Modular furniture and lying assembly with docking feature

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a furniture system comprising at least one lying assembly. The lying assembly is configured to be seamlessly integrated and coupled to a modular furniture assembly, the footprint of which substantially conforms to the geometry of the footprint of the modular furniture assembly. When the lying assembly is in the non-lying position, the overall appearance of the lying assembly is basically similar to that of the modular furniture assembly. The lying assembly comprises a lying mechanism, and the lying mechanism allows the lying assembly to be switched between a deep mode and a wide mode. The lying assembly comprises an adjustable frame and the lying mechanism, wherein the lying mechanism comprises a fixed lower bracket part and an upper bracket part. An actuator drives the upper bracket portion to move relative to the lower bracket portion.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 581,828, entitled "Modular Furniture and Reclining Components," filed September 11, 2023. This application is also a partial continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 298,839, entitled "Modular Furniture and Reclining Components," filed April 11, 2023, which claims priority and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 362,809, entitled "Modular Furniture and Reclining Components," filed April 11, 2022. All of the foregoing patent applications are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology Technical Field This disclosure generally relates to furniture systems, modular furniture, and reclining components. Related technologies

[0002] One advantage of modular furniture is that it allows for the creation of a variety of different furniture configurations using a limited number of components, and simplifies the manufacturing and supply process by requiring only a limited number of designs. Therefore, modular furniture is efficient, convenient, and valuable. Comfort is also important in modular furniture, so that users are willing to sit and remain seated, for example, in a sofa configuration, or in a chair or other furniture system.

[0003] Traditional furniture has evolved into a variety of different configurations, allowing users to sit comfortably in a variety of different postures. For example, traditional furniture has numerous components to create a large sofa or modular seating configuration where many people can enjoy sitting together for activities or watching television or movies as a group or family. Recliners, for instance, can be used to transition from a sitting to a reclining position to further relax the muscles of the back and / or neck. However, a typical recliner often has a bulky, mechanical appearance that is unattractive or discontinuous with the appearance of adjacent furniture pieces. It is often easy to immediately identify which piece is a recliner, which frequently results in an unpleasant and inconsistent look.

[0004] Furthermore, many traditional recliners included in modular sofas cannot be placed close to a back wall because the backrest of the recliner section typically requires space behind it to recline. This necessitates placing the entire modular sofa system far enough away from the wall to allow the recliner section to recline. This reduces usable space in the room and / or leaves unwanted space between the furniture and the wall.

[0005] Many traditional recliners included in modular sofas only provide support for the user's calves or legs and do not allow the user to comfortably place their feet on the footrests, meaning the footrests do not provide a properly inclined surface to comfortably accommodate this placement of the user's feet.

[0006] For consumers who lack space or cannot afford multiple pieces of furniture, furniture that offers multiple functions or can be reconfigured is ideal. For example, a sofa with a relatively deep seating surface might be ideal for lounging, watching TV, or listening to music. Conversely, a sofa with a relatively shallow seating surface is generally more popular when sitting upright to talk to others. Furthermore, depending on the space the furniture will fill—such as a large living room, a small office space, or a home theater environment—furniture may require different shapes, sizes, and floor space configurations.

[0007] Providing an improved recliner system that is compatible with modular furniture systems would be an advancement in this field. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This document discloses a modular reclining furniture assembly including a reclining mechanism configured to selectively engage with an adjustable frame of the modular reclining furniture assembly. The modular reclining assembly includes a fixed lower support portion and an upper support portion selectively movable relative to the fixed lower support portion. The adjustable frame is reconfigurable, for example, between a wide seat mode and a deep seat mode, and the reclining mechanism can be selectively engaged and connected to the adjustable frame in either the wide or deep mode, depending on the user's selection. The upper support portion includes a footrest reclining arm attached to a footrest and provides one or more actuators for selectively moving (reclining) the upper support portion relative to the fixed lower support portion, and / or moving (reclining) the footrest reclining arm and the footrest relative to the frame of the upper support portion. In one implementation, the foot pedal can be selectively rotated relative to the foot pedal reclining arm, for example, to allow the user to position the foot pedal in a desired orientation relative to a desired part of the user's body (e.g., placing the soles of their feet on the foot pedal, placing their calves on the foot pedal, or otherwise), while rotating the foot pedal clockwise or counterclockwise as needed to achieve a desired interaction between the desired part of the user's body and the foot pedal.

[0009] Although described primarily in the context of a modular reclining assembly that allows the user to select between a wide and a deep mode based on a non-square rectangular configuration of the seat associated with such furniture assembly, it should be understood that this adjustment between wide and deep modes is not essential. For example, the seat may have a square geometry, or it may have a rectangular (non-square) geometry without providing this adjustability, while providing other features and reclining characteristics described herein or in the applicant's earlier applications, which are incorporated herein by reference. Such implementations fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0010] In some embodiments, the modular reclining assembly is compatible with and connectable to the applicant's existing modular furniture systems that do not necessarily provide reclining functionality. Such examples are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,213,885; 7,419,220; 7,547,073; 7,963,612; 8,783,778; 9,277,826; 10,143,307; 10,154,733; 10,806,261; 10,123,621; 10,123,623; and 11,253,073, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In one embodiment, such a furniture system includes (i) a base member for providing a seating surface for a user; and (ii) an upright member configured to serve as a backrest and / or armrests. Such modular furniture components are highly advantageous, especially when the dimensions have a x=x′=y+z relationship, where x is the length of the base, x′ is the length of the upright member, y is the width of the base, and z is the width (thickness) of the upright member. This x=x′=y+z relationship allows for the formation of a variety of different furniture configurations using only the base and upright members, as described in the aforementioned U.S. patent owned by the applicant.

[0011] In one embodiment, the modular reclining assembly of this disclosure is configured to recline with “zero wall gap,” meaning that the reclining assembly can be placed close to a back wall or other support while still allowing the user to experience the full reclining range.

[0012] An exemplary modular reclining assembly includes an adjustable frame having a wide mode and a deep mode. A reclining mechanism is also provided, having a fixed lower bracket portion for attaching a first actuator. An upper bracket portion can be connected to the first actuator and is selectively movable relative to the fixed lower bracket portion. A lifting member can be pivotally attached to the upper bracket portion. The reclining mechanism can advantageously engage and connect to the adjustable frame in either a wide or deep mode, depending on the user's selection. The upper bracket portion may include a footrest reclining arm attached to a footrest, and a second actuator can be attached to the frame of the upper bracket portion, wherein the second actuator is configured to selectively move the footrest reclining arm and the footrest relative to the frame of the upper bracket portion. The fixed lower bracket portion may include a ramp member on which the lifting member and the attached upper bracket portion are driven to travel by the first actuator. A cover defining the seat plate may be mounted on the housing of the lifting member and / or reclining mechanism. In operation, a first actuator moves the upper bracket portion (and the lifting member) relative to the fixed lower bracket portion, and a second actuator moves the foot pedal reclining arm and the foot pedal relative to the frame of the upper bracket portion. The movement provided by the actuators may be such that the initial movement of the first actuator causes the front portion of the lifting member to pivotally lift away from the upper bracket portion, resulting in the front portion of the lifting member being raised above the foot pedal, thereby allowing the foot pedal reclining arm to push the foot pedal into the extended reclining position without interference from the lifting member (e.g., where such movement of the foot pedal reclining arm can be achieved by actuation of the second actuator).

[0013] Another embodiment of the modular reclining assembly includes an adjustable frame having a wide mode and a deep mode, and a reclining mechanism having a fixed lower bracket portion for attaching a first actuator. An upper bracket portion can be connected to the first actuator and is selectively movable relative to the fixed lower bracket portion. The reclining mechanism can be selectively engaged and connected to the adjustable frame in either the wide or deep mode. The upper bracket portion may include a footrest reclining arm attached to the footrest, and a second actuator can be attached to the frame of the upper bracket portion. The second actuator can be configured to selectively move the footrest reclining arm and the footrest relative to the frame of the upper bracket portion. A cover defining the seat plate can be mounted on the reclining mechanism. In operation, the first actuator can move the upper bracket portion relative to the fixed lower bracket portion, and the second actuator can move the footrest reclining arm and the footrest relative to the frame of the upper bracket portion. This movement can be such that the initial movement of the second actuator causes the foot pedal to move downward toward the floor, thereby allowing the foot pedal reclining arm to push the foot pedal into an extended reclining position without interference from the cover or the cushion placed on it.

[0014] In any of the described embodiments, the footrest may be spring-loaded relative to its attached reclining arm. For example, this may allow the footrest to present a default neutral orientation (e.g., generally horizontal, such as generally parallel to the seating surface provided by the modular reclining assembly), but also allows the user to rotate the footrest clockwise or counterclockwise to orient the top surface of the footrest in a desired orientation to suit the user. For example, a user might want to rotate the footrest counterclockwise and place the soles of their feet on the footrest while using the reclining assembly, or simply place their calves or legs on the footrest with it in its normal default orientation, or rotate the footrest clockwise while placing another part of their calves or body on the footrest. A lock may be provided to hold the footrest in any desired orientation.

[0015] In one implementation, the foot pedals may be spring-loaded relative to the recliner arm in two different directions (e.g., so that they default to one orientation but are spring-loaded to resist movement in either direction of rotation from that default orientation).

[0016] In any of the described embodiments, when the reclining arm is in the extended position, the foot pedal may present or default to a substantially horizontal orientation (e.g., without any applied force to resist this orientation). When the foot pedal is in the non-extended position, the foot pedal may present a substantially vertical orientation (e.g., due to the force applied by the back of the foot pedal contacting the adjustable frame when it is returned to its “starting” position).

[0017] In at least some of the described embodiments, the free front end of the lifting member can be lifted off the foot pedal before or substantially simultaneously with the foot pedal being removed from the frame of the upper bracket portion.

[0018] In at least some of the described embodiments, the ramp member that fixes the lower bracket portion may have an initial tilt or ramp portion that allows the free front end of the lifting member to move away from the foot pedal (e.g., when the rollers attached to the lifting member roll upward along the ramp surface).

[0019] In at least some of the described embodiments, the ramp member may include a substantially horizontal portion adjacent to the initial inclined portion.

[0020] In at least some of the described embodiments, a bracket may be provided to attach the lifting member to a fixed lower bracket portion. The bracket may be substantially T-shaped. The lower portion of the bracket may include a roller that rolls on the upper surface of a ramp member, and the ramp member may include a groove. The bracket may include a pin that travels within the groove of the ramp member. This configuration allows the front end of the lifting member to be lifted upward relative to the upper bracket portion (which may be clamped between the lower fixed bracket portion and the lifting member) as a first actuator pushes the upper bracket portion forward, causing the roller of the bracket attached to the lifting member to roll upward along the ramp. The pin associated with the bracket and the inclusion of the groove in the ramp retain the lifting member in a coupled relationship with the ramp of the fixed lower bracket portion, ensuring that lifting the ramp upward by the user does not cause the lifting member to be lifted off the ramp.

[0021] In at least some of the described embodiments, the adjustable frame of the modular reclining assembly has one or more wheels attached thereto. For example, a pair of wheels may be provided at the rear end of the modular reclining assembly (e.g., attached to the underside of the fixed lower bracket portion) to allow the user to easily roll the modular reclining assembly into and out of the adjustable housing. This can be done without requiring the user to completely lift the modular reclining assembly off the floor during docking and undocking from the adjustable frame. For example, the user can simply lift the front end slightly, allowing the rear end of the modular reclining assembly (via these wheels) to rest on the floor, and then roll the modular reclining assembly into or out of the adjustable frame during docking or undocking. While wheels are primarily shown, skids or similar alternatives may also be used.

[0022] In any of the described embodiments, the adjustable frame may include two sides connected at the rear to form a generally U-shaped frame with a front opening (e.g., a reclining mechanism may be engaged therein).

[0023] In any of the described embodiments, each side and rear portion may include a first frame member and a second frame member that are selectively movable relative to each other. These frame members may selectively form a first length corresponding to a wide pattern or a second length corresponding to a deep pattern, depending on how the first and second frame members of each side (or rear portion) adjust to each other. For example, such frame members may have an overlapping arrangement, wherein the rear or side portion presents a shorter overall length when adjusted to provide more overlap, and a longer overall length when providing less overlap. In one embodiment, the first length corresponding to the wide pattern is shorter than the second length corresponding to the deep pattern. In one embodiment, a frame member may be shared by a given side and rear portion. For example, a corner frame member may simultaneously serve as a frame member for the rear portion and a frame member for the right or left side. The lengths of the rear and side portions can be adjusted by adjusting the amount of overlap between the corner frame member and other frame members constituting the rear or side portion.

[0024] In at least some of the described embodiments, a backrest may be provided that can be selectively mounted into the cover plate, the backrest being insertable into either the short or wide end of the cover plate, depending on whether the user wishes to use the deep or wide mode.

[0025] In any of the described embodiments, the modular reclining component may be selectively coupled to the non-reclining base component of the modular furniture system in either a wide or deep mode (e.g., selectively coupled to any of a variety of modular furniture systems, such as those described in the applicant’s earlier patents).

[0026] This abstract is provided to introduce a series of concepts in a simplified form, which will be further described in detail below. This abstract is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an indication of the scope of the claimed subject matter. Attached Figure Description

[0027] From the following description of embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and appended claims, various objects, features, characteristics, and advantages of the invention will become apparent and more readily understood, all of which form part of this specification. In the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to designate corresponding or similar portions in the various figures, and the various elements depicted are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the modular furniture system of the present invention in wide mode with the reclining component in a non-reclining position.

[0029] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a modular furniture system in wide mode with the reclining component in a partially reclining position.

[0030] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 The modular furniture system has been moved to a deep mode with the reclining component in a non-reclining position perspective view.

[0031] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of a modular furniture system in deep mode with the reclining component in a partially reclining position.

[0032] Figures 5A-5B The top and bottom perspective views show the seat cushion removed. Figure 1-4 The reclining component.

[0033] Figures 6A-6D It shows Figures 5A-5B The evolution of reclining components shows the development of reclining components from non-reclining ( Figure 6A ), to prepare to lie down by lifting the seat cover and cushion ( Figure 6B ), to partially lying down ( Figure 6C ), and then to lying completely down ( Figure 6D The evolution of ).

[0034] Figures 7A-7D It shows Figures 5A-6D Another view of the reclining component, with the adjustable frame removed for illustrative purposes, showing the reclining component from a non-reclining position (…). Figure 7A ), to prepare to lie down by lifting the seat cover and cushion ( Figure 7B ), to partially lying down ( Figure 7C ), and then to lying completely down ( Figure 7D The evolution of ).

[0035] Figures 8A-8B Further shown Figures 5A-7D The reclining component displays views of partial reclining and full reclining.

[0036] Figures 9A-9B The seat cover and backrest are shown separately. Figure 5A-8B The reclining assembly is placed above the reclining mechanism and then mounted on that mechanism.

[0037] Figures 10A-10B Showing the installation in Figure 5A-9B A bottom perspective view of the seat cover on the reclining mechanism of the reclining assembly, in which... Figure 10A An outer casing was displayed. Figure 10B A further view shows the bottom shell removed.

[0038] Figure 11 Showing Figure 5A-10BThe adjustable frame of the reclining component is displayed in deep mode.

[0039] Figure 12 Showing Figure 5A-11 An adjustable frame for a reclining assembly, wherein the reclining mechanism is selectively moved, for example, rolled into the frame to form a deep-mode reclining assembly.

[0040] Figures 13A-13B Showing Figure 5A-12 The adjustable frame of the reclining component from Figure 11 The deep mode shown is converted to Figure 14 The wide mode shown.

[0041] Figure 14 The adjustable frame of the reclining assembly shown in Figure 5-13 is in... Figure 11-1 3 is displayed in wide mode.

[0042] Figure 15 The adjustable frame of the reclining assembly shown in Figure 5-14 is illustrated, wherein the reclining mechanism is selectively moved, for example, rolled into the frame to form a wide-mode reclining assembly.

[0043] Figures 16A-16B The top and bottom views of the reclining assembly shown in Figure 5-15 are displayed in wide mode, where... Figure 16B An external casing was displayed.

[0044] Figures 17A-17D The evolution of the reclining assembly shown in Figure 5-16 in wide mode is illustrated, demonstrating the transition of the reclining assembly from a non-reclining position (… Figure 17A ), to prepare to lie down by lifting the seat cover and cushion ( Figure 17B ), to partially lying down ( Figure 17C ), and then to lying completely down ( Figure 17D The evolution of ). Figure 17D The display shows that a person sitting in a reclining position can move a spring-loaded foot pedal, allowing the user to bend their knees toward themselves so that, for example, a laptop can be placed on the user's knees while reclining (this is also possible in deep mode).

[0045] Figures 18A-18D The evolution of the reclining mechanism shown in Figure 5-17 in wide mode is illustrated, showing the transition from a non-reclining mechanism with an external display panel ( Figure 18A From lifting the seat cover and cushion to prepare to lie down—the external panels were removed. Figure 18B ), to partially recline and display the external panel ( Figure 18C From ), to fully reclining—the external panels were removed ( Figure 18D The evolution of ).

[0046] Figures 19A-19BThe partial and full reclining positions of the reclining component in wide mode are shown in Figure 5-18.

[0047] Figures 20A-20B In wide mode, the seat cover and backrest are shown separately above the reclining mechanism of the reclining assembly in Figure 5-19, and then mounted on the mechanism.

[0048] Figure 21 Showing installation to Figure 1-2 The invention in the adjustable frame of 0 Figure 1-2 Exploded view of the individual components of the 0 reclining assembly.

[0049] Figures 22A-22B Showing Figure 1-21 The reclining mechanism has a lifting component (which is configured to be rotatably connected to the upper bracket portion of the reclining mechanism, such that when the reclining mechanism is first activated, it lifts the seat cover and cushion, thereby allowing the footrest to move away from the seat cover and cushion during initial movement).

[0050] Figures 23A-23B Showing Figure 1-2 The lower support portion of the reclining mechanism of 2 (which is configured to be connected to the adjustable frame).

[0051] Figures 24A-24B Showing Figure 1-2 The upper bracket portion of the reclining mechanism of 3 (which is configured to be movably connected to the lower bracket portion of the reclining mechanism).

[0052] Figures 25A-25C Showing Figure 1-2 The upper support portion of the 4-inch reclining mechanism changes from the non-reclining mode ( Figure 25A From partial reclining mode ( Figure 25B From ) to fully reclining mode ( Figure 25C The evolution of ).

[0053] Figures 26A-26C Further shown Figure 1-2 The upper support section of the 5-inch reclining mechanism changes from the non-reclining mode ( Figure 26A From partial reclining mode ( Figure 26B From ) to fully reclining mode ( Figure 26C The evolution of ).

[0054] Figure 27A-30B Showing Figure 1-2 Perspective and side views of the evolution of the reclining mechanism of the 6 from non-reclining mode to reclining mode.

[0055] Figures 31A-31D Showing Figure 1-3A perspective sectional view of the evolution of the 0 reclining mechanism from non-reclining mode to reclining mode.

[0056] Figures 32A-32C Showing Figure 1-3 The spring-loaded foot pedal of the reclining component 1 is in the initial non-reclining position ( Figure 32A ), fully lying position ( Figure 32B ) and a fully reclining position where the user's foot pressure is tilted on the foot pedal ( Figure 32C A perspective view of ( ).

[0057] Figure 33 It shows how the pedal length can be adjusted, for example, the length is longer in wide mode than in deep mode.

[0058] Figures 34A-34B Another embodiment of the modular furniture system of the present invention is shown, which has alternative reclining components in deep mode, in both non-reclining and reclining positions.

[0059] Figures 35A-35B Showing Figures 34A-34B In Deep Mode, the reclining component is in both non-reclining and reclining positions.

[0060] Figure 36 An exploded view of the components of the reclining assembly shown in Figures 34-35 is displayed.

[0061] Figures 37A-37D The image shows the reclining assembly in deep mode, in both reclining and non-reclining positions, as shown in Figures 34-36, with portions of the adjustable frame shown and not shown.

[0062] Figures 38A-38B The reclining component shown in Figures 34-37 has been converted to wide mode.

[0063] Figure 39 The exploded view of the reclining component shown in Figures 34-38 in wide mode is displayed.

[0064] Figure 40 The view of the foot pedal of the reclining assembly shown in Figures 34-39 is displayed.

[0065] Figures 41-43 The evolution of the reclining mechanism of the reclining assembly shown in Figures 34-40 is illustrated, showing the reclining assembly from a non-reclining position ( Figure 41 ), to prepare to lie down by lowering the foot pedal ( Figure 42 ), and then to lying completely down ( Figure 43 The evolution of ).

[0066] Figure 44 The reclining mechanism of the invention shown in Figures 34-43 is illustrated.

[0067] Figure 45 An exploded view of the reclining mechanism of the invention shown in Figures 34-44 is displayed.

[0068] Figure 46 The lower support portion of the reclining mechanism shown in Figures 34-45 is illustrated.

[0069] Figures 47A-47C The upper support portion of the reclining mechanism shown in Figures 34-46 illustrates the reclining mechanism transitioning from a non-reclining position (47A) to a position ready for reclining by lowering the foot pedal. Figure 47B ), and then to lying completely down ( Figure 47C The evolution of ).

[0070] Figures 48A-48C The left and right reclining arms are shown, movably mounted on the corresponding left and right ramps of the upper bracket portion of the reclining mechanism in Figures 34-47, and the reclining assembly is shown moving from a non-reclining position (48A) to a position ready for reclining by lowering the foot pedal. Figure 48B ), and then to lying completely down ( Figure 48C The evolution of ).

[0071] Figures 49A-49C The reclining mechanism shown in Figures 34-48 transitions from a non-reclining position (49A) to a position ready for reclining by lowering the foot pedal. Figure 49B ), and then to partial and full lying down ( Figure 49C The further evolution of ).

[0072] Figure 50 The figure shows a cross-sectional view of the reclining assembly in a non-reclining position. (Figures 34-49)

[0073] Figures 51A-51B The evolution of the reclining mechanism in Figure 34-50 from a non-reclining position to a reclining position is shown.

[0074] Figure 52A and 52B Another embodiment of the reclining assembly of the present invention is shown, wherein the outer frame is a fixed outer frame that is substantially U-shaped and non-adjustable. Such a configuration may be less complex, require fewer parts, and have lower manufacturing costs.

[0075] Figures 53A-53B Another embodiment of the reclining assembly of the present invention is shown, wherein the outer frame is also fixed and therefore non-adjustable, and integrated with the reclining mechanism. In other words, the reclining mechanism cannot be removed from the outer frame. The upper bracket portion and the lower bracket portion can be housed within a fixed outer frame, wherein the bracket portion is non-removable. Such a configuration may be less complex, require fewer parts, and have lower manufacturing costs. Detailed Implementation

[0076] I. Introduction This document discloses a modular reclining furniture assembly including a reclining mechanism configured to selectively engage with an adjustable frame of the modular reclining furniture assembly. The modular reclining assembly includes a fixed lower support portion and an upper support portion selectively movable relative to the fixed lower support portion. The adjustable frame is reconfigurable, for example, between a wide seat mode and a deep seat mode, and the reclining mechanism can be selectively engaged and connected to the adjustable frame in either the wide or deep mode, depending on the user's selection. The upper support portion includes a footrest reclining arm attached to a footrest and provides one or more actuators for selectively moving (reclining) the upper support portion relative to the fixed lower support portion, and / or moving (reclining) the footrest reclining arm and the footrest relative to the fixed lower support portion and / or the frame of the upper support portion.

[0077] In one embodiment, the foot pedal can be selectively rotated relative to the foot pedal reclining arm, for example, to allow the user to position the foot pedal in any of a plurality of desired orientations relative to a desired part of the user's body (e.g., placing the sole of the user's foot on the foot pedal, placing the user's calf on the foot pedal, or other arrangements), by rotating the foot pedal clockwise or counterclockwise relative to the foot pedal reclining arm to achieve the desired interaction and orientation between the desired part of the user's body and the top surface of the foot pedal.

[0078] Although described primarily in the context of modular reclining components that allow users to select between wide and deep modes based on a non-square / rectangular configuration of the seat associated with such furniture components, it should be understood that the ability to adjust between wide and deep modes is not essential. For example, the seat may have a square geometry, or it may have a rectangular (non-square) geometry (or even some other shape) without providing this adjustability, but while providing one or more reclining or other features described herein or in the applicant's earlier applications, which are incorporated herein by reference. Such implementations fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0079] II. Exemplary Modular Reclining Component Figure 1This is a perspective view of the modular furniture system 100 of the present invention in a wide mode with the reclining assembly 102 in a non-reclining position. The furniture system shown includes a non-reclining base 10 and a plurality of upright members 12 serving as armrests and backrests, which are coupled to the reclining assembly 102. Each seating position associated with the base 10 and the reclining assembly 102 also includes a seat cushion 14 and a backrest cushion 16. Such reclining assemblies 102 are shown to have the same dimensions, floor space, and overall appearance as the adjacent non-reclining base 10 to provide a seamless integrated look, making it difficult, if not impossible, to distinguish which seats can recline and which cannot. Of course, in a given furniture system 100, any number (or all) of seats can be provided by the described reclining assembly to provide reclining functionality. The interchangeability of such reclining assemblies 102 with the standard base 10 is an advantage provided by at least some embodiments of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the modular furniture system 100 in wide mode with the reclining component 102 in a partially reclining position. As shown, the footrest 104 is shown partially extended. Figure 2 As can be clearly seen, in the illustrated wide mode, the foot pedal 104 can include two or more attachable segments because the length of the foot pedal shortens when switching from wide mode to deep mode. This can be achieved by providing multiple segments (e.g., 104a and 104b) to allow the user to adjust the length of the foot pedal 104 depending on the selected mode (wide mode versus deep mode with a shorter foot pedal length). In the illustrated configuration, two segments 104b are shown that can be attached to both ends of the main foot pedal segment 104a, such that the overall length of the foot pedal 104 is substantially equal to the length of the adjacent base 10, which is also oriented in wide mode. As shown in the following figures, when switching to deep mode, segments 104b can be simply detached from the main segment 104a, resulting in a foot pedal with a length substantially equal to the width of the base 10 oriented in deep mode. While not limited to this, in one embodiment, the base 10 may be 29 inches by 35 inches. It should be understood that various other sizes are also possible. In some embodiments, as described in the applicant's patent which is incorporated herein by reference, the base and the upright member may have a dimensional relationship x = x′ = y + z, where x is the length of the base 10, x′ is the length of the upright member 12, y is the width of the base 10, and z is the width (thickness) of the upright member 12. Of course, other dimensional relationships not limited to x = x′ = y + z may also be used.

[0081] While an adjustable foot pedal 104 is shown (e.g., including sections that can be selectively attached or detached to provide the desired foot pedal length), it will be apparent that a single foot pedal of a given length, or multiple foot pedals of different lengths, could also be provided, allowing the user to interchange any of the various foot pedals offered.

[0082] Figure 2 Also shown is a sleeve 18, which can be used to couple the feet of a base or reclining assembly to corresponding feet of an upright member. Such coupling arrangements can be as described in the applicant's earlier patents, which are incorporated herein by reference. Although a coupling sleeve is shown, it should be understood that such coupling is not mandatory, although it may certainly be included when necessary.

[0083] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 The modular furniture system 100 has been moved to a deep mode and the reclining component 102 is in a non-reclining position perspective view. Figure 3 Also visible is a remote control 106, which can be (e.g., using a magnet) coupled to the seat cushion 14 for controlling the movement of the reclining mechanism within the reclining assembly 102. For example, magnets in or on the seat cushion's cover or the material forming the cushioning can be used to couple the remote control 106 to the seat cushion 14 or other parts of the furniture system. Figure 3 As shown, due to switching from wide mode to deep mode, the foot pedal is now larger than... Figure 1-2 The footrest 104 is narrow. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the length of the footrest 104 is equal to the length of segment 104a (e.g., segments 104b on both sides have been removed). It will be apparent that in either configuration, when the reclining assembly is in a non-reclining position, the footrest forms and covers the bottom front of the adjustable frame of the reclining assembly 102, providing an appearance similar (if not identical) to the bottom front of the adjacent non-reclining base 10.

[0084] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of a modular furniture system in deep mode with the reclining component in a partially reclining position. The figure shows how the footrest 104a extends forward and upward relative to the reclining mechanism included within the reclining component 102. The reclining component is then... Figure 1-2 The wide mode shown is converted to Figure 2-3 The deep pattern shown, and the ability to recline in any configuration, is particularly advantageous, providing greater flexibility for users of modular furniture, allowing them to reconfigure their modular furniture systems and include one or more reclining seats without regard to how these seats are oriented within the modular furniture system (e.g., depth versus width).

[0085] Figures 5A-5B The top and bottom perspective views show the seat cushion removed. Figure 1-4 The reclining component 102, with Figure 3-4 The deep mode display shows the modular reclining assembly 102 as comprising an adjustable frame 108, a reclining mechanism 110, and a cover 112 defining a seat 114, wherein a backrest 116 is received at the short end of the cover 112. The reclining mechanism 110 is movably (e.g., rolling) received in an open front end of the adjustable frame 108.

[0086] As will be explained and shown in further detail in the following figures, the reclining mechanism 110 includes a fixed lower support portion, an upper support portion, and a lifting member pivotally attached to the frame of the upper support portion. The reclining mechanism 110 can be selectively engaged with the adjustable frame 108, whether in a wide or deep mode.

[0087] Figures 6A-6D It shows Figures 5A-5B The evolution of the reclining component 102 shows the development of the reclining component from a non-reclining position ( Figure 6A ), to prepare to lie down by lifting the seat cover 112 and the seat cushion 14 ( Figure 6B ), to partially lying down ( Figure 6C ), and then to lying completely down ( Figure 6D The evolution of the seat cover 112 and seat cushion 14. It may be beneficial to lift the footrest 104 before removing it from its non-reclining starting position, as interference contact could otherwise occur when the footrest 104 leaves its mating starting position and begins to extend outwards. This is especially true given the oversized nature of many seat cushions 14 and the downward compression they exert on such cushions due to the user sitting on them. A slight upward tilting motion of the seat cover 112, as shown, before allowing the footrest to begin its extension movement helps minimize or prevent wear that could otherwise result from interference contact.

[0088] Such a sequence of movements can also be important when the footrest 104 is configured and designed to provide the same or substantially the same seamless appearance as the adjacent non-reclining seat base in the non-reclining position. In other words, when such an appearance is desired, making the footrest smaller to allow for movement during its extension may not be desirable. A relatively large, full-size footrest provides a substantially identical aesthetic appearance to the non-reclining seat in other adjacent aspects.

[0089] exist Figures 6A-6D It is also evident that the foot pedal 104 is in the "starting" non-reclining position ( Figure 6AWhen the footrest is in a vertical orientation, it can automatically assume a generally horizontal position once the footrest clears the front of the upper bracket portion of the reclining mechanism 110, for example, defining a top surface that is generally parallel to the top seat surface of the seat cushion 14. As will be explained in more detail below, the footrest 104 may be spring-loaded to default to the generally horizontal neutral orientation shown. Applying a force to the footrest 104 (e.g., by contact between the upper bracket portion, lower bracket portion, or frame 108 of the reclining mechanism 110 and the rear surface of the footrest 104) may cause the footrest to deviate from this default orientation.

[0090] Figures 7A-7D It shows Figures 5A-6D Another view of the reclining component, with part of the adjustable frame 108 removed for illustrative purposes, showing the reclining component 102 from a non-reclining position ( Figure 7A ), to prepare to lie down by lifting the seat cover 112 and the seat cushion 14 ( Figure 7B ), to partially lying down ( Figure 7C ), and then to lying completely down ( Figure 7D The evolution of ).

[0091] The motion evolution process shown can be as follows: the seat cover 112 is first lifted at the front end to provide the required clearance relative to the foot pedal 104, and once sufficient clearance is provided, the foot pedal reclining arm 118 associated with the upper bracket of the reclining mechanism can begin to drive forward, extending the foot pedal 104 outward, as shown in the figure. Figures 8A-8B Further shown Figures 5A-7D The reclining component displays views of partial reclining and full reclining.

[0092] Figures 9A-9B The seat cover 112 and backrest 116 are shown separately in disassembled form. Figure 5A-8B The reclining assembly 102 is placed above the reclining mechanism 110 and then mounted on the mechanism. As shown, the backrest 116 may include one or more mounting rods 120 that are selectively received into corresponding holes 122 in the short end (for deep mode) or long end (for wide mode) of the cover plate 112. The cover plate 112 is also shown to include a connecting mechanism 124a that couples to a corresponding connecting mechanism 124b provided in the reclining mechanism 110 to secure the cover plate 112 to the reclining mechanism 110. In addition, a rear connecting mechanism 115 and a front connecting mechanism 113 facilitate coupling the cover plate 112 to the outer housing 126 of the reclining mechanism 110. As shown, the cover plate 112 may include two such connecting mechanisms 124a, one for use when the cover plate 112 is oriented onto the reclining mechanism 110 for use in deep mode, and the other for use when the cover plate 112 is oriented onto the reclining mechanism 110 for use in wide mode.

[0093] It is advantageous to provide a single reclining mechanism 110 that can be converted and used in both deep and wide modes, as well as a single cover plate that provides the seat.

[0094] Figures 10A-10B Showing the installation in Figure 5A-9B A bottom perspective view of the seat cover 112 on the reclining mechanism 110 of the reclining assembly 102, wherein... Figure 10A The outer casing 126 of the reclining mechanism is shown. Figure 10B A further view shows the bottom outer casing 126a removed. The outer casing 126 may include two parts, a lower part and an upper part, 126a and 126b, respectively, to accommodate lifting movements occurring within the reclining mechanism 110 that are associated with the initial lifting movements of the lifting member 156 and the seat cover 112 described herein.

[0095] Reference Figure 9A-10B The outer casing 126 includes protrusions 127a and 127b that accommodate the internal mechanisms and structures of the reclining mechanism 110. A cover plate 112 is slidable along the protrusions 127a and 127b so that it can be received by a rear connecting mechanism 115 and then by a front connecting mechanism 113. Once in place, a connecting mechanism 124a can be used to secure the cover plate 112 to the connecting mechanism 124b provided in the reclining mechanism 110.

[0096] The rear connection mechanism 115 can anchor a portion of the cover plate 112 within a gap 119 formed between a hook-shaped member 121 and the outer housing 126. For example, the cover plate 112 includes a retaining plate 123 having a groove 125 that extends and overlaps a notch 129 on one side of the cover plate 112. The rear connection mechanism 115 can be received in the groove 125 in a deep mode and in the notch 129 in a wide mode to couple with the retaining plate 123. The hook-shaped member 121 restricts upward vertical movement and helps position the cover plate 112 relative to the reclining mechanism 110 and the adjustable frame 108. For example, the rear connection mechanism 115 can act as a stop for the placement of the cover plate 112 relative to the adjustable frame 108.

[0097] The cover plate 112 also includes a hole 131 for receiving the front connection mechanism 113, such as a post or other structure complementary to the hole 131, such that a frictional or interference fit between the inner hole of the hole 131 and the post of the front connection mechanism 113 forms a releasable connection between the cover plate 112 and the outer housing 126. It should be understood that the connection of the hole and the post can be reversed, such that the hole 113 or other anchoring structure can be formed in the outer housing 126, while the post (e.g., the front connection mechanism 113) is formed on the cover plate.

[0098] To facilitate placement of the cover 112 onto the outer housing 126, the cover 112 includes a first guide 133 and a second guide 135. The first guide 133 facilitates alignment of the cover 112 onto the outer housing 126, such that the cover 112 cooperates with the front connecting mechanism 113, the rear connecting mechanism 115, and the connecting mechanisms 124a, 124b. For example, 127a, 127b can slide along the surface of the first guide 133 to position the cover 112 for engagement with the rear connecting mechanism 115 in both wide and deep modes. When the cover 112 is positioned in deep mode, the second guide 135 elevates the leading edge of the cover 112 to prevent accidental jamming of the front connecting mechanism 113 and facilitates positioning of the rear connecting mechanism 115 within the recess 125. For example, as Figure 10A As shown, the second guide 135 is shorter than the first guide 133, and its end is located near the starting point of the recess 125. Therefore, as the second guide 135 travels or slides along the top surfaces of the protrusions 127a and 127b, it prevents the rear connecting mechanism 115 from entering the recess 125. Once the ends of the protrusions 127a and 127b, and more generally, the ends of the outer housing 126, pass the end of the second guide 135, the cover 112 can fall toward the protrusions 127a and 127b, allowing the rear connecting mechanism 115 to be received within the recess 125. This, through the first and second guides 133 and 135, helps to position the cover 112 in the desired position relative to the entire system, thereby simplifying the user experience of attaching the cover 112 to the outer housing 126.

[0099] As shown in the figure, the first end 137 of the cover plate 112, which has a groove 125 for receiving the rear connecting mechanism 115, includes a first guide 133 and a second guide 135, while the second end 139 of the cover plate 112, which has a hole 131 for receiving the front connecting mechanism 113, includes a first guide 133. The first guide 133 has a generally L-shaped body, a first height, a first sliding surface 141, and a second sliding surface 143, while the second guide 135 has a second height less than the first height and a third sliding surface 145 that can slide along the top surface of the protrusions 127a and 127b as described above. The distance between the first sliding surfaces 141 of the two first guides 133 at the first end 137 and the distance between the first sliding surfaces 141 of the two first guides 133 at the second end 139 are approximately the distance between the outer surfaces of the protrusions 127a and 127b, to facilitate the aforementioned movement. For example, the first sliding surfaces 141 of the two first guides 133 at the first end 137 are separated by a distance approximately equal to the distance between the outer surfaces of the protrusions 127a and 127b. This allows the outer casing 126 to be positioned between the first guides 133 in deep mode. Similarly, the distance between the second sliding surfaces 143 of one first guide 133 at the first end 137 and one first guide 133 at the second end 139 is approximately equal to the distance between the outer surfaces of the protrusions 127a and 127b. This allows the outer casing 126 to be positioned between the first guides 133, with the protrusions 127a and 127b contacting the second sliding surfaces 143 in wide mode.

[0100] Figure 11 Showing Figure 5A-10B The adjustable frame 108 of the reclining assembly is shown in deep mode. As shown, the adjustable frame 108 may include a rear section 128 and two side sections 130, 132. The lengths of the rear section 128 and the side sections 130, 132 are adjustable. In the deep mode shown, the rear section has been adjusted to present a relatively short length, while the side sections 130, 132 have been adjusted to present a relatively long length. When switching from deep mode to wide mode, the rear section can be lengthened and the side sections shortened to achieve the desired size. This can be achieved using a variety of mechanisms. In one embodiment, the side sections and the rear section are formed by first and second frame members that are selectively movable relative to each other to form lengths corresponding to the desired mode (e.g., wide or deep). In one embodiment, the first and second frame members have an overlapping arrangement, wherein more overlap can be provided to present a configuration with a relatively short length for a given side section or rear section, while less overlap provides a configuration with a relatively long length for a given side section or rear section.

[0101] Fasteners or other securing mechanisms can be provided to hold the first and second frame members associated with any given side or rear in the desired arrangement. In the illustrated configuration, fastener 134 engages with a corresponding hook 136a. When it is desired to change the seat mode from a deep mode to a wide mode, the overlapping frame member 132a can be detached from the hook 136a of frame member 132b and slid back, shortening side 132 (to have the length of the wide configuration seat), and fastener 134 can engage with hook 136b. Side 130 can be similarly operated to adjust its length. A handle 138 can be provided for each frame member to facilitate easy adjustment from one seat mode to another.

[0102] The configuration of the rear frame section 128 can be similar to the description of the side frame section, although Figure 11 The locking mechanism differs in the displayed configuration. The rear frame section also includes overlapping frame sections, but once the rear frame members reach the desired overlap, a clamp 140 is pressed down, clamping and securing the two frame members of frame 108 together. Frame 108 is clamped to an upright member (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 3-4 The clamp 140 shown is further shown to include a threaded member, such as a hand-tightening screw, which engages with a threaded hole 142 in the frame 108 to secure the rear frame member of the frame 108 into place. This additional threaded member ensures that the clamp 140 does not easily loosen over time, for example, after repeated reclining movements. Therefore, the threaded member of the clamp 140 also helps to secure the backrest (e.g., as shown in the image) or other furniture components of modular furniture assemblies. Figure 3-4 (As shown) is fixed to frame 108. The threaded hand screw of clamp 140 passes through one leg of clamp 140 and screws into frame 108.

[0103] The adjustable frame 108 may include markers 144 that indicate to the user which mode a given position of the frame component corresponds to (e.g., D for depth, W for width, etc.). Such markers are visible when a given mode is selected and hidden when not selected, making the experience of making such adjustments more intuitive for the user.

[0104] Figure 12 Showing Figure 5A-11The reclining assembly 102 has an adjustable frame 108, in which the reclining mechanism 110 is selectively moved, for example, rolled into the frame 108 to form a deep-mode reclining assembly 102. This engagement can be very simple and does not require the user to lift the reclining mechanism completely off the floor. For example, the user can simply lift the front end of the reclining mechanism 110 slightly off the floor, with the wheels 146 at the rear of the reclining mechanism 110 contacting the floor, and simply roll the reclining mechanism backward into the open front end of the generally U-shaped adjustable frame 108.

[0105] A simple docking mechanism can be provided to secure the reclining mechanism 110 within the adjustable frame 108. For example, a protrusion 149 on the reclining mechanism 110 can be received within the groove 148 shown. The rear end of the cover plate 112 can similarly form a docking relationship with a portion of the frame 108, adjacent to the rear portion 128 or a similar portion. It will be apparent that various docking mechanisms are possible to securely hold the stationary portion of the reclining mechanism 110 in a coupled position with the frame 108 after docking.

[0106] Figures 13A-13B Showing Figure 5A-12 The adjustable frame of the reclining component from Figure 11 The deep mode shown is converted to Figure 14 The wide pattern is shown. As shown, the rear portion 128 of the frame 108 is lengthened by adjusting the overlap between the two frame members constituting the rear frame portion 128, and the side frame portions 130 and 132 are shortened by providing greater overlap between the side frame portions 132a and 132b and between 130a and 130b. Figure 14 The final result is shown in Figure 5-13, where the adjustable frame 108 of the reclining assembly is displayed in wide mode.

[0107] Figure 15 The adjustable frame 108 of the reclining assembly 102 shown in Figure 5-14 is shown, wherein the reclining mechanism 110 is selectively moved, for example, rolled into the frame 108 to form a wide-mode reclining assembly 102. Figures 16A-16B The top and bottom views of the reclining assembly shown in Figure 5-15 are displayed in wide mode, with the outer shell 126 of the reclining mechanism 110 in... Figure 16B As can be seen in the figure, regardless of whether the frame is configured in deep or wide mode, the reclining mechanism 110 rolls into the adjustable frame 108 in a similar manner, except that the position of the wheels 146 of the mechanism 110 within the adjustable frame 108 differs depending on whether wide or deep mode is selected. For example, comparing... Figure 16B (Wide mode) and Figure 5B(Deep mode) illustrates these differences. In either case, the front of the reclining mechanism and footrest 104 are located at the front, adjacent to the front of the adjustable frame 108. In deep mode, there is a larger clearance between the rear of the reclining mechanism 110 and the rear of the wheels 146 relative to the corner plate 150 shown at the rear corner of the adjustable frame 108. The wheels 146 can be mounted on the housing 126, or alternatively, the wheels 146 can be mounted on the frame of the reclining mechanism 110, for example, on the frame of the lower bracket portion of the mechanism 110.

[0108] Figures 17A-17D The evolution of the reclining assembly 102 in wide mode is shown in Figure 5-16, illustrating the transition of the reclining assembly from a non-reclining position ( Figure 17A ), to prepare to lie down by lifting the seat cover 112 and the seat cushion 14 ( Figure 17B ), to partially lying down ( Figure 17C ), and then to lying completely down ( Figure 17D The evolution of ). Figure 17D It is also shown that a person sitting on the reclining cushion 14 can move the spring-loaded footrest 104, allowing the user to bend their knees toward themselves, for example, to place a laptop on the user's knees while reclining. This functionality is also possible in deep mode and in any other implementation described herein.

[0109] like Figure 17A As shown, the footrest 104 can be mated in place when not in a reclining position to provide a flush, neat appearance around the base of the home component, similar to or substantially identical to the appearance shown by the adjacent coupling base 10, which may not have any reclining function (see...). Figure 1 To provide such an aesthetic appearance, there may be almost no gap between the top of the movable footrest 104 and the seat cushion 14, such as... Figure 17A As indicated by the mark "I". In other words, especially when a user sits on such a cushion 14 and compresses the cushion 14, there may even be a tendency for the cushion 14 to sag or interfere with the outward movement of the footrest 104. In view of this relationship, in at least some embodiments of the invention, it may be important to ensure that this interference is accommodated and adjusted during the movement of the reclining assembly. For example, in Figures 17A-17D In the embodiments shown, such as Figure 17B As shown, in order to eliminate this interference before the foot pedal 104 actually moves to any significant extent (or not at all), the initial movement provided by the reclining assembly 102 can be by lifting the front ends of the seat cushion 14 and seat cover 112 before moving the foot pedal 104 away from its mating starting position. As the front ends of the seat cushion 14 and cover 112 are lifted, disengaging from interfering contact with the foot pedal 104, the foot pedal can then be moved forward, for example, as... Figure 17BAs shown by the dashed line. Due to the spring-biased characteristics of the foot pedal 104, the foot pedal 104 can begin to be oriented in a substantially vertical orientation as shown, and as the foot pedal moves outward (propelled by the reclining arm 118), the foot pedal 104 can begin to rotate toward a substantially horizontal position, as shown by the dashed line. Once the foot pedal 104 has extended sufficiently to no longer contact the frame of the upper bracket portion 154, it can rotate to a default, approximately horizontal orientation.

[0110] It is this spring-biased configuration of the pedal 104 that allows users to... Figure 17D The foot pedal is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise as shown to position the foot pedal 104 relative to the user's foot or any other body part the user wishes to use to apply a biasing force to rotate the foot pedal 104. Figure 17D In the orientation shown, the user rotates the foot pedal 104 counterclockwise from the default roughly horizontal orientation with the soles of their feet, turning the foot pedal back towards the user and providing a comfortable inclined platform for the user's feet to rest.

[0111] In one implementation, when the foot pedal 104 is... Figure 17C Return to position Figure 17B When in position, the foot pedal 104 contacts a frame portion of the upper bracket portion 154, causing the foot pedal 104 to move to the desired position. Figure 17B It is basically in a vertical position.

[0112] Figures 18A-18D and Figures 17A-17D Similar, but a portion of the adjustable frame has been cut off during display to allow for a better view of the interior of the reclining mechanism 110.

[0113] Figures 19A-19B The partial and full reclining positions of the reclining component 102 in wide mode are shown in Figure 5-18. Figures 19A-19B In other aspects and Figures 8A-8B Similar, but it displays the reclining component 102 in wide mode instead of... Figures 8A-8B The deep mode shown.

[0114] Figures 20A-20B The image shows the seat cover 112 and backrest 116 separated in wide mode. Figure 20A The reclining assembly shown in Figure 5-19 is positioned above the reclining mechanism 110, and then mounted on that mechanism. Figure 20B ). Figures 20A-20B In other aspects and Figures 9A-9B Similar, but displayed in a wide mode instead of a deep mode. It is evident that the backrest 116 is attached to mounting rods 120, which can be selectively mounted into corresponding mounting holes 122 in the seat cover 112. Figures 20A-20BIn this configuration, the mounting rod 120 is selectively inserted into the hole 122 at the longer (wider) end of the seat cover 112, while... Figures 9A-9B In this configuration, the mounting rod 120 is selectively inserted into the hole 122 at the shorter end of the seat cover 112. In this way, the seat cover can be easily rotated for either purpose, depending on whether the user wishes to use the wide or deep mode.

[0115] Figure 21 This invention demonstrates Figure 1-2 An exploded view of the various components of the reclining system (reclining mechanism 110 plus seat cover 112 and backrest 116) of the 0, which are installed in... Figure 1-2 Within a 0-inch adjustable frame. Additional views of each component are displayed. Figure 21-2 5. The reclining mechanism 110 includes a fixed lower support portion 152, an upper support portion 154, and a lifting member 156. The fixed lower support portion engages with an adjustable frame 108 but is otherwise stationary and does not move during reclining movements of the rest of the reclining mechanism. The fixed lower support portion 152 is shown to include a first actuator 158. The first actuator 158 is anchored to the frame 160 of the fixed lower support portion 152. The fixed lower support portion 152 includes inclined, forward-extending track members 164a, 164b that engage with and provide a track for the upper support portion 154, the upper support portion 154 being configured to travel along this track relative to the fixed lower support portion 152. For example, the upper bracket portion 154 includes rear and front supports 162a, 162b, each support having a pair of rollers 166 fixed thereon, which engage with track members 164a and 164b that fix the lower bracket portion 152. Such arrangements of supports, rollers, and inclined frame members are provided on both the left and right sides of the reclining assembly 102.

[0116] The first actuator 158 drives the upper bracket portion 154 forward (and backward), and the rollers 166 roll along the inclined track members 164a and 164b. Specifically, the inclined track members 164a and 164b are interconnected, with the rear inclined track member 164a inclined downward and the front inclined track member 164b inclined upward. The lowering and raising angles of these inclined track members can be any desired angle, depending on the desired reclining angle within the seat. In one embodiment, the lowering and raising angles can differ from the horizontal plane by approximately 1° to approximately 30°, for example, approximately 3° to approximately 20°, or approximately 5° to approximately 15°, or approximately 5° to approximately 10°. Such a configuration is one embodiment for achieving the reclining movement of the seat. It should be understood that other configurations are, of course, possible.

[0117] The lower bracket portion also includes first and second ramps 168, for example, below the inclined track member 164b. Ramp 168 provides a ramp surface 170 that initially slopes relatively steeply, followed by a surface with a smaller (more forward) slope, for example, essentially horizontal. Generally parallel to the ramp surface 170 is a groove 172 within the ramp member 168. The lifting member 156 includes a bracket 174 comprising a roller 176 and a pin 178. The roller 176 is configured to travel along the ramp surface 170, while the pin 178 is configured to be received within the groove 172 of the ramp 168. The lifting member is pivotally connected to the upper bracket portion 154, for example, at the rear of the lifting member and bracket portions 156, 154. For example, the upper bracket portion 154 includes left and right upper frame members 180, with a rear bracket 182 attached to the left and right frame members 184 of the lifting member 156. The upper bracket portion 154 is also shown to include a front crossbeam 194 and a rear crossbeam 196, which extend between the left and right upper frame members 180.

[0118] Figures 22A-22B Showing more details Figure 1-21 The reclining mechanism includes a lifting member 156. The lifting member 156 is configured to be rotatably connected to the upper bracket portion 154 of the reclining mechanism 110, such that when the reclining mechanism 110 is first activated, it lifts the seat cover 112 and the seat cushion 14, allowing the footrest 104 to move away from the seat cover 112 and the seat cushion 14 upon initial movement. This lifting motion is provided by a pivotal connection at the rear of the lifting member 156 (e.g., via bracket 182 and frame member 184) with a bracket 174 and rollers and pins 176, 178 that travel on and engage with a ramp 168. When the actuator drives the upper bracket portion 154 forward, the engagement between the bracket 174 and the ramp 168 forces the front end of the lifting member 156 upward relative to the front of the upper bracket portion 154, pushing the seat cover 112 and the seat cushion 14 away from the footrest 104, providing the necessary clearance.

[0119] Figures 23A-23B Showing Figure 1-2 The lower support portion 152 of the reclining mechanism 110. As described above, the lower support portion is coupled to the upper support portion 154 and the seat cover 112, and the entire reclining mechanism is configured to selectively engage with the adjustable frame 108. Figure 23A -B further shows an embodiment in which the right and left side plates 167 are coupled to the frame of the lower bracket portion 152, and the side plates 167 have respective protrusions 149 for engaging with the frame 108.

[0120] Figures 24A-24B Showing Figure 1-2The upper bracket portion of the reclining mechanism 110 of 3 is configured to be movably connected to the fixed lower bracket portion of the reclining mechanism. Figures 25A-25C Displayed from non-reclining mode ( Figure 25A From partial reclining mode ( Figure 25B From ) to fully reclining mode ( Figure 25C The evolution of ).

[0121] Perhaps in Figures 24A-24B Most clearly visible in the middle, the upper bracket portion 154 includes a second actuator 186 (e.g., a linear actuator) connected via a bracket 188 to a bearing assembly 190, which includes rollers or bearings engaging with a curved guide rail 192. Connected to the bearing assembly 190 is a foot pedal reclining arm 118, the distal end of which is attached to the foot pedal 104. The actuator 186 is configured to drive the bearing assembly 190 forward (or backward) along the curved guide rail 192, extending the foot pedal reclining arm 118 (and the attached foot pedal 104) forward to achieve the desired reclining foot pedal orientation.

[0122] Figures 26A-26C Further shown from the side view Figure 1-2 The 4-position reclining mechanism transitions from the non-reclining mode ( Figure 26A From partial reclining mode ( Figure 26B From ) to fully reclining mode ( Figure 26C The evolution of the bearing assembly 190 along the curved guide rail 192 is well illustrated. The progressive movement of the bearing assembly 190 along the curved guide rail 192 gradually drives the foot pedal reclining arm 118 and the foot pedal 104 forward and upward along a curved path provided by the curved guide rail 192.

[0123] Figure 27A-30B Showing Figure 1-2 Perspective and side views of the evolution of the 5-inch reclining mechanism from non-reclining mode to reclining mode. Figures 27A-27B A reclining mechanism 110 is shown, wherein rollers 176 are located at or near the bottom of the initial inclined portion of the ramp surface 170. Figures 28A-28B The same configuration is shown, but in which the roller 176 has advanced partially upward along the inclined portion of the ramp surface 170, lifting the front end of the frame member 184 of the lifting member 156 above and out of contact with the front end of the upper frame member 180 of the upper bracket portion 154. Because the seat cover 112 is attached to the lifting member 156, this correspondingly pushes the front end of the seat cover 112 upward, creating a gap space so that the footrest 104 can move outward without interference.

[0124] Figures 29A-29BThis is a view similar to the one described above, but in which the roller 176 has advanced to the top of the inclined portion of the ramp surface 170 of the ramp 168, so that the roller is now located on the substantially horizontal portion of the ramp surface 170. Furthermore, the actuator 186 of the upper bracket portion 154 has also been partially actuated, pushing the bearing assembly 190 approximately halfway along the length of the curved guide rail 192, causing the footrest reclining arm 118 to extend significantly from the frame of the upper bracket portion 154, and also pushing the footrest 104 forward of the seat.

[0125] Figures 30A-30B It is a similar view, but in which the roller 176 has advanced to the end of the ramp surface 170 and the actuator 186 has been fully actuated, pushing the foot pedal reclining arm 118 out of the frame of the upper bracket portion to the maximum extension position (bearing assembly 190 is shown at the end of the curved guide rail 192).

[0126] In one embodiment, the actuation of the first actuator 158 moves the upper support portion 154, causing the lifting member 156 to lift the seat cushion away from the footrest 104. Then, the second actuator 186 moves the reclining arm and footrest 104 to the extended position. Then, the first actuator 158 further moves the upper support portion 154 to the reclining position.

[0127] However, it should be understood that the controller of the reclining assembly can be configured to perform any such movements in any desired order. For example, in one embodiment, the initial movement (i) is provided by moving the roller 176 upward along the inclined portion of the ramp surface 170, causing the lifting member 156 to lift the front of the seat cover 112 and the cushion 14, disengaging them from any interfering contact with the top of the footrest 104. Once this step is completed, (ii) the bearing assembly 190 may be advanced to push out the reclining arm 118 and the footrest 104, and / or (iii) the actuator 158 may be further advanced to advance the roller 176 further along the substantially horizontal portion of the ramp surface 170. In one embodiment, steps (i) and (ii) may be performed simultaneously. In one embodiment, step (ii) may be performed before, simultaneously with, or after step (iii). Both steps (ii) and (iii) may be performed after step (i). It should be understood that alternative movement patterns may be employed. When returning from the reclining configuration to the starting position, the reverse order may be applied. Any desired movement pattern can be programmed into the reclining component as needed to be executed automatically when a button on the remote control or other control interface is pressed. For example, such a remote control may include a relatively simple user interface, including a button for reclining and another button for reversing to return to the starting position.

[0128] Figures 31A-31D Showing Figure 27A-30BA perspective sectional view showing the evolution of the reclining mechanism from a non-reclining mode to a reclining mode. Figure 31A The reclining mechanism 110 is shown in its initial, non-reclining position, for example, corresponding to Figures 27A-27B . Figure 31B The image shows the retractable mechanism with the actuator 158 in a slightly forward position, corresponding to... Figures 28A-28B . Figure 31C A further reclining mechanism 110 is shown, for example, corresponding to Figures 29A-29B . Figure 31D The reclining mechanism 110 is shown in its fully extended state, with both actuators having advanced to their limits, for example, corresponding to... Figures 30A-30B .

[0129] Figures 32A-32C Showing Figure 1-3 The spring-loaded foot pedal of the reclining component 110 is in the starting, non-reclining position ( Figure 32A ), fully lying position ( Figure 32B ) and a fully reclining position where the user's foot pressure is tilted on the foot pedal ( Figure 32C The figure shows a perspective view of the foot pedal 104. As shown, the foot pedal 104 may include one or more bias springs 198 that can default the foot pedal 104 to a given orientation. In one embodiment, the springs 198 are configured to default the foot pedal to a generally horizontal neutral orientation (e.g., as shown in the figure) without the application of some opposing force. Figure 32B (as shown), to make it present different orientations. Figure 32A In the orientation shown, this is likely due to the rear of the foot pedal 104 contacting the frame of the upper bracket portion 154, forcing the foot pedal into a substantially vertical orientation. Figure 32C In the orientation shown, this is likely due to the user's foot contacting the large flat surface of the foot pedal 104, forcing the foot pedal to rotate counterclockwise toward the user, providing an inclined surface for resting the foot.

[0130] Figure 33 The diagram illustrates how the foot pedal 104 can be adjusted in length, for example, longer in wide mode than in deep mode. For instance, the foot pedal may include a main section 104a for deep mode, and optional sections 104b that can slide in and lock with the main section 104a when wide mode is needed. This makes the overall length of the foot pedal substantially equal to the length or width of the adjacent non-reclining base 10, allowing the user to easily select and switch between wide and deep modes while providing a clean look without the gaps that might result from the foot pedal being too short in wide mode (but correct in deep mode). Alternatively, different sized foot pedals can be used for deep or wide modes. For example, a wider foot pedal could be used for wide mode, and a narrower foot pedal for deep mode.

[0131] Figures 34A-34B Another embodiment of the modular furniture system of the present invention is shown, which, in deep mode, has an alternative reclining component 102' in both non-reclining and reclining positions. Figures 35A-35B Showing Figures 34A-34B In deep mode, the reclining component 102' is in both non-reclining and reclining positions, in which an adjacent upright component 12 is removed. Figure 36 An exploded view of the reclining assembly 102' shown in Figures 34-35 is presented in deep mode orientation. Similar to the previously described embodiments, the reclining assembly includes an adjustable frame 108', a reclining mechanism 110', and a seat cover 112'. One difference is that the reclining assembly 102' shown includes a two-part backrest member 116a, 116b. The first part 116a of the backrest member is attached to the reclining mechanism 110', while the second part 116b is also provided attached to the adjustable frame 108'.

[0132] Figures 37A-37D The reclining assembly shown in Figures 34-36 is in deep mode, in both reclining and non-reclining positions, with the adjustable frame portion shown. Figure 37A and 37C ) and not displayed ( Figure 37B and 37D ).

[0133] Figures 38A-38B The reclining component 102' shown in Figures 34-37 has been converted to wide mode. Figure 39 An exploded view of the reclining assembly 102' in wide mode is shown in Figures 34-38. As shown, the reclining mechanism 110' can be coupled into the adjustable outer frame 108'. The frame 108' can be adjusted between wide mode and deep mode, and vice versa, according to the user's preference. Various hand-tightening screws, latches, brackets, or the like can be used to secure the components of the frame 108' in the desired mode. It will be apparent that a wide variety of similar securing mechanisms can be used to hold the reclining mechanism 110' within the adjustable frame 108'.

[0134] Figure 40 Views of the footrest 104 of the reclining assembly shown in Figures 34-39 are illustrated. Similar to the previously described embodiments, the footrest 104 may provide a generally horizontal default orientation, for example, substantially parallel to the seat cushion 14, but may be spring-biased to allow the user to rotate the footrest 104 counterclockwise or clockwise as needed. In one embodiment, the initial default position of the footrest may not include spring tension (e.g., the spring only applies tension when a force is applied to deviate from this default position).

[0135] Figures 41-43 The evolution of the reclining mechanism 110' of the reclining assembly shown in Figures 34-40 is illustrated, showing the reclining assembly from a non-reclining position ( Figure 41 ), to prepare to lie down by lowering the foot pedal ( Figure 42 ), and then to lying completely down ( Figure 43 The evolution process of ( ). As shown in the figure, this embodiment solves the interference problem between the top of the seat cushion 14 and the footrest 104 in a different way. Figure 42 As shown, to avoid contact interference between such structures, the reclining mechanism 110' is configured to first provide a downward movement (towards the floor) to the footrest 104, after which the movement of the reclining arm 118 and the footrest 104 follows an upward arc path, similar to the previously described embodiment. The interference problem is solved here by lowering the footrest rather than raising the seat cover 112. It will be apparent that there are multiple possible configurations to solve such interference problems; the described embodiment is merely an example. Other methods are also possible.

[0136] Figure 44 The reclining mechanism 110' of the invention shown in Figures 34-43 is illustrated. Figure 45 An exploded view of the reclining mechanism of the invention shown in Figures 34-44 is displayed. The reclining mechanism 110' includes a fixed lower support portion 152', an upper support portion 154' movable relative to the fixed lower support portion 152', and a movable member 156' mounted on the upper support portion 154'. The movable member 156' is slidably attached to the upper support portion 154', for example, sliding forward or backward depending on whether a wide or deep mode is selected (e.g., to position the backrest member 116a in the correct position).

[0137] Figure 46 The lower support portion 152' of the reclining mechanism 110' shown in Figures 34-45 is illustrated. The lower support portion 152' includes an actuator 158' attached to it, and the drive end of the actuator 158' is attached to and drives the upper support portion 154', similar to the arrangement of the previously described embodiments. The lower support portion 152' also includes an extension guide 210, the length of which is adjustable, for example, using a lever 212, depending on whether a wide or deep mode is selected.

[0138] Figures 47A-47C The upper support portion 154' of the reclining mechanism 110' shown in Figures 34-46 illustrates the reclining mechanism transitioning from a non-reclining position (47A) to a reclining position prepared by lowering the foot pedal. Figure 47B ), and then to lying completely down ( Figure 47C The evolution of ). Figures 48A-48CThe left and right reclining arms are shown, movably mounted on the corresponding left and right ramps 200 of the upper bracket portion 154' of the reclining mechanism in Figures 34-47, showing the reclining assembly from a non-reclining position (48A) to a position ready for reclining by lowering the foot pedal. Figure 48B ), and then to lying completely down ( Figure 48C The evolution process of the foot pedal and reclining arm 118. This movement is achieved by an actuator 186' attached to the upper bracket portion 154'. Figures 49A-49C The reclining mechanism shown in Figures 34-48 transitions from a non-reclining position (49A) to a position ready for reclining by lowering the foot pedal. Figure 49B ), and then to partial and full lying down ( Figure 49C Further evolution of the ramp 200. As shown in the figure, the ramp 200 includes upper and lower guide rods 202 and 204. Upper and lower sliders 206 and 208 travel on the guide rods 202 and 204 in a defined, spaced-apart relationship. Sliders 206 and 208 are pivotable relative to the reclining arm 118 to which they are pivotally attached.

[0139] like Figures 48A-48C As shown, a first upper sliding member 206 is rotatably connected to a first reclining arm and slides on the upper surface of a first ramp, while a first lower sliding member 208 is rotatably connected to the first reclining arm and slides on the lower surface of the first ramp. Furthermore, a second upper sliding member 206 is rotatably connected to a second reclining arm and slides on the upper surface of a second ramp, while a second lower sliding member 208 is rotatably connected to the second reclining arm and slides on the lower surface of the second ramp. As a result, movement of the first and second reclining arms along the first and second ramps causes each of the first and second reclining arms to rotate relative to the first and second ramps, such that the foot pedals connected to the first and second reclining arms (i) first move downwards and then (ii) subsequently move upwards.

[0140] The configuration of the upper and lower guide rods shown, in which the upper and lower sliders travel on the guide rods and are pivotally connected to the reclining arm 118, wherein these paths are non-parallel, allowing the foot pedal to exhibit an initial downward movement (towards the floor), followed by an upward arcing movement, as shown.

[0141] Figure 50 The figure shows a cross-sectional view of the reclining assembly in a non-reclining position. (Figures 34-49) Figures 51A-51B The evolution of the reclining mechanism in Figure 34-50 from a non-reclining position to a reclining position is shown.

[0142] Figure 52A and 52BAnother embodiment of the reclining assembly of the present invention is shown for use in a modular furniture system, wherein the outer frame is a fixed outer frame 108'' that is substantially U-shaped and non-adjustable. A modular reclining mechanism 110'' (e.g., having the characteristics of any reclining assembly or frame described herein) can be mated into such a frame. Such a configuration may be less complex, require fewer parts, and have lower manufacturing costs.

[0143] Figures 53A-53B Another embodiment of the reclining assembly of the present invention is shown for use in a modular furniture system, wherein the outer frame 108''' is also fixed and therefore non-adjustable, and integrated with the reclining mechanism 110'''. In other words, the reclining mechanism 110''' cannot be removed from the outer frame 108'''. The upper and lower bracket portions can be housed within a fixed outer frame, wherein the bracket portions are non-removable. Such a configuration may be less complex, require fewer parts, and have lower manufacturing costs. Similar to the embodiments described above, any features described relative to other embodiments may be included in such embodiments.

[0144] Although Figures 52A-53B The frame is shown as a square, but in another embodiment, the frame can have a non-square rectangular shape with two longer sides and two shorter sides.

[0145] Although certain embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail with reference to specific configurations, parameters, components, elements, etc., such descriptions are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed invention.

[0146] Furthermore, it should be understood that for any given element or component of the described embodiments, any possible alternatives listed for that element or component may generally be used alone or in combination with each other, unless implied or expressly stated otherwise.

[0147] Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, figures used in the specification and claims to indicate quantities, components, distances, or other measurements should be understood to be optionally modified by the term "about" or its synonyms. When the terms "about," "approximately," "substantially," or similar terms are used in conjunction with a stated quantity, value, or condition, they can be understood to indicate a quantity, value, or condition that deviates from the stated quantity, value, or condition by less than 20%, less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, or less than 0.01%. At least, and not as a limitation on the application of the doctrine of equivalents within the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should be interpreted according to the number of significant figures reported and the application of ordinary rounding techniques.

[0148] As used herein, the term “between” includes any endpoints referenced. For example, “between 2 and 10” includes both 2 and 10.

[0149] Any headings and subheadings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the description or claims.

[0150] It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” do not exclude plural referents unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. Thus, for example, an embodiment referring to a single referent (e.g., “widget”) may also include two or more such referents.

[0151] The following are some further exemplary embodiments of the present invention. These are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Furthermore, any exemplary embodiment may be combined with one or more exemplary embodiments.

[0152] Implementation Method 1. A modular reclining assembly for modular furniture components, the modular reclining assembly comprising: An adjustable outer frame with wide and deep modes; and A reclining mechanism is configured to selectively move the foot pedals relative to the adjustable outer frame, regardless of whether the adjustable outer frame is in wide or deep mode. When the adjustable outer frame is in wide or deep mode, the reclining mechanism is configured to be selectively oriented and engage with the adjustable outer frame.

[0153] Implementation Method 2. The modular reclining assembly as described in Implementation Method 1, wherein the reclining mechanism also moves the seat to the reclining position.

[0154] Implementation 3. A modular reclining assembly as described in Implementation 1, wherein (A) the modular reclining assembly is selectively coupled to: (i) one or more non-reclining seat base members of a modular furniture system, whether in deep or wide mode; (ii) one or more armrests or backrests of a modular furniture assembly; or (iii) both one or more non-reclining seat base members of a modular furniture system and one or more armrests or backrests of a modular furniture assembly, and wherein (B) the floor space occupied by the modular reclining assembly is substantially the same as that of one or more non-reclining seat base members of the modular furniture system to which the modular reclining assembly is coupled.

[0155] Embodiment 4. A reclining assembly for furniture components, the reclining assembly comprising: An outer frame; A reclining mechanism is configured to selectively move the foot pedal relative to the outer frame. The reclining mechanism is configured to selectively engage with the outer frame.

[0156] Embodiment 5. The reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 4, wherein the outer frame is a substantially U-shaped frame.

[0157] Implementation 6. The reclining assembly as described in Implementation 4, wherein the outer frame is an adjustable frame that can have different shapes and configurations, thereby occupying a substantially the same floor space as furniture components selectively coupled to the frame.

[0158] Embodiment 7. A reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 6, wherein the furniture component is a seat base component of a modular furniture system.

[0159] Embodiment 8. The reclining assembly of Embodiment 4 further includes (i) a clamp configured to connect the outer frame to the furniture component; and (ii) a fixing member extending through a portion of the clamp to further secure the clamp to the adjustable outer frame.

[0160] Embodiment 9. The reclining assembly of Embodiment 8, wherein the clamp has a first leg and a second leg connected by a clamp body, and wherein the fixing member is a threaded hand screw whose threaded portion can threadedly extend through one of the first or second legs of the clamp into the adjustable frame.

[0161] Embodiment 10. The reclining assembly of Embodiment 8, wherein the furniture component connected by the clamp to the adjustable frame is an upright backrest component of a modular furniture system.

[0162] Implementation 11. A modular reclining assembly for a modular sofa system, the modular reclining assembly comprising: An adjustable outer frame with wide and deep modes; and A reclining mechanism having (a) a lower support portion having a lower support portion frame to which a first actuator is attached; and (b) an upper support portion connected to the first actuator, the upper support portion being selectively movable relative to the lower support portion, the upper support portion having an upper support portion frame and configured to recline a seat cushion supported by the reclining mechanism and to selectively remove footrests from the upper support portion frame, wherein... The reclining mechanism can be selectively connected to the adjustable outer frame in either wide or deep mode.

[0163] Embodiment 12. The modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11, wherein the upper bracket portion has (a) one or more foot pedal reclining arms attached to the foot pedal; and (b) a frame attached to the upper bracket portion and a second actuator of the lower bracket portion, the second actuator being configured to selectively move the one or more foot pedal reclining arms and the foot pedal relative to the frame of the upper bracket portion.

[0164] Embodiment 13. The modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11 further includes a lifting member, one end of which is movably attached to the upper bracket portion, the lifting member also having a free opposite end, the lifting member including a frame configured to support a seat cover mounted on the lifting member, the seat cover being configured to support the cushion of the sofa.

[0165] Embodiment 14. The modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 13 further includes a ramp mounted on the lower bracket portion frame, the ramp being configured to movably receive a connecting member extending from the frame of the lifting member, such that the connecting member is movably mounted on the ramp.

[0166] Embodiment 15. A modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 14, wherein (i) the lower part of the connector has a roller that rolls on the upper surface of the ramp, and wherein (ii) the ramp includes a groove, and the lower part of the connector further includes a connecting member that moves within the groove of the ramp, such that the connector both rolls on the ramp and is movably connected to the ramp.

[0167] Embodiment 16. The modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 15, wherein the ramp is configured such that the lifting member raises its free end when the first actuator is actuated.

[0168] Embodiment 17. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 13, wherein lifting the free end of the lifting member allows the seat cushion supported by the reclining mechanism to be moved away from the foot pedal.

[0169] Embodiment 18. The modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 13, wherein when the reclining mechanism is moved into a non-reclining mode, the free end of the lifting member is raised so that the seat cushion supported by the reclining mechanism can be moved away from the foot pedal at the beginning and end of the reclining cycle.

[0170] Embodiment 19. The modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 13 further includes a ramp mounted on the lower bracket portion frame, the ramp being configured to movably receive a connecting member extending from the frame of the lifting member, such that the connecting member is movably mounted on the ramp, wherein the ramp of the lower bracket portion has an initial inclined portion that allows the free front end of the lifting member to be removed from the foot pedal.

[0171] Embodiment 20. A modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 19, wherein the ramp member has a substantially horizontal portion adjacent to the initial inclined portion.

[0172] Embodiment 21. The modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 20, wherein the initial inclined portion of the ramp is followed by a substantially curved portion.

[0173] Implementation 22. The modular reclining assembly as described in Implementation 13, wherein an initial movement of the first actuator causes the free end of the lifting member and the seat cushion supported by the reclining mechanism to lift off the foot pedal, thereby allowing the one or more foot pedal reclining arms to push the foot pedal to an extended reclining position without interference from the seat cushion.

[0174] Embodiment 23. The modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 13, wherein the free end of the lifting member is removed from the foot pedal before or simultaneously with the foot pedal being removed from the frame of the upper bracket portion.

[0175] Embodiment 24. The modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 11, wherein the modular reclining mechanism can be selectively moved into or out of the adjustable outer frame in either the deep or wide mode of the adjustable outer frame.

[0176] Embodiment 25. A modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 11, wherein one or more wheels are attached to the lower support portion of the modular reclining mechanism for selectively moving the modular reclining mechanism into or out of the adjustable outer frame.

[0177] Embodiment 26. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11, wherein the foot pedal is spring-loaded relative to the one or more foot pedal reclining arms in one or more directions.

[0178] Embodiment 27. A modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 26, wherein the footrest is spring-loaded in two different directions relative to the one or more footrest reclining arms.

[0179] Embodiment 28. The modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 26, wherein a first spring on the foot pedal resists compression but is compressible in one direction, and a second spring on the foot pedal resists compression but is compressible in a second direction, such that the foot pedal can move in response to a compressive force in either a first or second direction, but returns to a neutral position when the compressive force is released.

[0180] Embodiment 29. The modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 26, wherein the footrest is selectively movable relative to the recliner arm, allowing a user to sit on the modular reclining assembly with their feet on the footrest, and to rotate the footrest from a default, approximately horizontal orientation, causing the user's knees to move toward the user.

[0181] Embodiment 30. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11, wherein the footrest comprises a plurality of adjustable panels, such that the footrest can be adjusted for use in deep or wide mode.

[0182] Embodiment 31. The modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 11, wherein the adjustable outer frame has two sides connected by a rear portion, forming a generally U-shaped frame with an open front portion.

[0183] Embodiment 32. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11, wherein the adjustable outer frame has a substantially U-shape, and wherein the foot pedal is selectively adjustable such that when the reclining mechanism is pushed into the outer frame, it fills the opening of the reclining mechanism into the adjustable outer frame.

[0184] Embodiment 33. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11, wherein the footrest is adjustable and consists of a plurality of panels that can slide relative to each other, such that the footrest can be adjusted for use in deep or wide mode.

[0185] Embodiment 34. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11, wherein the footrest comprises a plurality of panels having respective slats coupled thereto, the slats being slidably mounted into the body of the footrest.

[0186] Embodiment 35. The modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 11, wherein when the upper support portion is in the extended position, the footrest is in a substantially horizontal orientation, and wherein when the upper support portion is in the non-extended position, the footrest is in a substantially vertical orientation.

[0187] Embodiment 36. The modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 11, wherein when the upper support portion is retracted to the non-extended position, the foot pedal contacts a frame portion of the upper support portion, thereby causing the foot pedal to move to a substantially vertical orientation.

[0188] Embodiment 37. A modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 11, wherein the outer frame includes three sides of a substantially rectangular shape, and wherein the reclining mechanism completes a fourth side of the substantially rectangular shape, wherein multiple different substantially rectangular shapes can be formed.

[0189] Implementation 38. The modular reclining assembly of Implementation 11, wherein each side and rear of the external adjustment frame consists of a wall, each wall consisting of a first frame member and a second frame member that are selectively movable relative to each other.

[0190] Embodiment 39. A modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 11, wherein the reclining mechanism can be selectively moved into or out of the adjustable outer frame without lifting both ends of the reclining mechanism from the support surface.

[0191] Embodiment 40. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11, wherein one or more outer frame walls are composed of movable panels that overlap each other so as to be selectively contracted or extended relative to each other.

[0192] Embodiment 41. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11, wherein the adjustable outer frame of the reclining assembly consists of adjustable walls, and wherein one or more adjustable walls consist of (i) an upper U-shaped panel slidably mounted on (ii) a corresponding lower panel.

[0193] Embodiment 42. The modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11, wherein, in wide mode, the lengths of the left and right panels of the adjustable outer frame are both less than the length of the rear panel of the adjustable outer frame, and wherein, in deep mode, the lengths of the left and right panels of the adjustable outer frame are both greater than the length of the rear panel of the adjustable outer frame.

[0194] Implementation 43. A modular reclining assembly as described in Implementation 11, wherein the adjustable outer frame is designed to guide the reclining mechanism into a desired position so that the reclining mechanism can be engaged with the adjustable outer frame in either wide or deep mode.

[0195] Implementation 44. The modular reclining assembly as described in Implementation 11, wherein the adjustable outer frame has markings indicating whether the adjustable outer frame is in wide mode or deep mode.

[0196] Embodiment 45. The modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11 further includes one or more outlet blocks in one or more walls of the adjustable outer frame.

[0197] Embodiment 46. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11, wherein the adjustable outer frame has an intermediate support leg configured to be mounted on a support surface to provide weight stability.

[0198] Embodiment 47. A modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 11, wherein a seat cover is configured to be supported by a reclining mechanism, and wherein the reclining assembly further includes a backrest that is selectively mounted to the seat cover, the backrest being selectively mounted to the short end of the cover in deep mode or to the wide end of the cover in wide mode, depending on whether the user wishes to use the reclining mechanism in deep or wide mode.

[0199] Implementation method 48. The modular reclining assembly as described in implementation method 11, wherein both the first actuator and the second actuator are extension motors.

[0200] Embodiment 49. The modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11 further includes one or more housing portions covering the selectively extendable portion of the upper bracket.

[0201] Embodiment 50. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11, wherein the reclining mechanism has one or more cable channels for wiring at the bottom of the reclining mechanism.

[0202] Embodiment 51. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 50, wherein the one or more cable channels allow one or more cables to pass through for connection to one or more electronic devices, lighting fixtures, extension cords, or speakers.

[0203] Embodiment 52. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 11, wherein the reclining mechanism has a recessed area for movement of a spring-loaded seat cover mounted on the reclining mechanism into the recessed area.

[0204] Embodiment 53. A modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 11, wherein a seat cover configured to be supported by a reclining mechanism has springs for compressible support.

[0205] Implementation 54. A modular reclining assembly of Implementation 11, wherein the modular reclining assembly can be selectively coupled to a non-reclining base component of a modular furniture system, whether in deep or wide mode.

[0206] Embodiment 55. The modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 11 further includes (i) a lifting member movably attached to the upper bracket portion, (ii) a housing mounted on the lifting member, and (iii) a seat cover selectively coupled to the housing, wherein the seat cover includes one or more guides for selectively positioning the cover on the housing.

[0207] Implementation method 56. A modular reclining assembly, comprising: An adjustable outer frame that has wide and deep modes; A reclining mechanism configured to selectively recline a cushion supported by the reclining mechanism, comprising (a) a lower support portion having a lower support portion frame to which a first actuator is attached; (b) an upper support portion connected to the first actuator, the upper support portion being selectively movable relative to the lower support portion; and (c) a lifting member pivotally attached to the upper support portion, the reclining mechanism being selectively connected to the adjustable outer frame in a wide mode or a deep mode, wherein: The upper bracket portion has (a) one or more foot pedal reclining arms attached to a foot pedal; (b) a frame; and (c) a second actuator attached to the frame of the upper bracket portion, the second actuator being configured to selectively move the one or more foot pedal reclining arms and the foot pedal relative to the frame of the upper bracket portion. The lower bracket portion has a ramp, and when the upper bracket portion is moved by the first actuator, the lifting member moves on the ramp; and A seat cover mounted on the lifting component of the reclining mechanism; The first actuator moves the upper bracket portion relative to the lower bracket portion, and the second actuator moves one or more foot pedal reclining arms and the foot pedal relative to the frame of the upper bracket portion. The initial movement of the first actuator causes the free end of the lifting member and the seat cushion supported by the reclining mechanism to lift off the foot pedal, thereby allowing one or more foot pedal reclining arms to push the foot pedal into an extended, reclining position without interference from the seat cushion supported by the reclining mechanism.

[0208] Embodiment 57. A modular reclining assembly of Embodiment 56, wherein the seat cover is configured to be supported by a reclining mechanism, and wherein the reclining assembly further includes a backrest that is selectively mounted to the seat cover, the backrest being selectively mounted to the short end of the cover in deep mode or to the wide end of the cover in wide mode, depending on whether the user wishes to use the reclining mechanism in deep or wide mode.

[0209] Embodiment 58. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 56, wherein the adjustable outer frame has a substantially U-shape, and wherein the foot pedal is selectively adjustable such that when the reclining mechanism is pushed into the outer frame, the opening of the reclining mechanism into the adjustable outer frame is filled.

[0210] Implementation method 59. A modular reclining assembly, comprising: An adjustable outer frame that has wide and deep modes; A reclining mechanism having (a) a lower bracket portion attached to a first actuator, and (b) an upper bracket portion connected to the first actuator, the upper bracket portion being selectively movable relative to the lower bracket portion, the reclining mechanism being selectively connected to an adjustable outer frame in a wide mode or a deep mode, wherein: The upper bracket portion has (a) one or more foot pedal reclining arms attached to a foot pedal; (b) a second actuator attached to a frame of the upper bracket portion, the second actuator being configured to selectively move the one or more foot pedal reclining arms and the foot pedal relative to the frame of the upper bracket portion; and A seat cover installed on the reclining mechanism; The first actuator moves the upper bracket portion relative to the lower bracket portion, and the second actuator moves one or more foot pedal reclining arms and foot pedals relative to the frame of the upper bracket portion, wherein: When the second actuator is actuated, the one or more foot pedal reclining arms initially push the foot pedal down and out, and then push it up to an extended reclining position, unaffected by the seat cover or the cushion supported by the reclining mechanism.

[0211] Embodiment 60. The modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 59, wherein the upper support portion includes: (i) an upper support portion frame; (ii) one or more ramps mounted on the upper support portion frame, the one or more reclining arms being movably connected to the one or more ramps having a serpentine configuration of descending and then ascending.

[0212] Embodiment 61. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 59, wherein the upper support portion includes: (i) an upper support portion frame; (ii) one or more ramps mounted on the upper support portion frame, the one or more reclining arms being movably connected to the one or more ramps having a serpentine configuration of descending and then ascending, such that the one or more reclining arms initially move downward and then upward on the one or more ramps, causing the footrest to initially move downward and then upward without interference from the seat cover or the cushion supported by the reclining mechanism.

[0213] Embodiment 62. The modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 61, wherein each of the one or more reclining arms is movably connected to a corresponding ramp via a plurality of sliding members sliding on opposite surfaces of the ramp, each reclining arm being pivotally coupled to two sliding members.

[0214] Embodiment 63. The modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 61, wherein: (i) a first upper sliding member rotatably connected to the first reclining arm slides on the upper surface of the first ramp, and a first lower sliding member rotatably connected to the first reclining arm slides on the lower surface of the first ramp; and wherein (ii) a second upper sliding member rotatably connected to the second reclining arm slides on the upper surface of the second ramp, and a second lower sliding member rotatably connected to the second reclining arm slides on the lower surface of the second ramp.

[0215] Embodiment 64. The modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 63, wherein movement of the first reclining arm and the second reclining arm along the first ramp and the second ramp causes each of the first reclining arm and the second reclining arm to rotate relative to the first ramp and the second ramp, such that the foot pedals connected to the first reclining arm and the second reclining arm (i) first move downward and then (ii) subsequently move upward.

[0216] Embodiment 65. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 61, wherein each of the one or more ramps has a smaller dimension in the vertical plane toward the rear of the ramp and a larger dimension in the vertical plane toward the front of the ramp.

[0217] Embodiment 66. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 65, wherein one or more reclining arms movably connected to the one or more ramps are connected to the top and bottom surfaces of the one or more ramps, and wherein the shape and orientation of the one or more ramps cause movement of the one or more reclining arms from the rear to the front of the one or more ramps to (i) initially move the front of the one or more reclining arms downward, causing the footrest to move downward, and then (ii) subsequently move the front of the one or more reclining arms upward, causing the footrest to move upward.

[0218] Embodiment 67. A modular reclining assembly as described in Embodiment 59, wherein the upper support portion includes: (i) an upper support portion frame; (ii) one or more ramps mounted on the upper support portion frame, the one or more reclining arms being movably connected to the one or more ramps having a serpentine configuration of descending and then ascending, such that the one or more reclining arms initially move downward and then upward on the one or more ramps, causing the footrest to initially move downward and then upward without interference from the seat cover or the cushion supported by the reclining mechanism, wherein each of the one or more reclining arms is movably connected to a corresponding ramp via a plurality of sliding members sliding on opposite surfaces of the ramps, each reclining arm being pivotally coupled to the sliding members, and wherein each of the one or more ramps has a smaller dimension in the vertical plane toward the rear of the ramp and a larger dimension in the vertical plane toward the front of the ramp.

[0219] It should also be understood that the embodiments described herein may also include the properties and / or features (e.g., components, parts, elements, components, and / or portions) described in one or more separate embodiments, and are not necessarily strictly limited to the features explicitly described for that particular embodiment. Therefore, various features of a given embodiment may be combined and / or incorporated therein with other embodiments of this disclosure. Thus, the disclosure of certain features relative to a particular embodiment of this disclosure should not be construed as limiting the application of those features or their inclusion in that particular embodiment. Rather, it should be understood that other embodiments may also include such features.

[0220] Those skilled in the art will recognize from this disclosure that equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, and that various changes, substitutions, and modifications can be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. The equivalent construction, including the "device plus function" clause, is intended to cover structures described herein that perform the functions, including structural equivalents operating in the same manner and equivalent structures providing the same function. The applicant expressly states that no device plus function or other functional claim is invoked for any claim unless the phrase "device for..." appears in the claim and carries the associated function. Every addition, deletion, and modification to embodiments falling within the meaning and scope of the claims should be included in the claims.

Claims

1. A modular reclining assembly for a modular furniture assembly, the modular reclining assembly comprising: an adjustable outer frame having a wide mode and a deep mode; and a reclining mechanism configured to selectively move a footrest relative to the adjustable outer frame whether the adjustable outer frame is in the wide mode or the deep mode, wherein the reclining mechanism is configured to be selectively oriented and docked within the adjustable outer frame when the adjustable outer frame is in the wide mode or the deep mode.

2. The modular reclining assembly of claim 1, wherein the reclining mechanism further moves a seat to a reclined position.

3. The modular reclining assembly of claim 1, wherein (A) the modular reclining assembly is selectively coupleable to: (i) one or more non-reclining seat base members of a modular furniture system, whether in the deep mode or the wide mode; (ii) one or more armrests or backrests of a modular furniture assembly; or (iii) both one or more non-reclining seat base members of a modular furniture system and one or more armrests or backrests of a modular furniture assembly, and wherein (B) the footprint of the modular reclining assembly is substantially the same as the one or more non-reclining seat base members of a modular furniture system to which the modular reclining assembly is coupled.

4. A reclining assembly for a furniture assembly, the reclining assembly comprising: an outer frame; a reclining mechanism configured to selectively move a footrest relative to the outer frame, wherein the reclining mechanism is configured to be selectively docked within the outer frame.

5. The reclining assembly of claim 4, wherein the outer frame is a substantially U-shaped frame.

6. The reclining assembly of claim 4, wherein the outer frame is an adjustable frame that can have different shapes and configurations so as to occupy substantially the same footprint as a furniture member to which the frame is selectively coupled.

7. The reclining assembly of claim 6, wherein the furniture member is a seat base member of a modular furniture system.

8. The reclining assembly of claim 4, further comprising (i) a clamp configured to connect the outer frame to a furniture member; and (ii) a securing member that extends through a portion of the clamp to further secure the clamp to the adjustable outer frame.

9. The reclining assembly of claim 8, wherein the clamp has a first leg and a second leg connected by a clamp body, and wherein the securing member is a threaded hand screw having a threaded portion that threadably extends through one of the first or second legs of the clamp into the adjustable frame.

10. The reclining assembly of claim 8, wherein the furniture member connected to the adjustable frame by the clamp is an upright backrest member of a modular furniture system.

11. A modular reclining assembly for a modular sofa system, the modular reclining assembly comprising: an adjustable outer frame having a wide mode and a deep mode; and a reclining mechanism configured to selectively move a footrest relative to the adjustable outer frame whether the adjustable outer frame is in the wide mode or the deep mode, wherein the reclining mechanism is configured to be selectively oriented and docked within the adjustable outer frame when the adjustable outer frame is in the wide mode or the deep mode. A reclining mechanism having (a) a lower carriage portion having a lower carriage portion frame to which a first actuator is attached; (b) an upper carriage portion connected to the first actuator, the upper carriage portion being selectively movable relative to the lower carriage portion, the upper carriage portion having an upper carriage portion frame and being configured to recline a seat cushion supported by the reclining mechanism and to selectively move a footrest away from the upper carriage portion frame, wherein the reclining mechanism is selectively connectable to the adjustable outer frame in the wide mode or the deep mode.

12. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein the upper carriage portion has (a) one or more footrest recline arms attached to the footrest; and (b) a second actuator attached to the upper carriage portion frame and the lower carriage portion, the second actuator being configured to selectively move the one or more footrest recline arms and the footrest relative to the upper carriage portion frame.

13. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, further comprising a lift member having one end movably attached to the upper carriage portion, the lift member further having a free opposite end, the lift member including a frame configured to support a seat cover panel mounted on the lift member, the seat cover panel being configured to support a seat cushion of the sofa.

14. The modular reclining assembly of claim 13, further comprising a ramp mounted on the lower carriage portion frame, the ramp being configured to movably receive a connecting member extending from the frame of the lift member such that the connecting member is movably mounted on the ramp.

15. The modular reclining assembly of claim 14, wherein (i) a lower portion of the connecting member has a roller that rolls on an upper surface of the ramp, and wherein (ii) the ramp includes a slot, the lower portion of the connecting member further including a connecting member that moves within the slot of the ramp such that the connecting member both rolls on the ramp and is movably connected to the ramp.

16. The modular reclining assembly of claim 15, wherein the ramp is configured to cause the lift member to raise the free end of the lift member when the first actuator is actuated.

17. The modular reclining assembly of claim 13, wherein raising the free end of the lift member enables a seat cushion supported by the reclining mechanism to be moved away from the footrest.

18. The modular lying assembly according to claim 13, wherein, raising the free end of the lift member enables a seat cushion supported by the reclining mechanism to be moved away from the footrest at the beginning and end of a reclining cycle when the reclining mechanism is moved into a non-reclining mode.

19. The modular reclining assembly of claim 13, further comprising a ramp mounted to the lower carriage portion frame, the ramp configured to movably receive a connecting member extending from the frame of the lifting member such that the connecting member is movably mounted to the ramp, wherein the ramp of the lower carriage portion has an initial sloped portion that enables the free front end of the lifting member to move away from the footrests.

20. The modular reclining assembly of claim 19, wherein the ramp member has a substantially horizontal portion adjacent to the initial sloped portion.

21. The modular reclining assembly of claim 20, wherein the initial sloped portion of the ramp is followed by a substantially curved portion.

22. The modular reclining assembly of claim 13, wherein initial movement of the first actuator causes the free end of the lifting member and the seat cushion supported by the reclining mechanism to lift away from the footrests, thereby allowing the one or more footrest reclining arms to push the footrests to an extended reclined position without interference from the seat cushion.

23. The modular reclining assembly of claim 13, wherein the free end of the lifting member moves away from the footrests before or simultaneously with the footrests moving away from the frame of the upper carriage portion.

24. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein the modular reclining mechanism is selectively movable into and out of the adjustable outer frame in the deep mode or the wide mode of the adjustable outer frame.

25. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein one or more wheels are attached to the lower carriage portion of the modular reclining mechanism for selectively moving the modular reclining mechanism into and out of the adjustable outer frame.

26. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein the footrests are spring loaded in one or more directions relative to the one or more footrest reclining arms.

27. The modular reclining assembly of claim 26, wherein the footrests are spring loaded in two different directions relative to the one or more footrest reclining arms.

28. The modular reclining assembly of claim 26, wherein a first spring on the footrest resists compression but is compressible in one direction, and a second spring on the footrest resists compression but is compressible in a second direction, such that the footrest can move in a first or second direction in response to a compression force, but returns to a neutral position when the compression force is released.

29. The modular reclining assembly of claim 26, wherein the footrests are selectively movable relative to the reclining arms such that a user can sit on the modular reclining assembly with the user's feet on the footrests, rotating the footrests from a default generally horizontal orientation such that the user's knees move toward the user.

30. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein the foot deck is comprised of a plurality of adjustable panels such that the foot deck can be adjusted for the deep mode or the wide mode.

31. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein the adjustable outer frame has two side portions connected by a back portion forming a generally U-shaped frame with a front end portion open.

32. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein the adjustable outer frame has a substantially U-shape, and wherein the foot deck is selectively adjustable to fill the opening of the adjustable outer frame as the reclining mechanism is pushed into the adjustable outer frame.

33. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein the foot deck is adjustable.

34. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein the foot deck is comprised of a plurality of panels.

35. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein the foot deck is in a substantially horizontal orientation when the upper carriage portion is in the extended position, and wherein the foot deck is in a substantially vertical orientation when the upper carriage portion is in the non-extended position.

36. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein the foot deck contacts a frame portion of the upper carriage portion when the upper carriage portion is retracted to the non-extended position, thereby causing the foot deck to move to a substantially vertical orientation.

37. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein the outer frame includes three side portions of a substantially rectangular shape, and wherein the reclining mechanism completes a fourth side portion of the substantially rectangular shape, wherein a plurality of different substantially rectangular shapes can be formed.

38. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein each side portion and the back portion of the outer adjustable frame is comprised of a wall, each wall being comprised of a first frame member and a second frame member that are selectively movable relative to one another.

39. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein the reclining mechanism is selectively movable into or out of the adjustable outer frame without lifting the ends of the reclining mechanism off of a support surface.

40. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein one or more of the outer frame walls are comprised of movable panels that overlap one another so as to be selectively collapsible or extendable relative to one another.

41. The modular reclining assembly of claim 11, wherein the adjustable outer frame of the reclining assembly is comprised of adjustable walls, and wherein one or more of the adjustable walls are comprised of (i) an upper U-shaped panel that is slidably mounted on (ii) a corresponding lower panel.

42. The modular lying assembly according to claim 11, wherein, In the wide mode, the length of the left panel and the right panel of the adjustable outer frame are each less than the length of the back panel of the adjustable outer frame, and wherein, in the deep mode, the length of the left panel and the right panel of the adjustable outer frame are each greater than the length of the back panel of the adjustable outer frame.

43. The modular recline assembly of claim 11, wherein the adjustable outer frame is configured to guide the recline mechanism into a desired position for docking the recline mechanism into the adjustable outer frame in either the wide mode or the deep mode.

44. The modular recline assembly of claim 11, wherein the adjustable outer frame has indicia indicating whether the adjustable outer frame is in the wide mode or the deep mode.

45. The modular recline assembly of claim 11, further comprising one or more outlet blockers in one or more walls of the adjustable outer frame.

46. The modular recline assembly of claim 11, wherein the adjustable outer frame has a middle support leg configured to be mounted on a support surface to provide weight stability.

47. The modular recline assembly of claim 11, wherein a seat deck is configured to be supported by the recline mechanism, and wherein the recline assembly further comprises a backrest that is selectively mountable into the seat deck, the backrest being selectively mountable to a short end of the deck in the deep mode or to a wide end of the deck in the wide mode, depending on whether the user wishes to use the recline mechanism in the deep mode or the wide mode.

48. The modular recline assembly of claim 11, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are both extension motors.

49. The modular recline assembly of claim 11, further comprising one or more housing portions covering the selectively extendable portion of the upper carriage.

50. The modular recline assembly of claim 11, wherein the recline mechanism has one or more cable channels for wiring at a bottom of the recline mechanism.

51. The modular recline assembly of claim 50, wherein one or more of the cable channels allow one or more cables to pass through for connection to one or more electronic devices, light fixtures, extension cords, or speakers.

52. The modular recline assembly of claim 11, wherein the recline mechanism has a recessed area for containing spring-loaded seat deck movement, the seat deck being mounted on the recline mechanism into the recessed area.

53. The modular recline assembly of claim 11, wherein a seat deck configured to be supported by the recline mechanism has springs for compressible support.

54. The modular recline assembly of claim 11, wherein the modular recline assembly is selectively coupleable to a non-recline base member of a modular furniture system, whether in the deep mode or the wide mode.

55. The modular recline assembly of claim 11, further comprising (i) a lift member movably attached to an upper carriage portion, (ii) a housing mounted on the lift member, and (iii) a seat deck selectively coupleable to the housing, wherein the seat deck includes one or more guides for selectively positioning the deck on the housing.

56. A modular reclining assembly comprising: an adjustable outer frame, the adjustable outer frame having a wide mode and a deep mode; a reclining mechanism configured to selectively recline a seat cushion supported by the reclining mechanism, the reclining mechanism having (a) a lower carriage portion, the lower carriage portion having a lower carriage portion frame to which a first actuator is attached; (b) an upper carriage portion coupled to the first actuator, the upper carriage portion selectively movable relative to the lower carriage portion, and (c) a lift member pivotally attached to the upper carriage portion, the reclining mechanism selectively couplable to the adjustable outer frame in either the wide mode or the deep mode, wherein: the upper carriage portion has (a) one or more footrest recline arms attached to a footrest; (b) a frame; and (c) a second actuator attached to the frame of the upper carriage portion, the second actuator configured to selectively move the one or more footrest recline arms and the footrest relative to the frame of the upper carriage portion; the lower carriage portion has a ramp upon which the lift member moves when the upper carriage portion is moved by the first actuator; and a seat cover installed on the lift member of the reclining mechanism; such that movement of the first actuator moves the upper carriage portion relative to the lower carriage portion, and movement of the second actuator moves the one or more footrest recline arms and the footrest relative to the frame of the upper carriage portion, and such that initial movement of the first actuator causes the free end of the lift member and the seat cushion supported by the reclining mechanism to lift off the footrest, thereby allowing the one or more footrest recline arms to push the footrest to an extended, reclined position without interference from the seat cushion supported by the reclining mechanism.

57. The modular reclining assembly of claim 56, wherein the seat cover is configured to be supported by the reclining mechanism, and wherein the reclining assembly further comprises a backrest selectively installable into the seat cover, the backrest selectively installable to a short end of the cover in the deep mode or to a wide end of the cover in the wide mode, depending on whether the user wishes to use the reclining mechanism in the deep mode or the wide mode.

58. The modular reclining assembly of claim 56, wherein the adjustable outer frame has a substantially U-shape, and wherein the footrest is selectively adjustable to fill an opening of the reclining mechanism into the adjustable outer frame when the reclining mechanism is pushed into the outer frame.

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