Method and system for manufacturing furniture

Abstract

A method of manufacturing furniture modules to be assembled is provided. The method comprises: providing furniture modules (10c-10d); arranging the furniture modules (10c-10d) at predetermined positions of a fixture (110); activating at least two drilling units (120a-120d) to provide corresponding assembly holes (40a-40d) in the furniture modules (10c-10d); and controlling respective positions of the at least two drilling units (120a-120d) relative to each other and relative to the fixture (110) during the activation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to furniture, and more particularly to the manufacture of furniture. More specifically, this invention relates to methods and systems for producing furniture modules to be assembled. Background Technology

[0002] Furniture is made from a variety of different materials. Wood, as a preferred material, is particularly suitable for mass production because it allows for the production of furniture parts with dimensions within predetermined tolerances. However, in some cases, it is desirable to use natural materials that cannot be mass-produced and have well-defined dimensions. For example, it may be desirable to use natural tree trunks to produce furniture, or to form furniture legs from certain branches or saplings. Another natural material used for furniture is rattan.

[0003] Rattan has been widely used in the manufacture and production of various furniture items such as chairs, tables, and sofas. Rattan is the genus name for several species of climbing palm plants, all of which have flexible, woody stems. Therefore, rattan is characterized more like a vine than a traditional, common wood. The stem typically has a diameter of 2 to 5 cm and tapers along its length due to variations during growth.

[0004] A single rattan used for furniture has a relatively sturdy and rigid outer shell and a core that, while generally softer, is also strong. Due to the dimensional variations in rattan material, rattan furniture is typically handmade, meaning it is shipped fully assembled. However, this is a major drawback, especially compared to products offered by the wooden furniture industry—which has been very successful in developing furniture with so-called "detachable" configurations. This type of furniture is pre-assembled, meaning it is sold as a set of individual components with assembly instructions to connect the parts. Therefore, such furniture can be packaged flat, offering numerous advantages in terms of cost efficiency and shipping / storage.

[0005] Because rattan is typically used in its natural form and size, there is currently no commercially successful technology for the mass production of furniture made from rattan or other natural materials that do not have specific dimensions, thus preserving the original and distinctive look of handcrafted pieces and allowing rattan furniture to be sold and distributed in detachable configurations. Industrial manufacturing would typically require tightness tolerances for high circulation and high production volumes, which is incompatible with the inherent characteristics of rattan and other natural tree parts.

[0006] Therefore, new methods for manufacturing furniture are desired. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The object of this invention is to overcome, in whole or in part, the aforementioned disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior art. More specifically, the object is to provide a method for manufacturing furniture modules to be assembled, which can be easily assembled by the end consumer from a detachable configuration into ready-to-use furniture.

[0008] According to a first aspect, a method for manufacturing furniture modules to be assembled is provided. The method includes: providing a furniture module; arranging the furniture module at predetermined positions on a fixing device; activating at least two drilling units to create corresponding assembly holes in the furniture module; and controlling the respective positions of the at least two drilling units relative to each other and relative to the fixing device during activation. By controlling the positions of the assembly holes, the furniture module can be precisely assembled together with another furniture module to be assembled. Even if each furniture module is formed of materials of different sizes, the position control ensures correct assembly of the two furniture modules even when assembly requires two different connection positions corresponding to the positions of the assembly holes.

[0009] Furniture modules can be provided by connecting multiple furniture parts into a flat configuration. The furniture modules to be assembled can therefore be stored and transported in a detachable configuration.

[0010] Arranging the furniture module at a predetermined position on the fixing device can be performed by aligning a first part of the furniture module with a first reference position on the fixing device, and aligning a second part of the furniture module with a second reference position on the fixing device. By using two reference positions, preferably spaced apart, improved positioning of the entire furniture module is achieved.

[0011] Furniture modules can be aligned at both the first and second parts of the furniture module. This is particularly advantageous for furniture modules made of natural materials with slightly different dimensions, as fixing at only two locations allows for dimensional variations in the furniture module.

[0012] Arranging the furniture modules at predetermined positions on the fixing device may further include clamping the furniture modules to the fixing device, preferably clamping the furniture modules to the fixing device at multiple positions. This ensures a secure fixation, thereby providing precise positioning of the assembly holes.

[0013] The furniture module can be clamped by arranging it within the V-shaped cavity of the clamping device. This is particularly advantageous for rattan or other round / cylindrical materials. The clamping operation is especially beneficial for rattan, which has a generally circular cross-section, although such cross-sections are rarely perfectly circular. Furthermore, the diameter of a rattan piece typically varies within a certain range, allowing for relatively large tolerances compared to other processed materials. This type of clamping effectively compensates for any variations in the outer periphery of the rattan and ensures the furniture module is correctly positioned, thereby improving the stability and predictability of the manufacturing process.

[0014] The clamping device may include two mating V-shaped structures. The furniture module can thus be securely centered among the four contact points, and only one V-shaped structure needs to be movable in order to fit the furniture module into the clamping device.

[0015] The fixing device can be tilted relative to the horizontal plane. This allows the drilling unit to operate in the vertical direction and also allows for non-horizontal assembly holes, thus providing improved design, comfort, and functionality for ready-to-use furniture.

[0016] Each drilling unit may include a first drilling device and a second drilling device. Therefore, activating at least two drilling units can be performed by activating the first drilling device, which engages with the upper side of the furniture module, and activating the second drilling device, which engages with the bottom side of the furniture module, preferably in a sequential order. This provides assembly holes extending from both sides of the furniture module without requiring repositioning of the furniture module relative to the fixing device.

[0017] The first and second drilling devices of the common drilling unit can be aligned in the vertical direction. The assembly hole can thus extend through the furniture module.

[0018] Activating the first drilling device can produce a first drilling geometry for the furniture module, and activating the second drilling device can produce a second drilling geometry for the furniture module. Therefore, the assembly holes extending through the entire furniture module can have different geometries on opposite sides, allowing for more complex and robust furniture joints when the assembly holes are used to connect two furniture modules.

[0019] According to a second aspect, a method for manufacturing a furniture module to be assembled is provided. The method includes: providing an elongated furniture portion; activating a cutting unit to cut the furniture portion to a desired length; activating a milling unit to shape an axial end of the furniture portion; and activating an axial drilling unit to provide at least one assembly hole at the axial end of the furniture portion. The elongated furniture portion will thus not only have a clearly defined length and location of the assembly hole, but the shaping will also enable the furniture portion to form a very robust furniture joint, even for natural materials such as rattan.

[0020] The method may further include transporting the furniture portion between the cutting unit, milling unit, and axial drilling unit. Optionally, the method may also include clamping the furniture portion to the transport device. Clamping the furniture portion can be performed by arranging the furniture portion between two opposing V-shaped structures. The furniture portion can thus be securely centered among four contact points, and only one V-shaped structure needs to be movable in order to fit the furniture portion into the clamping device.

[0021] The cutting unit can be activated by cutting both axial ends of the furniture section; preferably, the cutting of both axial ends is performed simultaneously. This achieves both speed and precision in the cutting action.

[0022] Enabling the milling unit can produce tapered axial ends for furniture sections. This allows for improvements in furniture joints when connecting furniture sections to another furniture module, preferably another furniture module of the type manufactured according to the method of the first aspect.

[0023] The method may further include: providing a furniture module, arranging the furniture module at a predetermined position on the fixing device, activating at least two drilling units to provide corresponding assembly holes in the furniture module, wherein at least one assembly hole is tapered; and controlling the respective positions of the at least two drilling units relative to each other and relative to the fixing device during activation. The axial end of the tapered shape of the furniture part is dimensioned such that when inserted into the tapered assembly hole of the furniture module, the outer surface of the axial end of the tapered shape contacts the inner surface of the tapered assembly hole, while an axial clearance is maintained between the axial end of the tapered shape and the bottom of the tapered assembly hole. Specifically, a tapered frictional engagement may be provided between the axial end of the tapered shape of the furniture part and the inner end of the tapered shape of the pre-drilled hole of the furniture module. Preferably, the only point of contact between the axial end of the furniture part and the inner end of the pre-drilled hole of the furniture module is the corresponding tapered surface. This achieves several advantages. First, assuming a horizontal joint (i.e., the screw extends horizontally), vertical loads (static and / or dynamic and / or fatigue loads) will not act directly on the screw during use. Alternatively, the resulting furniture joint will bear the load. Secondly, the tapered joint will always be fully tensioned in the axial direction when tightening the screws. Thirdly, the tapered joint will also provide support to stabilize the construction and stability of the furniture, as the screws will not be allowed to be easily pulled out of the furniture parts.

[0024] The milling unit can be activated by milling the two axial ends of the furniture part, preferably by milling the two axial ends simultaneously. This achieves both speed and precision in the milling operation.

[0025] The axial drilling unit can be activated by drilling holes at both axial ends of the furniture part, preferably simultaneously. This achieves both speed and accuracy in the drilling operation.

[0026] The method may also include connecting cut, milled and drilled furniture parts to additional furniture parts to form a furniture module.

[0027] According to a third aspect, a method for manufacturing furniture is provided. The method includes: manufacturing furniture modules to be assembled by performing the method according to the first aspect, manufacturing the furniture modules to be assembled according to the second aspect, and connecting the furniture modules to form furniture.

[0028] According to a fourth aspect, a system configured to manufacture furniture modules to be assembled is provided. The system includes: a fixing device configured to receive the furniture module at a predetermined position; and at least two drilling units configured to provide corresponding assembly holes in the furniture module, wherein the positions of the at least two drilling units relative to each other and relative to the fixing device are controlled during activation.

[0029] The fixing device may be equipped with one or more clamping devices for fixing the position of the furniture module. The one or more clamping devices include two mating V-shaped structures.

[0030] Each drilling unit may include a first drilling device and a second drilling device arranged on the opposite side of the furniture module.

[0031] The first drilling device can be configured to have a first drilling geometry, and the second drilling device can be configured to have a second drilling geometry.

[0032] The advantages of the first aspect also apply to this fourth aspect.

[0033] According to a fifth aspect, a system configured to manufacture furniture modules to be assembled is provided. The system includes a cutting unit, a milling unit, and a drilling unit, said units arranged in series.

[0034] Each unit may include a first device and a second device, wherein the two devices of a common unit are configured to process opposite ends of an elongated furniture section, preferably simultaneously.

[0035] The advantages of the second aspect also apply to the fifth aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The invention and its many advantages will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some non-limiting embodiments for illustrative purposes, and in the drawings...

[0037] Figure 1a It is an exploded view of furniture comprising multiple furniture modules to be assembled, manufactured by methods according to various embodiments;

[0038] Figure 1b It is in a detachable configuration before assembly. Figure 1a An isometric view of the furniture module shown;

[0039] Figure 2a It is an isometric view of a furniture module to be assembled, manufactured according to a method of one embodiment;

[0040] Figure 2b This is an isometric view of a furniture module to be assembled, manufactured according to a method of another embodiment;

[0041] Figures 3a to 3b It is a cross-sectional view of two different furniture joints connecting two furniture modules, wherein at least one furniture module is manufactured by a method according to one embodiment;

[0042] Figure 4aThis is an isometric view of a system for manufacturing furniture modules to be assembled, according to one embodiment.

[0043] Figure 4b The drilling unit is omitted. Figure 4a An isometric view of the system shown;

[0044] Figure 5a This is an isometric view of a system for manufacturing furniture modules to be assembled, according to another embodiment;

[0045] Figures 5b to 5c In different operational stages Figure 5a The side view of the system shown;

[0046] Figures 5d to 5e In the context of Figures 5b to 5c The views shown correspond to different operation stages Figure 5a A magnified side view of the system shown;

[0047] Figures 6a to 6c This is a top view of the system shown in Figure 5 during different manufacturing stages;

[0048] Figures 7a to 7b This is a schematic diagram of a method for manufacturing furniture modules to be assembled, according to different implementation methods;

[0049] Figure 7c This is a schematic diagram of a method used to manufacture furniture;

[0050] Figures 8a to 8c These are isometric views of furniture according to various implementation methods;

[0051] Figure 9a This is an isometric view of a pre-manufactured rattan furniture module in a detachable configuration, according to one embodiment.

[0052] Figure 9b It is by Figure 9a An exploded view of rattan furniture formed from pre-manufactured furniture modules is shown.

[0053] Figures 10a to 10c This is a view of the radial engagement of a furniture connector according to one embodiment;

[0054] Figures 11a to 11c yes Figures 10a to 10c Another radially joined view of the furniture connector shown;

[0055] Figure 12a It is formed Figures 10a to 10c as well as Figures 11a to 11c Various views of the washers in the furniture connector section shown;

[0056] Figure 12b It is formed Figures 10a to 10c as well as Figures 11a to 11c An isometric view of the screws in the furniture connector shown.

[0057] Figures 13a to 13c A radial-radial joint according to one embodiment is shown;

[0058] Figures 14a to 14b A radial-axial joint according to one embodiment is shown;

[0059] Figures 15a to 15b A radial-axial joint according to another embodiment is shown;

[0060] Figure 16a This is a cross-sectional view of a radial-axial joint according to one embodiment;

[0061] Figure 16b This is a cross-sectional view of a radial-axial joint according to another embodiment; and

[0062] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of a method according to one implementation. Detailed Implementation

[0063] exist Figures 1a to 1b The image shows an example of furniture 1 manufactured according to one embodiment. Furniture 1 is a chair composed of a plurality of pre-manufactured and to-be-assembled furniture modules 10, which are assembled into the final chair 1 using a plurality of furniture connectors 30, as will be described further.

[0064] Although the furniture is a chair, other types of furniture can also be manufactured in accordance with the embodiments described herein. For example, the furniture could be a bookshelf, a sofa table, etc. Although such furniture differs from one another in use and construction, they will all share the following common characteristics: having one or more furniture modules 10 comprising at least one furniture part made of natural materials such as rattan, round timber, etc., which makes it very difficult to control the dimensions of the furniture part for use in normal industrial furniture manufacturing processes.

[0065] In the example shown, the furniture module 10 to be assembled has a frame forming the outer boundary of the furniture module 10, which is preferably made of rattan. The furniture module 10 includes a seat 10a, a backrest frame 10b, and two side parts 10c-10d. Additionally, an elongated support beam 10e forms the furniture module 10 to be assembled, although the furniture module 10 does not have the frame of the aforementioned furniture modules 10a-10d. The seat 10a, backrest frame 10b, and optionally the side parts 10c-10d may be provided with some kind of surface covering, such as rattan or the like.

[0066] Side components 10c to 10d not only form armrests but also legs of the chair 1. In an upright position, as... Figure 1a As indicated in the document, the rattan chair 1 is a rigid piece of furniture that provides reliable support for the person using the chair 1.

[0067] The frame of each furniture module 10a-10d, or at least partially therein, represents the formation of one or more furniture joints 60 during the assembly of chair 1 (see...). Figures 3a to 3b The furniture part 20 is part of the furniture module 10. It should be noted that the support beam 10e is also considered as the furniture module 10 to be assembled, even though the furniture module 10 in the illustrated embodiment has only a single furniture part 20.

[0068] To allow end users to assemble the furniture modules 10a-10e into the desired configuration, Figure 1a The final chair 1 mentioned herein preferably provides a furniture connector 30 suitable for connecting furniture modules 10a to 10e and optimizing the connection of furniture modules 10a to 10e.

[0069] Instead of entirely handcrafted furniture 1 made from natural materials such as rattan, it has been recognized that although each furniture module 10a-10e can be produced in a factory, the dimensions will not be identical due to the inherent properties of the materials. Instead, furniture 1 is manufactured by the end consumer according to... Figure 1b The detachable configuration shown is used for assembly.

[0070] To take advantage of the benefits associated with assembly, disassembly, packaging, and shipping, each of the pre-manufactured furniture modules 10a-10e has a generally flat shape. The term "flat" should not be interpreted in a strict sense; it should be used in a relative sense. Thus, as an example, the seat 10a and the backrest frame 10b are each flatter than they would be if they were joined together to form an L-shape.

[0071] For this purpose, multiple furniture connectors 30 are provided. For example... Figure 1aAs can be seen, two furniture connectors 30 are used to connect side parts 10c-10d to the seat 10a, and one connector 30 is used to connect one side part 10c-10d to the backrest frame. As further shown, the support beam 10e is connected to each side part 10c-10d by means of the two furniture connectors 30. Figure 1a It is evident that complex furniture 1 can be assembled using the kit of furniture modules 10a-10e to be assembled and connectors 30.

[0072] exist Figure 2a The diagram shows a more detailed view of the side components 10c-10d, i.e., the furniture modules to be assembled. The side components 10c-10d are formed by multiple furniture parts 20a-20d. The first furniture part 20a is L-shaped, including armrests and front legs. The second furniture part 20b is a linear portion forming the rear legs, which connects to the armrest portion of the first furniture part 20a at its upper portion. The third furniture part 20c forms a linear transverse member, which connects to the front legs of the first furniture part 20a at one axial end and to the second furniture part 20b at its opposite axial end. The fourth furniture part 20d has a U-shaped form and connects to the first furniture part 20a, the second furniture part 20b, and the third furniture part 20c to provide support and stability for the furniture modules 10c-10d.

[0073] In the example shown, at least furniture parts 20a-20c, i.e., 20a-c, are made of rattan. Furniture parts 20a-20d extend in the same plane, such that the entire furniture module 10c-10d is flat. Furniture modules 10c-10d are preferably prefabricated by, for example, by hand, connecting furniture parts 20a-20d to each other.

[0074] Four radial assembly holes 40a to 40d are provided, all of which extend radially through the corresponding furniture parts 20a to 20c. The first furniture part 20a has a front assembly hole 40a for connecting the front portion of the seat 10a and a rear assembly hole 40b for connecting the backrest frame 10b. The second furniture part 20b has an assembly hole 40c for connecting the seat 10a, and the third furniture part 20c has an assembly hole 40d for connecting the elongated support beam 10e. Optionally, the second furniture part 20b may have additional holes (see...). Figure 1a The additional hole is used to receive the plug portion of the backrest frame 10b in order to provide further stability to the final furniture.

[0075] exist Figure 2bThe image shows a more detailed view of the seat 10a, i.e., the furniture module to be assembled. The seat 10a is formed by multiple furniture parts 20e to 20j. The front furniture part 20e and the rear furniture part 20f are straight sections, which are connected to the side furniture parts 20g to 20h at their axial end portions. Curved furniture parts 20i to 20j are arranged between the front furniture part 20e and the rear furniture part 20f, and the curved furniture parts 20i to 20j are also connected to the side furniture parts 20g to 20h at their axial ends.

[0076] In the example shown, each furniture part 20e-20j is made of rattan. The furniture parts 20e-20j extend substantially in the same plane, making the entire furniture module 10a flat. The furniture module 10a is preferably prefabricated by, for example, by hand connecting the furniture parts 20e-20j to each other.

[0077] Four axial assembly holes 50a to 50d (i.e., 50a-d) are provided, and all axial assembly holes 50a to 50d extend axially into the corresponding axial ends of furniture parts 20e to 20f (i.e., 20e-f). The front furniture part 20e has two opposite front assembly holes 50a to 50b, which are used to connect the corresponding front portions of side parts 10c to 10d, i.e., the first furniture part 20a of side parts 10c to 10d. The rear furniture part 20f has two opposite rear assembly holes 50c to 50d, which are used to connect the corresponding rear portions of side parts 10c to 10d, i.e., the second furniture part 20b of side parts 10c to 10d.

[0078] Figures 3a to 3b An example of furniture joint 60 is shown in the image. Figure 3a In this context, the furniture joint 60 is a so-called radial-axial joint 60a located between two furniture modules 10c-10d and furniture module 10b, or between two furniture modules 10c-10d and furniture module 10e. The furniture portions 20a-20c of the side members 10c-10d have radial assembly holes 40a, 40c, and 40d, which are aligned with the axial assembly holes 50c-50d of the furniture portions 20e-20f of the seat 10a or the axial assembly holes 50c-50d of the crossbeam 20e.

[0079] Furniture connector 30 is provided to form a robust joint 60a. Furniture connector 30 includes screws 32 and washers 34.

[0080] Washers 34 are inserted into the radial assembly holes 40a, 40c, and 40d of furniture parts 20a-20c. Although furniture parts 20a-20c are shown to have a cylindrical shape, it should be noted that even if furniture parts 20a-20c have a non-circular cross-section, the term "radial direction" will refer to the same transverse direction. Once washers 34 are correctly positioned relative to furniture parts 20a-20c, screws 32 are inserted through washers 34.

[0081] The mounting holes 40a, 40c-40d can be tilted up to 15°, so that the screw 32 has a corresponding orientation once inserted into the mounting holes 40a, 40c-40d. Importantly, this tilted configuration does not require any modification to the washer 34 or how the washer 34 is inserted into the mounting holes 40a, 40c-40d. Instead, the washer 34 is sized to accommodate this tilt, such that the washer 34 will present the same radial direction as the mounting holes 40a, 40c-40d. When the screw 32 is viewed from the washer 34 side, the head of the screw 32 will appear to be completely contained within the washer 34.

[0082] Furniture connector 30 is further described in the co-pending application PCT / CN2020 / 116448 of the same applicant, and will not be described further here.

[0083] exist Figure 3b In this context, furniture joint 60 is a so-called radial-radial joint 60b located between two furniture modules 10c-10d and 10b. The furniture portions 20a of the side members 10c-10d have radial assembly holes 40b, which connect with the radial assembly holes 52 of the furniture portions 20 of the backrest frame 10b (see also...). Figure 1a (Indicate the position of the assembly hole 52) Alignment. The same furniture connector 30 can also be used. Figure 3b Connector 60b.

[0084] To allow the joint 60b to benefit from the advantages provided by the furniture connector 30, some details are required for the assembly holes 40a-40d and 50c-50d. Starting with assembly holes 40a-40d, each assembly hole 40a-40d is provided with an outer tapered opening 42 for receiving the truncated conical portion of the washer 34. Assembly holes 40a-40d extend substantially cylindrically from the outer portion 42, i.e., extend to a portion 44 with a constant diameter. When a radial-radial joint is desired, such as... Figure 3b As shown, the cylindrical portion 44 of the assembly hole 40b extends through the entire furniture portion 20a.

[0085] However, when a radial-axial joint 60a is desired, such as Figure 3aAs shown, the assembly holes 40a, 40c to 40d of the furniture parts 20a to 20c are provided with an inner portion 46, which forms a conical outlet portion, such that the cylindrical portion 44 of the assembly holes 40a, 40c to 40d is positioned between the outer portion 42 and the inner portion 46.

[0086] The assembly holes 50c to 50d are completely cylindrical and extend axially, preferably centrally, from the axial ends 22 of the elongated furniture parts 20e to 20f. The axial ends 22 are tapered.

[0087] The tapered inner portion 46 of the assembly holes 40a, 40c to 40d is sized to receive the tapered axial ends 22 of the furniture portions 20e to 20f. When forming the joint 60, the tapered axial ends 22 will engage with the tapered inner portion 46, such that when the screw 32 pulls the furniture portions 20e to 20f toward the washer 34, a frictional engagement will occur between the furniture portions 20a to 20c and the furniture portions 20e to 20f.

[0088] Figure 4 illustrates a system 100 for manufacturing furniture modules 10c-10d to be assembled. The system includes: a fixing device 110 configured to receive furniture modules 10c-10d at predetermined positions; and at least two drilling units 120a-120d configured to provide corresponding assembly holes 40a-40d in the furniture modules 10c-10d. In the example shown, four drilling units 120a-120d are provided.

[0089] Each drilling unit 120a-120d is configured to provide at least one assembly hole 40a-40d for the furniture modules 10c-10d. Therefore, by operating the drilling units 120a-120d simultaneously, four or more assembly holes 40a-40d will be formed at the same time.

[0090] As shown in Figure 4, each drilling unit 120a-120d includes a first drilling device 122a-122d and a second drilling device 124a-124d arranged on the opposite side of the furniture modules 10c-10d and configured to operate vertically in opposite directions (for illustrative purposes, the second drilling device 124b is slightly rotated relative to the first drilling device 122b of the same drilling unit 120b).

[0091] The drilling devices 122a-122d, all arranged on the same vertical side of the fixing device 110, are preferably identical and configured to provide a drilling geometry that produces an outer conical portion 42 of the assembly holes 40a-40d and a cylindrical portion 44 of the assembly holes 40a-40d. For this purpose, the drilling devices 122a-122d are provided with a drill bit 123 having an inner conical drill bit 123a extending axially to a cylindrical drill bit 123b. When the drilling devices 122a-122d are activated, the cylindrical portion 123b of the drill bit 123 produces a cylindrical hole, and when the conical drill bit 123a engages with the furniture modules 10c-10d, the outer conical portion 42 of the assembly holes 40a-40d is formed.

[0092] The drilling devices 124a-124d, which are all arranged on the same vertical side of the fixing device 110 but are opposite to the drilling devices 122a-122d, are not necessarily the same. In the example shown, the two drilling devices 124a and 124c are identical and are provided with a tapered drill bit 125a, which, when activated, provides the tapered inner portion 46 of the resulting assembly holes 40a and 40c.

[0093] The drilling device 124b, vertically aligned with the drilling device 122b, is preferably different from the drilling devices 124a and 124c. In the example shown, the drilling device 124b is provided with a rectangular drill chuck 126a, rather than the circular drill chuck 126b provided on the other drilling devices 124a, 124c, and 124d. The rectangular drill chuck 126a is connected to a tapered drill bit 125a, which, when activated, provides the tapered inner portion 46 of the resulting assembly hole 40b. The rectangular drill chuck 126a is also provided with a cylindrical drill bit 125b disposed at a distance from the tapered drill bit 125a. When the drilling device 124b is activated, the cylindrical drill bit 125b will create a cylindrical hole in the furniture modules 10c-10d, and the tapered drill bit 125a will create an internal tapered portion 46 of the assembly hole 40b in the furniture modules 10c-10d, spaced apart from the cylindrical hole created by the cylindrical drill bit 125b. The cylindrical drill bit 125b is therefore adapted to form a cylindrical hole; and the resulting hole can extend through the furniture modules 10c-10d for the purpose of forming a radial-radial joint 60b. In a preferred embodiment, the cylindrical hole extends only partially in the furniture modules 10c-10d for the purpose of fitting a pin for additional support.

[0094] The drilling device 124d is provided with only a cylindrical drill bit 125b, because the resulting assembly hole 40b is intended to form a radial-radial joint 60b, in which the tapered internal portion 46 is not required.

[0095] Each drilling unit 120a-120d is controlled in its corresponding position relative to the fixing device 110 during operation. Furthermore, at least one fixed position exists between the drilling units 120a-120d, which form assembly holes 40a-40b for connecting the seat 10a to the side members 10c-10d. In the case of dimensional variations between different side members 10c-10d, if the position of the drilling units 120a-120d is set relative to the position of the furniture modules 10c-10d, the assembly holes 40a-40d will be arranged at different positions on the different side members 10c-10d. However, when the drilling units 120a-120d are fixedly positioned relative to the fixing device 110 and relative to each other, the assembly holes 40a-40d will always be in the correct position for forming the joint 60.

[0096] In particular, when the seat 10a requires two connectors 60 for each side component 10c to 10d, the fixed position between the drilling units 120a to 120d will always ensure that the seat 10a can be correctly connected to the side components 10c to 10d.

[0097] To ensure the correct positioning of furniture modules 10c-10d, the fixing device 110 is provided with one or more clamping devices 112 for fixing the position of the furniture modules. The clamping device 112 is preferably in the form of a vertically adjustable member and has a V-shaped cavity facing the furniture modules 10c-10d. The V-shaped cavity is particularly advantageous when the furniture part to be clamped is cylindrical.

[0098] exist Figure 4b The clamping device 112 is further shown in the diagram. Especially in... Figure 4b At the left end, it can be seen that furniture modules 10c-10d are effectively held in the V-shaped cavity of the V-shaped clamping structure 112a and clamped by the clamping device 112. Optionally, and as... Figure 4b As shown, the fixing device 110 may be provided with a fixed and mating V-shaped structure 112b. If the furniture modules 10c-10d are positioned relative to the fixing device 110 but do not perfectly fit with the mating V-shaped structures 112a-112b, activating the clamping device 112 will move the furniture modules 10c-10d into the correct position, as the furniture modules 10c-10d will be pushed to fit into the cavity. Therefore, activating the clamping device 112 will move the V-shaped cavity vertically downward until the V-shaped cavity engages with the furniture modules 10c-10d, thereby clamping the furniture modules 10c-10d to the fixing device 110.

[0099] Clamping furniture modules 10c–10d using clamping devices with V-shaped cavities is particularly advantageous for rattan or other round / cylindrical materials. The clamping operation is especially beneficial for rattan, which has a generally circular cross-section, although such cross-sections are rarely perfectly circular. Furthermore, the diameter of rattan typically varies within a certain range, allowing for relatively large tolerances compared to other processed materials. This type of clamping effectively compensates for any variations in the outer periphery of the rattan material and ensures the furniture module is correctly positioned, thereby improving the stability and predictability of the manufacturing process.

[0100] Correct positioning of furniture modules 10c-10d can also be achieved by a fixing device 110 having two spaced-apart and optional reference positions 114a-114b. These reference positions 114a-114b form stops, and in the illustrated example, specific portions of furniture modules 10c-10d, namely the ends of the U-shaped furniture members 20d adjacent to the legs of the side members 10c-10d, can be arranged to contact these stops. To avoid overly defining the position of furniture modules 10c-10d, reference positions 114a-114b can be omitted. In this case, furniture modules 10c-10d may preferably have additional lengths for their legs, which are subsequently cut to the desired length after drilling.

[0101] As shown in Figure 4, the fixing device 110 has a wedge shape, which forms a flat surface 116 inclined relative to the horizontal plane Z. As the drilling units 120a-120d operate in the vertical direction, the resulting assembly holes 40a-40d will be relative to, but not perpendicular to, the plane of the furniture modules 10c-10d. The fixing device 110 is also provided with a channel 118 extending through the fixing device 110. The channel 118 is aligned with the drilling units 120a-120d, such that the drill bits 123a-123b and 125a-125b will not engage with the fixing device 110, but will be allowed to pass through the channel 118.

[0102] Although the system 100 described with reference to FIG4 is suitable for forming radial assembly holes 40a to 40d, in Figure 5a The system 200 is shown in the figure, which is configured to form axial assembly holes 50c to 50d.

[0103] System 200 includes a feed station 210 that receives one or more elongated furniture sections 20e-20f. Relative to the seat 1 described throughout this specification, the furniture sections 20e-20f will ultimately form part of the seat 10a when connected to additional furniture sections 20g-20j, or the furniture sections 20e-20f themselves will form the furniture module 10e to be assembled (see...). Figure 1a ).

[0104] System 200 also includes a transport device 220 configured to transport individual furniture parts 20e-20f from feed station 210 to downstream units 230, 240, 250.

[0105] These downstream units include a cutting unit 230, a milling unit 240, and a drilling unit 250 arranged in series. Each unit 230, 240, and 250 includes two devices 232a-232b, two devices 242a-242b, and two devices 252a-252b, respectively (see...). Figures 6a to 6c These devices are arranged on the opposite side of the transport device 220 and aligned in the transport direction L so that the cutting unit 230, the milling unit 240 and the drilling unit 250 act on the two axial ends of the furniture parts 20e to 20f.

[0106] exist Figures 5b to 5c The conveying device 220 is further shown in the diagram. Clamping units 221 are provided on each lateral side of the system 200 (while... Figure 5a Two clamping units 221 are shown in the figure. Figures 5b to 5c The diagram shows only one clamping unit 221. Each clamping unit 221 has a fixed vertical position and includes two opposing V-shaped clamping devices 221a-221b, which face each other and are movable relative to each other. Figure 5b In the positions shown, clamping devices 221a-221b are arranged at a sufficiently large longitudinal distance from each other to allow furniture parts 20e-20f to fall and position themselves between clamping devices 221a-221b.

[0107] Before the longitudinal conveying device 220 is activated, that is, before the conveying device 220 begins to move to transport furniture parts 20e-20f towards the downstream unit, clamping devices 221a-221b are controlled to move toward each other in order to clamp furniture parts 20e-20f and fix their position relative to the conveying device 220. Figure 5c As shown, one or both of the clamping devices 221a to 221b can be moved to achieve a clamping action.

[0108] Figures 5d to 5eThe embodiment of clamping unit 221 is shown in further detail below. At least one of the clamping devices 221a-221b of clamping unit 221 can be driven by actuator 221c, thereby causing linear movement of the associated clamping devices 221a-221b toward the opposing clamping devices 221a-221b. The two clamping devices 221a-221b of the common clamping unit 221 can be connected by transmission device 221d; in the illustrated embodiment, transmission device 221d takes the form of two racks 221e that engage with pinion 221f. Each rack 221e is connected to the associated clamping device 221a-221b, and since the racks 221e are interconnected by means of pinion 221f, a centered clamping action will always be achieved when any actuator 221c is actuated.

[0109] Other types of clamping units 221 (or clamping devices 221a-221b) can be used to provide fixed positioning of furniture parts 20e-20f relative to the transport device 220. For example, V-shaped clamping devices 221a-221b can be replaced by one or more chucks (not shown) configured to hold furniture parts 20e-20f in a radially symmetrical manner. The chucks can typically be provided with chuck jaws arranged radially symmetrically, which provide the desired clamping effect when tightened (i.e., when moving radially inward). A chuck located at one axial end of furniture parts 20e-20f may be sufficient to fix the position of furniture parts 20e-20f. The opposite axial ends of furniture parts 20e-20f can be supported by other fixing devices, such as live centers. In other embodiments, one chuck may be provided at each axial end of furniture parts 20e-20f.

[0110] exist Figures 6a to 6c The diagram shows the operation of system 200. From... Figure 6a Initially, the conveying device 220 drives the clamped furniture parts 20e-20g along the conveying path 222. Upon reaching the cutting unit 230, the conveying device 220 temporarily stops to allow the cutting unit 230 to operate on the furniture parts 20e-20f. The cutting devices 232a-232b are preferably fixed, but are equipped with rotating cutting blades 234 that cause axial cutting of the furniture parts 20e-20f. Therefore, the final length of the furniture parts 20e-20f is defined by the distance between the two cutting blades 234.

[0111] exist Figure 6bIn this process, the conveying device 220 drives the furniture parts 20e-g along the conveying path 222 away from the cutting unit 230 to the downstream milling unit 240. Upon reaching the position of the milling unit 240, the conveying device 220 temporarily stops again to allow the milling unit 240 to operate on the furniture parts 20e-20f. The milling devices 242a-242b are driven to move toward and away from the corresponding axial ends of the furniture modules 20e-20f, and in the position shown, the milling devices 242a-242b have been moved to engage with the furniture modules 20e-20f. Each milling device 242a-242b is provided with a milling tool 244 that tapers the axial ends of the furniture parts 20e-20f. Therefore, the milling unit 240 is configured to form the tapered axial ends 22 of the furniture parts 20e-20f.

[0112] exist Figure 6c In the middle, the conveying device 220 further drives the furniture parts 20e-20g away from the milling unit 240 along the conveying path 222 to the downstream drilling unit 250. Upon reaching the drilling unit 250, the conveying device 220 again temporarily stops to allow the drilling unit 250 to operate on the furniture parts 20e-20f. Regarding the milling devices 242a-242b, the drilling devices 252a-252b are also driven to move toward and away from the corresponding axial ends of the furniture modules 20e-20f, and in the position shown, the drilling devices 252a-252b have been moved to engage with the furniture modules 20e-20f. Each drilling device 252a-252b is provided with a drilling tool 254 (see also...). Figure 6b When actuated, the drilling tool 254 creates axial holes, namely assembly holes 50c to 50d, at the axial ends of the furniture parts 20e to 20f.

[0113] When the drilling operation is completed, furniture parts 20e to 20f are released from the transport device 220. Furniture parts 20e to 20f can then be connected to additional furniture parts 20g to 20j to form furniture module 10a to be assembled, or furniture parts 20e to 20f can be used directly as furniture module 10e to be assembled in the form of crossbars or similar furniture components.

[0114] Now turn to Figure 7a The present invention will describe a method 300 for manufacturing furniture modules 10c to 10d to be assembled. This method 300 is preferably performed using a system 100 as described with reference to FIG4.

[0115] In the first step 302, a semi-finished furniture module is provided. In the example above, the semi-finished furniture module corresponds to the side parts 10c-10d without assembly holes 40a-40d. Therefore, the furniture module is in a configuration that is not yet to be assembled. In the subsequent step 304, the furniture module is arranged at a predetermined position on the fixing device 110. Method 300 further includes the step 306 of activating at least two drilling units 120a-120d to provide corresponding assembly holes 40a-40d in the furniture module. Step 308 is further performed by controlling the corresponding positions of the at least two drilling units 120a-120d relative to each other and relative to the fixing device 110 during activation.

[0116] Reference Figure 7b Another method 310 for manufacturing furniture modules 10a, 10e to be assembled is described. This method 310 is preferably performed using a system 200 as described with reference to Figures 5 and 6.

[0117] Method 310 includes the following first step 312: providing an elongated furniture portion. In the subsequent step 314, a cutting unit 230 is activated to cut the furniture portion to the desired length, and a subsequent step 316 is performed by activating a milling unit 240 to shape, preferably into a frustoconical shape, the axial end of the furniture portion. Thereafter, step 318 is performed by activating an axial drilling unit 250 to provide at least one assembly hole 50c to 50d at the axial end of the furniture portion.

[0118] Method 310 may also include the final step 320 of connecting the furniture portion to an additional furniture portion, thereby forming a furniture module to be assembled. Such a furniture module to be assembled may be, for example, the seat 10a of the rattan chair 1 as described above.

[0119] Figure 7c Another method 330 is shown. This method 330 is performed to manufacture furniture. Method 330 includes manufacturing furniture modules to be assembled by performing method 300 and method 310. Method 330 also includes the step 332 of connecting the furniture modules obtained by method 300 and method 310 to form furniture.

[0120] The examples above allow for significant improvements in the assembly of handcrafted furniture, even when dimensional deviations are substantial and tolerances exceed standard specifications for industrial processes. In particular, the described systems and methods are used to manufacture furniture modules to be assembled, allowing for the disassembly, packaging, and distribution of furniture made from natural materials such as rattan of varying dimensions.

[0121] Examples of such furniture and its components will be described below. Such furniture and its components are preferably and advantageously provided using at least in part the methods and systems described above. Although such furniture and its components can be manufactured using various methods and systems, it is preferable to combine the manufacturing systems and methods described above with the concepts described below.

[0122] Regarding furniture and furniture components, the aim is to provide furniture that can be assembled from detachable configurations of pre-manufactured furniture parts with varying dimensions, as well as the components and methods of such furniture.

[0123] According to one aspect, a furniture connector is provided. The furniture connector is configured to establish an attachment between two pre-manufactured furniture parts, and includes a screw and a washer. The washer is configured to receive the screw, and includes a plate having a radius and a through hole disposed in the plate, wherein the periphery of the through hole extends into a truncated tapered portion in a direction away from the plate. The furniture connector provides support for the strength of the furniture joint because the head of the screw is prevented from cutting into or penetrating the furniture part, which is particularly advantageous for rattan furniture due to uncontrollable variations in rattan density.

[0124] The washer plate can be round, square, rectangular, elliptical, or have other external shapes. The plate is curved, preferably curved to have a curvature similar to the radius of the furniture part to be installed, and thus achieves uniform wrapping around the associated furniture part along the outer surface with a round shape.

[0125] The external dimensions of the board, such as the diameter in the case of a circular board or the side length in the case of a triangular, square, or rectangular board, can be between 1.5 cm and 4 cm, preferably between 2 cm and 3 cm, and more preferably between 2.4 cm and 2.6 cm. This has proven to be particularly advantageous for rod-shaped rattan furniture sections.

[0126] The apex angle of the truncated tapered portion of the washer can be between 40° and 80°, preferably between 55° and 65°. Therefore, the screw head will be completely accommodated by the washer.

[0127] The length of the truncated tapered portion of the washer can be between 2 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 4 mm and 6 mm. Therefore, the screw head can be fitted inside the truncated tapered portion while still allowing for different extension angles of the screw.

[0128] The radius of the bent portion of the board can be between 5 mm and 35 mm, preferably between 8 mm and 32 mm, more preferably between 10 mm and 25 mm, and even more preferably between 15 mm and 20 mm. This has proven to be very suitable for rod-shaped furniture parts, especially rod-shaped furniture parts used in rattan furniture.

[0129] A screw may include a screw head, a threaded portion, and a non-threaded portion disposed between the screw head and the threaded portion.

[0130] The screw head can be tapered. This configuration will provide improved engagement with the washer, thereby allowing, in particular, different angles of screw orientation relative to the washer.

[0131] The optional length of the unthreaded portion of the screw can be between 5 mm and 30 mm, preferably between 10 mm and 25 mm, for example, 20 mm. This achieves an improved engagement between the screw and two furniture parts, and reduces manufacturing complexity because the thread does not extend along the full length of the screw. Another advantage is that the smaller diameter of the unthreaded portion relative to the threaded portion allows for a deviation in the angle of the screw relative to the washer.

[0132] The thread pitch of the screw's threaded portion can be between 2 mm and 4 mm, preferably between 2 mm and 3 mm. The large diameter of the screw's thread can be between 4 mm and 8 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 7.5 mm, and even more preferably between 5.5 mm and 7 mm. The small diameter of the screw's thread can be between 3 mm and 6 mm, preferably between 3.5 mm and 5.5 mm, and even more preferably between 4.0 mm and 5.0 mm. These dimensions, individually or in combination, have proven to provide excellent bonding with the materials of the furniture parts, especially when at least one of the first and second furniture parts is made of rattan.

[0133] According to another aspect, a kit for forming a furniture joint is provided. The kit includes a furniture connector according to the first aspect, a first furniture portion, and a second furniture portion. Screws of the furniture connector are arranged to insert into pre-drilled holes in the first furniture portion and screw into pre-drilled holes in the second furniture portion, thereby attaching the first furniture portion to the second furniture portion.

[0134] The pre-drilled hole in the first furniture part has an outer end that is arranged opposite to that in the second furniture part and may have a tapered shape. The tapered portion of the washer may be configured to be received by the outer end of the pre-drilled hole in the first furniture part. Thus, the washer will be fitted into the pre-drilled hole, thereby providing a secure fit for the force of the screw.

[0135] The pre-drilled holes in the first furniture section can extend radially along the circular portion of the first furniture section. This allows the furniture sections to be connected to each other at right angles.

[0136] The screw can extend radially along a circular portion of the first furniture part, which is inclined at an angle β from the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the screw, preferably within ±15°. Therefore, the furniture parts can be connected at different angles while still allowing the washer to be flush with the first furniture part.

[0137] The screw may extend tangentially to the circular portion of the first furniture part rather than radially. Tangentially refers to the direction of the fibers that may be off-center but still perpendicular to the circular portion of the first furniture part.

[0138] The pre-drilled holes in the second furniture section can extend radially or axially. Different joints are therefore permitted to use the same furniture connector.

[0139] The pre-drilled hole for the second furniture section can extend from an axial end of the second furniture section, wherein the axial end can have a tapered shape. Having a tapered end allows for better alignment of the second furniture section relative to the first furniture section.

[0140] The pre-drilled hole in the first furniture section can have an inner end that is arranged adjacent to the second furniture section and has a tapered shape, and the axial end of the second furniture section can be arranged to be at least partially received by the inner end of the pre-drilled hole in the first furniture section. This provides an improved connection between the first and second furniture sections. In particular, a tapered friction engagement can be provided between the tapered axial end of the second furniture section and the tapered inner end of the pre-drilled hole in the first furniture section. Preferably, the only point of contact between the axial end of the second furniture section and the inner end of the pre-drilled hole in the first furniture section is the corresponding tapered surface. This achieves several advantages. First, assuming a horizontal joint (i.e., the screw extends horizontally), vertical loads (static and / or dynamic and / or fatigue loads) will not act directly on the screw during use. Instead, the furniture joint will bear this load. Second, when tightening the screw, the tapered joint will always be fully tightened in the axial direction. Third, the tapered joint will also provide support to stabilize the structure and robustness of the furniture, as the screw will not be allowed to be easily pulled out of the furniture section.

[0141] The tapered axial end of the second furniture part and the tapered inner end of the pre-drilled hole of the first furniture part can therefore be designed such that, after installation, an axial gap is provided between the edge of the axial end and the inner end of the inner end.

[0142] The axial length of the axial clearance can be in the range of 0.5 mm to 4 mm, preferably in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm.

[0143] At least one of the first and second furniture parts may be made at least partially of rattan. Alternatively, both the first and second furniture parts may be made of rattan.

[0144] The second furniture section may be provided with tenons extending along a path of pre-drilled holes across the second furniture section. Preferably, the tenons are made of wood, and more preferably, the wood fibers of the tenons extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the screw. Therefore, the strength of the screw connection is enhanced.

[0145] According to another aspect, a furniture component is provided, the furniture component comprising at least one kit forming a furniture joint according to the second aspect.

[0146] At least one of the first and second furniture parts may be made of rattan or other plant-based species, such as monocotyledons or bamboo.

[0147] The first and / or second furniture parts may form part of a pre-manufactured furniture module, wherein the furniture module may have a flat shape. Preferably, the furniture pieces consist entirely of furniture modules having a flat shape and / or arranged for flat-packing. This allows the furniture to be pre-manufactured in modules and flat-packed to the customer, who then uses the aforementioned furniture connectors for final assembly.

[0148] The furniture component may include a plurality of pre-manufactured furniture modules that respectively form a seat, a back part and two side parts, wherein at least one furniture module includes a first furniture part and at least one furniture module includes a second furniture part.

[0149] According to another aspect, a method for manufacturing furniture suitable for flat-packing is provided. The method includes: i) providing at least two pre-manufactured furniture modules, wherein at least one furniture module includes a first furniture portion and at least one furniture module includes a second furniture portion; and ii) providing at least one furniture connector according to the first aspect and / or at least one kit for forming a furniture joint, wherein the first furniture portion and the second furniture portion are configured to be connected by means of the at least one furniture connector and / or by means of the kit.

[0150] from Figures 8a to 8c At the beginning, different pieces of furniture 1001a to 1001c are shown. Figure 8a Shelf 1001a is shown in the figure; Figure 8b Chair 1001b is shown; and Figure 8cThe image shows a sofa table 1001c. Although these pieces of furniture 1001a-1001c are very different from each other in terms of use and construction, they can all be manufactured in such a way that they share the following common features: having one or more furniture modules 1010 including at least one furniture part 1020, said at least one furniture part 1020 being made of natural materials such as rattan, round wood, etc., which makes it impossible to control the size of the furniture parts for use in normal industrial furniture manufacturing processes.

[0151] exist Figures 9a to 9b The image shows a more detailed example of furniture 1001d according to one embodiment. Furniture 1001d is a chair composed of a plurality of pre-manufactured furniture modules 1010, which are assembled into the final chair 1001d using a plurality of furniture connectors 1030, as will be described further.

[0152] exist Figure 9a In the illustration, furniture module 1010 is shown in a flat or detachable configuration. Furniture module 1010 includes a seat 1010a, a backrest frame 1010b, and two side members 1010c–1010d. Importantly, to benefit from the advantages associated with detachable packaging and shipping, each pre-manufactured furniture module in pre-manufactured furniture module 1010 has a generally flat shape. The term "flat" is not interpreted strictly; a relative meaning should be applied. Thus, by example, both the seat 1010a and the backrest frame 1010b are flatter than when they are joined to form an L-shape.

[0153] In the example shown, each prefabricated furniture module 1010 has a rattan frame that forms the outer boundary of the prefabricated furniture module 1010. However, the seat 1010a, backrest frame 1010b, and optional side parts 1010c-1010d may be provided with some kind of surface covering, such as rattan or the like.

[0154] Side components 1010c to 1010d not only form armrests but also legs for the chair 1001d. In an upright position, as... Figure 9b As indicated in the document, the rattan chair 1001d is a rigid piece of furniture that provides reliable support for the person using the chair 1001d.

[0155] The rattan frame of each furniture module 1010a to 1010d, or at least partially representing furniture part 1020, together with furniture connector 1030, forms one or more furniture joint parts (see Figures 13 to 16).

[0156] To allow end users to assemble the pre-manufactured furniture module 1010 as follows: Figure 9bAs indicated in the final chair 1001d, it is necessary to provide a furniture connector 1030 that has been adjusted and optimized for connecting the furniture parts 1020.

[0157] Instead of entirely handmade rattan furniture, it has been recognized that while each furniture module 1010 can be manufactured in a factory, the dimensions will vary due to the inherent properties of the material. Therefore, existing connectors cannot be used to assemble the furniture modules 1010 because these connectors require tightness tolerances. Alternatively, such as... Figure 9b As can be seen from this, furniture 1001d is determined by the end consumer according to, for example... Figure 9a The detachable configuration shown is used for assembly.

[0158] For this purpose, multiple furniture connectors 1030 are provided. For example... Figure 9b As can be seen, two furniture connectors 1030 are used to connect side parts 1010c-1010d to the seat 1010a, and one connector 1030 is used to connect each side part 1010c-1010d to the backrest frame. As further shown, the crossbeam 1010e is connected to each side part 1010c-1010d by means of the two furniture connectors 1030. Figure 9b Obviously, similar but not necessarily identical connectors 1030 can be used to assemble complex furniture 1001d.

[0159] Figures 10 and 11 show the furniture connector 1030 together with the furniture part 1020 in further detail to facilitate understanding of the operation of the furniture connector 1030. Figures 10a to 10b Initially, each furniture connector 1030 includes a screw 1032 and a washer 1034.

[0160] Washer 1034 is inserted into a pre-drilled hole 1022 in furniture part 1020, which extends radially along the furniture part 1020. Although the furniture part 1020 shown has a cylindrical shape, it should be mentioned that even if the furniture part 1020 has a non-circular cross-section, the term "radial direction" refers to the same transverse longitudinal direction. Figure 10b As shown, once the washer 1034 is correctly positioned relative to the furniture part 1020, the screw 1032 is inserted through the washer 1034. Figure 10c As shown, due to the orientation of the pre-drilled hole 1022, the screw 1032 will protrude outward from the furniture part 1020 at 90° relative to the longitudinal axial direction.

[0161] Figures 11a to 11cThe same screw 1032 and washer 1034 are shown. However, in this embodiment, the pre-drilled hole 1022 of the furniture part 1020 is tilted by 15°, so that the screw 1032 has a corresponding orientation once inserted into the pre-drilled hole 1022. Importantly, this tilted configuration does not require any modification to the washer 1034, or how the washer 1034 is inserted into the pre-drilled hole 1022. Alternatively, as Figures 10a to 10c As shown, washer 1034 is sized to accommodate this tilt, such that washer 1034 will present the same radial direction as the pre-drilled hole 1022. When screw 1032 is viewed from the washer 1034 side, the head of screw 1032 will appear to be completely contained within washer 1034.

[0162] Figure 12a The image further illustrates a washer 1034. The washer 1034 has a plate 1034a bent to have a radius R. In the example shown, the plate 1034a is bent to form a semi-cylindrical body (e.g., by bending the plate around a cylindrical body). The plate 1034a is circular, but can also be other shapes such as rectangular, square, elliptical, triangular, or any other suitable shape.

[0163] Preferably, a through hole 1034b is provided at the central portion of the plate 1034a, and a circularly tapered sidewall 1034c extends from the periphery of the through hole 1034b in the same direction as the curvature of the plate 1034a. Therefore, the periphery of the through hole 1034b extends into a truncated tapered portion 1034c in a direction away from the plate 1034a.

[0164] Examples of suitable dimensions are given below. When plate 1034a is circular, the diameter D1 of plate 1034a is preferably in the range of 15 mm to 40 mm, or even more preferably about 25 mm. The radius of curvature R of plate 1034a is approximately 12 mm to 20 mm. The diameter D2 of through hole 1034b is approximately 15 mm, and the taper angle α, i.e., the apex angle, of truncated cone 1034c is approximately 60°, such that when the length L of truncated cone 1034c is approximately 5 mm, the distal diameter D3 of truncated cone 1034c is approximately 9 mm.

[0165] Figure 12bAn example of a screw 1032 forming part of a furniture connector 1030 is shown. The screw 1032 has a countersunk head 1032a, whereby the countersunk angle is approximately 45°. The screw head 1032a has a height of approximately 3.5 mm, followed by an unthreaded upper portion 1032b. The diameter of the upper portion 1032b is approximately 4 mm to 6 mm, and the length of the unthreaded portion 1032b is approximately 15 mm. Depending on the total length of the screw 1032, the screw 1032 has a threaded portion 1032c with a length of approximately 35 mm to 70 mm. For the aforementioned length of the threaded portion 1032c, the total length of the screw 1032 (i.e., the total length of the threaded portion 1032c, the upper portion 1032b, and the head 1032a) is between 40 mm and 100 mm.

[0166] Preferably, the screw 1032 has a tip 1032d to compensate for deviations in the drilling tolerances of the furniture part 1020 and to improve the guidance of the screw 1032.

[0167] The thread pitch of the threaded portion 1032c is preferably approximately 2.4 mm; it has been found that if the furniture portion 1020 is made of rattan, such a thread pitch will cut fewer fibers.

[0168] Another feature of screw 1032 is the significant difference between the large and small diameters of the threads, which provides an additional advantage in the case that the associated furniture part 1020 is made of rattan. Because rattan is relatively soft, it can easily damage the material if the grip is not strong enough, causing screw 1032 to flip. In the example shown, the large diameter MD of the thread is approximately 6.3 mm, while the small diameter MD is approximately 4.4 mm. The ratio of the large diameter MD to the small diameter MD is therefore in the range of 1.2 to 2.0, preferably 1.4 to 1.7, for example, approximately 1.58. The thread angle is approximately 40°.

[0169] Now turn to Figures 13a to 13c The operation of furniture connector 1030 is illustrated in the first example. Here, furniture connector 1030, together with two associated furniture parts 1020a-1020b, forms furniture joint 1040. Figure 13a As can be seen, the furniture connector 1030 is used to rigidly connect the first furniture part 1020a and the second furniture part 1020b into a radial-radial configuration.

[0170] Each furniture part 1020a-1020b forms part of the corresponding furniture module 1010, as described above. Figures 9a to 9b As explained.

[0171] like Figures 13b to 13cAs further shown, the first furniture portion 1020a is provided with a pre-drilled hole 1022 extending radially through the first furniture portion 1020a, i.e., perpendicular to the axial direction of the first furniture portion 1020a. The pre-drilled hole 1022 of the first furniture portion 1020a is provided with an outer conical opening 1022a for receiving the truncated conical portion 1034c of the washer 1034. The pre-drilled hole 1022 extends substantially cylindrically from the outer portion 1022a, i.e., extends to a portion 1022b having a constant diameter.

[0172] The second furniture portion 1020b is also provided with a pre-drilled hole 1024 extending radially along the second furniture portion 1020b. The pre-drilled hole 1024 of the second furniture portion 1020b does not extend completely through the second furniture portion 1020b. The diameter of the pre-drilled hole 1024 of the second furniture portion 1020b is smaller than the diameter of the pre-drilled hole 1022 of the first furniture portion 1020a, and in particular smaller than the diameter of the cylindrical portion 1022b.

[0173] Screw 1032 is sized such that it will not grip the first furniture part 1020a, but it can be freely inserted into the pre-drilled hole 1022 in the first furniture part 1020a. When screw 1032 reaches the pre-drilled hole 1024 in the second furniture part 1020b, the threads will grip the material of the second furniture part 1020b, and screw 1032 can be inserted until the screw head reaches the truncated taper of washer 1034. With further tightening of screw 1032, the second furniture part 1020b will be pulled toward the first furniture part 1020a to establish a secure connection between the two parts.

[0174] Figures 14a to 14b Another example of a furniture joint is shown. Here, the first furniture part 1020a is connected to... Figures 13a to 13c The first furniture part 1020a is almost identical. The connector 1030 is also very similar, although the threaded portion of the screw 1032 can be made more... Figures 13a to 13c The threaded portion of the screw shown is long.

[0175] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second furniture portion 1020b and Figures 13a to 13c The second furniture part 1022b is completely different because the second furniture part 1020b is intended to be connected along its axial direction rather than in the radial direction.

[0176] The pre-drilled hole 1024 of the second furniture part 1020b extends axially from the axial end 1026 of the second furniture part 1020b and preferably at the center. The axial end 1026 is tapered, preferably tapering at an angle δ of approximately 10° to 20°, for example 15°.

[0177] As from Figure 14b As can be clearly seen, the pre-drilled hole 1022 of the first furniture part 1020a is provided with an inner part 1022c, which forms a conical outlet portion, such that the cylindrical portion 1022b of the pre-drilled hole 1022 is positioned between the outer portion 1022a and the inner portion 1022c.

[0178] The tapered internal portion 1022c is dimensioned to receive the tapered axial end 1026 of the second furniture portion 1020b. (As shown) Figure 14b As shown, when forming the joint 1040, the tapered axial end 1026 will engage with the tapered inner portion 1022c such that when the screw 1032 pulls the second furniture portion 1020b toward the washer 1034, there will be a frictional engagement between the first furniture portion 1020a and the second furniture portion 1020b.

[0179] Preferably, the dimensions of the tapered axial end 1026 and the tapered inner portion 1022c are designed such that an axial clearance 1028 exists between the edge of the axial end 1026 and the inner end of the inner portion 1022c. The axial clearance 1028 ensures that there is actually a frictional engagement on the sidewall of the end portion 1026, rather than an axial fixation between the two furniture portions 1020a–1020b. The axial clearance 1028 is preferably in the range of 0.5 mm to 4 mm in the axial direction, for example, 1 mm to 2 mm, which also ensures manufacturing tolerances and facilitates customer assembly. However, most importantly, the axial clearance 1028 ensures that vertical loads (static loads or fatigue loads) during use will not directly affect the screw 1032; instead, the furniture joint 1040 will bear the load.

[0180] Therefore, the axial clearance 1028 provides a connection in which the only point of contact between the axial end 1026 of the second furniture portion 1020b and the inner portion 1022c of the pre-drilled hole 1022 of the first furniture portion 1020a is the corresponding tapered surface.

[0181] Figures 15a to 15b Another example of a furniture connector 1040 is shown, which uses two furniture parts 1020a-1020b and a furniture connector 1030. In this example, the first furniture part 1020a and the furniture connector 1030 are as previously referenced. Figures 14a to 14bThe first furniture part and the furniture connector described are the same. The second furniture part 1020b has a radial hole 1029a at a certain axial distance from the axial end 1026; this distance is selected such that the screw 1032 will extend through the radial hole 1029a when the connector 1040 is assembled.

[0182] A radial hole 1029a is fitted with a tenon 1029b. The tenon 1029b preferably has a through hole 1029c extending along the axial direction of the second furniture part 1020b but in the radial direction of the tenon 1029b. Depending on the importance of the furniture joint 1040, a cross tenon 1029b can be added to strengthen the connection of the screw 1032, since the screw 1032 will actually engage in the drilled hole 1029c of the tenon 1029b. Furthermore, in the case of rattan material in the second furniture part 1020b, the fiber direction of the rattan part 1020b will be axial. Since the fiber direction of the tenon 1029b is the axial direction of the tenon 1029b and therefore perpendicular to the fiber direction of the furniture part 1020b, the tenon 1029b will improve the attachment of the screw 1032. The cross tenon 1029b can be made of, for example, rattan or solid wood.

[0183] Figures 16a to 16b The image shows a comparison between two furniture joints 1040. Figure 16a The first example shown in the text is related to... Figure 15b The furniture joint 1040 is the same. The furniture joint 1040 forms a vertical connection between the first furniture part 1020a and the second furniture part 1020b because the pre-drilled hole 1022 of the first furniture part 1020a extends only in the radial direction, that is, perpendicular to the axial direction of the first furniture part 1020a.

[0184] exist Figure 16b In the first furniture part 1020a, the pre-drilled hole 1022 is relative to Figure 16a The radial direction is tilted at an angle β of approximately 15°. This means that, assuming the second furniture part 1020b is horizontal, the first furniture part 1020a is tilted at the same angle β relative to the vertical direction. The washer 1034 will still fully accommodate the screw head 1032a, as... Figure 16b As clearly shown, this means that even if the furniture joint 1040 is not vertical, the furniture connector 1030, including the screw 1032 and washer 1034, will work perfectly.

[0185] After transferring to Figure 17 As previously described above, furniture connector 1030 is particularly suitable for use with rattan furniture and is suitable for furniture parts 1020a to 1020b made of rattan.

[0186] Rattan is typically a soft material. The density of a rattan is not constant in the radial direction, but the outer layer is stronger and stiffer than the core material, which usually has a lower density. The furniture connector 1030 described herein has proven particularly advantageous not only for rigidly connecting two rattan pieces, i.e., two furniture parts 1020a–1020b made of rattan, but also for accommodating dimensional variations in the furniture parts 1020a–1020b.

[0187] exist Figure 17 The diagram illustrates a method 1100 for manufacturing furniture. The method 1100 is performed by a first step 1102 of providing at least two pre-manufactured furniture modules 1010, wherein at least one furniture module 1010 includes a first furniture portion 1020a and at least one furniture module 1010 includes a second furniture portion 1020b. A second step 1104 is then performed by providing at least one furniture connector 1030 as described above, wherein the first furniture portion 1020a and the second furniture portion 1020b are configured to be connected by means of the at least one furniture connector 1030.

[0188] As a final assembly step, method 1100 may also include step 1106 of connecting furniture modules 1010 by means of at least one furniture connector 1030.

[0189] Even when dimensional deviations are significant and tolerances exceed standard specifications for industrial processes, the above examples allow for substantial improvements in the assembly of some handcrafted furniture. In particular, furniture connectors 1030 provide a secure connection to pre-manufactured furniture modules 1010, which allows for the detachable packaging and distribution of furniture 1001a–1001d made of natural materials such as rattan with different dimensions.

[0190] Various aspects of the invention can be understood from the exemplary embodiments (multiple EEEs) listed below, which can be combined with the aspects defined by the appended claims:

[0191] EEE1. A furniture connector (1030) for establishing an attachment between two pre-manufactured furniture parts (1020a-1020b), said furniture connector (1030) comprising

[0192] Screw (1032), and

[0193] Washer (1034) configured to receive the screw (1032) and including a plate (1034a) having a radius (R) and a through hole (1034b) disposed in the plate (1034a), wherein the periphery of the through hole (1034b) extends into a truncated tapered portion (1034c) in a direction away from the plate (1034a).

[0194] EEE2. The furniture connector (1030) according to EEE1, wherein the plate (1034a) of the washer (1034) is circular, rectangular, square, triangular or elliptical.

[0195] EEE3. The furniture connector (1030) according to any of the preceding EEEs, wherein the external dimensions of the board (1034a), such as the diameter (D1), are between 1.5 cm and 4 cm, preferably between 2.4 cm and 2.6 cm.

[0196] EEE4. The furniture connector (1030) according to any of the preceding EEEs, wherein the apex angle (α) of the truncated cone (1034c) of the washer (1034) is between 40° and 80°, preferably between 55° and 65°.

[0197] EEE5. The furniture connector (1030) according to any of the preceding EEEs, wherein the length (L) of the truncated cone portion (1034c) of the washer (1034) is between 2 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 4 mm and 6 mm.

[0198] EEE6. The furniture connector (1030) according to any of the preceding EEEs, wherein the radius (R) of the board (1034a) is between 5 mm and 35 mm, preferably between 8 mm and 32 mm, more preferably between 10 mm and 25 mm, for example between 15 mm and 20 mm.

[0199] EEE7. The furniture connector (1030) according to any of the preceding EEEs, wherein the screw (1032) includes a screw head (1032a), a threaded portion (1032c), and a non-threaded portion (1032b) disposed between the screw head (1032a) and the threaded portion (1032c).

[0200] EEE8. Furniture connector (1030) according to EEE7, wherein the screw head (1032a) is countersunk.

[0201] EEE9. Furniture connector (1030) according to EEE7 or EEE8, wherein the length of the non-threaded portion (1032b) is between 5 mm and 30 mm, for example, between 10 mm and 25 mm.

[0202] EEE10. The furniture connector (1030) according to any one of EEE7 to EEE9, wherein the thread pitch of the threaded portion (1032c) of the screw (1032) is between 2 mm and 4 mm, preferably between 2 mm and 3 mm.

[0203] EEE11. The furniture connector (1030) according to any one of EEE7 to EEE10, wherein the large diameter (MD) of the thread of the screw (1032) is between 4 mm and 8 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 7.5 mm, and even more preferably between 5.5 mm and 7 mm.

[0204] EEE12. The furniture connector (1030) according to any one of EEE7 to EEE11, wherein the small diameter (mD) of the thread of the screw (1032) is between 3 mm and 6 mm, preferably between 3.5 mm and 5.5 mm, and even more preferably between 4.0 mm and 5.0 mm.

[0205] EEE13. A kit for forming a furniture joint (1040), the kit (1030, 1020a, 1020b) comprising a furniture connector (1030) according to any one of the preceding EEEs, a first furniture part (1020a) and a second furniture part (1020b), wherein the screw (1032) of the furniture connector (1030) is arranged to be inserted into a pre-drilled hole (1022) in the first furniture part (1020a) and arranged to be screwed into a pre-drilled hole (1024) in the second furniture part (1020b), thereby attaching the first furniture part (1020a) to the second furniture part (1020b).

[0206] EEE14. The kit according to EEE13, wherein the pre-drilled hole (1022) of the first furniture part (1020a) has an outer end (1022a) arranged opposite to the second furniture part (1020b) and having a tapered shape, and wherein the tapered portion (1034c) of the washer (1034) is configured to be received by the outer end (1022a) of the pre-drilled hole (1022) of the first furniture part (1020a).

[0207] EEE15. The kit according to EEE13 or EEE14, wherein the pre-drilled hole (1022) of the first furniture part (1020a) extends in the radial direction along the circular portion of the first furniture part (1020a).

[0208] EEE16. The kit according to any one of EEE13 to EEE14, wherein the screw (1032) extends radially along a circular portion of the first furniture part (1020a), the circular portion being inclined at an angle β from a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the screw (1032), preferably the angle β being within the range of ±15°.

[0209] EEE17. The kit according to any one of EEE13 to EEE16, wherein the pre-drilled hole (1024) of the second furniture part (1020b) extends in the radial direction of the circular portion of the second furniture part (1020b).

[0210] EEE18. The kit according to any one of EEE13 to EEE16, wherein the pre-drilled hole (1024) of the second furniture part (1020b) extends in the axial direction of the second furniture part (1020b).

[0211] EEE19. The kit according to EEE18, wherein the pre-drilled hole (1024) of the second furniture part (1020b) extends from the axial end (1026) of the second furniture part (1020b), wherein the axial end (1026) has a tapered shape.

[0212] EEE20. The kit according to EEE19, wherein the pre-drilled hole (1022) of the first furniture part (1020a) has an inner end (1022c), the inner end (1022c) being arranged adjacent to the second furniture part (1020b) and having a tapered shape, and wherein the axial end (1026) of the second furniture part (1020b) is arranged to be at least partially received by the inner end (1022c) of the pre-drilled hole (1022) of the first furniture part (1020a).

[0213] EEE21. The kit according to EEE20, wherein a tapered friction engagement is provided between the tapered axial end (1026) of the second furniture part (1020b) and the tapered inner end (1022c) of the pre-drilled hole (1022) of the first furniture part (1020a), preferably, the only point of contact between the axial end (1026) of the second furniture part (1020b) and the inner end (1022c) of the pre-drilled hole (1022) of the first furniture part (1022a) is the corresponding tapered surface.

[0214] EEE22. The kit according to EEE20 or EEE21, wherein the tapered axial end (1026) of the second furniture part (1020b) and the tapered inner end (1022c) of the pre-drilled hole (1022) of the first furniture part (1020a) are designed such that, after installation, an axial gap (28) is provided between the edge of the axial end (1026) and the inner end of the inner end (1022c).

[0215] EEE23. The kit according to EEE22, wherein the axial length of the axial clearance (1028) is in the range of 0.5 mm to 4 mm, preferably in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm.

[0216] EEE24. A kit according to any one of EEE13 to EEE23, wherein the second furniture part (1020b) is provided with a tenon (1029b) extending across the path of the pre-drilled hole (1024) of the second furniture part (1020b), preferably, the tenon (1029b) is made of wood, more preferably, the wood fiber direction of the tenon (1029b) extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the screw (1032).

[0217] EEE25. A kit according to any one of EEE13 to EEE24, wherein at least one of the first furniture part (1020a) and the second furniture part (1020b) is at least partially made of rattan, preferably both the first furniture part and the second furniture part (20a, 20b) are made of rattan.

[0218] EEE26. A furniture component (1001a-1001d) comprising at least one kit (1030, 1020a, 1020b) for forming a furniture joint (1040) according to any one of EEE13 to EEE25.

[0219] EEE27. The furniture component (1001d) according to EEE26, wherein the first furniture portion (1020a) and / or the second furniture portion (1020b) form part of a pre-manufactured furniture module (1010a-1010e), and wherein the furniture module (1010a-1010e) has a flat shape, preferably, the furniture component (1001d) is entirely composed of furniture modules (1010a-1010e) having a flat shape and / or arranged for flat packaging.

[0220] EEE28. A furniture component (1001d) according to any one of EEE26 to 27, comprising a plurality of pre-manufactured furniture modules (1010a to 1010e) respectively forming a seat (1010a), a back member (1010b) and two side members (1010c to 1010d), wherein at least one furniture module (1010a to 1010e) includes a first furniture portion (1020a) and at least one furniture module (1010a to 1010e) includes a second furniture portion (1020b).

[0221] EEE29. A method for manufacturing furniture parts suitable for flat-packing, comprising:

[0222] Provide at least two pre-manufactured furniture modules, wherein at least one furniture module includes a first furniture portion, and at least one furniture module includes a second furniture portion, and

[0223] Provide at least one furniture connector according to any one of EEE1 to EEE12, and / or at least one kit for forming a furniture joint according to any one of EEE13 to EEE25, wherein the first furniture part and the second furniture part are configured to be connected by means of at least one of the furniture connectors and / or by means of the kit.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing furniture modules to be assembled using natural materials of natural shapes and sizes, comprising: Furniture modules (10c~10d) are provided, wherein the furniture modules (10c~10d) are provided by connecting multiple furniture parts (20a~20d) into a flat configuration. The furniture modules (10c~10d) are arranged at predetermined positions on the fixing device (110). At least two drilling units (120a~120d) are activated to provide corresponding assembly holes (40a~40d) in the furniture modules (10c~10d), and The positions of the at least two drilling units (120a~120d) relative to each other and relative to the fixing device (110) during activation are controlled.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The furniture modules (10c~10d) are arranged at the predetermined positions of the fixing device (110) in the following manner: Align the first part of the furniture module (10c~10d) with the first reference position (114a) of the fixing device (110), and Align the second part of the furniture module (10c~10d) with the second reference position (114b) of the fixing device (110).

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The first reference position (114a) is spaced apart from the second reference position (114b).

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The furniture modules (10c~10d) are aligned only at the first part of the furniture modules (10c~10d) and at the second part of the furniture modules (10c~10d).

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Arranging the furniture modules (10c~10d) at the predetermined positions of the fixing device (110) further includes clamping the furniture modules (10c~10d) to the fixing device (110).

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein, The furniture modules (10c~10d) are clamped at multiple locations.

7. The method according to claim 5 or 6, wherein, Clamping the furniture modules (10c~10d) is performed by arranging the furniture modules (10c~10d) in the V-shaped cavity of the clamping device (112).

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, The clamping device (112) includes two mating V-shaped structures (112a~112b).

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The fixing device (110) is inclined relative to the horizontal plane (Z).

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each drilling unit (120a~120d) includes a first drilling device (122a~122d) and a second drilling device (124a~124d), and The activation of at least two drilling units (120a~120d) is performed by activating a first drilling device (122a~122d) that engages with the upper side of the furniture module (10c~10d) and a second drilling device (124a~124d) that engages with the bottom side of the furniture module (10c~10d).

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The first drilling device (122a~122d) and the second drilling device (124a~124d) of the common drilling unit (120a~120d) are aligned in the vertical direction.

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The first drilling device (122a~122d) is activated to generate the first drilling geometry of the furniture module (10c~10d), and the second drilling device (124a~124d) is activated to generate the second drilling geometry of the furniture module (10c~10d).

13. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Long furniture sections are available (20e~20f). The furniture parts (20e-20f) are clamped, wherein clamping the furniture parts (20e-20f) is performed by arranging the furniture parts (20e-20f) between two opposing V-shaped structures (221a-221b). The following steps are performed during the same clamping operation of the furniture parts (20e~20f): The cutting unit (230) is activated to cut the furniture parts (20e~20f) to the desired length. The milling unit (240) is activated to shape the axial ends (22) of the furniture parts (20e~20f), and The axial drilling unit (250) is activated to provide at least one assembly hole (50c-50d) at the opposite axial end (22) of the furniture part (20e-20f).

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: The furniture parts (20e~20f) are transported between the cutting unit (230), the milling unit (240) and the axial drilling unit (250).

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising: The furniture parts (10e~10f) are clamped to the transport device (220).

16. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The cutting unit (230) is activated to perform cutting by cutting the two axial ends (22) of the furniture part (20e~20f).

17. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein, Simultaneously, cutting is performed on both axial ends (22).

18. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein, The milling unit (240) is activated to produce the tapered axial end (22) of the furniture part (20e~20f).

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: Furniture modules (10c~10d) are provided. The furniture modules (10c~10d) are arranged at predetermined positions on the fixing device (110). At least two drilling units (120a~120d) are activated to provide corresponding assembly holes (40a~40d) in the furniture modules (10c~10d), wherein at least one assembly hole (40a~40d) is tapered, and The positions of the at least two drilling units (120a~120d) relative to each other and relative to the fixing device (110) during activation are controlled, wherein The tapered axial end (22) of the furniture part (20e~20f) is sized such that when inserted into the tapered assembly hole (40a~40d) of the furniture module (10c~10d), the outer surface of the tapered axial end (22) contacts the inner surface of the tapered assembly hole (40a~40d), while an axial gap is left between the tapered axial end (22) and the bottom of the tapered assembly hole (40a~40d).

20. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein, The milling unit (240) is activated to perform milling on the two axial ends (22) of the furniture part (20e~20f).

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein, Simultaneously, milling is performed on both axial ends (22).

22. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 21, wherein, The axial drilling unit (250) is activated by drilling holes in the two axial ends (22) of the furniture part (20e~20f).

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein, Simultaneously, drilling is performed on both axial ends (22).

24. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 23, further comprising: The furniture parts (20e~20f) that have been cut, milled and drilled are connected to additional furniture parts (20g~20j) to form a furniture module (10a).

25. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The first drilling device (122a~122d) and the second drilling device (124a~124d) are activated in sequence.

26. A method of manufacturing furniture, comprising: The furniture module to be assembled is manufactured by performing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 25, and the furniture module (10a, 10c~10e) is connected to one or more additional furniture modules (10b) to form the furniture (1).

27. A system (100) configured to manufacture furniture modules to be assembled using natural materials of natural shapes and sizes, the system comprising: A fixing device (110) configured to receive furniture modules (10c-10d) at a predetermined position, the furniture modules (10c-10d) comprising a plurality of furniture parts (20a-20d) connected in a flat configuration, and At least two drilling units (120a~120d) are configured to provide corresponding assembly holes (40a~40d) in the furniture module (10c~10d), wherein The positions of the at least two drilling units (120a~120d) relative to each other and relative to the fixing device (110) during activation are controlled.

28. The system according to claim 27, wherein, The fixing device (110) is provided with one or more clamping devices (112) for fixing the position of the furniture modules (10c~10d).

29. The system according to claim 28, wherein, The one or more clamping devices (112) include two mating V-shaped structures (112a~112b).

30. The system according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein, Each drilling unit (120a~120d) includes a first drilling device (122a~122d) and a second drilling device (124a~124d) arranged on the opposite side of the furniture module (10c~10d).

31. The system according to claim 30, wherein, The first drilling device (122a~122d) is configured to have a first drilling geometry, and the second drilling device (124a~124d) is configured to have a second drilling geometry.

32. The system according to claim 27 further includes a cutting unit (230), a milling unit (240), and a drilling unit (250), wherein the units (230, 240, 250) are arranged in series, wherein, The system also includes a clamping unit (221) comprising two opposing V-shaped structures (221a~221b). Furthermore, the milling unit (240) and the drilling unit (250) are configured to machine opposite axial ends of the elongated furniture portions (20e~20f) during the same clamping operation of the clamping unit (221).

33. The system according to claim 32, wherein, Each unit (230, 240, 250) includes a first device (232a, 242a, 252a) and a second device (232b, 242b, 252b), wherein the two devices (232a~232b, 242a~242b, 252a~252b) of the common unit (230, 240, 250) are configured to process opposite ends of the elongated furniture parts (20e~20f).

34. The system according to claim 33, wherein, The two devices (232a~232b, 242a~242b, 252a~252b) of the common unit (230, 240, 250) are configured to process the opposite ends of the elongated furniture parts (20e~20f) simultaneously.

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