Packagable assembly comprising a device

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a packagable assembly including a device. The device comprises a body (101) comprising one or more openings or grooves (102); one or more support members (103) insertable into the one or more openings or grooves of the body; one or more additional support members (104) positioned outside or away from the one or more openings or grooves of the body; and one or more attachment mechanisms (105) configured to removably couple the one or more support members to the one or more additional support members to provide structural support for the body. The present disclosure enhances transportability and packagability without compromising manufacturing quality, comfort, and structural integrity / stability.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] Furniture that cannot be folded for portability or storage, or cannot be compressed into a small volume, can be difficult to transport and use. Packability and transportability of furniture is important for shipping / transportation and storage purposes. Packable furniture can require one or more support structures (e.g., frames, rods, or other load-bearing members) to provide support and stability during use. SUMMARY

[0002] The present disclosure provides packable assemblies and support members for packable assemblies. Packable assemblies can include one or more pieces of furniture. Packable assemblies can include one or more components of one or more pieces of furniture. Furniture can include, for example, a two-person sofa, a sofa, a chair, a chaise, or any other type of furniture that can be used to support a load (e.g., a load exerted by an object or an end user sitting or lying on the furniture). The presently disclosed support members for packable assemblies can be configured to provide additional structural support to a packable assembly when the packable assembly is unfolded by a customer. The support members can be separable from other components of one or more packable assemblies to enhance transportability and packability without loss of manufacturing quality, comfort, or structural integrity / stability. The support members can be easily integrated with and / or separated from other components of one or more packable assemblies without requiring the use of specialized tools or complex assembly or disassembly procedures.

[0003] Commercially available furniture often sacrifices manufacturing quality, comfort, and / or structural integrity or stability to improve transportability and packability. The various limitations of currently available packable furniture assemblies are acknowledged herein. The present disclosure aims to overcome the shortcomings and technical disadvantages of commercially available packable furniture assemblies by providing devices that can be easily disassembled and packed into a compact volume for storage or shipping / transportation without loss of manufacturing quality, structural stability, or comfort for end users. The packable assemblies, support members, and other devices disclosed herein can provide manufacturers, shippers, and / or vendors the ability to separate a first portion of furniture, which can include a main body of the furniture, from a second portion of the furniture, which can include one or more structural components of the furniture, for ease of storage and / or transportation. The packable assemblies, support members, and other devices disclosed herein can also provide end users (e.g., customers) the ability to integrate the second portion of the furniture with the first portion of the furniture to form the furniture and provide additional support, stability, or comfort when using the furniture.

[0004] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a device comprising: a body comprising one or more openings or recesses; one or more support members insertable into the one or more openings or recesses of the body; one or more additional support members positioned external to or distal from the one or more openings or recesses of the body; and one or more attachment mechanisms configured to detachably couple the one or more support members to the one or more additional support members to provide structural support to the body. In some embodiments, the one or more additional support members comprise one or more apertures through which at least a portion of the one or more attachment mechanisms are insertable. In some embodiments, the one or more attachment mechanisms are insertable through the one or more apertures of the additional support members to couple the one or more additional support members to the one or more support members.

[0005] In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more leg members coupled to or integrated with the one or more attachment mechanisms. In some embodiments, the one or more attachment mechanisms are (i) insertable through the one or more apertures of the additional support members and (ii) configured to couple the one or more leg members and / or the one or more additional support members to the one or more support members. In some embodiments, the one or more attachment mechanisms comprise the one or more leg members. In some embodiments, the one or more additional support members are configured as one or more leg stands that elevate the body relative to a surface on which the one or more additional support members are placed. In some embodiments, the one or more attachment mechanisms comprise screws or bolts.

[0006] In some embodiments, the one or more support members are positioned and oriented at an angle relative to the one or more additional support members. In some embodiments, the one or more support members are perpendicular or orthogonal to the one or more additional support members. In some embodiments, the one or more attachment mechanisms are configured to limit or constrain movement of the one or more support members relative to the one or more additional support members when the one or more attachment mechanisms are inserted through the one or more apertures of the one or more additional support members to couple the one or more additional support members to the one or more support members.

[0007] In some embodiments, the device further comprises (i) a second body comprising one or more openings or recesses, and (ii) one or more lateral support members insertable into the one or more openings or recesses of the second body. In some embodiments, the device further comprises (iii) one or more additional lateral support members positioned outside of or distal from the one or more openings or recesses of the second body, and (iv) one or more additional attachment mechanisms configured to detachably couple the one or more lateral support members to the one or more additional lateral support members to provide structural support to the second body. In some embodiments, the one or more additional attachment mechanisms comprise screws or bolts.

[0008] In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more additional leg members coupled to or integrated with the one or more additional attachment mechanisms. In some embodiments, the one or more additional attachment mechanisms are (i) insertable through one or more holes of the one or more additional lateral support members and (ii) configured to couple the one or more additional leg members and / or the one or more additional lateral support members to the one or more lateral support members. In some embodiments, the one or more additional attachment mechanisms comprise the one or more additional leg members. In some embodiments, the one or more additional lateral support members are configured as one or more additional leg rests that elevate the second body relative to a surface on which the one or more additional lateral support members are placed.

[0009] In some embodiments, the device further comprises one or more connectors configured to detachably couple the body to the second body. In some embodiments, the one or more connectors comprise a latch. In some embodiments, the latch is configured to detachably couple at least one leg member of the body to at least one leg member of the second body to limit or constrain movement of the body relative to the second body.

[0010] In some embodiments, the body comprises a foam material. In some embodiments, the body is vacuum packable. In some embodiments, the body comprises at least a portion of furniture. In some embodiments, the furniture comprises a sofa, a loveseat, or a chair.

[0011] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a device comprising: a body; one or more armrests; and one or more connection mechanisms for coupling or securing the one or more armrests to one or more structural components inserted through or into one or more recesses of the body. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the one or more connection mechanisms are insertable into one or more recesses of the one or more armrests.

[0012] In some embodiments, the one or more connection mechanisms include one or more wedges secured to one or more plates, wherein the one or more plates are insertable into one or more armrests to provide structural support to the one or more armrests. In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes a set of additional wedges configured to combine with the one or more wedges secured to the one or more plates to limit or constrain movement of the one or more armrests relative to the body. In some embodiments, the one or more plates are configured to couple to one or more structural components to limit or constrain movement of the one or more armrests relative to the body, the one or more structural components coupled to or inserted through or into the body, wherein the one or more structural components include one or more support members for the body. In some embodiments, the one or more support members are insertable into the body. In some embodiments, the one or more support members extend along a length of the body. In some embodiments, the one or more support members extend along a width of the body. In some embodiments, the one or more additional wedges are configured to couple to or attach to one or more structural components, the one or more structural components coupled to or inserted through or into the body, wherein the one or more structural components include one or more support members for the body.

[0013] In some embodiments, at least one of (i) the body or (ii) the one or more armrests includes a foam material. In some embodiments, the foam material is vacuum packable.

[0014] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method comprising: (a) providing furniture, wherein the furniture includes a body, the body including one or more openings or recesses; (b) inserting one or more support members into the one or more openings or recesses of the body; and (c) detachably coupling one or more additional support members to the one or more support members using one or more attachment mechanisms to provide structural support to the body, wherein the one or more additional support members are positioned outside of or away from the one or more openings or recesses. In some embodiments, the furniture includes a sofa, a loveseat, or a chair. In some embodiments, the body includes a foam material. In some embodiments, the body is vacuum packable. In some embodiments, the one or more openings or recesses of the body are formed by foam auto-cutting.

[0015] In some embodiments, the one or more attachment mechanisms are (i) insertable through one or more holes of the additional support members and (ii) configured to couple the one or more additional support members to the one or more support members. In some embodiments, the one or more attachment mechanisms include screws or bolts.

[0016] In some embodiments, the method can further include detachably coupling the body to a second body corresponding to another portion of the furniture or another furniture using one or more connectors. In some embodiments, the one or more connectors include a latch configured to detachably couple at least one leg member of the body to at least one leg member of the second body to limit or constrain movement of the body relative to the second body.

[0017] In some embodiments, the method can further include inserting one or more panels into one or more armrests of the body to provide structural support for the one or more armrests. In some embodiments, the one or more panels have one or more wedges secured thereto, and the one or more wedges are configured to couple to one or more support members inserted within the body to limit or constrain movement of the one or more armrests relative to the body.

[0018] Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description, which is only illustrative of specific embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be appreciated that the present disclosure is capable of variations and modifications other than those specifically set forth herein, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not restrictive.

[0019] Incorporation by Reference

[0020] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. To the extent there is a contradiction between the disclosure herein and the disclosure contained in any publication, patent or patent application incorporated by reference herein, the present specification shall control.

[0021] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The novel features of the application are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present application will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the application are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

[0023] Figures 1-2 An apparatus including a body and one or more support members is schematically illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0024] Figures 3-4 One or more support members and one or more additional support members coupled together using one or more attachment mechanisms are schematically illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0025] Figures 5-7 An apparatus including a main body and a second body is schematically illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0026] Figure 8 An apparatus including a main body and a second body that can be detachably coupled using a connector is schematically illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0027] Figures 9-11 One or more lateral support members for a second body and one or more additional lateral support members that can be coupled to the one or more lateral support members using one or more additional attachment mechanisms are schematically illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0028] Figure 12 One or more support members that can be configured as leg rests to elevate a main body of furniture relative to a surface on which the furniture is placed are schematically illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0029] Figures 13-14 An apparatus including one or more armrests is schematically illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0030] Figures 15-17 One or more panels that can be inserted into one or more armrests of an apparatus are schematically illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0031] Figure 18 An example of a panel that can be inserted into a recess of an armrest is schematically illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0032] Figure 19 An example of a first panel that is inserted into an opening within a foam body and a second panel that is coupled to the first panel using an attachment mechanism is schematically illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0033] Figure 20 An example of a panel having a T-shaped cross-section is schematically illustrated in accordance with some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] While various embodiments of the application have been shown and described herein, it is to be understood that the application has been presented by way of example only. Numerous changes, substitutions and equivalents will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the application. It is thus intended that the application not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but that the application will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the application.

[0035] The present disclosure overcomes the shortcomings and technical disadvantages of commercially available furniture that can be difficult to ship in a compact volume. Further, many commercially available packable furniture can lose structural stability or overall manufacturing quality to enhance transportability, which can be dangerous and / or uncomfortable to the end user or customer.

[0036] Disclosed herein are various examples of devices that can be packed into a compact volume for storage or shipping / transportation without losing manufacturing quality, structural stability, or end user comfort. The packable assemblies, support members, and other devices of the present disclosure can provide manufacturers, shippers, and / or suppliers the ability to separate a first portion of furniture, which can include a main body of the furniture, from a second portion of the furniture, which can include one or more structural components of the furniture, to facilitate storage and / or transportation. The packable assemblies, support members, and other devices disclosed herein can also provide end users (e.g., customers) the ability to integrate the second portion of the furniture with the first portion of the furniture to form the furniture and provide additional support, stability, or comfort when using the furniture.

[0037] When the term“at least,”“greater than,” or“greater than or equal to” precedes the first numerical value in a series of two or more numerical values, the term“at least,”“greater than,” or“greater than or equal to” applies to each of the numerical values in that series of numerical values. For example, greater than or equal to 1, 2, or 3 is equivalent to greater than or equal to 1, greater than or equal to 2, or greater than or equal to 3.

[0038] When the term“not greater than,”“less than,” or“less than or equal to” precedes the first numerical value in a series of two or more numerical values, the term“not greater than,”“less than,” or“less than or equal to” applies to each of the numerical values in that series of numerical values. For example, less than or equal to 3, 2, or 1 is equivalent to less than or equal to 3, less than or equal to 2, or less than or equal to 1.

[0039] Packable assembly

[0040] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a packable assembly. Examples of the packable assembly are described in Figure 1 , Figure 5 and Figure 13As shown in the figure. A packageable component may include a device comprising a body having one or more openings or recesses. In some embodiments, the device may further include one or more support members that are insertable into one or more openings or recesses of the body. In some embodiments, the device may further include one or more additional support members positioned outside or away from one or more openings or recesses of the body. In some embodiments, the device may further include one or more attachment mechanisms configured to detachably attach one or more support members to one or more additional support members to provide structural support for the body.

[0041] main body

[0042] refer to Figure 1 The packageable component may include device 100, which includes a body 101. Body 101 may include at least a portion of furniture. The furniture may be, for example, a sofa, a two-seater sofa, or a chair.

[0043] In some cases, the body may include a foam material. The foam material may include, for example, polyurethane foam, polyethylene foam, cross-linked polyethylene foam, or mesh foam. The foam material may include any type of open-cell foam. Alternatively, the foam material may include any type of closed-cell foam.

[0044] In some cases, the body may be vacuum-packable. A vacuum-packable body may have a volume compression ratio of X:1, where X ranges from 1.1 to 100, and where X represents a factor by which the volume of the uncompressed foam is reduced when the foam is compressed (e.g., using a vacuum packaging device or system).

[0045] Opening / Groove

[0046] In some embodiments, the body may include one or more openings or recesses. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the body 101 may include one or more openings or recesses 102 extending through at least a portion of the body 101. The size and shape of the one or more openings or recesses 102 may accommodate one or more support members 103. The one or more support members 103 may be inserted into one or more recesses 102 of the body 101. When inserted into one or more recesses 102, the one or more support members 103 may extend through at least a portion of the body 101. In some cases, the one or more support members 103 may extend through the length, width, and / or height of the body 101 or any other component of the device / packageable assembly attached to or integrated into the body 101 (e.g., a second body and / or one or more handrails as described elsewhere herein).

[0047] In any of the embodiments described herein, the opening or recess can provide a passage or pathway between a first portion or surface of the body (or second body) and a second portion or surface of the body (or second body). The passage or pathway can allow an object (e.g., a support member or any other suitably sized or shaped structural component) to pass through the body (or second body). In some cases, the passage or pathway can allow an object to be inserted into or through at least a portion of the body (or second body).

[0048] In any of the embodiments described herein, the opening or recess can include, for example, a cutout in or through the body or second body. The cutout can extend at least partially through a portion or volume of the body or second body. In some cases, the opening or recess can include a cutout that extends completely through the body or second body. In other cases, the opening or recess can include a cutout that extends only partially through the body or second body. In some cases, the opening or recess can include a slit or slot within the body or second body. The slit or slot can be sized and / or shaped to accommodate an object (e.g., a support member as described elsewhere herein). In some cases, the opening or recess can include an opening through which a support member (e.g., a support member or lateral support member as described elsewhere herein) can be inserted. In some cases, the opening or recess can include a hole through which a support member can be inserted. In any of the embodiments described herein, the opening or recess can allow an object (e.g., a support member or any other suitably sized or shaped structural component) to pass through the body or second body. In some cases, the opening or recess can provide a passage or pathway that allows an object to be inserted into or through at least a portion of the body or second body.

[0049] The opening or recess can include a variety of different shapes and sizes. For example, the opening or recess can include a straight profile and / or a curved profile. In some cases, the opening or recess can include a plurality of straight portions, a plurality of curved portions, or any combination of straight portions and curved portions. In some cases, the opening or recess can include two or more straight portions that intersect or overlap one another. The two or more straight portions can form, for example, an L-shaped opening or recess. Alternatively, in some non-limiting embodiments, the two or more straight portions can form a T-shaped opening or recess.

[0050] The openings or recesses described herein can include any cross-sectional shape or profile. The cross-sectional shape or profile can include a regular shape or an irregular shape having three or more sides. The cross-sectional shape can not be or need not be symmetrical. The cross-sectional shape or profile can include any combination of straight and non-straight portions or regions. In some cases, the cross-sectional shape can include rounded edges, chamfered edges, or filleted edges. In other cases, the cross-sectional shape can include one or more straight edges or right angles.

[0051] In some embodiments, the openings or recesses can include L-shaped openings or recesses. The L-shaped openings or recesses can include a first portion extending along a longitudinal length of the body or second body and a second portion perpendicular to the first portion. In some cases, the openings or recesses can include T-shaped openings or recesses. The T-shaped openings or recesses can include a first portion extending along a longitudinal length of the body or second body and a second portion perpendicular to the first portion.

[0052] In some cases, the openings or recesses can include a plurality of openings or recesses arranged adjacent to one another or in parallel (e.g., to form a collective shape). The plurality of openings or recesses can include the same or similar shape. In some cases, the plurality of openings or recesses can include different sizes and / or different shapes.

[0053] In some cases, the plurality of openings or recesses can include a longitudinal portion and one or more portions arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal portion. The one or more portions arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal portion can include two or more portions distributed or disposed along a length of the longitudinal portion. In some cases, the two or more portions arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal portion can be (i) positioned along different portions or regions of the longitudinal portion and / or (ii) angled at different orientations relative to the longitudinal portion. In other cases, the two or more portions arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal portion can be (i) positioned along the same portion or region of the longitudinal portion and / or (ii) angled at the same orientation relative to the longitudinal portion.

[0054] In some cases, the openings or recesses can be sized and shaped to allow an object (e.g., a support member or a lateral support member) to be inserted through the body. In some cases, the cross-sectional shape of the openings or recesses can include the same or similar shape as the support members of the present disclosure.

[0055] In some cases, the openings or recesses can be formed by foam auto-cutting. In some cases, the perimeter of the openings or recesses formed by foam auto-cutting can not be completely closed. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the perimeter of the openings or recesses formed by foam auto-cutting can include one or more gaps or openings. Figure 20As shown, the opening or recess can be formed from two or more separable pieces or portions of foam that can be separated to form an aperture that allows the attachment mechanism to couple to or attach to the support member or lateral support member in the opening or recess of the insert body and / or second body.

[0056] Support member / additional support member

[0057] In some embodiments, the device can further include one or more support members that are insertable into one or more openings or recesses of the body. In some embodiments, the one or more support members can be positioned and oriented at an angle relative to one or more additional support members that are positioned outside of the one or more openings or recesses. In some cases, the one or more support members can be perpendicular or orthogonal to the one or more additional support members.

[0058] In some embodiments, the device can further include one or more additional support members that are positioned outside of or away from one or more openings or recesses of the body. In some cases, the one or more additional support members can include one or more holes through which at least a portion of one or more attachment mechanisms are insertable to secure the support member and additional support member. In some cases, the one or more additional support members can be configured as one or more leg rests that elevate the body relative to a surface on which the one or more additional support members are placed.

[0059] The support members described and referenced herein can provide support for at least a portion or body of the device. In any of the embodiments described herein, the one or more support members can be configured to provide additional structural support and rigidity to portions of the furniture (e.g., top, bottom, front, back, left, and / or right portions of the furniture).

[0060] Figure 3 and Figure 4 One or more support members 103 and one or more additional support members 104 that can be used to provide additional structural support to the body 101 are shown. The one or more support members 103 are insertable into one or more openings or recesses of the body 101. The one or more additional support members 104 are positionable outside of the one or more recesses of the body 101. The one or more support members 103 and the one or more additional support members 104 can be coupled to one another using one or more attachment mechanisms 105, as shown. Figure 4

[0061] ​In any of the embodiments described herein, the support member and / or the additional support member can comprise an elongated component. The elongated component can comprise a beam or member having any cross-sectional shape. For example, the elongated component can have a cross-sectional shape comprising a circle, an ellipse, an oval, or any polygon having three or more sides. In some non-limiting embodiments, the polygon can comprise a triangle, a square, a rectangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, a heptagon, or an octagon. In some cases, the cross-sectional shape can comprise one or more straight portions and / or one or more non-straight or curved portions. In some cases, the cross-sectional shape can comprise a T-shape, a cross-shape, or an L-shape. In some embodiments, the elongated component can comprise a circular cylinder or a circular profile. In other embodiments, the elongated component can comprise a rectangular prism.

[0062] Attachment mechanism

[0063] In some embodiments, the device can further comprise one or more attachment mechanisms configured to detachably couple one or more support members to one or more additional support members to provide structural support to the subject. In some cases, the one or more attachment mechanisms comprise a screw or a bolt.

[0064] The one or more attachment mechanisms can be insertable through one or more holes of the additional support member to couple the one or more additional support members to the one or more support members. In some cases, the one or more attachment mechanisms can be configured to limit or constrain movement of the one or more support members relative to the one or more additional support members (or vice versa) when the one or more attachment mechanisms are inserted through the one or more holes of the one or more additional support members to couple the one or more additional support members to the one or more support members.

[0065] Leg member

[0066] In some embodiments, the device can further comprise one or more leg members. In some cases, the one or more leg members can be coupled to or integrated with the one or more attachment mechanisms. In some cases, the one or more attachment mechanisms can be (i) insertable through one or more holes of the additional support member and (ii) configured to couple the one or more leg members and / or the one or more additional support members to the one or more support members. In some cases, the one or more attachment mechanisms can comprise the one or more leg members. As described elsewhere herein, in some cases, the one or more additional support members of the device can be configured as one or more leg supports configured to elevate the subject relative to a surface on which the one or more additional support members are placed.

[0067] Figure 4Examples of devices including one or more leg members 106 are shown. In some cases, one or more attachment mechanisms 105 can include one or more leg members 106. In some cases, one or more attachment mechanisms 105 can be coupled to one or more leg members 106. In some cases, one or more leg members 106 can be integrated with one or more attachment mechanisms 105.

[0068] Second body

[0069] In some embodiments, the device can also include a second body. The second body can include furniture (or a portion thereof or a component thereof). The second body can be detachably coupled to the body to form furniture or a combination furniture. In some cases, the combination furniture can include at least two or more pieces of furniture attached together. In other cases, the combination furniture can include at least two or more components or portions of a single piece of furniture that are capable of being combined or attached together to form the single piece of furniture (e.g., an L-shaped sofa).

[0070] Examples of devices including a body 101 and a second body 201 are shown in Figures 5-8 In some cases, the body 101 can include a first section of a sofa, and the second body 210 can include a second section of the sofa. The first section of the sofa can extend in a first direction. The second section of the sofa can extend in a second direction that is different from the first direction. The first direction can or can not be perpendicular to the second direction. In some cases, the first direction can be arranged at an angle relative to the second direction. The angle can be in a range of 1 degree to 180 degrees. In some cases, the first section of the sofa can allow multiple users to sit in the first direction (e.g., one after another or in sequence). In some cases, the second section of the sofa can allow one or more users to sit with their legs extended in the second direction. The body 101 and the second body 201 can be coupled together using one or more connectors 300, as shown in Figure 8 .

[0071] Referring Figure 9 , in some embodiments, the second body 201 can include one or more openings or recesses. The one or more openings or recesses 202 can extend along a portion of the second body 201. In some cases, the one or more openings or recesses 202 can extend along a length, a width, and / or a height of the second body 201.

[0072] Lateral support members

[0073] In some embodiments, the device can also include one or more support members for the second body. As shown in Figure 9 , one or more lateral support members 203 can be inserted into the one or more openings or recesses 202 of the second body 201.

[0074] Additional lateral support members

[0075] In some embodiments, the device can further include one or more additional lateral support members positioned outside of or distanced from the one or more openings or recesses of the second body. The one or more lateral support members 203 and the one or more additional lateral support members 204 can be used to provide additional structural support for the second body. As shown, the one or more lateral support members 203 and the one or more additional lateral support members 204 can be coupled to each other using one or more attachment mechanisms 205. Figures 10-11

[0076] Additional attachment mechanisms

[0077] In some embodiments, the device can further include one or more additional attachment mechanisms. The additional attachment mechanisms can be configured to detachably couple the one or more lateral support members for the second body to the one or more additional lateral support members for the second body to provide structural support for the second body. In some cases, the one or more additional attachment mechanisms include screws or bolts.

[0078] In some cases, the one or more additional attachment mechanisms can be (i) inserted through one or more holes of the one or more additional lateral support members and (ii) configured to couple the one or more additional leg members and / or the one or more additional lateral support members to the one or more lateral support members for the second body.

[0079] Additional leg members

[0080] In some embodiments, the device can further include one or more additional leg members coupled to or integrated with the one or more additional attachment mechanisms. In other embodiments, the one or more additional attachment mechanisms described above can include one or more additional leg members. Alternatively, the one or more additional lateral support members can be configured as one or more additional leg supports that elevate the second body relative to a surface on which the one or more additional lateral support members are placed.

[0081] Referring back to Figures 10-11 In some embodiments, the device can include one or more additional leg members 206. In some cases, the one or more additional attachment mechanisms 205 can include the one or more additional leg members 206. In some cases, the one or more additional attachment mechanisms 205 can be coupled to the one or more additional leg members 206. In some cases, the one or more additional leg members 206 can be integrated with the one or more additional attachment mechanisms 205.

[0082] Connectors​

[0083] In some embodiments, the device can also include one or more connectors configured to detachably couple the body or components thereof to the second body or components thereof. In some cases, the one or more connectors can include a latch. The latch can be configured to detachably couple at least a portion of the body (e.g., a leg member of the body) to at least a portion of the second body (e.g., a leg member of the second body). Such coupling can be used to limit or constrain movement of the body relative to the second body.

[0084] Figure 8 An exemplary configuration is shown in which the body 101 and the second body 201 can be coupled together using one or more connectors 300. In some cases, multiple connectors can be used to couple multiple portions of the body together with the second body. In other cases, multiple connectors can be used to couple (i) multiple components integrated with or coupled to the body and (ii) multiple components integrated with or coupled to the second body. Such coupling can include, for example, detachable coupling that can be joined or separated through physical motion (e.g., twisting, turning, pushing, pulling, or any other lateral or rotational motion in three-dimensional space).

[0085] In some cases, the connectors can include a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can allow a user to selectively lock portions of the body and the second body to one another to constrain movement of the body relative to the second body, or vice versa. The locking mechanism can allow a user to provide an input (e.g., a pushing force, or in some alternative embodiments, a pulling force or a rotational force) to unlock one or more connectors, thereby allowing relative movement of the body relative to the second body. In some cases, when a user provides a first input to lock the locking mechanism, the locking mechanism can lock or constrain movement of the body and the second body, and when a user provides a second input to unlock the locking mechanism, the body can be subsequently allowed to move relative to the second body (or vice versa). The first input and the second input can include counteracting movement or movement in opposite / relative directions. In some cases, the first input and the second input can include similar inputs or similar types of inputs.

[0086] Leg Supports

[0087] In any of the embodiments described herein, the support member, additional support member, lateral support member, and / or additional lateral support member can be configured as a leg support that raises the body or the second body from the ground or surface on which the support member is placed. Figure 12 A bottom view of a device including one or more members 111 that can be configured as one or more leg supports is shown. The one or more leg supports can be configured to raise the first body and / or the second body relative to a surface on which the one or more members 111 are placed.

[0088] In some embodiments, the one or more members 111 can include one or more additional support members 104 (e.g., as shown in Figure 3 Figure 11 In any case, the one or more members 111 can include one or more structural members or beams that are external, outside, or distal from one or more openings or recesses of the main body or second main body. The one or more members 111 can be coupled to the one or more support members 103 (e.g., as shown in Figure 3 Figure 11 In some cases, the one or more attachment mechanisms 222 can include a brace (e.g., a filler or elastic material) to prevent damage to the one or more members 111 or a surface on which the one or more members 111 are placed.

[0089] Handrails

[0090] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides an apparatus comprising a main body, one or more handrails, and one or more connection mechanisms for coupling or securing the one or more handrails to the main body (e.g., directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediate components coupled to or inserted into the main body). In some embodiments, the one or more connection mechanisms can be configured to couple or secure the one or more handrails to one or more structural components that are inserted through or into one or more recesses or openings of the main body. Further, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the one or more connection mechanisms can be inserted into one or more recesses or openings of the one or more handrails. Figures 13-14 An example of an apparatus comprising a main body 401 and one or more handrails 402 is shown. The one or more handrails 402 can be integrated with or detachably coupled to the main body 401. In any of the embodiments described herein, the main body and / or the one or more handrails can comprise a foam material. In some cases, the foam material can be vacuum packable.

[0091] Connection mechanisms / wedges / plates

[0092] In some cases, the connection mechanisms can include one or more wedges. The one or more wedges can be secured to one or more plates that are insertable into the one or more handrails (e.g., through one or more openings or recesses in the handrails) to provide additional structural support to the one or more handrails. Figure 15 An example of one or more plates 501 that are insertable into the one or more handrails to provide additional structural support to the one or more handrails is shown.​​Figures 16-17 An exemplary configuration is shown in which one or more cleats 502 can be secured to one or more panels 501 that can be inserted into one or more handrails to provide additional structural support to the one or more handrails. The cleats can be configured to catch on or couple to (i) a portion of the body, (ii) one or more structural components within the body, or (iii) one or more components that are inserted through / into the body (e.g., inserted through or into one or more grooves or openings provided in the body) in order to secure the one or more panels and lock the position and / or orientation of the one or more panels within the one or more handrails. In some embodiments, the cleats 502 secured to the one or more panels 501 can couple to a set of cleats 504 that are attached to one or more support members 503 provided within or inserted through the body.

[0093] In some embodiments, the body (or one or more structural components that are inserted through or into one or more grooves of the body) can include or can couple to a set of additional cleats 504 that are configured to work in conjunction with the one or more cleats 502 secured to the one or more panels 501 in order to limit or constrain movement of the one or more handrails relative to the body. In some embodiments, the one or more panels 501 and / or the one or more cleats 502 secured to the one or more panels 501 can couple to or attach to one or more structural components of the body or the entire device (e.g., furniture) to provide additional support to the body or the entire device.

[0094] Support members

[0095] In some embodiments, the device can include one or more support members that can be inserted into one or more grooves or openings in the body to provide additional structural support to the body or a portion thereof. In some cases, the one or more support members can extend along the length of the body. In other cases, the one or more support members can extend along the width of the body. In any of the embodiments described herein, the one or more support members can include a beam or a rod that extends through at least a portion of the body. In any of the embodiments described herein, the one or more support members can include a beam or a rod that couples to or attaches to at least a portion of the body. Figures 16-17One or more support members 503 disposed within the body are shown. The one or more support members 503 can be coupled to a set of wedges 504 configured to receive and / or engage with wedges 502 secured to the one or more panels 501 to removably attach the support members 503 to the one or more panels 501. In some embodiments, the one or more panels 501 can be configured to couple to the one or more support members 503 of the body to limit or constrain movement of the one or more handrails relative to the body or support members. In some embodiments, one or more additional wedges 504 can be coupled to or attached to a distal end of the one or more support members 503. Figure 17 An example of a support member 503 with one or more additional wedges 504 attached thereto using fasteners (e.g., bolts or screws) is shown.

[0096] Figure 18 Another example of a panel 501 that can be inserted into a handrail (e.g., inserted through or into one or more grooves or openings disposed in the handrail) is shown. The panel 501 can be inserted into a groove or opening in the handrail. In some cases, the panel 501 can be inserted vertically into the handrail. In other cases, the panel 501 can be inserted into the handrail from the side.

[0097] In some cases, one or more wedges 502 can be coupled to or attached to the panel 501. The one or more wedges 502 can be configured to engage with a set of wedges 504 secured to the one or more support members 503 of the body to removably attach the panel 501 to the one or more support members 503. Figures 16-17 A set of wedges 504 is shown connected to and / or coupled to a support member 503.

[0098] In some embodiments, one or more leg rest members 505 can be coupled to the panel 501. In some embodiments, one or more attachment mechanisms as described elsewhere herein can be used to couple the panel 501 to one or more structural members of the furniture.

[0099] As described elsewhere herein, the one or more structural members can include structural members that are insertable into one or more grooves or openings in the body of the furniture, or in the alternative, structural members disposed outside or external to such grooves or openings in the body of the furniture.

[0100] Examples

[0101] Figure 19 An example of a first panel 1901 inserted into an opening 1905 within a foam body 1900 and a second panel 1902 coupled to the first panel 1901 using an attachment mechanism 1903 is shown schematically. The attachment mechanism 1903 can include, for example, a screw or bolt. In some cases, a leg rest 1904 can be coupled to or integrated with the attachment mechanism 1903. The leg rest 1904 can be configured to lift the body of the furniture off the ground.

[0102] Figure 20 An example of a first panel 2001 inserted into an opening in a foam body and a second panel 2002 positioned outside the opening in the foam body and coupled to the first panel 2001 using an attachment mechanism is shown schematically. In some cases, the first panel 2001 can have a T-shaped cross-section. The T-shaped cross-section can provide additional material through which the attachment mechanism can be inserted to couple the first panel 2001 to the second panel 2002. This can provide additional stability and can allow for a more secure attachment of the first panel 2001 to the second panel 2002.

[0103] Method

[0104] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for assembling furniture. The method can include (a) providing furniture, which can include a body comprising one or more openings or recesses. In some cases, the one or more openings or recesses of the body can be formed by automatic cutting of foam. In some embodiments, the method can further include (b) inserting one or more support members into the one or more openings or recesses of the body. In some embodiments, the method can further include (c) detachably coupling one or more additional support members to the one or more support members using one or more attachment mechanisms so as to provide structural support to the body. The one or more additional support members can be positioned outside of or away from the one or more openings or recesses.

[0105] In some embodiments, the furniture can include a sofa, a loveseat, or a chair. In some embodiments, the body can include a foam material. In some embodiments, the body can be vacuum packable.

[0106] The one or more attachment mechanisms described herein can include, for example, screws or bolts. In any of the embodiments described herein, the one or more attachment mechanisms can be (i) inserted through one or more holes of the additional support members and (ii) configured to couple the one or more additional support members to the one or more support members.

[0107] In some embodiments, the method can further include detachably coupling the body to a second body using one or more connectors. The second body can correspond to (i) another portion of the furniture or (ii) another separate or different piece of furniture. In some cases, the one or more connectors can include a latch configured to detachably couple at least one leg member of the body to at least one leg member of the second body to limit or constrain movement of the body relative to the second body.

[0108] In some embodiments, one or more plates can be inserted into one or more armrests of the main body to provide structural support for the one or more armrests. In some cases, the one or more plates can have one or more wedges secured thereto. In some cases, the one or more wedges can be configured to couple to one or more support members inserted within the main body to limit or constrain movement of the one or more armrests relative to the main body.

[0109] While the preferred embodiments of the application have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many changes, modifications, and substitutions can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the application. Although the application has been described with reference to the above specification, the descriptions and illustrations of the embodiments herein are not meant to limit or restrict the scope of the application. Many variations, modifications, alternatives, and equivalents of the embodiments disclosed herein can be employed without departing from the scope of the application. Additionally, the disclosure is in no way limited to what is described herein. The disclosure is intended to cover any and all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents of the embodiments disclosed herein. The claims are intended to cover, and the scope of the application to include, any changes or alterations to the embodiments disclosed herein that fall fair and equitable within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A packable assembly comprising an apparatus, comprising: a body comprising one or more openings or recesses; one or more support members insertable into the one or more openings or recesses of the body; one or more additional support members positioned external to or distanced from the one or more openings or recesses of the body; and one or more attachment mechanisms configured to detachably couple the one or more support members to the one or more additional support members so as to provide structural support to the body; one or more leg members coupled to or integrated with the one or more attachment mechanisms.

2. The packable assembly comprising an apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more additional support members comprise one or more apertures through which at least a portion of the one or more attachment mechanisms are insertable.

3. The packable assembly comprising an apparatus of claim 2, wherein the one or more attachment mechanisms are insertable through the one or more apertures of the additional support members to couple the one or more additional support members to the one or more support members.

4. The packable assembly comprising an apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more attachment mechanisms are (i) insertable through the one or more apertures of the additional support members and (ii) configured to couple the one or more leg members and / or the one or more additional support members to the one or more support members.

5. The packable assembly comprising an apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more attachment mechanisms comprise the one or more leg members.

6. The packable assembly comprising an apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more additional support members are configured as one or more leg stands that elevate the body relative to a surface on which the one or more additional support members are placed.

7. The packable assembly comprising an apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more attachment mechanisms comprise screws or bolts.

8. The packable assembly comprising an apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more support members are positioned and oriented at an angle relative to the one or more additional support members.

9. The packable assembly comprising an apparatus of claim 8, wherein the one or more support members are perpendicular or orthogonal to the one or more additional support members.

10. The packable assembly comprising an apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more attachment mechanisms are configured to limit or constrain movement of the one or more support members relative to the one or more additional support members when the one or more attachment mechanisms are inserted through the one or more apertures of the one or more additional support members to couple the one or more additional support members to the one or more support members. ​ 11. The packable assembly comprising a device of claim 1, further comprising (i) a second body comprising one or more openings or recesses, and (ii) one or more lateral support members insertable into the one or more openings or recesses of the second body.

12. The packable assembly comprising a device of claim 11, further comprising (iii) one or more additional lateral support members positioned outside of or distal from the one or more openings or recesses of the second body, and (iv) one or more additional attachment mechanisms configured to detachably couple the one or more lateral support members to the one or more additional lateral support members to provide structural support for the second body.

13. The packable assembly comprising a device of claim 12, further comprising one or more additional leg members coupled to or integrated with the one or more additional attachment mechanisms.

14. The packable assembly comprising a device of claim 11, further comprising one or more connectors configured to detachably couple the body to the second body.

15. The packable assembly comprising a device of claim 14, wherein the one or more connectors comprise a latch, wherein the latch is configured to detachably couple at least one leg member of the body to at least one leg member of the second body to limit or constrain movement of the body relative to the second body.

16. The packable assembly comprising a device of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a foam material.

17. The packable assembly comprising a device of claim 1, wherein the body is vacuum packable.

18. The packable assembly comprising a device of claim 1, wherein the body comprises at least a portion of furniture.

19. The packable assembly comprising a device of claim 18, wherein the furniture comprises a sofa, a loveseat, or a chair.

20. A packable assembly comprising a device, comprising: a body; one or more armrests; and one or more connection mechanisms for coupling or securing the one or more armrests to one or more structural components inserted through or into one or more recesses of the body, wherein at least a portion of the one or more connection mechanisms are insertable into one or more recesses of the one or more armrests; wherein the one or more connection mechanisms comprise one or more wedges secured to one or more plates, wherein the one or more plates are insertable into the one or more armrests to provide structural support for the one or more armrests; a set of additional wedges configured to combine with the one or more wedges secured to the one or more plates to limit or constrain movement of the one or more armrests relative to the body. ​ 21. The packable assembly comprising the device of claim 20, wherein the one or more panels are configured to couple to the one or more structural components to limit or constrain movement of the one or more armrests relative to the body, the one or more structural components being coupled to or inserted through or into the body, wherein the one or more structural components comprise one or more support members for the body, the one or more support members being insertable into the body.

22. The packable assembly comprising the device of claim 20, wherein at least one of (i) the body or (ii) the one or more armrests comprises a foam material.

23. The packable assembly comprising the device of claim 20, wherein the foam material is vacuum packable.

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