts 309).

FIGS. 36A-36B illustrate how any number of such cubby elements can be stacked vertically, one on top of the other, through the described coupling mechanism.

FIGS. 37A-37C illustrate how the cubby elements can include one or more integrated latches 314, which can rotate and lock to a cubby element or casegood furniture assembly (e.g., “AnyTable”) through the illustrated hole behind the false back 304. As shown, a block 316 can be provided within the hidden cavity, with a recess into which a leg of the latch 314 may be insertable. The illustrated latches are show as being “Z” shaped, with two generally parallel arms at the free ends, extending in opposite directions (e.g., left and right, or up and down respectively, depending on orientation), and a central arm therebetween. Other configurations are also possible. FIG. 37A shows the latches 314 before engagement, with arrows showing the locking rotational movement. Upon such rotation (e.g., about a mounting axis 315), a free end of latch 314 becomes engaged within block 316, which block is attached to the cubby element below that including latch 314, as shown in FIG. 37B. Such an arrangement secures the rear portion of vertically stacked cubby elements to one another. For example, such locking both in the front and the rear of stacked cubby elements can better facilitate allowing a user to move such a stack of cubby elements together, or aid in securing such cubby elements together where such stack is to be attached or secured to a given wall. The illustrated configuration is simple to use, as the latches are integrated and only require a simple flip of the latch 314 from the user to latch or unlatch the mechanism. It will be appreciated that thumbscrews or other alternative latching mechanisms are of course also possible.

With the feet 312 of an upper cubby element locked into the notches 308 of brackets 306 of a lower cubby element, and with the integrated latches 314 locked in the rear, a stack of such cubby elements are securely connected to one another. Such connection mechanisms can also be used between cubby elements and one or more casegood furniture assemblies (e.g., “AnyTable”). This secure connection allows a user to move multiple connected modular cubby elements or casegood furniture assemblies together, as a single unit. It also allows a user to stack multiple cubby elements together and secure the modular assembly of such cubby elements to a wall via wall securing hardware cable 307. Cable 307 can serve as a safety feature, to reduce or minimize risk of a stack of cubby elements tipping over, for example.

FIGS. 37A-37C illustrate how wall securing hardware cable 307 can be tethered to an anchor 313 attached to back panel 62, which is shorter than the side panels 58 and 60, so as to provide for an opening between back panel 62 and rear upper beam 50′, as illustrated, allowing such securing hardware cable to be threaded through the opening, and attached to a desired wall. Such an opening can also be used to pass cords or other structures therethrough, without being seen from the front.

As shown in FIG. 38, in order to secure one or more stacked cubby elements to a wall, a user can first attach securing hardware cable 307 to the desired wall (e.g., using a screw). The user can then feed the free end of the cable 307 through the open back of the cubby (e.g., between rear upper beam 50′ and back panel 62). Finally, the user can then attach the free end to the cubby element at anchor 313. For example, such attachment can include insertion of a bolt into a threaded insert. Such wall securement can allow attachment to the wall, to prevent tipping. The removable false back 304 and open top allows users to secure the cubby element to the wall in a relatively easy manner, as compared to alternative available configurations.

As shown in FIGS. 38 and 39A-39B, the rear upper beam 50′ can be provided with an angled underside 51, as shown. Providing such a rear crossmember 50′ with such an angled underside allows the cubby element to also be easily mounted on a complementary angled cleat 318 (technically the angles may be supplementary angles-where the two angles add to 180°) that can be mounted to the wall. As shown in FIG. 39B, when the cubby element is rested on the cleat 318, the angled surfaces of the rear upper beam 50′ and the cleat 318 contact one another and are flush against one another, as shown.

FIGS. 40A-40B illustrate an alternative rear locking mechanism, where an integrated latch 314′ is similarly provided (similar to the latch shown in FIGS. 37A-37B). Such a latch 314′ can be attached to one cubby element, and is rotatable, as shown by the rotation arrows in FIG. 40A, so that a leg of the integrated latch 314′ engages within the slot 317, e.g., in the back panel 62 of the adjacent stacked cubby element. For example, the latch 314′ can be attached to the lower cubby element, while the slot 317 can be in the upper cubby element, so that rotation of the latch 314′ as shown in FIG. 40B secures the rear portion of the lower cubby element to the upper cubby element. Of course alternative placement of the latches and slots is possible (e.g., swapping their positions).

FIGS. 41A-41C illustrate various possible connection mechanisms for connecting cubby elements side-by-side. FIG. 41A illustrates a configuration in which a top panel lid 18 is simply placed over such side-by-side cubby elements 26q, and the top panel lid can include foot anchors and feet 312, that are received into the notches 308 of the brackets 306 of each cubby element. FIG. 41B illustrates another connection mechanism, where a clamp or clip 90 is used to clamp side panel of one cubby element to the adjacent side panel of the adjacent cubby element, where the clamp or clip 90 is placed at the rear, e.g., within the gap between rear upper beam 50′ and back panel 62. FIG. 41C illustrates a similar configuration, but where the clamp or clip 90 is placed at the top, e.g., between rear upper beam 50′ and false back 304.

While various specific coupling mechanisms for coupling once cubby element to another, or coupling a lid to one or more cubby elements are shown, it will be appreciated that a wide variety of other coupling mechanisms are also possible. For example, a pin, dowel or protrusion on a front panel or side panels of a first cubby element can engage with a corresponding clasp attached to one of the panels of the other cubby element to be attached to the first cubby element.

The cubby element can include a notice, e.g., provided in the rear of the floor of a given cubby element or elsewhere, instructing a user to route cords through the hidden cavity, as described.

Different embodiments of the modular cabinet assemblies disclosed herein, and the related methods of assembly have a number of unique benefits. For example, modular cabinet assemblies of different sizes or shapes are easily produced by adding additional components and/or subtracting components. Many of the components can have identical configurations so as to limit the number of different types of components that need to be produced. In some embodiments, the various components are easily assembled and disassembly without the need of tools. Furthermore, the number and types of elements needed to couple together adjacent components is minimized to simplify assembly and disassembly. In some embodiments, select components can be used either right side up or inverted, thereby further simplifying assembly. Other benefits also exist, including those previously discussed herein.

Following are some further example embodiments of the invention. These are presented only by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Further, any example embodiment can be combined with one or more of the example embodiments.

Embodiment 1

A modular cabinet assembly comprising:

• • a first cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a first compartment, the first cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face encircling an opening to the first compartment, the first cubby element having a first width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face; and
  • a second cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a second compartment, the second cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the second cubby element encircling an opening to the second compartment, the second cubby element having a second width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element;
  • wherein the first width is substantially equal to a height of the first cubby element, or the first width is substantially equal to twice the height of the first cubby element;
  • wherein the second width is substantially equal to a height of the second cubby element, or the second width is substantially equal to twice the height of the second cubby element;
  • wherein the first and second cubby elements are selectively secured to one another, either in a lateral side-by-side configuration, or stacked one atop another.

Embodiment 2

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 1, further comprising a top panel extending over and being removably secured to a top surface of at least one of the cubby elements.

Embodiment 3

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 1, wherein the first width of the first cubby element is substantially equal to the height of the first cubby element, and the second width of the second cubby element is substantially equal to the height of the second cubby element.

Embodiment 4

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 1, wherein the first width of the first cubby element is substantially equal to twice the height of the first cubby element, and the second width of the second cubby element is substantially equal to twice the height of the second cubby element.

Embodiment 5

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 1, wherein the first width and the second width are from 10 to 40 inches, or from 10 to 35 inches.

Embodiment 6

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 1, wherein the height of the first and second cubby elements is from 6 to 16 inches.

Embodiment 7

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 1, where the first cubby element is removably secured to the second cubby element by a removable clip that extends over a portion of the front face or back face of the first cubby element and the front face or back face of the second cubby element.

Embodiment 8

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 1, wherein each cubby element is open at a top of the cubby element.

Embodiment 9

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 8, wherein each cubby element includes an alignment mechanism in a top surface of the cubby element, for coupling a top panel over the open top of such cubby element, when such cubby element is positioned as a top cubby element in the modular cabinet assembly.

Embodiment 10

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 9, wherein each cubby element includes a bottom panel for coupling over and closing the open top of a cubby element positioned below such cubby element in the modular cabinet assembly, wherein an underside of the bottom panel mates with the alignment mechanism in the top surface of the cubby element positioned below such cubby element.

Embodiment 11

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 9, wherein the alignment mechanism comprises alignment rails on opposite sides of the top surface of the cubby element, alignment rails on each side of the top surface of the cubby element, or a plurality of alignment pegs.

Embodiment 12

A modular cabinet assembly comprising:

• • a first cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a first compartment, the first cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face encircling an opening to the first compartment, the first cubby element having a first width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face; and
  • a second cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a second compartment, the second cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the second cubby element encircling an opening to the second compartment, the second cubby element having a second width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element;
  • a third cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a third compartment, the third cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the third cubby element encircling an opening to the third compartment, the third cubby element having a third width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element;
  • wherein the first width is (x) and is substantially equal to a height of the first cubby element, so that the first compartment of the first cubby element is substantially square;
  • wherein the second width is substantially equal to twice the first width (2×);
  • wherein the third width is substantially equal to three times the first width (3×); and
  • wherein the first, second and third cubby elements are selectively secured to one another, directly or indirectly, either in a lateral side-by-side configuration, or stacked one atop another.

Embodiment 13

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 12, wherein each of the first, second and third cubby elements each have substantially the same height.

Embodiment 14

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 12, further comprising a fourth cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a fourth compartment, the fourth cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the fourth cubby element encircling an opening to the fourth compartment, the fourth cubby element having a fourth width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element, wherein the fourth width is substantially equal to 1.5 times the first width (1.5×).

Embodiment 15

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 14, wherein the fourth compartment of the fourth cubby element is rectangular.

Embodiment 16

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 12, wherein the width of the third cubby element is about 35 inches.

Embodiment 17

A modular cabinet assembly comprising:

• • a first row of cubby elements comprising:
  • a first cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a first compartment, the first cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face encircling an opening to the first compartment, the first cubby element having a first width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face; and
  • a second cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a second compartment, the second cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the second cubby element encircling an opening to the second compartment, the second cubby element having a second width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element, the second width being equal to 1.5 or 2 times the first width,
  • where the first cubby element is removably secured to the second cubby element so that the second side face of the first cubby element is disposed against the first side face of the second cubby element.

Embodiment 18

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 17, wherein the first row of cubby elements comprise a third cubby element having a configuration identical to the second cubby element, the third cubby element being removably coupled to the first cubby element or the second cubby element so as to extend laterally therefrom.

Embodiment 19

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 18, further comprising a second row of cubby elements disposed on top of or below the first row of cubby elements, the second row of cubby elements being comprised of a plurality cubby elements that are laterally coupled together in consecutive order, all of the cubby elements of the second row of cubby elements being identical to the first cubby element, wherein the first row of cubby elements has a first maximum lateral width and the second row of cubby elements has a second maximum lateral width that is equal to the first maximum lateral width.

Embodiment 20

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 19, further comprising:

• • a top panel extending over and being removably secured to a top surface of the first row of cubby elements or the second row of cubby elements; and
  • a bottom panel extending over and being removably secured to a bottom surface of the other of the first row of cubby elements or the second row of cubby elements, the top panel being identical to the bottom panel.

Embodiment 21

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 17, wherein the first width of the first cubby element is 16 inches and the second width of the second cubby element 24 inches.

Embodiment 22

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 17, where the first cubby element is removably secured to the second cubby element by a removable clip that extends over a portion of the front face or back face of the first cubby element and the front face or back face of the second cubby element.

Embodiment 23

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 19, wherein a pin extends between the first row of cubby elements and the second row of cubby elements.

Embodiment 24

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in 17, wherein the first cubby element has a first height extending between the top face and the opposing bottom face thereof that is equal to the first width and wherein the second cubby element has a second height extending between the top face and the opposing bottom face thereof that is equal to half of the second width.

Embodiment 25

A modular cabinet assembly comprising:

• • a first cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a first compartment, the first cubby element having a front face extending between a first side and an opposing second side and encircling an opening to the first compartment;
  • a second cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a second compartment, the second cubby element having a front face extending between a first side and an opposing second side and encircling an opening to the second compartment, the second side of the first cubby element being disposed against the first side of the second cubby element; and
  • a removable first clip securing the first cubby element to the second cubby element by passing over a portion of the front face or back face of the first cubby element and over a portion of the front face or back face of the second cubby element.

Embodiment 26

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 25, wherein the removable first clip has a U-shaped configuration.

Embodiment 27

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 25, further comprising:

• • a first mounting slot being formed on the front face of the first cubby element; and
  • a first mounting slot being formed on the front face of the second cubby element, the removable first clip being removably received within the first mounting slot of the first cubby element and the first mounting slot of the second cubby element.

Embodiment 28

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 25, further comprising:

• • the first cubby element and the second cubby element each having a back face opposite the front face thereof; and
  • a removable second clip securing the first cubby element to the second cubby element by passing through the back face of the first cubby element and the back face of the second cubby element.

Embodiment 29

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 25, further comprising a top panel disposed on a top surface of the first cubby element and the second cubby element, pin extending between the top panel and the first cubby element or the second cubby element.

Embodiment 30

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 29, further comprising a bottom panel disposed on a bottom surface of the first cubby element and the second cubby element, a pin extending between the bottom panel and the first cubby element or the second cubby element, the bottom panel being identical to the top panel.

Embodiment 31

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 25, further comprising a bottom panel disposed on a bottom surface of the first cubby element and the second cubby element, a pin extending between the bottom panel and the first cubby element or the second cubby element.

Embodiment 32

A modular cabinet assembly comprising:

• • an array of cubby elements wherein each cubby element has a box shaped configuration and bounds a compartment, each cubby element also having a front face encircling an opening to the compartment thereof, the array of cubby elements comprising one or more rows of the cubby elements, each row of the cubby elements comprising at least two of the cubby elements removably coupled together in lateral alignment;
  • a top panel extending over and being removably secured to a top surface of the array of cubby elements; and
  • a bottom panel extending over and being removably secured to a bottom surface of the array of cubby elements, the top panel being identical to the bottom panel.

Embodiment 33

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 32, wherein the array of cubby elements comprise at least 2 rows of the cubby elements that are vertically staked on top of each other.

Embodiment 34

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 32, wherein the array of cubby elements comprise at least 2 rows of the cubby elements arranged as an array of 2 or more vertically, 2 or more horizontally, or 2 or more in depth, pushed back-to-back.

Embodiment 35

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 32, further comprising at least one pin extending between a top surface of the array of cubby elements and the top panel.

Embodiment 36

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 32, further comprising at least one pin extending between a bottom surface of the array of cubby elements and the bottom panel.

Embodiment 37

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 36, further comprising a plurality of feet threaded into the bottom panel.

Embodiment 38

A modular cabinet assembly comprising:

• • a plurality of cubby elements each having an identical configuration, each of the plurality of cubby elements having a box shaped configuration with a front face encircling an opening to a compartment;
  • wherein the plurality of cubby elements includes:
  • a first cubby element removably coupled to a second cubby element, the second cubby element being disposed lateral in a side-by-side relationship relative to the first cubby element; and
  • a third cubby element removably coupled to the first cubby element, the third cubby element being disposed vertically on top of the first cubby element.

Embodiment 39

A modular cabinet assembly comprising:

• • a plurality of cubby elements each having an identical configuration, each of the plurality of cubby elements having a box shaped configuration with a front face encircling an opening to a compartment;
  • wherein the plurality of cubby elements includes:
  • a false back defining a hidden cavity between the false back and a back panel.

Embodiment 40

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 39, wherein the plurality of cubby elements includes:

• • a first cubby element removably coupled to a second cubby element, the second cubby element being disposed lateral in a side-by-side relationship relative to the first cubby element; and
  • a third cubby element removably coupled to the first cubby element, the third cubby element being disposed vertically on top of the first cubby element;
  • wherein each of the first, second, and third cubby elements include the false back defining a hidden cavity.

Embodiment 41

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 39, further comprising a plurality of foot anchors within a bottom panel of each cubby element.

Embodiment 42

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 39, wherein a bottom panel of each cubby element includes a notch to allow passage of a cord from the hidden cavity into the compartment defined by the cubby element.

Embodiment 43

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 41, further comprising a plurality of bolts or feet that anchor into the foot anchors.

Embodiment 44

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 39, further comprising one or more stacking brackets that attach between a side panel and an upper beam extending between opposed side panels of the cubby element.

Embodiment 45

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 44, wherein the stacking brackets include a notch that receives a bolt or foot anchored into a foot anchor in a bottom panel of an adjacent stacked cubby element.

Embodiment 46

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 39, further comprising one or more integrated latches for locking one cubby element to an adjacent stacked cubby element.

Embodiment 47

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 39, further comprising a rear upper beam crossmember above the back panel, the rear upper beam crossmember including an angled underside, for mounting the cubby element to a corresponding cleat mounted or mountable to a wall.

Embodiment 48

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 39, further comprising a wall-securing cable attached to the back panel, for securing the cubby element to a wall.

Embodiment 49

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 39, wherein connecting hardware inserted into foot anchors slides into a notch of a stacking bracket, for stacking one cubby element on top of another cubby element.

Embodiment 50

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 44, wherein stacking brackets of adjacent side-by-side cubby elements each include a notch that receives a bolt or foot anchored into a top panel lid that is attached over the cubby elements that are attached side-by-side.

Embodiment 51

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 50, further comprising a clamp or clip that clamps one side panel of one cubby element to an adjacent side panel of an adjacent cubby element, so as to connect the cubby elements side-by-side.

Embodiment 52

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 44, further comprising a clamp or clip that clamps one side panel of one cubby element to an adjacent side panel of an adjacent cubby element, so as to connect the cubby elements side-by-side.

Embodiment 53

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 52, wherein the clamp or clip is positioned in a gap between a rear upper beam and a bottom panel, behind the false back, so as to be hidden by the false back.

Embodiment 54

The modular cabinet assembly as recited in embodiment 52, wherein the clamp or clip is positioned in a gap between a rear upper beam and the false back, so as to be hidden by the false back.

Various alterations and/or modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and additional applications of the principles illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, can be made to the illustrated embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims, and are to be considered within the scope of this disclosure. Thus, while various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are contemplated. While a number of methods and components similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used to practice embodiments of the present disclosure, only certain components and methods are described herein.

It will also be appreciated that systems, processes, and/or products according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure can include, incorporate, or otherwise comprise properties features (e.g., components, members, elements, parts, and/or portions) described in other embodiments disclosed and/or described herein. Accordingly, the various features of certain embodiments can be compatible with, combined with, included in, and/or incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, disclosure of certain features relative to a specific embodiment of the present disclosure should not be construed as limiting application or inclusion of said features to the specific embodiment. Rather, it will be appreciated that other embodiments can also include said features without necessarily departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Moreover, unless a feature is described as requiring another feature in combination therewith, any feature herein can be combined with any other feature of a same or different embodiment disclosed herein. Furthermore, various well-known aspects of illustrative assemblies, processes, products, and the like are not described herein in particular detail in order to avoid obscuring aspects of the example embodiments. Such aspects are, however, also contemplated herein.

The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. While certain embodiments and details have been included herein and in the attached disclosure for purposes of illustrating embodiments of the present disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in the methods, products, devices, and apparatus disclosed herein may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure or of the invention, which is defined in the appended claims. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. A modular cabinet assembly comprising:

a first cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a first compartment, the first cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face encircling an opening to the first compartment, the first cubby element having a first width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face; and

a second cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a second compartment, the second cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the second cubby element encircling an opening to the second compartment, the second cubby element having a second width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element;

wherein the first width is substantially equal to a height of the first cubby element, or the first width is substantially equal to twice the height of the first cubby element;

wherein the second width is substantially equal to a height of the second cubby element, or the second width is substantially equal to twice the height of the second cubby element;

wherein the first and second cubby elements are selectively secured to one another, either in a lateral side-by-side configuration, or stacked one atop another.

2. (canceled)

3. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein the first width of the first cubby element is substantially equal to the height of the first cubby element, and the second width of the second cubby element is substantially equal to the height of the second cubby element.

4. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein the first width of the first cubby element is substantially equal to twice the height of the first cubby element, and the second width of the second cubby element is substantially equal to twice the height of the second cubby element.

5. (canceled)

6. (canceled)

7. (canceled)

8. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein each cubby element is open at a top of the cubby element.

9. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 8, wherein each cubby element includes an alignment mechanism in a top surface of the cubby element, for coupling a top panel over the open top of such cubby element, when such cubby element is positioned as a top cubby element in the modular cabinet assembly.

10. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 9, wherein each cubby element includes a bottom panel for coupling over and closing the open top of a cubby element positioned below such cubby element in the modular cabinet assembly, wherein an underside of the bottom panel mates with the alignment mechanism in the top surface of the cubby element positioned below such cubby element.

11. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 9, wherein the alignment mechanism comprises alignment rails on opposite sides of the top surface of the cubby element, alignment rails on each side of the top surface of the cubby element, or a plurality of alignment pegs.

12. A modular cabinet assembly comprising:

a first cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a first compartment, the first cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face encircling an opening to the first compartment, the first cubby element having a first width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face; and

a second cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a second compartment, the second cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the second cubby element encircling an opening to the second compartment, the second cubby element having a second width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element;

a third cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a third compartment, the third cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the third cubby element encircling an opening to the third compartment, the third cubby element having a third width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element;

wherein the first width is (x) and is substantially equal to a height of the first cubby element, so that the first compartment of the first cubby element is substantially square;

wherein the second width is substantially equal to twice the first width (2×);

wherein the third width is substantially equal to three times the first width (3×); and

wherein the first, second and third cubby elements are selectively secured to one another, directly or indirectly, either in a lateral side-by-side configuration, or stacked one atop another.

13. (canceled)

14. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 12, further comprising a fourth cubby element having a box shaped configuration and bounding a fourth compartment, the fourth cubby element having a front face that extends vertically between a top face and an opposing bottom face and that extends laterally between a first side face and an opposing second side face, the front face of the fourth cubby element encircling an opening to the fourth compartment, the fourth cubby element having a fourth width extending between the first side face and the opposing second side face of the second cubby element, wherein the fourth width is substantially equal to 1.5 times the first width (1.5×).

15. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 14, wherein the fourth compartment of the fourth cubby element is rectangular.

16-37. (canceled)

38. A modular cabinet assembly comprising:

a plurality of cubby elements each having an identical configuration, each of the plurality of cubby elements having a box shaped configuration with a front face encircling an opening to a compartment;

wherein the plurality of cubby elements includes: a first cubby element removably coupled to a second cubby element, the second cubby element being disposed lateral in a side-by-side relationship relative to the first cubby element; and a third cubby element removably coupled to the first cubby element, the third cubby element being disposed vertically on top of the first cubby element.

39. A modular cabinet assembly comprising:

a plurality of cubby elements each having an identical configuration, each of the plurality of cubby elements having a box shaped configuration with a front face encircling an opening to a compartment;

wherein the plurality of cubby elements includes: a false back defining a hidden cavity between the false back and a back panel.

40. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 39, wherein the plurality of cubby elements includes:

a first cubby element removably coupled to a second cubby element, the second cubby element being disposed lateral in a side-by-side relationship relative to the first cubby element; and

a third cubby element removably coupled to the first cubby element, the third cubby element being disposed vertically on top of the first cubby element;

wherein each of the first, second, and third cubby elements include the false back defining a hidden cavity.

41. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 39, further comprising a plurality of foot anchors within a bottom panel of each cubby element.

42. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 39, wherein a bottom panel of each cubby element includes a notch to allow passage of a cord from the hidden cavity into the compartment defined by the cubby element.

43. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 41, further comprising a plurality of bolts or feet that anchor into the foot anchors.

44. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 39, further comprising one or more stacking brackets that attach between a side panel and an upper beam extending between opposed side panels of the cubby element.

45. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 44, wherein the stacking brackets include a notch that receives a bolt or foot anchored into a foot anchor in a bottom panel of an adjacent stacked cubby element.

46. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 39, further comprising one or more integrated latches for locking one cubby element to an adjacent stacked cubby element.

47. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 39, further comprising a rear upper beam crossmember above the back panel, the rear upper beam crossmember including an angled underside, for mounting the cubby element to a corresponding cleat mounted or mountable to a wall.

48. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 39, further comprising a wall-securing cable attached to the back panel, for securing the cubby element to a wall.

49. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 39, wherein connecting hardware inserted into foot anchors slides into a notch of a stacking bracket, for stacking one cubby element on top of another cubby element.

50. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 44, wherein stacking brackets of adjacent side-by-side cubby elements each include a notch that receives a bolt or foot anchored into a top panel lid that is attached over the cubby elements that are attached side-by-side.

51. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 50, further comprising a clamp or clip that clamps one side panel of one cubby element to an adjacent side panel of an adjacent cubby element, so as to connect the cubby elements side-by-side.

52. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 44, further comprising a clamp or clip that clamps one side panel of one cubby element to an adjacent side panel of an adjacent cubby element, so as to connect the cubby elements side-by-side.

53. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 52, wherein the clamp or clip is positioned in a gap between a rear upper beam and a bottom panel, behind the false back, so as to be hidden by the false back.

54. The modular cabinet assembly as recited in claim 52, wherein the clamp or clip is positioned in a gap between a rear upper beam and the false back, so as to be hidden by the false back.