Kit for modular furniture elements that are recyclable

Abstract

The present invention relates to a kit for the construction of a modular furniture element having an internal compartment, comprising: a frame (10) provided with a plurality of horizontal and vertical bars (11, 12, 13); a plurality of first panels (20) for a lining of the internal compartment, made of composite material; one or more second panels (30) mechanically inserted and fixed to the frame (10) for defining the internal compartment; mechanical coupling means (40, 50) configured to couple each of the first panels (20) to a respective second panel (30). The composite material comprises polyester.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to the field of furniture components, and more particularly to a kit and a furniture component with internal compartments, the furniture component having modular parts and mechanical connections. Technical Field

[0002] In the furniture industry, especially for kitchen furniture components, there is an increasing focus on solutions that conform to the principles of circular economy and environmental sustainability.

[0003] Traditionally, kitchen furniture is made from a variety of materials, such as solid wood, wood derivatives, aluminum, steel, glass, marble, and plastic. Background Technology

[0004] Over the years, various technologies have been developed to improve the sustainability of these materials, such as using particleboard made from recycled wood or veneer, such as FSC or PEFC certified particleboard.

[0005] However, despite these efforts, some key issues remain that hinder the full application of circular economy principles in the kitchen and furniture industries.

[0006] In particular, many components are permanently connected by different materials, making their disassembly and recycling at the end of their service life difficult, if not impossible.

[0007] Such connections typically involve adhesives or glues.

[0008] Furthermore, kitchens are often custom systems with personalized components, which makes their disposal and reuse more complicated.

[0009] Even in products that use materials that are claimed to be recyclable, the use of glue for fixing significantly reduces the possibility of reuse and recycling.

[0010] Another problem is that once a kitchen is no longer in use, it is difficult to renovate and reuse it in a new environment, thus discouraging the purchase of new products.

[0011] Related prior art also includes patent applications WO97 / 26808A1, US2010 / 079042A1 and CN116423951A. Summary of the Invention

[0012] Given the prominent issues in the furniture industry (especially kitchens), there is a need to develop innovative solutions that fully embody the principles of a circular economy.

[0013] Therefore, the scope of this invention is to overcome the key problems of the prior art and solve the technical problem of how to manufacture modular furniture kits that achieve a synergistic balance between technical requirements and environmental sustainability. Specifically, this invention aims to reconcile: lightweight and structural robustness, high material sustainability, and full recyclability at the end of its life, so that its main components can be easily separated and reintroduced into the production cycle.

[0014] The solution to this problem represents a significant step toward furniture systems that fully adhere to the principles of a circular economy.

[0015] Kits for manufacturing furniture components that overcome current key challenges represent a significant step toward that goal. Such kits should allow for the manufacture of furniture with three fundamental properties: ease of disassembly, high reconfigurability, and full recyclability.

[0016] Simplified disassembly allows for targeted maintenance interventions, extending product lifespan. This feature can be further enhanced by using standardized quick-connectors that allow disassembly without the use of specialized tools.

[0017] The possibility of not needing to use special tools and the ease of assembly / disassembly are particularly advantageous aspects.

[0018] Furthermore, interchangeable modular components can be placed between different furniture elements, increasing the system's versatility.

[0019] Reconfigurability allows furniture to adapt to new spaces or needs, preventing premature obsolescence. This aspect can be enhanced by implementing a universal connection system that allows components to be combined in a variety of configurations.

[0020] The full recyclability of components will ensure that resources are recovered at the end of their life cycle, minimizing waste and environmental impact.

[0021] Finally, the scope of the invention is the manufacture of a furniture system or kit for its manufacture, which is formed from recyclable elements and free of glue or paint, which may affect its disposal and recyclability and thus have an adverse impact on the circular economy.

[0022] Combining these aspects in a single modular system would represent substantial innovation in the industry, aligning with the principles of sustainability and resource recycling in furniture production.

[0023] The kit can be further enhanced with rich digital applications that provide interactive assembly instructions, reconfigurability recommendations, and information on proper disposal or recycling of parts.

[0024] Purpose of the invention

[0025] In this article and below, “homogeneous material” should be understood to mean composite material in which one of the components is a plastic material, and these expressions will be used as corresponding to the same meaning.

[0026] In detail, homogeneous material is understood to refer to a single material, although the material may be composed of more than one type of component, but is regarded as a single material.

[0027] More specifically, in the following discussion, homogeneous materials are understood to refer to materials that are handled and managed as materials composed of individual components during recycling and reuse processes.

[0028] An example of a homogeneous material could be a composite material, in which one of the components is a plastic material.

[0029] In some cases, plastic material components may be the main component.

[0030] In some embodiments, the plastic material component may be made from a single material.

[0031] The values ​​of the plastic material components can vary depending on the embodiment and specific needs. In a first embodiment, it can be 30%, but in another embodiment, for example, it can also be 100%.

[0032] Therefore, the object of the present invention is a kit for constructing furniture elements having internal compartments. Such a kit advantageously includes: a frame provided with a plurality of horizontal bars, transverse bars, and / or vertical bars; a plurality of first panels for lining the internal compartments, made of a composite material, such as a composite material in which one component is a plastic material; one or more second panels mechanically inserted into and secured to the frame for defining the internal compartments; and mechanical coupling devices configured to connect each of the first panels to a corresponding second panel, wherein the homogeneous material comprises at least 30% recycled plastic, and the horizontal bars, transverse bars, and / or vertical bars are made of aluminum.

[0033] The combination of an aluminum frame and panels made with recycled plastics is not merely a collection of known components, but rather produces synergistic and unexpected technological effects. The high strength and light weight of aluminum provide ideal structural support for composite panels with at least 30% recycled plastics, without compromising the stability and durability of the overall furniture components.

[0034] Conversely, the use of such sustainable panels enables the robustness of the frame, allowing for circular goals that are impossible with traditional panels.

[0035] This invention thus resolves the technical bias that forces a choice between lightweight structures and material sustainability, and advantageously achieves both.

[0036] This kit allows for the creation of modular and fully detachable furniture components, facilitating the reuse and recycling of parts at the end of the product's life cycle, in line with the principles of a circular economy.

[0037] Preferably, the homogeneous material may include polyester.

[0038] Using a large amount of recycled materials helps reduce the environmental impact of products and promotes the reuse of existing resources.

[0039] Where appropriate, homogeneous materials can be fully recyclable.

[0040] The full recyclability of homogeneous materials further facilitates resource recovery and reuse at the end of the product's life cycle, minimizing waste.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the rod may be made of aluminum.

[0042] The use of aluminum rods ensures the structure's lightweight yet strong properties, and aluminum is also an easily recyclable material.

[0043] Suitable, the rods of the frame can be connected to each other by means of concealed joints and mechanical fastening devices.

[0044] This connection system allows for simple and quick assembly and disassembly without compromising structural stability and without integrating components that are difficult to remove.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the mechanical coupling device may include a first male element and a second female element.

[0046] This connection system allows for intuitive and safe panel assembly, facilitating any replacement or maintenance operations.

[0047] Preferably, the first element can be fixed to one of the second panels, and the second element can be fixed to a corresponding first panel, and vice versa.

[0048] This configuration offers assembly flexibility and allows for optimization of component placement based on specific needs.

[0049] Depending on the specific implementation, the mechanical connection device may be a press-fit connection device or a bayonet connection device.

[0050] The use of press-fit couplings or bayonet coupling systems allows for rapid assembly without the use of specific tools, simplifying and accelerating assembly and disassembly operations.

[0051] Advantageously, the kit may include plugs and / or legs that are attached to the end of the rod.

[0052] The addition of plugs and legs improves the stability and aesthetics of the finished product, while also protecting the surfaces on which furniture components are placed.

[0053] Another object of the present invention is a furniture element made according to a kit based on one or more of the foregoing aspects.

[0054] This furniture element offers all the advantages of a modular kit, providing a finished product that combines functionality, sustainability, and adaptability to user needs. Attached Figure Description

[0055] The invention will now be described by way of non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of some preferred embodiments thereof, wherein:

[0056] - Figure 1 A perspective view of a frame having horizontal, transverse, and vertical bars is shown according to a specific embodiment of the invention.

[0057] - Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of a frame having first and second panels according to one embodiment is shown.

[0058] - Figure 3 The illustration shows some components, particularly connecting devices, for manufacturing a kit of furniture elements according to a specific embodiment of the invention.

[0059] - Figure 4 Showing the manufacturing process Figure 3 Details of the furniture component kit.

[0060] - Figure 5A and Figure 5B Different mechanical connections between the panel and the coupling device according to different embodiments of the present invention are shown.

[0061] - Figure 6A and Figure 6B An exploded view of the frame components according to the present invention is shown.

[0062] - Figures 7A-7C Cross-sectional views of different rod profiles according to the present invention are shown.

[0063] - Figure 8A and Figure 8B Detailed views of some end components of the furniture kit according to the present invention are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0064] In different accompanying drawings, similar parts will be indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0065] In this article, "connection" should be understood as a link between two components. Connections can be direct, indirect, physical, or non-physical.

[0066] The word "connect" can be synonymous with one or more of the following: "link," "fasten," etc.

[0067] On the other hand, "insertion" is understood to mean positioning one component within or near another component. Insertion can be partial or complete.

[0068] The terms “horizontal” and “vertical” are used to indicate the relative orientation of components when they are in their normal use position, but should not be interpreted as limiting the absolute orientation of furniture components.

[0069] The term "internal compartment" refers to a space enclosed within a furniture element, which can be open or closed and can be used to house objects or for functional or aesthetic purposes.

[0070] as Figure 1 and Figure 2 The kit shown includes several main components for constructing modular furniture elements.

[0071] The kits for constructing modular furniture elements according to the invention are particularly suitable for manufacturing kitchen furniture elements.

[0072] Frame 10 forms the supporting structure for the furniture components. Like... Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown in detail, the frame 10 consists of a plurality of horizontal bars 11, 12 and vertical bars 13, which are connected to each other by means of concealed joints 14 and mechanical fastening elements 15. Figure 6A and Figure 6B ).

[0073] This configuration gives the frame 10 robustness and stability, while providing a universal base for the assembly of other components.

[0074] This aspect also ensures the complete modularity of furniture components and the possibility of manufacturing frames with a variety of different shapes as needed and required.

[0075] The kit also includes multiple first panels 20, in Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5A and Figure 5B As can be seen in the text.

[0076] Advantageously, the first panel 20 is designed for use as an external lining for furniture elements.

[0077] In a preferred embodiment, the first panel 20 is made of a homogeneous material.

[0078] In this embodiment, the material may include 30% recycled plastic.

[0079] This combination not only contributes to the product's environmental sustainability but also provides excellent mechanical and aesthetic performance.

[0080] Advantageously, the first panel 20 is 100% recyclable, which further facilitates their reintroduction into the production cycle at the end of the furniture component's lifespan.

[0081] In another embodiment, the homogeneous material includes polyester.

[0082] The kit also includes one or more second panels 30, as Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in the figure. These second panels 30 are designed to be inserted into and mechanically fixed to the frame 10, thereby defining the internal compartments of the furniture elements.

[0083] The second panel 30 contributes to the overall structure of the furniture components, providing stability and internal partitioning.

[0084] In fact, the second panel 30 defines one or more compartments for furniture elements. The compartments can be used to insert utensils or typical kitchen elements, or they can be used as compartments for storing objects, tools, food, etc.

[0085] The assembly of these components (frame 10, first panel 20 and second panel 30) forms a modular and flexible system that allows the construction of customizable furniture elements to be easily adapted to different needs and spaces.

[0086] refer to Figure 1 The frame 10 forms the supporting structure for the furniture elements and can be disassembled and modified by adding various parts.

[0087] The horizontal bars 11 and 12 and the vertical bar 13 are preferably made of aluminum.

[0088] In particular, frame 10 can use three types of extruded aluminum profiles to form different bars.

[0089] as Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, horizontal bars 11, 12 and vertical bars 13 are connected to each other to form the structure of frame 10.

[0090] Referring to these figures, the connection is achieved by means of a concealed connector 14 and a fastening device 15.

[0091] For example, referring to the accompanying drawings, a concealed connector 14 is inserted into one of the rods 12 of the frame and then secured to the rod 12 and at least one additional rod 12, 13 by means of a fastening device, which will be connected to the first rod 12.

[0092] Advantageously, the concealed connector 14 is configured to be easily detached, allowing the frame 10 to be disassembled without damaging its components.

[0093] To ensure a secure fastening, the system also includes a mechanical fastening device 15 for use in conjunction with the concealed joint 14. The mechanical fastening device 15 may be, for example, a screw or bolt, which further secures the connection between the rods of the frame 10.

[0094] The combination of concealed joint 14 and mechanical fastening device 15 allows for a robust and stable frame 10, which is also easy to disassemble when necessary. This connection and fastening system allows the frame 10 to be assembled and disassembled multiple times without compromising the structural integrity of the components.

[0095] Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 7C Cross sections with different profiles are shown for the horizontal bar 11, the transverse bar 12, and the vertical bar 13, respectively.

[0096] Advantageously, each type of bar can have a different profile, which is designed to engage with the other components of the frame 10.

[0097] Figure 8A and Figure 8B Some details of the end components of the frame 10 are shown, which are assembled by providing finishes to the ends and providing stable support for the structure.

[0098] Specifically, referring to the accompanying drawings, a leg 17 and a plug 16 are shown. The leg 17 is positioned at the end of the rod that contacts the ground or floor, while the plug 16 is positioned at the visible end of the rod that does not contact the ground or floor.

[0099] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The furniture components include multiple first panels 20 and multiple second structural panels 30 for lining.

[0100] The first panel 20 is configured to provide an outer lining for furniture elements. These first panels 20 are made of a homogeneous material that may include polyester.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, the first panel 20 has a thickness of 12 mm.

[0102] The first panel 20 is designed to be mechanically coupled by means of a mechanical coupling device (e.g., reference). Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5A and Figure 5B The connecting devices 40 and 50 are connected to the second panel 30.

[0103] The second panel 30 is a structural panel configured to be inserted into and mechanically fixed to the frame 10 to define the internal compartments of the furniture element.

[0104] This fixing can be accomplished, for example, with suitable screws.

[0105] as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the second panel 30 can be connected to the first panel 20 by means of a mechanical coupling system including the first element 41 and the second element 42.

[0106] Appropriately, the first element 41 can be "male" and the second element 42 can be "female", and vice versa.

[0107] A male component can be connected to the second panel 30, while a female component can be connected to the first panel 20, and vice versa.

[0108] The material and thickness of the second panel 30 can be selected based on the structural requirements of the furniture components.

[0109] The second panel 30 provides the internal structure and necessary support for the furniture elements, while the first panel 20 provides the aesthetic finish and external protection.

[0110] The use of panels for the internal structure and external lining, connected by mechanical links, allows for greater flexibility in the design and customization of furniture elements.

[0111] Furthermore, this configuration facilitates any assembly / disassembly, maintenance, or replacement of the panel.

[0112] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5A and Figure 5B This illustrates a connecting device for a furniture element according to the present invention.

[0113] The system advantageously includes a coupling device 40 that allows the first panel 20 and the second panel 30 to be connected in a safe and reversible manner.

[0114] Suitablely, the connecting device 40 can be a press-fit or bayonet type to allow for a secure yet easily reversible connection of the panels.

[0115] A mechanical coupling device 50 is also provided for fastening the front panel. Figure 5A and Figure 5B ).

[0116] Advantageously, the mechanical coupling device 50 has a reduced profile with a drilling depth of only 6 mm, which allows for the use of thinner panels compared to conventional standards.

[0117] as Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the mechanical connector 50 is connected to the first panel 20 to form a stable connection.

[0118] Figure 5A A side view showing a first embodiment of the mechanical coupling device 50 assembled on the first panel 20, and Figure 5B A second variation of the mechanical connector 50 that engages with the first panel 20 is shown.

[0119] This mechanical connection system allows for easy assembly and disassembly of the panels, while maintaining the structural integrity of the furniture through purely mechanical connections without the use of adhesives or permanent fasteners.

[0120] refer to Figures 8A-8B Kits used to construct furniture components include end pieces and support pieces that complete and stabilize the structure.

[0121] Specifically, the kit includes plugs 16 applied to the ends of the rods 11, 12, and 13 of the frame 10. The plugs 16 function to close and decorate the open ends of the rods, giving the furniture elements a better aesthetic appearance and protecting the ends of the rods.

[0122] In addition, the kit includes legs 17 fixed to the base of the frame 10. Legs 17 function to support and stabilize the entire structure of the furniture elements.

[0123] In a particular embodiment, the support leg 17 has a specific height that allows access to areas typically covered by the base. This feature allows for greater flexibility in the use and cleaning of the space beneath the furniture element.

[0124] The plug 16 and the support 17 can be made of a material compatible with the rest of the structure, such as aluminum or plastic.

[0125] In some cases, the height of the support leg 17 can be adjusted to allow furniture elements to be leveled on uneven surfaces.

[0126] The use of plugs 16 and legs 17 helps to complete the structure of furniture elements, improve their aesthetic appearance, functionality, and stability.

[0127] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5A and Figure 5B The assembly process for the kits used to construct modular furniture components will now be described.

[0128] The operator first assembles the frame 10 using horizontal bars 11, 12 and vertical bars 13. The bars are connected to each other by means of concealed joints 14 and mechanical fastening elements 15, forming a robust modular structure.

[0129] End plugs 16 and legs 17 can be applied to the ends of rods 11, 12, and 13 to complete and stabilize the frame.

[0130] Subsequently, the operator inserts and mechanically secures one or more second panels 30 to the frame 10, which define the internal compartments of the furniture element.

[0131] These second panels 30 can be easily removed or repositioned as needed, ensuring the modularity of the system.

[0132] The second panel 30 is arranged according to the furniture elements to be obtained, for example, based on the presence of appliances or the intended use of the compartment.

[0133] For the outer lining, the operator uses multiple first panels 20 made of recyclable homogeneous material.

[0134] These first panels 20 are connected to the second panel 30 by means of a mechanical coupling system consisting of mechanical coupling devices 40 and / or 50.

[0135] This assembly system has many advantages:

[0136] 1. Modular design: The frame structure and mechanical connections allow for easy assembly / disassembly and easy reconfiguration of furniture components according to the user's needs.

[0137] 2. Recyclability: The use of recyclable homogeneous materials for the first panel 20 and the absence of glue and adhesives facilitate the recycling of components at the end of the product's life cycle.

[0138] 3. Easy assembly and disassembly: Mechanical connections allow for quick and easy assembly and disassembly without the need for special tools.

[0139] 4. Replaceable parts: In the event of damage, individual parts can be easily replaced without having to replace the entire furniture component.

[0140] 5. Transportability: The modular nature of the system allows for easy disassembly and transportation, followed by reassembly at a new location.

[0141] The method of constructing furniture elements of this type promotes the principles of a circular economy, reduces waste, and extends the lifespan of products.

[0142] The invention thus conceived and described herein is susceptible to a variety of modifications and variations, all of which fall within the scope of the inventive concept.

[0143] Furthermore, all the details can be replaced by other technically equivalent components.

[0144] Finally, the components used (provided they are compatible with the specific purpose and size) can be any components according to the requirements and conditions of the prior art.

[0145] If any feature or technique mentioned in any claim is followed by a reference numeral, the sole purpose of including such reference numerals is to increase the comprehensibility of the claim; therefore, these reference numerals do not limit the interpretation of each element identified by such reference numerals by way of example.

Claims

1. A kit for constructing modular furniture elements with internal compartments, comprising: - A frame (10) with multiple horizontal bars (11), transverse bars (12) and / or vertical bars (13). - A plurality of first panels (20) for lining the internal compartment, the first panels being made of a composite material in which one of the components is a plastic material; - One or more second panels (30), the second panels being configured to be mechanically inserted and secured to the frame (10) for defining the internal compartment; - Mechanical coupling devices (40, 50), which are configured to connect each of the first panels (20) to a corresponding second panel (30). Its features are: - The composite material comprises at least 30% recycled plastic; - The horizontal bar (11), cross bar (12) and / or vertical bar (13) are made of aluminum; - The composite material is fully recyclable.

2. The kit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The composite material includes polyester.

3. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The horizontal bar (11), the transverse bar (12), and the vertical bar (13) are made of aluminum.

4. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The horizontal bars (11), crossbars (12) and vertical bars (13) of the frame (10) are connected to each other by means of concealed joints (14) and / or mechanical fastening devices (15).

5. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The mechanical coupling device (40, 50) includes a first male element (41) and a second female element (42).

6. The kit according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first element (41) is fixed to one or more second panels (30) and the second element (42) is fixed to the corresponding first panel (20), and vice versa.

7. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The mechanical connecting devices (40, 50) are press-fit connecting devices or bayonet connecting devices.

8. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, Includes plugs (16) and / or legs (17) connected to the ends of the horizontal bar (11), crossbar (12) and vertical bar (13).

9. A furniture element made from a kit according to any one of the preceding claims, particularly a furniture element for a kitchen.

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