E-frame futon

Abstract

A new simple and inexpensive futon frame which can be converted from a bed to a sofa. The frame is fabricated in a three-section, tri-fold configuration with three sections hingedly joined together. When opened, the segments of the frame form a horizontal bed support frame. The hinge points of the frame are offset to allow for folding of the frame into the sofa and / or into a small, compact unit for ease in shipping. Each of the frame sections has support legs, some of which are foldably mounted to the frame. The back legs of the frame (when it is a bed) become a support for the back of the frame (when it is a sofa). The use of a steel mesh as the futon mattress supporting surface adds great benefit to the product in that it allows use of a much thinner (less costly) futon mattress.

Description

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention[0002] This invention is directed to a furniture product, in general, and to a futon frame which is convertible from a bed to a sofa configuration (and vice versa), in particular.[0003] 2. Prior Art[0004] There are many types of furniture products known in the art. One such furniture product is a futon (a thin mattress-like device) used with a support frame. The typical frame, which can be fabricated of metal, wood or other suitable materials, supports the futon-mattress off the floor (or similar surface) in order to provide a greater comfort level to the user.[0005] However, the known support frames are usually fairly limited in configuration, i.e. a bed-like support. Also, the conventional frame uses slats for supporting the futon mattress. The known arrangements provide limited variation in the utilization of the frame, as well as in the configuration of the furniture. Moreover, the slat support requires a fairly thick futon mattress in order to pr...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009] A new simple and inexpensive futon frame which can be converted from a bed to sofa configuration The frame includes three sections. To form a bed, the sections of the futon frame are unfolded into a substantially horizontal planar configuration and a futon mattress placed thereon. To form a sofa, the sections of the frame are folded into a generally A-frame configuration, wherein portions of the frame form the seat and back of the sofa. The futon is folded as well and placed on the folded frame. Typically, the frame is fabricated of round tubes which are cradled by half pipe receptacles supported by the support legs of the frame although rectilinear tubes are also contemplated. The hinge points of the frame are offset to allow for folding and unfolding the frame to form one configuration to another and, as well, for convenience in packaging and shipping. A steel mesh is used as the support surface for the futon and permits use of a relatively thin futon mattress while providing uniform support thereon.

Problems solved by technology

However, the known support frames are usually fairly limited in configuration, i.e. a bed-like support.

Consequently, a sofa-height configuration (as intended in this description) cannot be achieved.

Likewise, securing a sofa back in position is not readily achievable.

These requirements render this device difficult to utilize and expensive to fabricate.

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