Patent Grant
12052555
This Invention is in the field of furniture with built-in electronic assembly systems.
Charging cables and outlets are widely used in homes and businesses to charge any number of rechargeable devices, such as phones, tablets, laptops, and the like. Unfortunately, outlets for charging such devices may not be near enough to where people are seated on furniture to allow users to recharge their devices while, for example, lounging on their couch or other furniture. Moreover, wiring and cabling associated with such systems is unsightly and cumbersome.
Furniture also tends to take up a great deal of space in a home, office or business environment. When sitting on furniture, it is often desirable to listen to music, watch TV, or watch a movie in a home theater environment, or employ one or more rechargeable electronic components. Improved furniture is needed with improved electronic assembly systems that can be used in association with modern furniture assemblies or devices.
The present invention relates to space-saving furniture systems with associated electrical assembly systems, including one or more of integrated, embedded induction chargers, internal speaker systems, internal electrical power sources, electrical devices, and other electrical components associated with furniture that can be conveniently used by individuals while sitting on the furniture. Any of such may be provided separately, or in combination with one another.
The audio-enhanced furniture system conveniently provides furniture for comfortably sitting, as well as integrated induction chargers for convenient recharging of mobile devices and other electronic devices as a user is comfortably sitting on the furniture. The induction charger or induction charger assembly may be provided, e.g., hidden from view, and also touch or feel, from the user, such as under a cover (e.g., fabric cover) of the base or transverse member of a furniture system. The induction charger can be provided in the base, or in the transverse member. The induction charger can be provided seated within a hole formed into a frame or cushioning material of whichever of the base or transverse member the induction charger is included in. In an embodiment, the device to be inductively charged may be positioned (e.g., laid) on top of the base or transverse member including the induction charger, for charging. In another embodiment, the induction charging zone provided by the induction charger may be located between two abutting upholstered surfaces (e.g., between a base and transverse member, between a base and a base, or between a transverse member and another transverse member), where the upholstered surfaces abut one another, allowing a user to “wedge” the device to be charged in between such cushioned, upholstered surfaces, holding the device in place (e.g., due to a friction fit), while it charges wirelessly through induction. It will be apparent that various configurations, for positioning and placement of the induction charger may be possible, several of which are described herein.
In some embodiments, a furniture system has an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device. The system includes a base comprising a base frame. The base provides a seating surface. The system also includes a transverse member that provides a backrest or an armrest. The transverse member also includes a transverse member frame. Additionally, the system includes a first cushioning material and a second cushioning material. The second cushioning material is mounted on the transverse member frame or the base frame. The system also includes an induction charger that comprises an induction coil. The induction coil is embedded between the first cushioning material and the second cushioning material so as to provide induction charging to an electrical device positioned adjacent to the first cushioning material. The induction charger is hidden so as to not be seen (or felt) by a user of the furniture system. Furthermore, the first cushioning material has a first depth, and the second cushioning material has a second depth.
In some embodiments, a furniture system has an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device. Here, the furniture system includes a base comprising a base frame, where the base provides a seating surface. The system also includes a transverse member that provides at least one of a backrest or armrest. The transverse member comprises a transverse member frame, a first cushioning material, and a second cushioning material. The system also includes an induction charger that includes an induction coil. The induction coil is embedded between the first and second cushioning materials so as to provide induction charging to an electrical device positioned proximate or adjacent to the first cushioning material. The induction charger is hidden so as to not be seen (or felt) by a user of the furniture system. The first cushioning material has a first depth, and the second cushioning material has a second depth. As a result of positioning the induction charger between the first cushioning material and the second cushioning material, this positioning secures the induction charger in place such that the induction charger is not permanently or semi-permanently coupled to the transverse member frame (e.g., but may “float” between the two cushioning materials).
In some embodiments, a furniture system provides an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device. The furniture system comprises a base that includes a base frame. The base provides a seating surface. The system also includes a transverse member that provides at least one of a backrest or armrest. Here, the transverse member comprises a transverse member frame. The system also includes a first cushioning material and a second cushioning material. The first cushioning material and the second cushioning material are mounted on the transverse member frame or the base frame. The system also includes an induction charger that comprises an induction coil. The induction coil is embedded between the first and second cushioning materials so as to provide induction charging to an electrical device positioned adjacent to the first cushioning material. The induction charger is hidden so as to not be seen (e.g., or felt) by a user of the furniture system. The first cushioning material is disposed along a first side of the induction charger, the second cushioning material is disposed along a second side of the induction charger, a third cushioning material is disposed along a third side of the induction charger, and a fourth cushioning material is disposed along a fourth side of the induction charger. The first cushioning material has a first depth, and the second cushioning material has a second depth.
Another embodiment is directed to a furniture system that provides an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device, the furniture system comprising a base including a base frame, the base providing a seating surface. The system also includes a transverse member providing at least one of a backrest or armrest. The transverse member comprises a transverse member frame, a first cushioning material, and a second cushioning material, where the second cushioning material is mounted on the transverse member frame. The system also includes an outer cover that is selectively mounted over the first cushioning material. The system further includes an induction charger that includes an induction coil. The induction coil is embedded between the first and second cushioning materials so as to provide induction charging to an electrical device positioned on the outer cover. The induction charger is hidden so as to not be seen (or felt) by a user of the furniture system. The first cushioning material has a first depth, and the second cushioning material has a second depth.
In an embodiment, a charging surface is located adjacent to the induction charger such that the induction charger provides induction charging to the electrical device when the electrical device is positioned adjacent to the charging surface. In some cases, the charging surface is on or proximate to the first cushioning material. In some implementations, the charging surface is on a cover mounted over the first cushioning material such that the cover is also mounted over the induction charger. The cover, which has the charging surface thereon, may be an outer cover that covers an inner cover mounted on the first cushioning material. The outer cover can be selectively mounted on the inner cover. Optionally, the induction charger includes an electrical cord (perhaps a pluggable electrical cord) in electrical communication with the indication coil.
In some embodiments, the system further includes an inner cover mounted on the first cushioning material and an outer cover selectively mounted on the inner cover. The induction charger can, therefore, provide induction charging to the electrical device positioned adjacent to the outer cover.
In an embodiment, the first cushioning material is proximate to or on a cover, which cover provides a charging surface. The cover may be an inner cover, such that the first cushioning material is proximate to or on the inner cover. The furniture system can further include an outer cover, where the outer cover is positioned over the inner cover and where the charging surface is on the outer cover.
In an embodiment, the distance between the charging surface where a device can be placed for induction charging, and the induction charger that is embedded in the base frame or transverse member frame, may be at least 10 mm, or at least 12 mm (e.g., such as about 15 mm). By way of further example, in embodiments where the induction charger is positioned between first and second cushioning materials of given depths, the first depth of the first cushioning material can be dependent on a charging height operational range of the induction charger. Such first depth can be at least 10 mm or at least 15 mm. The second depth can be at least 10 mm, such as about 25 mm. In some cases, the distance is dependent on a charging height operational range of the induction charger.
When no force is applied to the charging surface, the first cushioning material and the second cushioning are in an uncompressed state, and when a force is applied to the charging surface, the cushioning materials are compressed. In such a compressed state, a thickness of the combination of the first and second cushioning materials can be less than 75%, less than 50%, or less than 40% of a thickness of the combination as compared to when in the uncompressed state.
The first and second cushioning materials may have different, or the same depths. In an embodiment, the first cushioning material is the part of the charging surface, while in another embodiment, the first cushioning material is separate from and abuts or is otherwise proximate to the charging surface, or rather, abuts a cover that covers the first cushioning material. The charging surface can include a cover that covers the first cushioning material.
In an embodiment, any of the cushioning materials can include foam padding.
Where third and/or fourth cushioning materials are provided, these can positioned on respective lateral sides of the induction charger (e.g., and the first and second cushioning materials can be positioned on top and bottom sides of the induction charger).
The first cushioning material can be separate from the charging surface, or can be integral with the charging surface. In an embodiment, the first cushioning material is below the charging surface.
The charging surface can be an outer surface (e.g., upholstered surface) comprising polyester, chenille, tweed, linen, velvet, leather, polyester linen, cotton, cotton blend, denim, twill, faux fur, or leather material.
In an embodiment, the charging surface is an integral outer skin of the first cushioning material.
The first cushioning material can be positioned proximate to the charging surface such that the first cushioning material is within 30 mm of the charging surface. The charging surface can be an outer surface of an outer cover disposed on the base frame or the transverse member frame. In an embodiment, an inner cover is underneath the outer cover, and the first cushioning material can be adjacent to the inner cover.
The first cushioning material and charging surface can be configured to include a removable lid or other access opening, that when removed or otherwise opened, provides access to the induction charger.
One furniture system (e.g., a modular furniture system) including an induction charger includes a transverse member comprising a frame having a panel (e.g., an upper panel) and an induction charger assembly. A spring biasing mechanism can be provided, for biasing the induction charger relative to the frame of the transverse member, such that in the absence of a force (e.g., a user pressing on the induction charger assembly) at least a portion of the induction charger is spring based away from the frame of the transverse member. For example, the configuration may be such that the induction charger can be pushed down relative to the panel or other portion of the frame when a force is exerted downward onto the induction charger, and it springs back upon release of the force.
In an embodiment, the portion of the induction charger that is spring biased away from the frame is spring biased above the upper panel. The spring biasing mechanism can be a coil spring, or other mechanism.
In an embodiment, the transverse member comprises a cushioning material disposed on the panel of the frame. For example, the portion of the induction charger that is biased away from the frame can be configured to move through the cushioning material (e.g., a hole therein).
In an embodiment, the panel (e.g., an upper panel) includes a cushioning material disposed thereon (e.g., above an upper panel), where the induction charger is embedded within the cushioning material.
The upper panel can include a hole extending therethrough. The induction charger can be mounted within the hole, to be selectively pushed downwardly relative to the panel of the frame when a downward force is exerted onto the induction charger.
In an embodiment, the spring biasing mechanism may be or include the cushioning material.
In an embodiment, the induction charger assembly comprises a housing, the housing having an outwardly extending flange and an induction coil disposed within a housing, wherein the outwardly extending flange is secured to the cushioning material such that a portion of the cushioning material is disposed between the outwardly extending flange and the upper panel.
The panel (e.g., an upper panel) can include a hole extending therethrough. The induction charger assembly can include a receptacle secured to the panel within the hole. An induction charger housing can be movably coupled to the receptacle such that the housing moves relative to the receptacle when a force is applied to the induction charger housing. The induction charger assembly can also include an induction coil or other induction structure for performing inductive charging, positioned inside the housing. The induction charger assembly can also include an electrical cord in electrical communication with the induction coil (e.g., for providing power to the induction coil).
The spring biasing mechanism may comprise a coil spring or a gas cylinder or other compressible fluid spring.
The transverse member may further comprise a cover layer disposed over the cushioning material.
The induction charger and/or induction charger assembly may be hidden from view beneath the cover layer. By way of example, the induction charger can refer to an induction coil or other structure capable of providing inductive charging, in electrical communication with an electrical cord that provides power thereto. The coil may be within a protective coil housing. The induction charger assembly can include the induction charger, a housing that houses portions of the induction charger (e.g., the same or different from any coil housing), and a receptacle, e.g., mounted on a frame of the base or transverse member, where the induction charger is movably mounted within the receptacle. A spring biasing mechanism biases the induction charger with respect to the frame of the transverse member.
In one embodiment, a furniture system having an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device includes a transverse member and an induction charger assembly. The transverse member includes a frame having an upper panel. The induction charger assembly is coupled to the upper panel of the transverse member. The induction charger assembly includes a receptacle mounted on the upper panel of the frame, an induction charger movably mounted within the receptacle, and a spring biasing mechanism that biases the induction charger with respect to the frame of the transverse member.
The spring biasing mechanism may be of any configuration including but not limited to a coil spring, a compressible fluid spring such as a hydraulic cylinder, or other spring, or even in the form of a cushioning material that is resilient or elastic.
The transverse member can include a cushioning material disposed on the upper panel of the frame, where the induction charger assembly is at least partially embedded within the cushioning material. The spring biasing mechanism can comprise a coil spring.
The transverse member can comprise a cover disposed on (e.g., over) the cushioning material. The induction charger is biased such that a vertical distance from a top surface of the induction charger to an upper surface of the transverse member is at least 10 mm, or at least 12 mm.
In an embodiment, the induction charger the housing is configured to elastically travel downwardly relative to the receptacle in response to a downward force on the induction charger.
The cover can include an access hole or opening (e.g., a zippered opening) through which the induction charger can be accessed.
In an embodiment, the upper surface of the cushioning material of the transverse member is flush with an upper surface of the induction charger in the absence of a downward pressing force on the induction charger, e.g., presenting a flush surface under which the induction charger is hidden.
In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a furniture system having an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device includes a transverse member and an induction charger. The transverse member includes a frame having an upper panel, a cushioning material disposed on the upper panel, wherein a hole extends through the upper panel and at least partially through the cushioning material, with a cover extending over the cushioning material. An induction charger assembly is connected to the transverse member. The induction charger assembly is disposed below the cover, with at least a portion of the induction charger assembly disposed within the cushioning material. The induction charger assembly includes a receptacle coupled to the frame, an induction charger movably mounted within the receptacle, and a spring biasing mechanism configured to bias the induction charger relative to the receptacle. In such an embodiment, the induction charger is configured to elastically or resiliently move down within the receptacle when a force presses down on the induction charger.
The spring biasing mechanism can be a coil spring, or other structures as disclosed herein.
The induction charger assembly can include a housing movably secured at least partially within the receptacle via the spring biasing mechanism, and an induction coil in the housing, where the induction charger assembly further includes an electrical cord in electrical communication with the induction coil.
The induction charger can be mounted on the upper panel of the frame.
In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a modular furniture system having an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device includes a transverse member, an induction charger assembly, and a spring biasing mechanism. The transverse member includes a frame having a panel. The spring biasing mechanism biases the induction charger relative to the frame of the transverse member, such that in the absence of a force, a portion of the induction charger is spring biased away from the frame of the transverse member. As described herein, the spring biasing mechanism may be any of various structures, including simply a cushioning material disposed on the panel of the frame, where the induction charger is embedded within the cushioning material.
The induction charger assembly can comprise a housing, having an outwardly extending flange, and an induction coil within a housing. The flange can be secured to the cushioning material such that a portion of the cushioning material is disposed between the flange and the panel.
The panel can have a hole therethrough. The induction charger assembly can include a receptacle secured to the panel within the hole, an induction charger housing movably coupled to the receptacle such that the housing moves relative to the receptacle when a force is applied to the induction charger housing, and an induction coil within the induction charger housing.
The transverse member can further include a cover disposed over the cushioning material. The induction charger can be hidden from view beneath the cover.
The induction chargers of the present invention can be used in a couch, in a chair, in sectional seating systems, and in sectional systems having a variety of different components, such as recliners, seats, foot rests and a vast variety of configurations. The induction charger may also be included in various other pieces of furniture (e.g., a bed).
At least some configurations of the induction chargers described in the present disclosure elastically yield downward or otherwise toward or into the furniture system in response to loads, such as loads from sitting on the induction chargers, to prevent the induction chargers from breaking, while hiding the charger from sight or being felt. The induction chargers can elastically yield as such and still be positioned close enough to the surface of the furniture system to effectively charge electronic devices placed in a charging zone, on a given surface of the furniture system. Thus, the induction chargers described herein can be hidden within the furniture system for aesthetic purposes while maintaining functionality and durability of both the furniture and induction charger components.
One exemplary furniture system including an embedded induction charger includes a base having a frame, the base providing a seating surface, and a transverse member providing a backrest and/or an armrest, where the transverse member also comprises a frame. An induction charger is secured at least partially within the frame of the base or transverse member, where the induction charger provides induction charging to a device positioned on a given surface (e.g., an upper surface) of the base or transverse member, over the induction charger. The induction charger is hidden so as to not be seen or felt by a user of the furniture system. A vertical distance from a top surface of the induction charger to the surface where charging of the device occurs (e.g., an upper surface of the transverse member or base including the induction charger) can be at least 10 mm, at least 12 mm, or at least 15 mm. Such distance can aid in ensuring that the induction charger is not felt (e.g., when a user might compress cushioning material adjacent the cover of the furniture system), otherwise feeling something hard embedded therein. The ability to position the induction charger at a distance greater than 5 mm, or greater than 7 mm from the surface where the device is charged, while still providing charging at such a distance, is advantageous (e.g., in better hiding such an induction charger).
In an embodiment, the transverse member frame is at least partially covered by cushioning material, the transverse member further including an upholstery cover positioned over the cushioning material, the induction charger being hidden beneath the upholstery cover and the cushioning material of the transverse member.
In an embodiment, the transverse member frame may be at least partially covered by cushioning material, the transverse member further including an inner cover positioned over the cushioning material, with a zippered opening providing access through the inner cover, the induction charger being hidden beneath the inner cover under the zippered opening of the transverse member, the induction charger being accessible for removal and/or replacement through the zippered opening.
The furniture system can be a modular furniture system. In an embodiment, the system may be an upholstered furniture system.
The furniture system can include removable covers for positioning over the base and transverse member, the induction charger being hidden beneath the removable cover.
Another exemplary furniture induction charger system for use in a furniture system comprises a base providing a seating surface; and a transverse member providing at least one of an armrest or a backrest, wherein the base and transverse member each comprise a frame, with cushioning material disposed at least partially about the frame, wherein each of the base and transverse member include an upholstered cover extending thereover, such that both the base and transverse member have upholstered surfaces, the furniture induction charger system comprising an induction charger positioned within at least one of the base or transverse member such that the induction charger is hidden from view, under an upholstered cover of at least one of the base or transverse member, wherein the induction charger is seated within a hole formed into at least one of the frame or the cushioning material of the transverse member or base which includes the induction charger, where the induction charger is positioned at a location where the transverse member or the base abut another transverse member or base, such that the furniture system includes an induction charging zone at the location where such abutment occurs, allowing a user to place a device to be inductively charged between the two abutting upholstered surfaces. The induction charger may be positioned within the transverse member, or the base. The abutting upholstered surfaces could be configured to hold the device to be inductively charged therebetween in a friction fit. The furniture system could be a modular furniture system, where the base and transverse member are selectively coupleable to one another.
In any of the embodiments described herein, the device to be charged may be a smartphone, other mobile phone, or other portable electronic device (e.g., tablet).
Any of the embodiments described herein can include hiding the induction charger beneath cushioning material and/or an upholstery cover of the furniture component (e.g., base or transverse member) in which the induction charger is positioned.
Any of the embodiments described herein can include a cover (e.g., an inner cover, and optionally an outer cover), e.g., positioned over cushioning material and/or the frame of the base or transverse member including the induction charger. A zippered or other selectively accessible opening can be provided, providing access through a cover (e.g., an inner cover), where the induction charger is hidden beneath the zippered or other cover with such an opening, making the induction charger accessible for removal and/or replacement through such opening.
Any of the embodiments described herein can be employed in modular furniture systems, e.g., which allow a user to selectively couple bases and/or transverse members of the furniture system to one another. In some such modular embodiments, the same components (e.g., bases and transverse members) can be coupled to one another in different configurations, using the same components, which allows a user to disassemble a given modular furniture assembly, and put together a new furniture assembly using the same components, coupled to one another in a different configuration. This can allow a user to reposition an induction charger (e.g., embedded in a base or transverse member) by simply rearranging such components.
Any of the furniture systems described herein can be upholstered furniture systems.
Any of the furniture systems described herein can include a removable cover (e.g., an outer cover, over an inner cover). Such removable covers can be configured for positioning over the base or transverse members, and the induction charger can be hidden under such a removable cover (e.g., in some embodiments, the charger can be hidden under both an inner cover and an outer cover, where the outer cover is removable). The inner cover may include a zippered or other selectively accessible opening, for accessing the induction charger.
In any of the embodiments described herein, the induction charger may be in the base, or in the transverse member of a furniture assembly.
These and other objects and features of the present invention 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 hereinafter.
To further clarify the above and other advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only illustrated embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
As shown in
Audio-enhanced, modular furniture system 200 advantageously includes one or more speakers positioned therein and as shown in
In the embodiment of
As illustrated in
Instead, the use of the speakers mounted within the furniture system 200 efficiently uses furniture and provides a high-quality, high-fidelity listening experience to the user. The speakers are hidden within certain discrete portions of the transverse members 14a and within the base 12a, thereby enabling efficient use of space.
In the illustrated embodiment of
The subwoofer assembly within base 12a is hidden inside the frame of base 12a and is therefore underneath the seat cushion 18.
Audio-enhanced modular furniture system 200 has bases 12a and transverse members 14a that are similar to base 12 and transverse member 13 of
Additional details of each of the components reflected in
The coupling together of components of the modular furniture assembly of the present invention and the electrical power system within the modular furniture assembly will now be discussed with detailed reference to
In one embodiment, neither base 12 nor transverse member 14 of
As shown in
Further discussion and disclosure relating to the modular furniture assemblies 10 and their connection to each other and to the transverse members 14 are shown and discussed in the following patents and patent applications, each of which are incorporated herein by reference: (i) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/332,705, filed Jul. 16, 2014, entitled MOUNTING PLATFORM FOR MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY, (ii) U.S. Pat. No. 8,783,778, entitled MOUNTING PLATFORM FOR MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY, (iii) U.S. Pat. No. 7,963,612 entitled MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY, (iv) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/449,074, filed Jun. 8, 2006, entitled MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,547,073, (v) U.S. Pat. No. 7,213,885 entitled MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY, (vi) U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/354,426 filed Jun. 24, 2016 entitled MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY CORNER SEATING SYSTEM; (vii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/257,623, filed on Nov. 19, 2015, entitled FURNITURE WITH ELECTRONIC ASSEMBLIES; (viii) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/270,339, filed on Sep. 20, 2016, entitled ELECTRICAL HUB FOR FURNITURE ASSEMBLIES; (ix) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/276,524, filed Sep. 26, 2016, entitled Modular Furniture Assembly Corner Seating System; and (x) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/342,800, filed Nov. 3, 2016, entitled Furniture System with Recliner Assembly, each of which are incorporated herein by reference.
The bases and transverse members of the present invention can include one or more covers (e.g., an inner cover and an outer cover). Such covers have various advantageous, such as that the outer covers are conveniently removable so that the user can remove the covers, wash them, and swap them with other covers as desired. In one embodiment, the speakers used in the present invention are frequency tuned so that there is a high quality sound emitted through the inner and/or the outer removable covers.
Hub 100 of
Each transverse member 14 has a cavity 26 in a middle, lower portion thereof. A U-shaped coupler 15, selectively couples an upper portion of a base 12 to a middle, lower portion of a transverse member 14. Foot couplers 34 selectively couple respective feet of base 12 to respective feet of the transverse members 14. Foot couplers 34 have apertures therein that receive the feet of respective adjacent bases and transverse members, coupling them to each other.
In one embodiment, a foot coupler such as coupler 34 can be placed under a foot of a base that is not adjacent a transverse member or other base, for aesthetic continuity and/or to provide a level surface of all four corners of the base. Furniture assembly 10 is a modular furniture assembly that can be assembled as illustrated in
As illustrated in
Base 12 is used as a seat member and/or for receiving a cushion 18 to be used as a seat member while transverse member 14 can be used as a backrest and/or arm rest. Various combinations of bases, transverse members, and U-shaped couplers and foot couplers can be used in varying numbers to create a variety of different furniture assemblies of the present invention, as discussed and illustrated in the patents and patent applications that are incorporated herein by reference.
Electrical hub 100 is also shown in an exploded view in
When cushion 18 of
An electronic furniture assembly of
The electrical hub 100 comprises one or more electrical outlets. Hub 100 is configured to be selectively integrated into furniture assembly 10. One or more electrical hubs 100 is configured to be selectively integrated into a variety of other furniture assemblies, having one or multiple transverse members 14, such as the furniture assemblies disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,783,778, entitled MOUNTING PLATFORM FOR MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY and (vii) Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/257,623, filed on Nov. 19, 2015, entitled “Furniture with Electronic Assemblies,” each of which are incorporated herein by reference. The electrical hubs 100 described herein are compatible to communicate with the transverse member cavities disclosed in the aforementioned patents and applications.
Hub 100 can be conveniently used within the transverse members of the furniture assemblies disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,213,885 entitled MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY, wherein the furniture assemblies have a configuration such that the length X of the base and the length X′ of the transverse member are equal to each other and wherein the length X of the base is equal to the width of the base and the width of the transverse member, such that X=Y+Z and X=X′ as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,213,885 entitled MODULAR FURNITURE ASSEMBLY, which is incorporated herein by reference.
The drawings provided herein show hub 100 in use in connection with modular furniture. However, hub 100 is conveniently used in connection with various types of furniture, including: (i) fixed, non-configurable furniture; (ii) furniture that is assembled by a consumer (known as “assemble-able furniture); and furniture that can be configured into a variety of different configurations (known as “modular furniture”). Assemble-able furniture includes (i) modular furniture that can be configured into a variety of different configurations and (ii) furniture that can only be assembled into a single configuration. Hub 100 is conveniently used in connection with various types of furniture, including (i) fixed-nonconfigurable, (ii) assembleable-modular and (iii) assembleable-non-modular furniture.
Although
As shown in
The free end of the installation clip 106 is movable with respect to the assembly and is configured to be normally in the extended position absent any other force, and is selectively moved by a user from the extended position to the compressed position in order to mount the electrical hub 100 within the furniture assembly 10. Clip 106 is further configured to be selectively moved by a user from the extended position to the compressed position in order to remove the electrical hub 100 from the furniture assembly. Hub 100 is configured to be selectively mounted within a furniture assembly 100 in order to provide a source of electrical power for one or more electrical devices 20, 22, 24 adjacent the furniture assembly, as illustrated in
Additional information regarding hub 100 is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/270,339, filed on Sep. 20, 2016, entitled “Electrical Hub for Furniture Assemblies,” which is incorporated herein by reference.
Various electronic devices can be electrically coupled to the outlets of the electrical outlet assembly 102 or to the interior outlet 140′ shown in
In addition, one or more additional transverse members with a hub 100, a speaker 170, and a charger 172 can also be provided in order to provide stereo and surround sound and in order to provide a conveniently wired electrical furniture assembly.
Using induction charger 172 mounted within a transverse member 14, a user seated on a furniture assembly 10 can conveniently recharge an electrical device, such as a cellular phone, while seated on the modular furniture assembly.
Wireless qi charging, e.g., via induction charger 172 embedded within the transverse member or other devices is used to charge mobile devices, such as cellular phones, computers, lighting systems, lamps, or other electronic devices. As shown in
The induction charger charges though layers of fabric when desired. The induction charger may be placed in a variety of locations such as within the transverse member or the base.
Other embedded devices that may be employed in transverse member 14 or in a base 12, including ambience lights, heating systems, cooling systems and motion sensors, for example.
An electrical device such as lamp 150 has a cord 160 thereof conveniently connected to floor resting cord outlet 140a as shown in
Cord elbow 120 extending about electrical cord 110 is also illustrated. The cord elbow 120 is a rigid or semi-rigid component (comprised, e.g., of a hard plastic) positioned about cord 110 in a bending, elbow shape along the length of the hub electrical cord 110. The cord elbow 120 is positioned about the hub electrical cord 110 so as to facilitate a convenient permanent bending of the hub electrical cord 110 while simultaneously protecting the bent portion of cord 110. In one embodiment, the cord elbow 120 bends the hub electrical cord 110 at a position where the hub electrical cord 110 reaches the floor or other surface when extending between the electrical outlet assembly 102 and a power source, such as a wall outlet 19.
Elbows such as cord elbow 120 provide a protected, smooth transition from a vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation, and may be comprised of a variety of different materials, such as a hard plastic, or a rubber, neoprene, silicone or other material that can be wrapped around and electrical cord and form a rigid or semi-rigid tubular member wrapped around the cord.
Elbows such as cord elbow 120 extending about cord thus protect the electrical cord from breaking or fraying while bending, minimize the amount of electrical cord seen, and in some instances hides the electrical cord from view.
Also as shown in
Induction charger 172 can be mounted under the fabric within a transverse member 14, for example for conveniently, wirelessly charging electronic devices wireless, e.g. a phone and/or computer placed by a user on a transverse member 14.
One or more tabs 120a-b extend from the panel 104 of the hub 100 and are configured to reside between the transverse member 14 and the base member 12 when transverse member 14 and base member 12 are coupled together. In this way, the tabs 120a-b are press fitted between the transverse member 14 and base member 12 so as to help secure the hub 100 at least partially within the cavity 26 in transverse member 14.
Coupler 15 and similar couplers and hub 100 and similar hubs can be employed to provide coupling and electrical power in conjunction with speaker-containing bases 12a and transverse members 14a and/or in conjunction with non-speaker containing bases and transverse members.
Subwoofer speaker 210a is comprised of a subwoofer speaker driver 211a, including electronics and other structure typically associated with such a speaker driver, such as its magnet. Speaker driver 211a is coupled to a speaker housing 228 on which driver 211a is mounted. Speaker housing 228 provides a given, desired internal volume associated with subwoofer speaker 210a. In the illustrated embodiment, housing 228 is separately defined from the cavity 226 within frame assembly 216.
The configuration of speaker housing 228 enables speaker 210a to be removed from the cavity 226 of base member 12a so as to allow a user to remove subwoofer assembly 210a from a given base member 12a and install it into another base member 12, for example, which may not have previously included a subwoofer speaker 210a therein. Subwoofer assembly 210a is thus entirely self-contained. Enclosure 228 may be sealed or ported, as desired.
Subwoofer speaker 210a further includes elongate attachment arms 230a and 230b mounted on opposing sides of speaker housing 228. Arms 230a and 230b are attached to the enclosure 228 and couple enclosure 228 to frame assembly 216 of base 12a.
In the illustrated embodiment, arms 230a and 230b each include an angled terminal extension 232 at each end thereof and a mounting hole 232a associated therewith. The positioning and orientation of holes 232a are configured to allow subwoofer speaker 210a to be received within cavity 226 of frame assembly 216 in a manner that holes 232a align with the holes for mounting feet 20a of base member 12a.
Each of the arms 230a-b are comprised of an L-shaped shaft body having an approximately 90 degree angled L-shaped cross section, each shaft body having terminating extensions 232 extending from the shaft body. The terminating extensions 232 are angled to extend laterally outward from the shaft body as shown in
Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention, the speaker system comprises one or more arms configured to couple one or more speakers to a frame of a portion of the furniture assembly, the one or more arms comprised of an L-shaped shaft body having an angled L-shaped cross section, the shaft body having terminating extensions extending from the shaft body, the terminating extensions being are angled to extend laterally outward from the shaft body, the terminating extensions extending in the same plane as one of the legs of the L-shaped shaft body.
This relationship is further shown in
As further shown in
In other words, the cone of driver 211a associated with subwoofer 210a is shown as directing sound downward towards the floor or other support surface when assembled within base 12a.
Other configurations are possible. For example, the driver 211a can alternatively be flipped over so that the cone of driver 211a associated with subwoofer speaker 210a is oriented upwardly within base 12a, in other words, toward the seated user.
Each of these different configurations provides a different sound-enhanced experience for the user. For example, when driver 211a is pointed downward towards the floor, sound is reflected off the floor, the reflected sound potentially having the advantages of reflected sound, which may, in some embodiments, include improving the sound quality.
When driver 211a is pointed upwardly toward the user sitting on the base 12a, it may be possible for the user to feel and experience an increased amount of reverberation, improving the fourth dimensional experience for the user who can, in some embodiments, feel the sound of the speaker more intensely.
The illustrated configuration provides a high degree of protection for the driver 211a of subwoofer speaker 210a, while also providing excellent sound quality. In some embodiments, as frequencies of 120 Hz or less, or 80 Hz or less are largely omni-directional, a user seated on couch 200 cannot readily tell from which direction such sounds are coming.
Providing a full enclosure housing 228 for subwoofer speaker 210a, in addition to using an enclosure associated with frame assembly 216 of base 12a, provides additional protection to the driver 211a of subwoofer speaker 210a.
For example, the top side of enclosure 228 is spaced apart from the springs 263 coupled to the top of frame assembly 216 on which the cushion is positioned. The space thus provided between the top of enclosure 228 and the springs 263 coupled to the top of frame assembly 216, so that when a user sits on a cushion 18 positioned on the springs 263 coupled to the top of frame assembly 216 (or on fabric cover 266 or other cover over the springs 263), there is little risk of damage to driver 211a of subwoofer speaker 210a.
For example, such a space or clearance between the springs 263 and the housing 228 may be at least about 2 inches to about 5 inches, for example.
As shown in
In the embodiment of
As shown in
Even in the unlikely event that a user were able to depress springs 263 and/or webbing 265 to a top surface of housing 228, the rigid enclosure housing 228 will still protect subwoofer driver 211a from any damage. Thus, the configuration of housing 228 and the space between housing 228 and springs 263 provides dual layers of protection for subwoofer driver 211a.
As further illustrated in
As shown in
Holes 274, 276 are formed through the frame 270 and cushioning material 272 through which the sound of respective speakers 212a, 214a is emitted. A layer of polyurethane or other foam is typically present around the top, sides and front and back faces of frame 270 of transverse member 14a. Holes 274, 276 extend through such foam and frame 270 through which respective speakers 212a, 214a adjacent the respective holes 274, 276 emit sound.
An inner fabric cover 241 extends over the foam 272 and frame 270 of transverse member 14 and connects on the bottom of frame 270, as illustrated in
In another embodiment, a fabric inner cover may be mounted within the holes of the polyurethane or other foam material and/or the plywood frame member, after which the speakers are secured to the frame member. The outer upholstery fabric cover then extends over the transverse member, including the speakers 212a, 214a, hiding the speakers from view.
Rear surround speaker 214a can be mounted in the same or similar manner as speaker 212a, or in a different manner. For example, speaker 214a can be secured to a plywood or other frame member of transverse member 14a and mounted adjacent a hole in the frame member. A hole is also provided through the polyurethane or other foam around the top surface of transverse member 14a through which surround speaker 214a is mounted. Inner and outer fabric covers similarly extend over and/or about rear surround speaker 214a.
In one embodiment, the transverse member frame 270 is surrounded entirely by cushioning material 272, except possibly on the bottom surface of frame 270 and possibly within the cavity 26 where the coupler 15 and hub 100 are mounted.
The front speaker 212a and rear surround speaker 214a of
The speakers 212a, 214a of
The holes in the outer foam covering may be covered by an inner cover 241 (
The drivers of transverse members 14a may optionally be covered by a metal or plastic mesh or caging material mounted within the holes within the cushioning material and/or frame, for additional protection beyond that provided by the fabric covers.
The front-facing speaker 212a of
The structure and positioning and tuning of speakers 212a, 214a is strategically useful to the sound and fidelity of the speakers as the speakers are covered by one or more covers 241, 243.
Such placement is advantageous as it positions speaker 212a, 214a well above the floor on which the couch assembly 200 is placed, while also positioning rear surround speaker 214a near to, and perhaps behind the ears of a user seated on couch 200. Such positioning is also advantageous as it helps to protect speakers 212a and 214a from damage that might otherwise occur if the speakers were near the floor.
For example, positioning speakers 212a, 214a closer to the floor surface might result in a user inadvertently kicking the speaker, thereby damaging it. Positioning of surround speaker 214a at or near a rear end of the upper surface 236 of transverse member 14 is also advantageous as a user is less likely to spill a drink at this location or even position an arm or hand over the speaker, damaging the speaker and/or muffling sound generated thereby.
The interior furniture cavities of the base and transverse members of the present invention are utilized to potentially enhance the audio quality by resonance and positioning. The volume of the transverse member itself (or an enclosure within such space) may be used as the speaker enclosure, creating the desired resonance. Speakers are tuned for speaker output through the fabric covers covering the frames of the speakers, which is highly useful.
Removable, outer cover 243 may selectively be mounted on transverse member frame 270 (and the at least partially surrounding foam 272) and/or on interior cover 241 through the use of a two part attachment assembly, such as VELCRO, or other two part attachment assembly.
The inner and outer covers 241, 243 may be comprised of a variety of different upholstery fabrics, such fabrics comprising fibers, such as polyester fibers, or other fibers. The fabric of covers 241, 243 may be woven or non-woven. Typically, such fabrics are not acoustically transparent, e.g., they affect sound waves at one or more frequencies from 20 Hz to 20 kHz by attenuating (or boosting) any such frequency more than 3 dB (i.e., ±more than 3 dB). For example, such upholstery fabrics are relatively heavy fabrics, which may typically attenuate particularly the higher sound frequencies at more than 3 dB. As a result of such attenuation by the fabric, the sound generated at any such speaker hidden behind the upholstery fabric may be tuned to increase the volume of the attenuated frequencies to compensate for the attenuation that occurs as the sound passes through the fabric. For example, if the fabric attenuates sounds at 2 kHz by 6 dB, the tuning may increase the volume of sounds at 2 kHz by 6 dB to compensate. There may typically be several frequencies which may be boosted to compensate for such fabric induced attenuation.
Examples of the upholstery materials for the inner and/or outer cover 243 include polyester, chenille, tweed, linen, velvet, leather, polyester linen, cotton, cotton blend, denim, twill, faux fur, leather, and the like, for example. Such materials can also be used for outer covers for base member 12a, and all of which are examples of upholstery fabrics, although a variety of different fabrics may be employed.
Examples of weights of upholstery fabrics that can be used as interior covers and/or outer covers for the bases and/or transverse members of the present invention include, for example: fabrics having weights in a range of approximately 50 grams per square meter (GSM) to approximately 1500 grams per square meter (GSM), for example, such as approximately 100 GSM to approximately 1000 GSM, or such as approximately 190 GSM to approximately 800 GSM, although a variety of different interior and exterior fabrics may be employed. The speakers of the present invention are adjusted and tuned in order to emit sound through such fabrics in a manner that attenuation due to such fabric is compensated for.
In one embodiment, the inner cover of base 12a and/or the inner cover of transverse member 14a are comprised of a thin cover comprising an approximately 90 percent polyester and approximately 10 percent cotton blend, for example.
In one embodiment, with respect to tuning the speakers through the upholstery fabric of covers 241, 243 through which the sound is emitted, the upholstery fabric used in transverse member 14a is in one embodiment not an acoustically transparent fabric, but rather is upholstery fabric configured to be employed in upholstery, chairs, couches and other furniture.
For this reason, the front speakers and the surround speakers can be tuned to accommodate for the dynamic that the sound generated from such speakers is required to pass through the upholstery fabric.
For example, relatively higher frequencies (e.g., 200 Hz or more, 400 Hz or more, 800 Hz or more, 2 kHz or more, 4 kHz or more, etc.) generated from such speakers are often affected by passage through such fabric, and may have some degree of attenuation associated therewith, which attenuation may increase with increasing frequency. As a result of this, the speaker can be tuned by boosting such higher frequencies before they pass through the fabric so that once the speaker sound passes through the fabric, it is approximately at a volume as it is intended to be heard and received by a listener (e.g., so that the overall tuned output is within ±3 dB of the un-attenuated “target” value).
As mentioned, examples of the upholstery materials for the inner and/or outer cover 243 include chenille, tweed, linen, velvets, leather, polyester linen, cotton, cotton blend, denim and others used in furniture upholstery, for example. Tuning of the frequencies of the speakers to provide the sound through such upholstery fabrics is a unique and novel aspect of the present invention.
Such positioning hides speakers 212a and 214a within transverse member 14 so as to not be readily seen by a user or other person, but also allows a high quality sound from the speakers.
Such hiding of the speakers is particularly advantageous in at least some embodiments. For example, many users dislike the appearance of speakers within a room in locations such as a bookshelf, or on stands located some distance from a couch, which is often typical.
The present configurations are advantageous in that they allow complete hiding of the speakers, sometimes even all of the speakers associated with a surround sound system.
Each of speakers 212a and/or 214a may be mounted within transverse member 14 in any manner desired. For example, they may each include a dedicated housing enclosure similar to that described above, with respect to the subwoofer assembly. Such a housing enclosure could be attached to the frame assembly within transverse member 14a. In another embodiment, the speaker driver associated with speakers 212a and/or 214a can simply be mounted to frame members internally disposed within transverse member 14a, employing the cavity associated with transverse member 14a for one or both of speakers 212a and/or 214a.
With regard to
As shown in
For example, it will be appreciated that a first section of such wiring or cabling may extend from a base member 12a and amplifier 217 to a location of the base member 12a that is near or adjacent to the coupler 15 and/or hub 100.
This first section of wiring or cabling could be terminated at this location with an appropriate RCA or other type coupling jack. The transverse member 14a may similarly include another section of wiring 218a which extends from speaker 212a through transverse member 14 to another jack coupling at or near hub 100. Once the modular furniture assembly 200 has been assembled with transverse member 14a positioned adjacent to and coupled to base member 12a, a coupling or cabling can be extended between two such jacks (bridging wiring within transverse member 14a and base 12a), providing an effective, wired connection from amplifier 217 to speaker 212a.
A similar multi-section wiring or cabling configuration can similarly be provided between rear, surround speaker 214a and a jack at or near the hub 100 and from the amplifier 217 to a location at or near the hub 100, with a bridging coupling or wiring between wiring in base 12a with wiring in the transverse member 14a.
In another configuration, such internal wiring spanning the base members and the transverse members may not necessarily be required. For example, signals could be transmitted to the speakers from receiver 217 (e.g., an audio or home theater receiver) and/or transmitter 224 through wireless transmission.
In such embodiments, the signal may be transmitted wirelessly to speaker 212a and/or speaker 214a. In such embodiments, it may still be necessary to provide power to speaker 212a and/or 214a, e.g., through use of hub 100 Such wireless transmission of signals may eliminate the need for any wiring or electrical coupling for power or signals from base 12a to transverse member 14a, at least for speakers 212a and 214a.
Where jumper connections are desired for power and/or signal transmission, such may be achieved through any suitable configuration. For example, quick connect ports (e.g., RCA, banana plugs, or other) for such speaker wire or cable may be located on a bottom side of transverse member 14a (
In one embodiment, an induction charger 172 (such as that in
Induction charger 172 can be mounted in an upper middle portion 278 of transverse member frame 270, for example, between the speakers 212a-214a and above the electrical hub 100. Charger 172 may be in the same top surface 236 as surround speaker 214a, positioned forwardly relative to speaker 214a, e.g., behind speaker 212a positioned in the front surface 234 of transverse member 14a.
An induction charger 172 shown in
An induction charger 172 is mounted on the upper portion of the frame of transverse member 14c in
The speakers of
It will thus be appreciated from
Front speakers 212a-b and rear, upwardly facing surround speakers 214a-b are each mounted in a respective transverse members 14a. As shown in
Each of transverse member speakers 212a, 212b, 214a, 214b are positioned underneath the upholstery fabric of the covers 241, 243 (
Positioning of speakers 212a, 212b, 214a, and 214b is also advantageous as the speakers are positioned in transverse members 14a in a manner such that a user seated on sofa 300 typically will not obstruct sound emanating from any of these speakers.
The particular positioning and orientation of the speakers shown in
The speakers embedded in base member 12a and/or transverse member 14a can be switched or swapped as a user wishes to reconfigure the modular furniture assembly of sofa 300. For example, if a user wished to reconfigure sofa 300 so as to include more or less base members and/or more or less transverse members 14a, the user can simply disassemble that part of sofa 300 and include additional base members 12a and/or transverse members 14a (or remove such), as desired.
Because the speakers are positioned within such modular furniture assembly components, this provides great flexibility to a user in where the speakers can be positioned within a built furniture assembly. For example, any of the furniture assemblies shown in any of the applications already incorporated by reference can be modified to swap out any of the bases or transverse members with bases 12a including a subwoofer, or transverse members 14a including speakers, or any combination thereof. Such modularity of the furniture system thus allows the user extreme flexibility in where the speakers are provided, hidden within the furniture assembly. The modularity of the subwoofer assembly in base 12a can also allow a user to remove the assembly from one base, and install it in another base, if desired.
For example, the modularity of the system allows a user to place base members 12a and transverse members 14a in any place desired. Some base members 12 and some transverse members 14 may be provided which do not include any speakers positioned therein, allowing the user to use these component pieces in configuring any desired modular furniture assembly configuration they desire.
In order for an end user to set up sofa 300 (or system 200 or system 350), no tools are required because the speakers are already mounted within respective base members and transverse members, and wiring can be connected without the use of complicated tools. Therefore, the sofa 300 with its electronic assembly members is highly advantageous, efficient and useful.
Power for such lights may be provided through any of the hubs 100 associated with transverse members 14a as described herein. Such a configuration may provide a night light system which may illuminate an area around sofa 350 in an otherwise dark room, aiding a user in navigating through the room at night or otherwise.
Such lighting may also be desired in other environments where a user is using sofa 350, for example, while watching a movie or other program on a television or other display in a dimly lit room.
Modular furniture assembly 350 is highly useful in a variety of different settings and includes electronic devices embedded in leisure seating such as in upholstery couches, modular seating, sectionals and the furniture known as Sectionals. While illustrated with audio components in the furniture assembly in addition to the motion activated night light system, it will be appreciated that a furniture system without audio components could include the motion activated night light system.
While no dedicated center channel speaker is illustrated in
As shown, sofa 350 includes speakers or other audio components embedded in leisure seating which includes upholstery couches, modular seating, etc. Sofa 350 provides excellent stereo or surround quality sound and provides a high fidelity surround sound experience.
The speakers are hidden from the view of the user and customers within the wooden framing portions of the base 12a and/or transverse member 14a and can be hidden under covers surrounding the wooden framing.
In the illustrated configuration, amplifier 217 is disposed within base member 12a. Amplifier 217 may be a multi-channel amplifier and/or an audio receiver including such an amplifier and is illustrated as being disposed within base member 12a, for example, adjacent to subwoofer 210a, e.g., mounted on or within housing 228.
As further shown in
In an alternative configuration, a signal may be sent from an audio receiver 217 to front right and front left speakers 212a in an 212b in an unamplified configuration where amplification occurs at the speaker 212a or 212b. Unamplified signals can be sent through a wired or wireless connection, as desired.
In one embodiment, amplifier 217 amplifies at least the subwoofer speaker. In another embodiment, amplifier 217 amplifies the subwoofer speaker and the other speakers, e.g., the transverse member speakers. In another embodiment, the subwoofer may include its own internal amplifier, and amplifier 217 may amplify the other speakers (e.g., speakers 212a, 212b, 214a, 214b) in the furniture assembly. In yet another embodiment, amplifier 217 amplifies the subwoofer speaker and each of transverse member speakers has its own amplifier associated with that speaker.
As shown in
In one embodiment, a transmitter 224 is provided at the TV 222, such as a wireless controller transmitting signals for audio through a wireless transmitter to the speaker system of sofa 300 or 350.
For example, as further shown in
In one embodiment, a wired connection can be provided between a transmitter component 224, and amplifier or audio receiver 217, although wireless transmission as illustrated may be advantageous as no wire or cord is thus required between the location of transmitter 224 and amplifier or audio receiver 217 disposed within sofa 300 or 350.
The hubs 100 provide power to the electronic furniture assembly system of sofa 300 or 350, as well as all of the speakers, components and electronic devices associated with sofa 300 or 350.
As a result of the configuration of sofa 300 or 350, the various transverse members, bases and their associated speakers and electronic components can be removed and upgraded as other speaker systems or electronic components are available.
In one embodiment, the furniture system of the present invention also includes an audio receiver/sound bar and a bridge electrically coupled to the television in order to communicate sound to the speakers of the sofa 300 or 350.
The speakers mounted within the base and transverse member, in addition to providing invisibility from a user/customer, also provides an opportunity for high quality sound. The base and transverse member each provide a large enclosure volume within which the speaker sound can resonate to provide high quality sound while using no additional footprint other than that of the sofa itself.
As shown in
For example, a user may control overall sound volume, sound volume of one or more of the speakers, frequency boosting (or attenuation) of one of more frequency bands associated with any of the speakers, or other controls that a user may desire to manipulate. Such a control component 240 may transmit signals or instructions through an electrical wired connection or wirelessly from a location that is remote from sofa 300 or 350, for example, adjacent television 222 or elsewhere.
A user may be able to pick up and move such a control component 240 anywhere desired. For example, they may pick it up and take it over to the couch where it may left, if desired, so as to allow control at that point.
In other embodiments, control of any of the desired parameters may be provided through a cellular phone app (smart phone app) or other software application that can be provided in any desired interface. For example, in the smartphone portable device, tablet, or other device accessible to the user which may wirelessly transmit control signals to the receiver 217 or other component, then implement any desired changes to parameters as instructed by a user. Receiver 217 may be capable of receiving and/or transmitting through WiFi, Blue-tooth, or other wireless system, so as to communicate with such an app, to communicate with transmitter 222, etc.
In some embodiments, the audio receiver and/or amplifier 217, which may be positioned within the base member 212a, may include some knobs and/or buttons for controlling any desired parameters thereon. For example, volume controls for each of the speakers could be provided thereon.
Such controls may allow a user to manipulate levels of the different speakers within the surround sound speaker system. For example, where a user wants to calibrate speaker levels of a given surround sound speaker or a given front speaker, or a given subwoofer, controls for increasing or decreasing the sound volume associated with any given individual speaker may thus be provided, allowing a user to make such calibrations or changes.
For example, depending upon the furniture configuration built by the user, a user may wish to boost or attenuate a right front speaker, a left front speaker, a right surround speaker, or a left surround speaker, as numerous furniture assembly possibilities are possible with the modular furniture assemblies.
For example, where a surround speaker or a front speaker may be further away from a given seating position as compared to another surround speaker or another front speaker, a user may wish to boost or decrease volume output from one or more such speakers to even out or calibrate sound volumes from the pair of front, the pair of surround speakers, or across all speakers at a given seating location. Controls as described herein may allow the user to do such.
The speakers and other electronic components of the present invention can be controlled through a variety of different control mechanisms, such as control mechanisms embedded within the sofa, e.g. within the base and/or transverse members or through a controller connected by an electrical cord to the base and/or transverse members or through a remote or wireless setting, such as through the use of a personal cellular phone (e.g., smart phone or tablet). The speakers and other electronics can thus be controlled wirelessly, e.g. through Blue-tooth, WiFi, through internet connections or other wireless connection means. In one embodiment of the present invention, there is no delay through the WISA. For example, sound and video may be correlated to ensure no lip synch problems between produced sound and images (e.g., sound and/or video may be intentionally delayed to ensure proper synchronization).
In one embodiment, a central transmitter such as controller 240 is employed, having a volume knob, wireless communication, ability to select and employ stereo, 4.1, 5.1 etc. with various input capabilities, including an auxiliary port in the jack.
Remote control for the speakers or other audio components or electronic components may be embedded within the furniture system 300 or 350, e.g. within the transverse member 14a or base 12a. Examples of control include wireless control and tethered control. Parameters that can be controlled include volume for the 2.0 system, 2.1 system, the 4.1 system, volume for the 5.1 system, etc., mute, volume level and intensity control.
As mentioned, in one embodiment, a software application is employed to control the electronic devices such as the speakers and other electronic components within sofa 300 or 350 or other devices in the present invention. The software application may be designed to control within the speakers and other electronic components (e.g., television, lamps, etc.) the volume, power, mute, balance, bass/treble, or other features of the system. The software application can also be used for the lights within the sofa, e.g. the tract lighting or LEDs or other lighting features, e.g., lighting power off and on, and can provide sound performance tracking, recliner settings, temperature settings, dimming/controlling lighting fixtures, television channels, and other user preferences.
In another embodiment, a software application may be used to control the speakers and other electrical components. Such software application may have a variety of different features and settings. In on embodiment, the software application controls speaker volume, TV volume, powers the speakers, power for the TV, mute, balance, bass/treble, lights on/off, sound performance tracking, recliner settings, temperature, diming/controlling of lamps and other lighting, TV channels, etc.
In another embodiment, transmitter 224, including a built-in channel speaker, can be configured to be wall mounted. For example, it may include mounting structure for such wall mounting.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the furniture assembly can be used as a bed having speakers and other electrical components embedded therein. For example, in one embodiment, base 12a can be used as a bed having speakers integrally mounted therein. Base 12a can be sized large enough to serve as a bed. For example, base 12a can be a stand-alone bed and/or can serve a box spring on which a cushion, such as cushion 18 can be mounted, the combination of base 12a and cushion 18 serving as a bed, wherein the base 12a and cushion 18 are configured to be large enough to serve as bed. A bed of the present invention having one or more speakers therein can thus be comprised of base 12a and/or base 12a and cushion 18. In another embodiment, multiple speakers can be placed within the bed. The present invention thus relates to a variety of different types of furniture having electronic components such as speakers, rechargers, power systems and other electrical components embedded therein.
In at least one embodiment, as will be described in further detail with reference to subsequent figures, induction charger 292 is comprised of an induction coil and an electrical cord in electrical communication with the coil, to provide power thereto. The induction charger assembly includes the induction charger, as well as a housing (e.g., coil housing) and in at least some embodiments, a receptacle into which the housing that houses the induction charger is at least partially received. While an induction coil is mentioned by way of example, it will be appreciated that other induction structures (other than a coil) may be possible, and are within the scope of the present disclosure. In any case, the induction charger and induction charger assembly are configured to wirelessly charge device 294 by simply placing device 294 above or otherwise in close-enough proximity to induction charger 292, to effectuate inductive charging therebetween. In at least one embodiment, induction charger 292 resides within transverse member 14 so as to be hidden from view but close-enough to the surface of transverse member 14 or any covers thereof to effectively charge device 294 placed thereon.
Advantageously, illustrated induction charger 292 elastically or resiliently yields downward or otherwise toward or into transverse member 14 of furniture system 200 in response to loads, such as loads resulting from someone sitting or pressing on induction charger 292 or an object being placed thereon, to prevent induction charger 292 from being damaged, or felt (e.g., feeling a hard object embedded in the transverse member or other furniture component). Induction charger 292 can resiliently yield as such and still be positioned close enough to the outer surface of transverse member 14 to effectively charge electronic devices placed thereon, as a result of inclusion of a spring biasing mechanism of the system. The induction coil noted above may be any of various induction coils or other structures capable of wirelessly inducing current flow for charging a battery or electrical communication with other appropriate electrical components disposed within any number of electronic devices, including mobile phones, tables, laptops, and the like. The physics of how to achieve induction charging will be apparent to those of skill in that art, where the present application is rather directed to how to embed such components into a furniture system, so as to be hidden from view and hidden from being felt.
Induction charger 292 includes a wiring system 296 in electrical communication with an induction coil, providing power thereto. Wiring system 296 can be directly or indirectly plugged into wall outlet 19 or otherwise connected to any other type of power source to provide electrical power to the coil in coil housing 302. In an embodiment, power may come from hub 100, or from the audio system (e.g., from an amplifier, from a subwoofer or other speaker, or the like) that can also be embedded in the furniture system. It will be apparent that numerous possibilities exist for providing power to the induction charger. Wiring system 296 is also represented, in part, in dotted lines to illustrate that much or all of wiring system 296 is disposed within furniture system 400 and hidden from view. Wiring system 296 is illustrated disposed within transverse member 14 but can also be disposed within other furniture system components, including base 12 or both base 12 and transverse member 14.
In at least one embodiment, wiring system 296 also includes one or more junctions 298, such as an internal electrical outlet manifold, a DC converter, an electrical hub 100 as described herein, or another electrical outlet or hub, etc. In any case, electrical power from any suitable source is carried to one or more induction coils or other induction structures of induction charger 292. Electrical junction 298 may be disposed within furniture assembly 400 or outside furniture assembly 400. In at least one embodiment, an induction charger system of the present invention such as shown in
Along these lines, as shown in
One will also note that induction chargers 292a, 292b are electrically connected via wiring system 296, which extends through the various components of furniture system 500, including both transverse members 14a, 14b and both bases 12a, 12b. The position and configuration of wires, hubs, and other electrical components of wiring system 296 shown in
In at least one embodiment, the induction charger assembly includes a housing 314 with the induction coil of the induction charger within a coil housing 302. The coil and coil housing 302 can be within housing 314. In an embodiment, a single housing may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment of
Housing 314 is shown as also including an outwardly extending flange 318 extending between cover 312 and cushioning material 308. In this way, flange 318 is secured to cushioning material 308 by being sandwiched between cover 312 and cushioning material 308. Alternatively, or additionally, in at least one embodiment, flange 318 is more permanently secured to cushioning material 308 and/or cover 312 via adhesives, integral molding, a fastener, or the like. In any case, flange 318 secures housing 314 within transverse member 14 within hole 310 such that the induction charger assembly is also secured at least partially within hole 310.
In the illustrated embodiment of
That said, the distance between induction coil housing 302 and surface 320 where the electronic device can be positioned for inductive charging is typically a relatively short distance, but may be a minimum distance that better allows hiding the induction charger within the transverse member or base. In at least one embodiment, for example, the induction charger (e.g., the coil thereof) is disposed such that a vertical distance V from coil housing 302 to top surface 320 of transverse member 14 is at least 10 mm, at least 12 mm, or at least 15 mm, such as 10-50 mm, 12-45 mm, or 15-30 mm. It will be apparent thought that distances of less than 10 mm, or even less than 7 mm (e.g., 1 mm to 5 mm) can also be used, in some embodiments. Distances of at least 10 mm can be advantageous in that they can help in ensuring that the induction charger components are not only hidden from sight within the furniture assembly, but are also not readily discerned by feel, either (e.g., by compressing upholstery or foam, where a user may tactilely discern that a “hard” object is embedded therein).
As noted above, cushioning material 308 disposed between flange 318 and upper panel 306 of frame 304 biases flange 318, and therefore housing 314 and induction coil housing 302, upward toward cover 312. In addition, cushioning material 308 disposed between flange 318 and upper panel 306 of frame 304 acts as a spring biasing mechanism to allow induction charger 292 to resiliently spring downward toward or through upper panel 306 of frame 304 when acted upon by an external force.
Along these lines,
Because flange 318 is secured between cover 312 and cushioning material 308, housing 314 and induction coil housing 302 elastically return to position along with cushioning material 308. In this way, induction coil housing 302 remains biased against cover 312 for use in charging an electronic device placed thereon while being protected from being damaged when a significant downward force is on top of transverse member 14 directly over induction charger 292. That is, most if not all force pressing downward on induction charger 292 is absorbed as compression of cushioning material 308, and induction coil housing 302 and housing 314 translates downward through hole 310, instead of breaking.
In either case, whether a force is acting downward on induction charger 292 or not, housing 314, including the depth of shelf 316, thickness of flange 318, and thickness of induction coil housing 302, are such that a top surface of induction coil housing 302 (or housing 314) is substantially flush with a top surface of flange 318. Thus, no edges or uneven contours of induction charger 292 are visually detectable through cover 312.
In this way, advantageously, induction charger 292 is hidden from view to improve the aesthetic appearance of any furniture system into which induction charger 292 is integrated. Wire 296 or other electrical cord for providing power to induction coil of induction charger 292 is also hidden within frame 304 of transverse member 14, as shown in
As illustrated in subsequent figures described herein, a number of configurations and spring biasing mechanisms may be employed to achieve the aforementioned advantages of movably securing induction charger 292 to or within transverse member 14 to avoid damage and maintain effective charging functionality. For example,
Padded layer 326 is added to provide a cushioning layer on top of induction coil housing 302 for added protection and also to provide an improved aesthetic transition between the top surface of induction coil housing 302 and surrounding cushioning material 308 so that induction charger 292 is not visible from outside cover 312. As noted above, the induction coil is strong enough to charge an electronic device placed on the top surface 320 of transverse member 14 through the vertical distance separating them, including, in this case, the thicknesses of padded layer 326 and cover 312. While layer 326 is shown as only extending the width of induction coil housing 302, in another embodiment, padded layer 326 may extend across a greater width, e.g., greater than that of coil housing 302, such as substantially the full width of the top of transverse member 14 (i.e., across substantially the entire width of top surface 320). Such a configuration may further aid in hiding the presence of induction coil housing 302, underlying cover 312 and padded layer 326.
Housing 314 can be secured, at least partially, within receptacle 324 via a spring 328 (e.g., a coiled spring). Spring 328 is attached to housing 314 at one end and to receptacle 324 at another end. Housing 314 is dimensioned such that the outside diameter (or width) of housing 314 fits within the inside diameter (or width) of receptacle 324. In this way, spring 328 biases housing 314, and thus induction coil housing 302 upward, toward cover 312. Additionally, housing 314, and thus induction coil housing 302, elastically yields downward into receptacle 324 when acted on by a force. While illustrated as cylindrical in shape in
In addition to, or alternatively to, the spring 328 situated within receptacle 324, at least one embodiment includes a gaseous or other hydraulic spring 329 (e.g., a gas or other hydraulic cylinder) disposed within and/or between receptacle 324 and housing 314. Hydraulic spring 329 may include any number of compressible gases or other fluids, that act as a spring to allow housing 314 to yield downward into receptacle 324 and return to a resting state with housing 314 biased upward, as described. Hydraulic spring 329 thus acts similar to spring 328.
Receptacle 324 is secured to frame 304 such that receptacle 324 does not move to any substantial degree when force 322 is applied. In at least one embodiment, as shown, receptacle 324 includes outwardly extending flange 330 that rests on upper panel 306 of frame 304 such that receptacle 324 extends through hole 310 in upper panel 306. Receptacle 324 may be permanently or removably secured to frame 304, either with or without flange 330, such as by adhesives, screws, bolts, or other fastener in one or more other embodiments. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, wire 296 extends through receptacle 324 and housing 314 to connect to induction coil housing 302 for powering the induction coil. In at least one embodiment, wire 296 is routed at least partially outside the one or more components of induction charger 292.
Frame protrusions 332 extend upward from frame 304 and positioned outward (e.g., radially outward) on either side of induction coil housing 302 to form pocket 334. In the illustrated embodiment, pocket 334 is filled with cushioning material 308 but one or more other embodiments may include pockets 334 without cushioning material disposed therein. In any case, pocket 334 is configured to receive induction coil housing 302 when pressed downward by force 322, as shown in
Turning to another embodiment,
Housing 314 includes catch members 344 (stops) that extend underneath upper panel 306 of frame 304 to keep housing 314 from rising above upper panel 306. Thus, threadedly engaging induction coil housing 302 with housing 314 allows a user or manufacturer to adjust the height of the top surface 346 of induction coil housing 302 (including the position of the coil housed therein) so that the top surface 346 can be flush with top surface 336 of cover 312. Again, cushioning material 308 acts as a spring biasing mechanism to bias housing 314 and the connected induction coil housing 302 upward while flange 338 of induction coil housing 302 prevents induction coil housing 302 and housing 314 from falling downward through hole 310. In addition, wire 296 that provides power to the coil in housing 302 is shown passing through hole 310 and upper panel 306 and into the interior space of frame 304. While flanges 338 are shown extending a distance that is shorter than the full width of the top of the transverse member, in another embodiment, they can extend any distance, up to the full width of the top of the transverse member.
As seen in
In the illustrated embodiment of
Receptacle 324 is secured to upper panel 306 of frame 304 through hole 310 at least in part via flange 353. In this way, as shown in
In at least one embodiment, flange 338 may be part of a separate compartment into which induction coil housing 302 may be snapped for easy installation and removal. For example, a compartment may comprise silicone or another elastomeric material integrated into cover 312 such that the compartment is flush with the upper surface 336 of cover 312. The compartment or flanges 338 thereof may partially overlap the upper surface 346 of induction coil housing 302 to help secure induction coil housing 302 within the compartment. In at least one embodiment, overlapping portions of the compartment are flexible, elastomeric, and/or resilient so that induction coil housing 302 can be selectively secured within such a compartment.
By way of additional clarification, the modular furniture assembly, in some implementations, includes an inner cover 312A and potentially (though not necessarily) an outer cover 312B. Either one of the inner cover 312A or the outer cover 312B may be the so-called “given surface” or “charging surface” 312-CS on which the electronic device 294 is disposed in order to be charged.
Notably, some embodiments include only a single cover (e.g., either cover 312A or 312B). Some embodiments include both the outer cover 312B and the inner cover 312A. The inner cover 312A and the outer cover 312B may comprise polyester, chenille, tweed, linen, velvet, leather, polyester linen, cotton, cotton blend, denim, twill, faux fur, or leather material. By way of example, the outer cover 312B may comprise a decorative upholstery fabric or similar decorative cover material. The inner cover 312A may provide less esthetic appeal, but may serve to cover and protect the components interior thereto.
Notice, the induction coil housing 302 is positioned between a first cushioning material 326A and a second cushioning material 326B. In some implementations, the first cushioning material 326A is included as a part of the charging surface 312-CS (e.g., the inner cover 312A) such as in a case where the first cushioning material 326A is an integral part of the charging surface 312-CS. For example, the charging surface 312-CS can be an integral outer skin or an outer surface of the first cushioning material 326A such that the first cushioning material 326A is integral with and non-separable from the charging surface 312-CS. In such a scenario, the first cushioning material 326A and charging surface 312-CS combination can operate as a removable lid or cover disposed over top of the induction charger. When the lid or cover is removed, the induction charger can be accessed. When the lid or cover is in place, then the induction charger is hidden from view.
Alternatively, the first cushioning material 326A is proximate to the charging surface 312-CS. In this implementation, the first cushioning material 326A is separate from the charging surface 312-CS and is below (or perhaps to a lateral side) the charging surface 312-CS. Being “proximate,” in this scenario, means that the first cushioning material 326A is within at least 30 mm of the charging surface 312-CS. In some cases, the proximate range can be larger, such as within at least 40 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, or perhaps even 100 mm. In an embodiment, the distance from the induction charger 302 to the charging surface 312-CS is within the operating range of the resonant or other type wireless charger”. This distance may correlate closely to the thickness of the first cushioning material, as the total distance between these two structures can be the first cushioning material thickness plus any cover thickness.
Optionally, when the first cushioning material 326A is separate from but proximate to the charging surface 312-CS, then the charging surface 312-CS is or may include a cover member (e.g., inner cover 312A or outer cover 312B) that covers the first cushioning material 326A. By way of example, the charging surface 312-CS can be an outer surface of the outer cover 312B disposed on the base frame or the transverse member frame. Here, the outer cover 312B encompasses or is disposed around the inner cover 312A. Additionally, the inner cover 312A is underneath the outer cover 312B, and the first cushioning material 326A is adjacent to the inner cover 312A.
As another example, the charging surface 312-CS can be an outer surface of the inner cover 312A disposed on the base frame or the transverse member frame. In this regard, the first cushioning material 326A abuts the inner cover 312A, which can operate as the so-called “charging surface 312-CS” or the “given surface.”
In some embodiments, the first cushioning material 326A and/or the second cushioning material 326B (or any other cushioning material mentioned herein) includes resilient foam padding that is compressible but that returns to a desired shape when uncompressed. The foam padding may include polyurethane foam, including, but not limited to, open cell foam and/or potentially even closed cell foam.
The first cushioning material 326A has a first depth 326F, and the second cushioning material 326B has a second depth 326E. These depths can vary, depending on the design. For instance, the depth range of the first depth 326F can correspond to the operating range of a “resonant wireless charger” model (i.e. a charging height operational range). There are standard chargers, as well as resonant type chargers that have a much longer Z (height) charging range, by comparison to the standard charger models. In an embodiment, the induction charger at 302 may be a resonant type wireless charger.
As an example, the depth 326F (i.e. the thickness of the foam above the charger) can be designed to be within a range between the charging height range lower limit of the charger plus some distance (e.g., 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, etc.) and the charging height range upper limit minus some distance (e.g., 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, etc.). For example, for a resonant wireless charger having a charging height range between 15-25 mm, the thickness of foam above the charger (i.e. depth 326F) can be between 10 mm and 25 mm, or between 12 mm and 22 mm, or between 15 mm and 20 mm. For a resonant wireless charger having a charging height range between 25-35 mm, the thickness of the foam above the charger (i.e. depth 326F) can be between 20 mm and 35 mm, or between 22 mm and 32 mm, or between 25 mm and 30 mm. If a longer distance charger is available, then the depth 326F can be modified to accommodate that longer distance as well. The depth of foam 326F can also be set based in part on the thickness of any cover (e.g., 312A and/or 312B) to be positioned between the first cushioning material and the charging location, as such total distance (from the induction charger 302 to the charging location will be within the height range limits of the particular induction charger 302.
As some additional examples, in some implementations, the first depth 326F is at least 10 millimeters (mm). Optionally, the first depth 326F may be about 15 mm. In some cases, the first depth 326F may be designed to be within a range spanning 10 mm up to 30 mm or even 35 mm, or any value therebetween. In some implementations, the first depth 326F is sufficiently deep so that the contours or edges of the induction charger are masked, hidden, or otherwise not observable from an outside view of the modular furniture assembly.
The second depth 326E may also be at least 10 mm. Optionally, the second depth 326E may be about 25 mm. Similar to the first depth 326F, however, the second depth 326E may be designed to be within a range spanning 10 mm up to 30 mm, with any value therebetween. The first depth 326F may be different from the second depth 326E or, alternatively, the first depth 326F may be the same as the second depth 326E. In some implementations, the first depth 326F is smaller than the second depth 326E while in other implementations the first depth 326F is larger than the second depth 326E.
When no force is applied to the charging surface 312-CS mentioned earlier, a combination of the first cushioning material 326A and the second cushioning material 326B (with the induction charger sandwiched therebetween) is in an uncompressed state. Alternatively, when a force 322 is applied to the charging surface 312-CS, the combination (i.e. the heights or depths of the combination of the first cushioning material 326A, the induction charger, and the second cushioning material 326B) is in a compressed state. When the combination is in the compressed state, a thickness of the combination in the compressed state is variable (e.g., as more force is applied, the thickness reduces whereas as less force is applied the thickness increases). Because the induction charger is resilient, its thickness does not change when the force is applied; instead, only the thicknesses or depths of the first cushioning material 326A and the second cushioning material 326B change.
A thickness of the combination in the compressed state can be less than 75% of the thickness of the combination when in the uncompressed state. For instance, if the thickness of the combination when in the uncompressed state is about 51 mm (e.g., the combination of the first depth 326F and the second depth 326E, with the induction charger sandwiched therebetween), then the thickness may be reduced, perhaps down to 26 mm, when in the compressed state. The thickness of the induction charger can be about 15 mm, so 15 mm out of the uncompressed 51 mm is that of the induction charger and 15 mm out of the compressed 26 mm is also that of the induction charger. Of course, different models of the induction charger may have different thicknesses, so 15 mm is just one example. Other example thicknesses of an induction charger range between about 10 mm and about 30 mm.
Optionally, the thickness of the combination when in the compressed state may be less than 50% or even less than 40% of the thickness of the combination when in the uncompressed state. In some implementations, the thickness of the combination can be between 30 mm and 60 mm when in the uncompressed state and between 15 mm and 40 mm when in the compressed state.
In some embodiments, the induction charger (i.e. the induction coil housing 302) is removably positioned within either the base frame or the transverse member frame. For example, when the inner cover 312A and the first cushioning material 326A are in the form of a removable lid, then the removable lid can be removed to provide access to the induction charger. Alternatively, the induction charger may be accessed in other ways, such as from an underneath position in which the second cushioning material 326B is removed.
Positioning the induction charger between the first cushioning material 326A and the second cushioning material 326B effectively operates to secure the induction charger in place. As a consequence, the induction charger is not permanently or even semi-permanently coupled to the base frame or the transverse member (e.g., perhaps there is no mechanical coupling, such as via use of a bolt and nut). Instead, the induction charger is secured in place from the force exerted on the induction charger from the first and second cushioning materials 326A and 326B.
In some embodiments, the first cushioning material 326A is disposed along a first side (e.g., top major planar face) of the induction charger; the second cushioning material 326B is disposed along a second side (e.g., bottom major planar face) of the induction charger; a third cushioning material 326C is disposed along a third side (e.g., perhaps a first lateral side) of the induction charger; and a fourth cushioning material 326D is disposed along a fourth side (e.g., perhaps a second lateral side) of the induction charger.
In some embodiments, the induction charger includes a flat surface that is parallel to the charging surface 312-CS. Typically, this flat surface is orientated perpendicularly to a gravity vector such that, when a mobile device (e.g., the electronic device 294) is positioned on the charging surface 312-CS, the device remains in place from gravity. Optionally, however, the charging surface 312-CS and the flat surface of the induction charger may be oriented in parallel to the gravity vector, such as extending along a vertical side of the backrest or armrest.
For example, the width of the third cushioning material 326C, the induction charger, and the fourth cushioning material 326D may each be 33% of the width of the base frame. In some implementations, the widths of the third cushioning material 326C, the induction charger, and the fourth cushioning material 326D may be 10%, 80%, and 10%, respectively. Other alternatives are available as well, such as any of the following, without limit (where the first percentage corresponds to the width of the third cushioning material 326C, the second percentage corresponds to the width of the induction charger, and the third percentage corresponds to the width of the fourth cushioning material 326D): a) 10%, 70%, 20% b) 10%, 60%, 30%, c) 10%, 50%, 40%, d) 10%, 40%, 50%, e) 10%, 30%, 60%, f) 10%, 20%, 70%, g) 10%, 10%, 80%, h) 20%, 70%, 10%, and so on an so forth, with variable values.
Accordingly, the disclosed “given surface” or “charging surface 312-CS” refers to an outer surface of either one of the inner cover 312A or the outer cover 312B. The electronic device 294 can be positioned on the charging surface 312-CS in order to be charged by the induction charger, which is proximate to the charging surface 312-CS and which is optionally positioned underneath the charging surface 312-CS by some depth measurement.
In this regard,
In some embodiments, a charging surface is located adjacent to the induction charger. Consequently, the induction charger provides induction charging to the electrical device when the electrical device is positioned adjacent to the charging surface. The charging surface is optionally on or proximate to the first cushioning material. The charging surface is optionally on a cover mounted over the first cushioning material, such that the cover is also mounted over the induction charger. In some cases, the cover, which has the charging surface thereon, is an outer cover that covers an inner cover mounted on the first cushioning material. In some cases, the outer cover is selectively mounted on the inner cover.
In some embodiments, the furniture system further comprises an inner cover mounted on the first cushioning material and an outer cover selectively mounted on the inner cover. Consequently, the induction charger provides induction charging to the electrical device positioned adjacent to the outer cover. In some cases, the induction charger further includes an electrical cord in electrical communication with the induction coil. The electrical cord can be a pluggable cord that is plugged into an outlet. The electrical cord can be removable from the induction charger, or it can be an integrated part of the induction charger.
Optionally, the transverse member can include the transverse member frame, the first cushioning material, and the second cushioning material. In some implementations, the furniture system further comprises a cover mounted over the first cushioning material, such that the electrical device positioned on the cover is charged by the induction charger. The cover can be an outer cover that covers an inner cover mounted on the first cushioning material, and the outer cover can be selectively mounted on the inner cover. In some implementations, the second cushioning material is mounted on the transverse member frame. Optionally, positioning the induction charger between the first cushioning material and the second cushioning material secures the induction charger in place such that the induction charger is not permanently or semi-permanently coupled to the transverse member. As another option, the furniture system further comprises an inner cover mounted on the first cushioning material and an outer cover selectively mounted on the inner cover. Here, the induction charger provides induction charging to an electrical device positioned adjacent to the outer cover.
Optionally, the furniture system includes an outer cover that is selectively mounted over the first cushioning material. In some embodiments, the furniture system further comprises an inner cover mounted on the first cushioning material, and the outer cover selectively covers the inner cover.
As shown in
For example, as shown in
In the illustrated embodiment, the vertical distance V between the top surface 346 of induction coil housing 302 includes the thickness of cushioning material 308 and cover 312. In addition, and as noted above, vertical distance V may vary in one or more other embodiments, including the thickness of addition cover layer(s), such as one or more outer covers extending over cover 312, and/or various thicknesses and number of padded layers disposed above induction coil housing 302.
In addition, in such an embodiment, transverse member 14 may be equipped with components configured to secure an electronic device vertically on the outside of transverse member 14, adjacent to coil housing 302 of induction charger 292. For example, such placement may be possible where the electronic device is “wedged” in place between the transverse member including induction charger 292 and an adjoining upholstered surface of e.g., another component of the furniture assembly (e.g., a base or another transverse member, e.g., as shown and described below in conjunction with
For example, in at least one embodiment shown in
As shown in
As shown in the cross-sectional view the embodiment of
As shown in
In addition to the various embodiment of induction charger 292 described herein, many of which are integrated into transverse member 14 to be hidden from view and protected from damage, certain other features of a modular furniture system 500 may be employed to provide quick and easy access to the various induction coils, or their housings 302 described herein. Such access features make it easy, for example, for a user or manufacturer to remove an induction coil and its housing 302 for repair or replacement as needed.
For example,
In at least one embodiment, one or both of covers 312a, 312b are removable such that when needed, covers 312a, 312b can be removed or pulled back to expose cutout 358. Cutout 358 may be formed of material similar to surrounding cushioning material 308 of transverse member 14a, or cutout 358 may be formed of a dissimilar material. In any case, cutout 358 seamlessly integrates into surrounding cushioning material 308 such that when one or more covers 312a, 312b are applied over transverse member 14a, no seams or bulges are visible therethrough. Preferably, cutout 358 is formed using soft, padded, resilient material that acts to absorb any forces acting downward on top of transverse member 14a and over induction coil housing 302. In this way, cutout 358 protects the induction coil and its housing 302 from damage.
Additionally, or alternatively, additional features can be added to provide easy access to induction charger 292. For example,
These access features may be combined with other access features illustrated in
It will be appreciated that other mechanisms for selective fastening and providing selective access, other than a zipper, could be used, e.g., such as, but not limited to snaps, hook and loop (VELCRO) fasteners, buttons, clips, etc. By way of example, the inner cover 312a can include such a zipper or similar selectively accessible opening (i.e., such that cover 360 can be the inner cover 312a, where an outer cover 312b is provided thereover, hiding such zippered or other access location).
As shown in
It will be apparent that the present induction chargers may be implemented in a wide variety of furniture assemblies, including e.g., modular furniture assemblies (e.g., including one or more bases, and one or more transverse members, coupleable to one another to form such modular furniture assemblies, e.g., where the components can be reconfigured to provide differently configured furniture assemblies. The systems may also be implemented in furniture systems (e.g., couches, other leisure seating, etc.) where the furniture may not necessarily be modular, but where the induction charger still provides benefits of invisibility to the eye and feel, as described herein. The systems may be implemented in various furniture systems that may include removable covers (e.g., removable upholstery covers) that can be selected by the user, e.g., swapped out etc., where the induction charger is hidden (e.g., to eye and/or touch) under the removable cover(s). In another embodiment, the charger may be embedded in any of various upholstered furniture systems, e.g., where the induction charger is hidden (to eye and/or feel) underneath the upholstery, whether such upholstery cover is removable or not. Such furniture systems may extend not only to leisure seating (e.g., couches, chairs, etc.) but also to beds, etc., that may similarly include cushioning, upholstery, etc.). For example, an induction charger may be provided in a furniture assembly that is a bed, according to any of the configurations described or illustrated herein (e.g., including, but not limited to retaining the device to be charged between upholstered surfaces, such as illustrated in
While not specifically illustrated, in any of the embodiments described herein, the exterior upholstered or other surface where inductive charging is available could be marked (i.e., marked inductive charging zone), to indicate to the user where the induction charger is disposed, hidden under the aesthetic covering layers of the furniture component into which it is mounted. In another embodiment, no such markings may be provided.
While many of the illustrated embodiments show the induction charger in a transverse member, it will be appreciated that any of the embodiments could be modified to position the induction charger in a base, or even another component of a furniture assembly, whether modular or not. It will be apparent that in any of the embodiments described herein, the furniture assembly into which the induction charger is incorporated can be a modular furniture assembly, e.g., such as any of those described in various of Applicant's previous patents and applications. In other embodiments, the furniture assembly need not be modular in nature.
As used herein, use of the term “between,” particularly in the context of described numerical ranges, includes the endpoints described for such ranges. For example, description of a range between 15 mm and 20 mm includes both 15 mm and 20 mm.
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.
Embodiment 1. A furniture system having an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device, the furniture system comprising a base having a frame, the base providing a seating surface; a transverse member providing at least one of a backrest or armrest, the transverse member comprising a frame; a first and second cushioning material, the second cushioning material being mounted on the transverse member frame or the base frame, and an induction charger comprising an induction coil, the induction coil embedded between the first and second cushioning materials so as to provide induction charging to an electrical device positioned adjacent to the first cushioning material, wherein the induction charger is hidden so as to not be seen or felt by a user of the furniture system, wherein a vertical distance from a top surface of the induction charger to the given surface of the base or transverse member is at least 10 mm.
Embodiment 2. The system of embodiment 1, or any other embodiments herein wherein the vertical distance is at least 12 mm.
Embodiment 3. The system of any of embodiments 1-2, or any other embodiments herein, wherein the vertical distance is at least 15 mm.
Embodiment 4. The system of any of embodiments 1-3, or any other embodiments herein, wherein the transverse member frame is at least partially covered by cushioning material, the transverse member further including an upholstery cover positioned over the cushioning material, the induction charger being hidden beneath the upholstery cover and the cushioning material of the transverse member.
Embodiment 5. The system of any of embodiments 1-4, or any other embodiments herein, wherein the transverse member frame is at least partially covered by cushioning material, the transverse member further including a cover positioned over the cushioning material, with a zippered opening providing access through the cover, the induction charger being hidden beneath the cover under the zippered opening of the transverse member, the induction charger being accessible for removal and/or replacement through the zippered opening.
Embodiment 6. The system of any of embodiments 1-5, or any other embodiments herein, wherein the furniture system is a modular furniture system.
Embodiment 7. The system of any of embodiments 1-6, or any other embodiments herein, wherein the furniture system is an upholstered furniture system.
Embodiment 8. The system of any of embodiments 1-7, or any other embodiments herein, wherein the furniture system includes removable covers for positioning over the base and transverse member, the induction charger being hidden beneath the removable cover.
Embodiment 9. A modular furniture system having an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device, the modular furniture system comprising a transverse member comprising a frame, the frame having a panel; an induction charger assembly; and a spring biasing mechanism for biasing the induction charger relative to the frame of the transverse member, such that, in the absence of a force, a portion of the induction charger is spring biased away from the frame of the transverse member.
Embodiment 10. The system of embodiment 9, or any other embodiments herein, wherein the panel of the frame is an upper panel, and wherein the portion of the induction charger that is spring biased away from the frame is spring biased above the upper panel.
Embodiment 11. The system of any of embodiments 9-10, or any other embodiments herein, wherein the spring biasing mechanism comprises a coil spring.
Embodiment 12. The system of any of embodiments 9-11 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the panel of the frame is an upper panel, the transverse member further comprising a cushioning material disposed on the upper panel of the frame, wherein the portion of the induction charger biased away from the frame is configured to move through the cushioning material.
Embodiment 13. The system of any of embodiments 9-12 or any other embodiments herein, further comprising a cushioning material disposed above the upper panel of the frame, wherein the induction charger is embedded within the cushioning material.
Embodiment 14. The system of any of embodiments 9-13 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the upper panel has a hole extending therethrough; and the induction charger is mounted within the hole and is selectively pushed downwardly relative to the upper panel of the frame when a downward force is exerted on the induction charger.
Embodiment 15. The system of any of embodiments 9-14 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the spring biasing mechanism comprises a cushioning material.
Embodiment 16. The system of embodiment 15 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the induction charger assembly comprises a housing, the housing having an outwardly extending flange; and an induction coil disposed within a housing, wherein the outwardly extending flange is secured to the cushioning material such that a portion of the cushioning material is disposed between the outwardly extending flange and the upper panel.
Embodiment 17. The system of any of embodiments 9-16 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the panel is an upper panel, and has a hole extending therethrough; and the induction charger assembly comprises a receptacle secured to the upper panel within the hole; an induction charger housing movably coupled to the receptacle such that the housing moves relative to the receptacle when a force is applied to the induction charger housing; and an induction coil within the induction charger housing.
Embodiment 18. The system of embodiment 17 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the induction charger assembly further comprises an electrical cord in electrical communication with the induction coil.
Embodiment 19. The system of embodiments 17 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the spring biasing mechanism comprises a coil spring.
Embodiment 20. The system of embodiment 17 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the spring biasing mechanism comprises a compressible fluid spring.
Embodiment 21. The system of any of embodiments 9-20 or any other embodiments herein, the transverse member further comprising a cover disposed over a cushioning material.
Embodiment 22. The system of embodiment 21 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the induction charger is hidden from view beneath a cover.
Embodiment 23. A furniture system having an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device, the furniture system comprising a transverse member having a frame that includes an upper panel; and an induction charger assembly coupled to the upper panel of the transverse member, the induction charger assembly comprising a receptacle mounted to the upper panel of the frame; an induction charger movably mounted within the receptacle; and a spring biasing mechanism that biases the induction charger with respect to the frame of the transverse member.
Embodiment 24. The system of embodiment 23 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the transverse member further comprises a cushioning material disposed on the upper panel of the frame, wherein the induction charger assembly is at least partially embedded within the cushioning material; and the spring biasing mechanism comprises a coil spring.
Embodiment 25. The system of any of embodiments 23-24 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the transverse member further comprises a cover disposed on the cushioning material; and the induction charger is biased such that a vertical distance from a top surface of the induction charger to an upper surface of the transverse member is at least 10 mm.
Embodiment 26. The system of embodiment 25 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the vertical distance is at least 12 mm.
Embodiment 27. The system of any of embodiments 23-26 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the induction charger is configured to elastically travel downwardly relative to the receptacle in response to a downward force on the induction charger.
Embodiment 28. The system of embodiments 25 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the cover comprises an access hole for accessing the induction charger.
Embodiment 29. The system of embodiment 27 or any other embodiments herein, wherein an upper surface of the cushioning material of the transverse member is flush with an upper surface of the induction charger in the absence of a downward pressing force on the induction charger.
Embodiment 30. A furniture system having an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device, the furniture system comprising a transverse member comprising a frame having an upper panel; a cushioning material disposed on the upper panel, wherein a hole extends through the upper panel and at least partially through the cushioning material; and a cover extending over the cushioning material; and an induction charger assembly connected to the transverse member, the induction charger assembly being disposed below the cover, and at least a portion of the induction charger assembly being disposed within the cushioning material, wherein the induction charger assembly comprises a receptacle coupled to the frame; an induction charger movably mounted within the receptacle; and a spring biasing mechanism configured to bias the induction charger relative to the receptacle; wherein the induction charger is configured to elastically move down within the receptacle when a force presses down on the induction charger.
Embodiment 31. The system of embodiment 30 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the spring comprises a coil spring.
Embodiment 32. The system of any of embodiments 30-31 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the induction charger comprises a housing movably secured at least partially within the receptacle via the spring biasing mechanism; and an induction coil in the housing, wherein the induction charger assembly further comprises an electrical cord in electrical communication with the induction coil.
Embodiment 33. The system of any of embodiments 30-32 or any other embodiments herein, wherein induction charger assembly is mounted on the upper panel of the frame.
Embodiment 34. A modular furniture system having an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device, the modular furniture system comprising a transverse member comprising a frame, the frame having a panel; an induction charger assembly; and a spring biasing mechanism for biasing the induction charger relative to the frame of the transverse member, such that, in the absence of a force, a portion of the induction charger is spring biased away from the frame of the transverse member; and wherein the spring biasing mechanism is a cushioning material disposed on the panel of the frame, wherein the induction charger is embedded within the cushioning material.
Embodiment 35. The system of embodiment 34 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the induction charger assembly comprises a housing, the housing having an outwardly extending flange; and an induction coil disposed within a housing, wherein the outwardly extending flange is secured to the cushioning material such that a portion of the cushioning material is disposed between the outwardly extending flange and the panel.
Embodiment 36. The system of any of embodiments 34-35 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the panel has a hole extending therethrough; and the induction charger assembly comprises a receptacle secured to the panel within the hole; an induction charger housing movably coupled to the receptacle such that the housing moves relative to the receptacle when a force is applied to the induction charger housing; and an induction coil within the induction charger housing.
Embodiment 37. The system of embodiment 36 or any other embodiments herein, the transverse member further comprising a cover disposed over the cushioning material.
Embodiment 38. The system of embodiment 37 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the induction charger is hidden from view beneath the cover.
Embodiment 39. An induction charger for use in a furniture system comprising a base providing a seating surface; and a transverse member providing at least one of an armrest or a backrest, wherein the base and transverse member each comprise a frame, with cushioning material disposed at least partially about the frame, wherein each of the base and transverse member include an upholstered cover extending thereover, such that both the base and transverse member have upholstered surfaces, the induction charger comprising an induction charger positioned within at least one of the base or transverse member such that the induction charger is hidden from view, under an upholstered cover of at least one of the base or transverse member, wherein the induction charger is seated within a hole formed into at least one of the frame or the cushioning material of the transverse member or the base which includes the induction charger, the induction charger being positioned at a location where the transverse member or the base abut another transverse member or base, such that the furniture system includes an induction charging zone at the location where such abutment occurs, allowing a user to place a device to be inductively charged between the two abutting upholstered surfaces.
Embodiment 40. The system of embodiment 39 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the induction charger comprises an induction coil in a induction charger housing.
Embodiment 41. The system of any of embodiments 39-40 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the induction charger is positioned within the transverse member.
Embodiment 42. The system of any of embodiments 39-41 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the abutting upholstered surfaces are configured to hold the device to be inductively charged therebetween in a friction fit.
Embodiment 43. The system of any of embodiments 39-42 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the furniture system is a modular furniture system, where the base and transverse member are selectively coupleable to one another.
Embodiment 44. The system of any of embodiments 39-43 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the device to be charged is a mobile phone.
Embodiment 45. A furniture system having an induction charging zone, the furniture system comprising: a base providing a seating surface; a transverse member providing at least one of an armrest or a backrest, wherein the base and transverse member each comprise a frame, with cushioning material disposed at least partially about the frame, wherein each of the base and transverse member include an upholstered cover extending thereover, such that both the base and transverse member have upholstered surfaces; and an induction charger positioned within at least one of the base or transverse member such that the induction charger is hidden from view, under an upholstered cover of at least one of the base or transverse member, wherein the induction charger is seated within a hole formed into at least one of the frame or the cushioning material of the transverse member or the base which includes the induction charger, the induction charger being positioned at a location where the transverse member or the base abut another transverse member or base, such that the furniture system includes an induction charging zone at the location where such abutment occurs, allowing a user to place a device to be inductively charged between the two abutting upholstered surfaces.
Embodiment 46. The system of embodiment 45 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the abutting upholstered surfaces are configured to hold the device to be inductively charged therebetween in a friction fit.
Embodiment 47. The system of any of embodiments 45-46 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the furniture system is a modular furniture system, where the base and transverse member are selectively coupleable to one another.
Embodiment 48. The system of any of embodiments 45-47 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the induction charging zone is formed by a mattress on top of a box spring such that the device to be charged is selectively mounted between the mattress and the box spring.
Embodiment 49. The system of any of embodiments 45-48 or any other embodiments herein, wherein the induction charging zone is formed by an armrest adjacent to a backrest, such that the device to be charged is selectively mounted between the armrest and the backrest.
Embodiment 50. A furniture system that provides an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device, the furniture system comprising a base comprising a base frame, the base providing a seating surface; a transverse member providing at least one of a backrest or armrest, the transverse member comprising a transverse member frame; a first cushioning material and a second cushioning material, the second cushioning material being mounted on the transverse member frame or the base frame; and an induction charger comprising an induction coil, the induction coil embedded between the first cushioning material and the second cushioning material so as to provide induction charging to an electrical device positioned adjacent to the first cushioning material, wherein the induction charger is hidden so as to not be seen by a user of the furniture system.
Embodiment 51. The furniture system of embodiment 50, wherein a charging surface is located adjacent to the induction charger such that the induction charger provides induction charging to the electrical device when the electrical device is positioned adjacent to the charging surface.
Embodiment 52. The furniture system of embodiment 51, wherein the charging surface is on or proximate to the first cushioning material.
Embodiment 53. The furniture system of embodiment 52, wherein the charging surface is on a cover mounted over the first cushioning material, such that the cover is also mounted over the induction charger.
Embodiment 54. The furniture system of embodiment 53, wherein the cover, which has the charging surface thereon, is an outer cover that covers an inner cover mounted on the first cushioning material.
Embodiment 55. The furniture system of embodiment 54, wherein the outer cover is selectively mounted on the inner cover.
Embodiment 56. The furniture system of embodiment 50, wherein the furniture system further comprises an inner cover mounted on the first cushioning material and an outer cover selectively mounted on the inner cover, such that the induction charger provides induction charging to the electrical device positioned adjacent to the outer cover.
Embodiment 57. The furniture system of embodiment 50, wherein the first cushioning material has a first depth, and the second cushioning material has a second depth, and wherein the second depth of the second cushioning material is at least 10 mm.
Embodiment 58. The furniture system of embodiment 50, wherein, when no force is applied to the charging surface, a combination of at least the first cushioning material and the second cushioning material is in an uncompressed state, wherein, when a force is applied to the charging surface, the combination is in a compressed state, and wherein, when the combination is in the compressed state, a thickness of the combination in the compressed state is variable and may be less than 75% of a thickness of the combination when in the uncompressed state.
Embodiment 59. The furniture system of embodiment 50, wherein the first cushioning material has a first depth, and the second cushioning material has a second depth, and wherein the first depth is different than the second depth.
Embodiment 60. The furniture system of embodiment 50, wherein the first cushioning material has a first depth, and the second cushioning material has a second depth, and wherein the first depth is the same as the second depth.
Embodiment 61. The furniture system of embodiment 50, wherein the first cushioning material has a charging surface on which the electrical device is placed.
Embodiment 62. The furniture system of embodiment 50, wherein the first cushioning material is separate from and abuts a cover that covers the first cushioning material.
Embodiment 63. The furniture system of embodiment 50, wherein the first cushioning material has a first depth, and the second cushioning material has a second depth, and wherein the first depth is smaller than the second depth.
Embodiment 64. The furniture system of embodiment 50, wherein the first cushioning material has a first depth, and the second cushioning material has a second depth, and wherein the first depth is larger than the second depth.
Embodiment 65. The furniture system of embodiment 50, wherein the first cushioning material comprises foam padding.
Embodiment 66. The furniture system of embodiment 65, wherein the second cushioning material also comprises foam padding.
Embodiment 67. The furniture system of embodiment 50, wherein the induction charger further comprises an electrical cord in electrical communication with the induction coil.
Embodiment 68. A furniture system that provides an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device, the furniture system comprising: a base comprising a base frame, the base providing a seating surface; a transverse member providing at least one of a backrest or armrest, the transverse member comprising a transverse member frame, a first cushioning material, and a second cushioning material; and an induction charger comprising an induction coil, the induction coil embedded between the first cushioning material and the second cushioning material so as to provide induction charging to an electrical device positioned adjacent to the first cushioning material, wherein the induction charger is hidden so as to not be seen by a user of the furniture system.
Embodiment 69. The furniture system of embodiment 68, wherein the furniture system further comprises a cover mounted over the first cushioning material, such that the electrical device positioned on the cover is charged by the induction charger.
Embodiment 70. The furniture system of embodiment 69, wherein the cover is an outer cover that covers an inner cover mounted on the first cushioning material, the outer cover being selectively mounted on the inner cover.
Embodiment 71. The furniture system of embodiment 68, wherein the second cushioning material is mounted on the transverse member frame.
Embodiment 72. The furniture system of embodiment 68, wherein positioning the induction charger between the first cushioning material and the second cushioning material secures the induction charger in place such that the induction charger is not permanently or semi-permanently coupled to the transverse member.
Embodiment 73. The furniture system of embodiment 68, wherein the furniture system further comprises an inner cover mounted on the first cushioning material and an outer cover selectively mounted on the inner cover, such that the induction charger provides induction charging to the electrical device positioned adjacent to the outer cover.
Embodiment 74. A furniture system that provides an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device, the furniture system comprising: a base comprising a base frame, the base providing a seating surface; a transverse member providing at least one of a backrest or armrest, the transverse member comprising a transverse member frame; a first cushioning material and a second cushioning material, the first cushioning material and the second cushioning material being mounted on the transverse member frame or the base frame; and an induction charger comprising an induction coil, the induction coil embedded between the first cushioning material and the second cushioning material so as to provide induction charging to an electrical device positioned adjacent to the first cushioning material, wherein the induction charger is hidden so as to not be seen by a user of the furniture system, and wherein the first cushioning material is disposed along a first side of the induction charger, the second cushioning material is disposed along a second side of the induction charger, a third cushioning material is disposed along a third side of the induction charger, and a fourth cushioning material is disposed along a fourth side of the induction charger.
Embodiment 75. The furniture system of embodiment 74, wherein a charging surface is located adjacent to the induction charger such that the induction charger provides induction charging to the electrical device when the electrical device is positioned adjacent to the charging surface.
Embodiment 76. The furniture system of embodiment 75, wherein the first cushioning material is separate from the charging surface.
Embodiment 77. The furniture system of embodiment 75, wherein the first cushioning material is integral with the charging surface.
Embodiment 78. The furniture system of embodiment 75, wherein the first cushioning material is below the charging surface.
Embodiment 79. The furniture system of embodiment 75, wherein the charging surface is on an outer cover comprising polyester, chenille, tweed, linen, velvet, leather, polyester linen, cotton, cotton blend, denim, twill, faux fur, or leather material.
Embodiment 80: The furniture system of embodiment 75, wherein the charging surface is on a cover that is selectively mounted over the first cushioning material.
Embodiment 81: The furniture system of embodiment 75, wherein the first cushioning material is positioned proximate to the charging surface, and wherein the first cushioning material is within at least 30 mm of the charging surface.
Embodiment 82: The furniture system of embodiment 75, wherein the charging surface is an outer surface of an outer cover mounted over the base frame or the transverse member frame.
Embodiment 83: The furniture system of embodiment 82, wherein an inner cover is underneath the outer cover, and wherein the first cushioning material is adjacent to the inner cover.
Embodiment 84: The furniture system of embodiment 75, wherein the first cushioning material forms a removable lid that, when removed from the furniture system, provides access to the induction charger.
Embodiment 85: A furniture system that provides an electrical charging system for charging an electrical device, the furniture system comprising: a base comprising a base frame, the base providing a seating surface; a transverse member providing at least one of a backrest or armrest, the transverse member comprising a transverse member frame, a first cushioning material, and a second cushioning material, the second cushioning material mounted on the transverse member frame; an outer cover that is selectively mounted over the first cushioning material; and an induction charger comprising an induction coil, the induction coil embedded between the first cushioning material and the second cushioning material so as to provide induction charging to an electrical device positioned on the outer cover, wherein the induction charger is hidden so as to not be seen by a user of the furniture system.
Embodiment 86: The furniture system of embodiment 85, wherein the furniture system further comprises an inner cover mounted on the first cushioning material, the outer cover selectively covering the inner cover.
Embodiment 87: The furniture system of embodiment 85, wherein a depth of the first cushioning material is dependent on a charging height operational range of the induction charger, and wherein the depth is at least 10 mm.
It will be appreciated that the scope of the present disclosure extends to rewriting any of the claims to depend from any other claim, to include multiple dependencies from any combination of other claims, and/or to combine multiple claims together. Such also extends to the embodiments as described in the Summary section, as well as the Detailed Description section. The scope of the present disclosure also extends to inserting and/or removing any combination of features from any claim or described embodiment, for insertion into another claim or embodiment, or drafting of a new claim including any combination of such features from any other claim(s) or embodiments.
The present invention 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. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/128,575, filed on Dec. 21, 2020, entitled ELECTRONIC FURNITURE SYSTEMS WITH INTEGRATED INDUCTION CHARGER, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/738,916, filed on Jan. 9, 2020, entitled ELECTRONIC FURNITURE SYSTEMS WITH INTEGRATED INDUCTION CHARGER, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/273,773, filed on Feb. 12, 2019, entitled ELECTRONIC FURNITURE SYSTEMS WITH INTEGRATED INTERNAL SPEAKERS, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/348,068, filed on Nov. 10, 2016, entitled ELECTRONIC FURNITURE SYSTEMS WITH INTEGRATED INTERNAL SPEAKERS, which: (A) is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/270,339, filed on Sep. 20, 2016, entitled ELECTRICAL HUB FOR FURNITURE ASSEMBLIES, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/257,623, filed on Nov. 19, 2015, entitled FURNITURE WITH ELECTRONIC ASSEMBLIES; and(B) also claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/417,091, filed on Nov. 3, 2016, entitled ELECTRONIC FURNITURE SYSTEMS WITH INTEGRATED INTERNAL SPEAKERS. Each of the foregoing patent applications is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
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| 20230319473 A1 | Oct 2023 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
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| 62417091 | Nov 2016 | US |
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| Parent | 17128575 | Dec 2020 | US |
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| Parent | 15348068 | Nov 2016 | US |
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| Parent | 16738916 | Jan 2020 | US |
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| Parent | 15270339 | Sep 2016 | US |
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