Sound and light assemblies and systems

Abstract

In some examples, an audio-enhanced furniture system includes a furniture assembly with a speaker system positioned within the furniture assembly. The speaker system includes a speaker that is hidden from view. A sound and light assembly forms part of an audio system including the speaker. The sound and light assembly are remote from the furniture assembly. The audio system may be a surround sound system, for example. The sound and light assembly is disposed within a ceiling fixture, wall fixture, or lamp, for example.

Description

SOUND AND LIGHT ASSEMBLIES AND SYSTEMSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 579,481, entitled “Sound and Light Assemblies and Systems” and filed on August 29, 2023, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to sound systems integrated within objects, such as furniture, and used as part of room or building sound system.BACKGROUND

[0003] Entertainment systems, including speakers and visual displays are widely used for home, business, social accommodations, entertainment and for practical, commercial, and household uses. Unfortunately, such systems and their associated wiring, cables, and components often consume significantly space and / or are otherwise unsightly and cumbersome. Further, such systems are generally static, such that they generate outputs that are the same regardless of orientation of the system components relative to a structure and / or configuration of a space and any objects therein.

[0004] It is with these observations in mind, among others, that the presently disclosed technology was conceived.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0005] Implementations described and claimed herein address the foregoing by providing systems and methods for customized output, such as light and / or sound. In one implementation, a speaker receivable into an interior of an object, such that the first object at least partially hides the speaker from view. An output system is configured for positioning in a space at a location external to the first object. A controller is configured to generate an entertainment output by controlling an entertainment system. The entertainment system including the speaker and the output system.

[0006] Other implementations are also described and recited herein. Further, while multiple implementations are disclosed, still other implementations of the presently disclosed technology will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative implementations of the presently disclosed technology. As will be realized, the presently disclosed technology is capable of modifications in various aspects, all 1SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)without departing from the spirit and scope of the presently disclosed technology. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not limiting.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a modular furniture assembly usable with a sound and light assembly mounted to a table lamp.

[0008] Figure 2A illustrates a perspective view of an upright member of a modular furniture assembly having audio speakers mounted thereto.

[0009] Figure 2B illustrates a perspective view of the upright member of Figure 2 A with a removable upholstery fabric cover being applied thereto.

[0010] Figure 2C illustrates a perspective view of another upright member of a modular furniture assembly having audio speakers mounted thereto.

[0011] Figure 2D illustrates a perspective view of the upright member of Figure 2C with a removable upholstery fabric cover being applied thereto.

[0012] Figure 2E illustrates a perspective view of a modular furniture assembly formed using upright members with speakers positioned therein as shown in Figures 2C-2D.

[0013] Figures 3A-3D illustrate perspective views of modular furniture assemblies of various configurations, each having audio speakers mounted thereto, each audio speaker being covered by an upholstery fabric.

[0014] Figure 4A illustrates illustrate usage of a sound and light assembly with a light fixture.

[0015] Figure 4B illustrates a schematic representation of a sound and light assembly.

[0016] Figure 5 illustrates a sound and light assembly incorporated in audio-video system.

[0017] Figure 6 illustrates a sound and light assembly incorporated in another audio-video system.

[0018] Figure 7 illustrates a sound and light assembly incorporated in another audio-video system.

[0019] Figure 8 illustrates a sound and light assembly incorporated in another audio-video system.

[0020] Figure 9 illustrates a sound and light assembly incorporated in another audio-video system.

[0021] Figure 10 illustrates a sound and light assembly incorporated in another audio-video system.2SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

[0022] Figure 11 illustrates a sound and light assembly incorporated in another audio-video system.

[0023] Figure 12 illustrates a sound and light assembly incorporated in another audio-video system.

[0024] Figure 13 illustrates a furniture assembly with customized output.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to apparatuses, methods, and systems for customizing entertainment output, such as audio, visual, tactile, and / or the like, according to a space and objects, such as furniture, disposed therein. Various components generating the customized output may be hidden from view in objects for deployment within the space. The output is customized according to the underlying content, orientation of components generating at least part of the customized output within the space and relative to each other, configuration of the space, configuration of objects (e.g., furniture, decor, etc.) within the space, and / or the like. In some examples, a furniture system includes a speaker system positioned within a furniture assembly, the speaker system comprising a speaker that is hidden from view and forms part of a sound system, such as a surround sound system for a user resting on the furniture assembly. The furniture system also includes a sound and light assembly forming part of the sound system including the speaker. The sound and light assembly is, in one configuration, remote from and / or external to the furniture assembly but forms part of and interface with the surround sound system.

[0026] In some settings, it is desirable to provide an aesthetically pleasing surround sound system or other sound system where speakers or other components are somewhat hidden from view while providing the audio output associated with the surround sound system, such as with an audio-video system. Using furniture assemblies that are optionally audio-enhanced to provide audio or sound to a user resting or seated on the furniture assembly and sound and light assemblies that provide both sound and light and can be fitted or cooperate with typical light fixtures provides an aesthetically pleasing environment in a simple and efficient manner. Additionally, any of the audio-enhanced furniture assemblies described herein can also being enhanced to accommodate electronic components, such as but not limited to speakers, subwoofers, projectors, televisions, displays, humidifiers, air purifiers, electrical chargers, wireless or induction chargers, amplifiers, audio-visual receivers, controllers, digital games, electronic gaming devices, network devices, such as hubs, switches, routers, bridges, gateways, modems, repeaters, access points, and 3SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)combinations or modifications of any of the preceding. In this way the enhanced furniture assemblies can form part of a smart home system having home automation in which one or more of entertainment systems, appliances, lighting, climate, security, alarms, etc. are monitored and controlled. Therefore, reference to “audio-enhanced” furniture assemblies herein also includes being “enhanced” with other electronic components and so reference to a furniture assembly being “audio-enhanced” also includes being enhanced with electronic components. Such audioenhanced systems are examples of entertainment systems that are customizable accordingly to the presently disclosed technology

[0027] Figure 1 illustrates an audio-enhanced furniture system 10 that includes a light fixture 20 and a furniture assembly 100. The light fixture 20 provides a support to an output system configured to output audio, visual, tactile, and / or other entertainment output. For example, the output system may be a sound and light assembly 30 that can provide both illumination and audio to a user of the audio -enhanced furniture system 10, and more generally to an individual within the space, environment, or setting in which the furniture assembly 100 and sound and light assembly 30 are positioned. In the illustrated configuration, the light fixture 20 is a lamp supported by a light fixture support 40, such as a side table, although in another configuration the light fixture 20 can rest upon a floor, such as a floor lamp, without the need of a light fixture support 40. In still another configuration, the light fixture 20 can be mounted to a wall, such as a sconce, a picture light, recessed light, uplight light, track light, etc. In still another configuration, the light fixture 20 can be supported by a ceiling or roof structure, such as a recessed light, ceiling light, chandelier, pendant, track or monorail light, linear light emitting diode (LED) light, combination or modifications thereof. The light fixture 20 can be associated with an indoor and / or outdoor environment, underwater environment, etc. and combinations or modifications thereof. Additionally, the light fixture 20 can be provide ambient, task, accent, or decorative lighting.

[0028] While one light fixture 20, one sound and light assembly 30, one light fixture support 40, and one modular furniture assembly 100 is illustrated it will be understood by one skilled in the art and that any number of light fixtures, sound and light assembles, light fixture supports, and furniture assemblies may form part of the audio-enhanced furniture system 10. Similarly, any number of light fixture supports or other lighting fixtures can be used in association with the sound and light device 30. Those other of light fixture supports or other lighting fixtures can be positioned or extend from a variety of surfaces of a space, environment, or setting, such as from a ceiling, a4SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)wall, a floor, or be associated with some other furniture assembly. For instance the other furniture assemblies can include, but not limited to, a chair, a sofa, a bed frame (comprising, e.g., bed rails, headboard and footboard), a coffee table, an end table, a side table, a desk, a server, a hutch, a bookcase, a cupboard, a door, a credenza, a console, a sideboard, a cabinet, a bookcase, cabinetry, awardrobe, or combinations or modifications thereof. Additionally, while reference is made herein to the light fixture support being a side table, it will be understood that the light fixture support can be a furniture assembly or some other structure that supports or to which the light fixtures is mounted or generally coupled. For instance, in some circumstances, a wall, a floor, a ceiling, various furniture assemblies, etc. can be considered as a light fixture support.

[0029] With continued reference to Figure 1, the modular furniture assembly 100 has an embedded speaker system including multiple audio speakers 102 integrated with modular furniture assembly 100, each audio speaker 102 being covered by an upholstery fabric, such as fabric covers 104a, 104b. As illustrated, modular furniture assembly 100 includes a base 106, and first and second audio-enhanced upright members 108a, 108b, each audio-enhanced upright member 108a, 108b having, in the illustrated configuration, two audio speakers 102 mounted thereto. First and second upholstery fabric, as fabric covers 104a, 104b, cover first and second audio-enhanced upright members 108a, 108b, thus also covering each of speakers 102 embedded within upright members 108a, 108b. Modular furniture assembly 100 can also include a variety of additional components, such as cushions, feet, additional bases and upright members (audio-enhanced or not), and additional embedded speakers. Disposed within the base 106 is a receiver / amplifier 110, such being an example of a speaker controller, configured to receive signals from an audio source, such as mobile device 112 (via wired connection or wireless connection over a network) and operable to transmit the received signals and provide power to speakers 102. The receiver / amplifier 110 can optionally also include a speaker 102 or a separate speaker electrically connected to the receiver / amplifier 110. The multiple audio speakers 102, the receiver / amplifier 110, the mobile device 112 and the sound and light assembly 30 form part of a sound system through which sound can be delivered to a user resting upon the modular furniture assembly 100 with the mobile device 112, or other remote control, controlling the operation of the sound system. For instance, a user can operate the mobile device 112 to control sound delivered from each of the audio speakers 102 and from the sound and light assembly 30. Additionally, the user can operate the mobile device 112, for example, or operate a switch operatively cooperating with the sound 5SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)and light assembly 30 (such as a switch of the light fixture 20 or a switch that controls power to the light fixture), to control light emitting from the sound and light assembly 30. Stated another way, the mobile device 112, the remote control, etc. can control a level of sound and / or illumination generated by the sound and light assembly 30. In this manner, the user can control both light and sound / audio associated with the audio-enhanced furniture system 10.

[0030] While modular furniture assembly 100 is depicted with receiver / amplifier 110 mounted within base 106, implementations also include receivers, amplifiers, and / or speaker controllers provided at virtually any location that allows for communication with speakers 102. For example, receiver / amplifier 110 can be integral with a center console or similar device, and can be connected to speakers 102 via wired or wireless connections (optionally the center console can be controlled by a console controller that is similar to a remote control or provided through controls on the center console itself). Alternatively, each speaker 102 can have a speaker controller individually associated therewith and secured directly or proximate thereto. One skilled in the art should appreciate that the illustrated implementations are provided as exemplary configurations and do not limit the scope or spirit of the present disclosure to the physical configuration specifically illustrated.

[0031] While mobile device 112 is illustrated as an exemplary audio source, it will be appreciated that any of a wide variety of sources may be used with the present systems (e.g., including, but not limited to TV, disc player such as a CD player, DVD player, Blu-ray player, over-the air radio, streaming service, TV or other transmissions, etc.). Additionally, the mobile device 112 can be used not only as an audio source, but can optionally control other audio sources, such as those described herein, and so allow a user to tune the speakers 102 based upon the signals received by other audio sources. For instance, and not by way of limitation, the mobile device 112 can tune the speakers 102 based upon a TV, disc player such as a CD player, DVD player, Blu-ray player, over-the air radio, streaming service, TV or other transmissions, etc. providing a signal to the receiver / amplifier 110. The mobile device 112 can, therefore, be another speaker controller.

[0032] Figures 2A-2B demonstrate an example upright member 108a of an assemble-able modular furniture assembly, such as modular furniture assembly 100 of Figure 1, having audio speakers 102 mounted to an internal framework thereof. The fabric cover 104a is operable to cover upright member 108a, thus covering and concealing speakers 102 from view. Fabric cover 104a can thus be removed from upright member 108a to be cleaned, to enable access to and maintenance 6SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)of speakers 102 and any other components mounted within upright member 108a, or to exchange the fabric cover 104a with another cover designed to fit upright member 108a. In some implementations, consumers may select one or more interchangeable fabric covers 104a from a catalog of upholstery fabrics. Available upholstery fabrics include but are not limited to polyester, chenille, tweed, linen, polyester linen, velvet, leather, cotton, cotton blend, denim, twill, or faux fur. As shown, a coupler 114 is provided to enable upright member 108a to be selectively and securely mounted to a base, such as base 106 of Figure 1. Although upright member 108a is shown in detail in Figures 2A-2B, it will be appreciated that upright member 108b may be similarly configured, but in a mirror configuration to upright member 108a, as apparent from Figure 1.

[0033] As shown in Figure 2A, each speaker 102 of upright member 108a is connected by a wire 116 to a speaker controller 118. Alternatively, speaker 102 can be in wireless communication with speaker controller 118, or individual speaker controllers can be directly integrated with each speaker 102.

[0034] Figures 2A-2B illustrate an upright member configuration where the illustrated audioenhanced upright member includes two speakers mounted therein, for example, with a front channel speaker positioned in a front edge of the upright member (near a top of the front edge), and a surround speaker positioned in a top edge of the upright member (near a rear of the top edge). Figures 2C-2D are similar to Figures 2A-2B, but show an alternative speaker placement, where the front channel speaker 102 is positioned in an inside face of the upright member 108c (e.g., near the top, front comer), and the surround speaker 102 is positioned similar to that shown in Figures 2A-2B, in a top edge of the upright member 108c, near a rear of the top edge of the upright member. The configuration seen in Figures 2C-2D may thus include front channel speaker placement such that the sound is emitted directly towards the seating position on a chair or sofa. Figure 2E illustrates such a chair 120, including upright members 108c, 108d, configured as shown in Figures 2C-2D. The configuration of Figures 2A-2B includes a front channel speaker placement that may rely on reflection of sound emitted from the front channel speakers off a front wall, TV or the like, for reflection back to the user seated on the chair or sofa. It will be apparent that many alternatives are possible, for placement and positioning of the speakers within the upright members. Any of such may benefit from the implementations described herein, whereby equalization is applied to the audio signal to compensate for the sound from the speakers being emitted through upholstery fabric that covers the speakers.7SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

[0035] Figures 3A-3D illustrate perspective views of modular furniture assemblies 122a-d of various configurations, each having multiple audio speakers 102 mounted thereto, each audio speaker 102 being covered by an upholstery fabric 104. As illustrated, a variety of furniture configurations can be achieved by rearrangement of the various bases 106 and upright members 108, and by introducing additional members. Also, interchangeable fabric covers can be provided, such that the consumer may select the upholstery fabric for the entire assembly or for each individual member of the assembly. Implementations of the present disclosure enable tuning of any speaker covered by fabric to account for sound loss through virtually any fabric.

[0036] As shown in Figure 3A, modular furniture assembly 122a includes two audio-enhanced upright members 108a-b, each arranged relative to bases 106 to act as armrests. Audio-enhanced upright members 108a-b each have two speakers 102 mounted thereto, one speaker facing forward and one speaker facing upward. Each of speakers 102 are positioned underneath upholstery fabric covers 104a or 104b covering respective audio-enhanced upright members 108a or 108b.

[0037] Figure 3B illustrates a modular furniture assembly 122b having four audio-enhanced upright members 108c’, 108d’ 108e’, each having a single speaker 102 mounted thereto. Audioenhanced upright member 108c’ and 108d’ each act as an armrest and include a speaker 102 oriented inward, towards bases 106, whereas audio-enhanced upright members 108e” each provide a backrest and include a speaker 102 oriented upward and positioned behind respective bases 106. Also, each audio-enhanced upright member 108c’, 108d’, 108e’ is covered in a upholstery fabric cover 104a-d, such that each speaker 102 of modular furniture assembly 122b is positioned underneath one of upholstery fabric covers 104a-d. In an implementation, the various covers of a given furniture assembly may be of the same given material, or of different fabric materials (e.g., one given material on the bases, another on the upright members, or a mix and match configuration between various bases and / or upright members).

[0038] By way of an additional example, Figure 3C illustrates modular furniture assembly 122c, wherein six audio-enhanced upright members 108a’, 108b’, 108e’ are arranged about bases 106, 1106a, where the two bases 106a are wedge-shaped to create a curved style of sofa or couch. As shown, audio-enhanced upright members 108a’ and 108b’ act as armrests and include mounted speakers 102 oriented forwards, the other audio-enhanced upright members 108e acting as backrests and each having a speaker 102 oriented upwards. Upright members 108c’ and 108d’ may be similar to upright members 108c and 108d, except that upright members 108c’ and 108d” are 8SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)shown as including only a single speaker each (e.g., in the inside face), without any surround speaker. Each of upright members 108e may be identically configured to one another, as shown (e.g., with a single surround speaker positioned centrally, within the top edge of the upright member). Upright members 108a’ and 108b’ may be similar to upright members 108a and 108b, except that upright members 108a’ and 108b’ are shown as including only a single speaker each (e.g., in the front edge), without any surround speaker.

[0039] As yet another example, Figure 3D illustrates modular furniture assembly 122d having four audio-enhanced upright members 108c’, 108d’, 108e and with six bases 106 and several nonaudio-enhanced upright members 109 to form a U-shaped sofa or couch. As shown, audioenhanced upright members 108c’ and 108d’ provide armrests and each include a speaker 102 oriented inward, whereas audio-enhanced upright members 108e provide backrests and each include a speaker 102 oriented upward.

[0040] Although Figures 2A-3D illustrate particular combinations of specifically configured upright members with various bases, it will be appreciated that any of the described upright members and bases may be used in any combination, with any desired speaker placement, size, or orientation in the upright members, and with any desired placement of the upright members relative to the bases, to provide any of a wide variety of furniture configurations.

[0041] Because the speakers are positioned within the modular furniture assembly components, this provides great flexibility to a user in where the speakers can be positioned within the assembled furniture assembly, whether the assembly is modifiable by the user, custom built according to the user’s request, or otherwise provided. Further, the use of interchangeable covers for each of the modular furniture assembly components enables the user to change upholstery fabrics at will.

[0042] The light fixture 20 can receive the sound and light assembly 30 so that the sound and light assembly 30 provides at least one of light and sound / audio within a space, environment, or setting, such as but not limited to a room, indoor living space, outdoor living space, or other living environment within which a person or user can interact. For instance, the “living space” can include a bedroom, office, study, bathroom, kitchen, dining room, foyer, sunroom, theatre room, garage, carport, porch, terraces, balconies, deck, patio, courtyard, greenhouse, attic, basement, swimming pool, gym, or other space where a person or user can use the audio-enhanced furniture system 10.9SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

[0043] As illustrated in Figure 4 A, the light fixture 20, such as a lamp, can include a body or base 80 having a sound and light assembly holder 82 to accommodate the sound and light assembly 30. A shade 84 can be positioned about the sound and light assembly 30 mounted within the sound and light assembly holder 82 by a frame or fitter 86 that supports the shade 84. A switch 88, such as a dimmer switch, pole switch, push-button switch, twist switch, touch switch, sound activated switch, or combinations or modifications thereof, can be used to turn “on” or turn “off’ the sound and light assembly 30 so as to emit light and / or sound. The sound and light assembly holder 82 can accommodate differently shaped or configured sound and light assemblies. For instance, the sound and light assembly holder 82 can be a bayonet-base lamp holder, a compact fluorescent lamp holder, a fluorescent lamp holder, a halogen lamp holder, a medium-base lamp holder, a metal halide lamp holder, a mogul-base lamp holder, a wedge-base lamp holder, etc. It will be understood that depending upon the manner by which the light fixture 20 supports the sound and light assembly 30, the light fixture 20 can have different configurations. For instance, the light fixture 20 can be a sconce, a picture light, recessed light, uplight light, track light, ceiling light, chandelier, pendant, track or monorail light, linear light emitting diode (LED), indoor light, outdoor light, etc. with associated structures to support the sound and light assembly 30, such as but not limited to a sound and light assembly holder.

[0044] As illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B, the sound and light assembly 30 has a base 82 that electrically connects the sound and light assembly 30 to the light fixture 20 when mounted to the sound and light assembly holder 82. For instance, the base 32 provides power to an illumination assembly 36 and an audio or sound assembly 38 and so is operatively connected or coupled to the illumination assembly 36 and the sound assembly 38. The illustrated base 32 is rotated into the sound and light assembly holder 82, but as mentioned above when the sound and light assembly holder 82 has other configuration the sound and light assembly 30 can be positioned or coupled to the sound and light assembly holder 82 using one or more of a sliding motion, rotation motion, friction fit, snap fit, magnetic connection or fit, combinations or modifications thereof.

[0045] Extending from the base 32 is a housing 34 that protects or contains the illumination assembly 36 and the sound assembly 38. The illumination assembly 36 provides light from the sound and light assembly 30, while the sound assembly 38 provides sound or audio from the sound and light assembly 30. The housing 34 can also protect or contain a heat dissipation member 40, such as a heat sink, which can direct or dissipate the heat generated by the illumination assembly 10SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)36 and the sound assembly 38 to prevent overheating of the illumination assembly 36 and the sound assembly 38. The heat dissipation member 40 can include fins or other structures to aid with heat dissipation. While reference is made to the housing 34 protecting or containing the heat dissipation member 40, the housing 34 can optionally be formed as the heat dissipation member 40. In such a configuration, and an outer surface 42 of the housing 34 can include the fins or other structures to aid with dissipation of heat generated by the illumination assembly 36 and the sound assembly 38.

[0046] Mounted to an end 44 of the housing 34 is a diffuser or lens 46 which dissipates the light generated by the illumination assembly 36. The lens 46 can be a polymer, glass, modifications or combinations thereof. While reference is made to the lens 46 being mounted to the end 44 of the housing 34, it will be understood that the lens 46 can form part of the housing 34. As such, the lens 46 is either a separate member or part of the housing 34.

[0047] Turning to FIG. 4B, which schematically illustrates the sound and light assembly 30, the illumination assembly 36 includes a light emitting diode (LED) package 50 with a plurality of LEDs 52 mounted or otherwise coupled to a mount 54 that provides a substrate or support for the LEDs 52. The LEDs 52 are controlled by an illumination controller or illumination control circuitry 58 that can vary the current passing to the LEDs 52 so that the LEDs 52 emit photons and produce light. The mount 56 can optionally include the heat dissipation member 40, rather than the housing 34 or a separate heat dissipation member being included in the sound and light assembly 30. The illumination controller 58 can include drivers, controllers, chips, and other electrical components used to operate the illumination assembly 36 to power the LEDs.

[0048] The sound assembly 38 includes a speaker 60 that can be controlled by a speaker controller or a speaker control circuitry 62. The speaker controller 62 can include drivers, controllers, chips, and other electrical components used to operate the speaker 60 and delivery sound or audio from the speaker 60. The speaker 60 can be the speaker 102 described in relation to the modular furniture assembly 100 (and other modular furniture assemblies described herein or otherwise contemplated by this disclosure). As such , the speaker control circuitry 60 can receive signals from the audio source, such as the mobile device 112 (via wired connection or wireless signal) and be operable to transmit the received signals and provide power to the speaker 60. In this way, the sound assembly 38, and more generally the sound and light assembly 30, forms part of the sound system of where the speaker 60 can provide full bandwidth channels or low-frequency11SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)channels. When the sound assembly 38 includes one or more speakers 60, with associated speaker control circuitry 62, the sound assembly 38 can also provide a combination of full bandwidth channels and low frequency channels as part of the overall sound system provided by the modular furniture assemblies and the sound and light assembly 30.

[0049] While reference is made to the speaker controller or speaker control circuitry 62 and the illumination controller or illumination control circuitry 58 being separate, it will be understood that the function and operation of the speaker controller or speaker control circuitry 62 and the illumination controller or illumination control circuitry 58 can be combined into a single controller or control circuitry. In another configuration, the speaker controller or speaker control circuitry 62 can be combined with the speaker 60 and similarly the illumination controller or illumination control circuitry 58 can be combined with the LED package 50. In still another configuration, while a single LED package 50 and a single speaker 60 are schematically illustrated in Figure 4B, it will be understood that one or more LED packages and one or more speakers can be included in the sound and light assembly 30.

[0050] The schematic illustration in Figure 4B of portions of the sound and light assembly 30 described here can be considered as representations of functional modules or components to perform particular operations as discussed herein. Generally, the operation modules, controllers, systems, assemblies, etc. described herein may refer to software objects or routines that execute on a special purpose processing device to perform a certain function or group of functions. In at least some instances, a hardware processor is provided that is operable to carry out executable instructions for performing a method or process, such as the methods and processes disclosed herein. It is contemplated that implementations in hardware or a combination of software and hardware are possible. For instance, the controllers, modules, systems, assemblies, etc. described herein may include the use of computer hardware or software modules. Such hardware and software modules or structures may include a processor and computer storage media carrying instructions that, when executed by the processor and / or caused to be executed by the processor, perform any one or more of the methods disclosed herein, or any part(s) of any method disclosed. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer storage media may comprise hardware storage such as solid state disk / device (SSD), RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM, flash memory, phase-change memory (“PCM”), or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other hardware storage devices which may be used to store12SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)program code in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures, which may be accessed and executed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer system to implement the disclosed functionality. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer storage media. Such media are also examples of non-transitory storage media, and non- transitory storage media also embraces cloud-based storage systems and structures, although the scope is not limited to these examples of non-transitory storage media.

[0051] The functionality and operation of the illumination control circuitry 58 and speaker control circuitry 62 (in addition to the controller / amplifier, user input device, audio source, speaker system, audio system, and other structures and components described herein) can be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware logic components. For example, and without limitation, illustrative types of hardware logic components / processors that can be used include Field- Programmable Gate Arrays (“FPGA”), Program-Specific or Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (“ASIC”), Program-Specific Standard Products (“ASSP”), System-On-A-Chip Systems (“SOC”), Complex Programmable Logic Devices (“CPLD”), Central Processing Units (“CPU”), Graphical Processing Units (“GPU”), or any other type of programmable hardware.

[0052] The sound and light assembly can be used in a variety of settings to provide at least one of the sound and light within or as part of the setting. The setting can include, but not limited to, a room, indoor living space, outdoor living space, or other living environment within which a person or user can interact. For instance, the “living space” can include a bedroom, office, study, bathroom, kitchen, dining room, foyer, sunroom, theatre room, garage, carport, porch, terraces, balconies, deck, patio, courtyard, greenhouse, attic, basement, swimming pool, gym, or other space where a person or user can use the audio-enhanced furniture system 10. Figures 5-12 illustrate a variety of different settings in which the sound and light assembly can be used. Where possible, like numbering of elements have been used in the settings illustrated in Figures 5-12 and so the teaching and disclosure related to the modular furniture assemblies, sound and light assemblies, light fixtures, light fixture supports, etc. of Figures 1-4B is also applicable to the settings in Figures 5-12.

[0053] Turning to Figure 5, illustrated is a room or setting 1000a, including walls 1002a, a floor 1004a, and a ceiling 1006a, in which at least one sound and light assembly can be used as part of a sound system 1010a, whether the sound system 1010a provides only audio or if the sound system 1010a is part of an audio-video system. The sound system 1010a can be a surround sound 13SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)system defined by X.Y, where X is a number of full bandwidth channels and Y is a number of low-frequency channels of a sound system. X is greater than 2 and Y is greater than 1. For instance, the sound system 1010a of Figure 5 can be a 5.1 surround sound system. It will be understood that in other configurations the sound system 1010a can be any of a 2.1 sound system, a 3.1 sound system, a 4.1 sound system, a 5.1 sound system, a 6.1 sound system, a 7.1 sound system, a 8.1 sound system, a 9.1 sound system, etc.

[0054] As illustrated the setting 1000a can be a living room having a modular furniture assembly HOOal, such as one of the described modular furniture assemblies, with light fixture supports 1040al , 1040a2 supporting, respectively, light fixtures 1020al , 1020a2 having associated sound and light assemblies 1030al, 1030a2. A furniture assembly 1100a2, such as drawers, can also be included and upon which rests an audio-video device 1090a, such as a television, liquid crystal display, LED display, projector, short throw projector, combinations or modifications thereof. An external speaker 1092a, such as a center speaker, center console, or center channel, can be supported by the furniture assembly 1100a2 (or alternatively the external speaker 1092a can rest upon the floor 1004a or be mounted to the wall 1002a or the ceiling 1006a). The external speaker 1092a can be operated by the mobile device 1112a or controlled by a console controller that is similar to a remote control or provided through controls on the center console itself.

[0055] Reference has been made to furniture assembly 1100a2 supporting an audio-video device 1090a and external speaker 1092a, furniture assembly 1100a2 can also include audio-video device 1090a and external speaker 1092a within one or more cavities or spaces of furniture assembly 1100a2, such as within a top of furniture assembly 1100a2. Additionally, furniture assembly 1100a2 can be modular in that is formed from multiple interconnected or combinable units or members to create and provide the form and function of the furniture assembly.

[0056] The external speaker 1092a, with the modular furniture assembly 1100a and the sound and light assemblies 1030al, 1030a2 (and optionally the audio-video device 1090a and / or the furniture assembly 1100a2) form the sound system 1010a. While the furniture assembly 1100a2 is illustrated as a chest of drawers, the furniture assembly 1100a2 can also be a chair, a sofa, a bed frame, a coffee table, an end table, a side table, a desk, a server, a hutch, a bookcase, a cupboard, a door, a credenza, a console, a sideboard, a cabinet, a bookcase, cabinetry, a wardrobe, or combinations or modifications thereof.14SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

[0057] As illustrated in Figure 5, the module furniture assembly HOOal includes an audioenhanced upright member 1108al having a speaker 1102al and a speaker 1102a2 and an audioenhanced upright member 1108a2 having a speaker 1102a3 and a speaker 1102a4. The base 1106a includes a receiver / amplifier 1110a and a speaker 1114a, such as a subwoofer of the sound system 1010a. The speaker 1102al can be a front right speaker of the sound system 1010a, the speaker 1102a2 can be a right surround speaker of the sound system 1010a, the speaker 1102b 3 can be a left speaker of the sound system 1010a, the speaker 1102b4 can be a left surround speaker of the sound system 1010a, the sound and light assemblies 1030al can be a right surround speaker of the sound system 1010a, the sound and light assemblies 1030a2 can be a left surround speaker of the sound system 1010a, and the external speaker 1092a can be a center speaker of the sound system 1010a. In this manner, a 5.1 surround sound system can be created using the module furniture assembly 1100, the sound and light assemblies 1030al, 1030a2, and the external speaker 1092a. This surround sound system can operate with the audio-video device 1090a, with the external speaker 1092a and / or the receiver / amplifier 1100a controlling the operation of all the audio-video components under the control of the mobile device 1112a or other remove control.

[0058] Turning to Figure 6, illustrated is another room or setting 1000b, including walls 1002b, a floor 1004b, and a ceiling 1006b, in which at least one sound and light assembly can be used as part of a sound system 1010b, whether the sound system 1010b provides only audio or if the sound system 1010b is part of an audio-video system. The sound system 1010b can be a surround sound system defined by X.Y, where X is a number of full bandwidth channels and Y is a number of low-frequency channels of a sound system. X is greater than 2 and Y is greater than 1. For instance, the sound system 1010b of Figure 6 can be a 5.1 surround sound system. It will be understood that in other configurations the sound system 1010b can be any of a 2.1 sound system, a 3.1 sound system, a 4.1 sound system, a 5.1 sound system, a 6.1 sound system, a 7.1 sound system, a 8.1 sound system, a 9.1 sound system, etc.

[0059] As illustrated the setting 1000b can be a living room having a modular furniture assembly 1100b 1 , such as one of the described modular furniture assemblies, ceiling mounted light fixtures 1020al, 1020a2 (such as associated with recessed lighting or other ceiling or roof supported lighting) having associated sound and light assemblies 1030bl, 1030b2. The ceiling mounted light fixture 1020al , for example, can include a holder 1082b to receive one of the sound a light assemblies and a trim 1084b to enclose the holder 1082b and form a transition between the 15SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)holder 1082b and the ceiling 1006b. The ceiling mounted light fixture 1020a2 can have a similar configuration to the ceiling mounted light fixture 1020al.

[0060] A furniture assembly 1 100b2, such as drawers, can also be included and upon which rests an audio-video device 1090b, such as a television, liquid crystal display, LED display, projector, short throw projector, combinations or modifications thereof An external speaker 1092b, such as a center speaker, center console, or center channel, can be supported by the furniture assembly 1100b2 (or alternatively the external speaker 1092b can rest upon the floor 1004b or be mounted to the wall 1002b or the ceiling 1006b). The external speaker 1092b can be operated by the mobile device 1112b or controlled by a console controller that is similar to a remote control or provided through controls on the center console itself.

[0061] Reference has been made to furniture assembly 1100b2 supporting an audio-video device 1090b and external speaker 1092b, furniture assembly 1100b2 can also include audio-video device 1090b and external speaker 1092b within one or more cavities or spaces of furniture assembly 1100b2, such as within a top of furniture assembly 1100b2 or within other interior chambers or spaces. Additionally, furniture assembly 1100b2 can be modular in that is formed from multiple interconnected or combinable units or members to create and provide the form and function of the furniture assembly.

[0062] The external speaker 1092b, with the modular furniture assembly 1100b and the sound and light assemblies 1030bl, 1030b2 (and optionally the audio-video device 1090b and / or the furniture assembly 1100b2) form the sound system 1010b. While the furniture assembly 1100b2 is illustrated as a chest of drawers, the furniture assembly 1100b2 can also be a chair, a sofa, a bed frame, a coffee table, an end table, a side table, a desk, a server, a hutch, a bookcase, a cupboard, a door, a credenza, a console, a sideboard, a cabinet, a bookcase, cabinetry, a wardrobe, or combinations or modifications thereof.

[0063] As illustrated in Figure 6, the module furniture assembly HOObl includes an audioenhanced upright member 1108b 1 having a speaker 1102b 1 and a speaker 1102b2 and an audioenhanced upright member 1108b2 having a speaker 1102b3 and a speaker 1102b4. The base 1106b includes a receiver / amplifier 1110b and a speaker 1114b, such as a subwoofer of the sound system 1010b. The speaker 1102b 1 can be a right speaker of the sound system 1010b, the speaker 1102b2 can be a right surround speaker of the sound system 1010b, the speaker 1102b 3 can be a left speaker of the sound system 1010b, the speaker 1102b4 can be a left surround speaker of the sound16SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)system 1010b, the sound and light assembly 1030b 1 can be a left surround speaker of the sound system 1010b, the sound and light assembly 1030b2 can be a right surround speaker of the sound system 1010b, and the external speaker 1092b can be a center speaker of the speaker system 1010b.

[0064] In contrast to the setting 1000a, the sound and light assemblies 103 Obi, 1030b2 are mounted to ceiling mounted light fixtures 1020bl, 1020b2. In this manner, the setting 1000b provides a different audio experience to a user resting on the modular furniture assembly 1100b! . A 5.1 surround sound system can be created using the module furniture assembly 1100b 1, 1100b2, the sound and light assemblies 1030b 1 , 1030b2, and the external speaker 1092b (an optionally the audio-video device 1090b). This surround sound system can operate with the audio-video device 1090b, with the external speaker 1092b and / or the receiver / amplifier 1106b controlling the operation of all the audio-video components under the control of the mobile device 1112b or other remove control.

[0065] Turning to Figure 7, illustrated is another room or setting 1000c, including walls 1002c, a floor 1004c, and a ceiling 1006c, in which at least one sound and light assembly can be used as part of a sound system 1010c, whether the sound system 1010c provides only audio or if the sound system 1010c is part of an audio-video system. The sound system 1010c can be a surround sound system defined by X.Y, where X is a number of full bandwidth channels and Y is a number of low-frequency channels of a sound system. X is greater than 2 and Y is greater than 1. For instance, the sound system 1010c of Figure 7 can be a 5.1 surround sound system. It will be understood that in other configurations the sound system 1010c can be any of a 2.1 sound system, a 3.1 sound system, a 4.1 sound system, a 5.1 sound system, a 6.1 sound system, a 7.1 sound system, a 8.1 sound system, a 9.1 sound system, etc.

[0066] As illustrated the setting 1000c can be a bedroom having a furniture assembly 1100c in the form of a bed, ceiling mounted light fixtures 1020cl, 1020c2 (such as associated with recessed lighting or other ceiling or roof supported lighting as described in relation to Figure 6) having associated sound and light assemblies 1030cl, 1030c2, and light fixtures 1020c3, 1020c4 having associated sound and light assemblies 1030c3, 1030c4. The light fixtures 1020c3 , 1020c4, such as table lamps, are supported by the light fixture supports 1040c 1 , 1040c2, such as side tables. A furniture assembly 1100c2, such as drawers, can also be included and upon which rests an audiovideo device 1090c, such as a television, liquid crystal display, LED display, projector, short throw projector, combinations or modifications thereof. An external speaker 1092c, such as a center 17SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)speaker, center console, or center channel, can also be supported by the furniture assembly 1100c2 (or alternatively the external speaker 1092c can rest upon the floor 1004c or be mounted to the wall 1002c or the ceiling 1006c). The external speaker 1092c can be operated by the mobile device 1112c or controlled by a console controller that is similar to a remote control or provided through controls on the center console itself.

[0067] Reference has been made to furniture assembly 1100c2 supporting an audio-video device 1090c and external speaker 1092c, furniture assembly 1100c2 can also include audio-video device 1090c and external speaker 1092c within one or more cavities or spaces of furniture assembly 1100c2, such as within a top of furniture assembly 1100c2 or within other interior chambers or spaces. Additionally, furniture assembly 1100b2 can be modular in that is formed from multiple interconnected or combinable units or members to create and provide the form and function of the furniture assembly.

[0068] The external speaker 1092c, with the furniture assembly 1100c and the sound and light assemblies 1030cl , 1030c2, 1030c3, 1030c4 (and optionally the audio-video device 1090c and / or the furniture assembly 1100c2) form the sound system 1010c. While the furniture assembly 1100c2 is illustrated as a chest of drawers, the furniture assembly 1100c2 can also be a chair, a sofa, a bed frame, a coffee table, an end table, a side table, a desk, a server, a hutch, a bookcase, a cupboard, a door, a credenza, a console, a sideboard, a cabinet, a bookcase, cabinetry, a wardrobe, or combinations or modifications thereof.

[0069] As illustrated in Figure 7, the furniture assembly 1100c! include a base 1106c, upright member 1108c 1 in the form of a footboard, an upright member 1108c2 in the form of a headboard, and a mattress 1116c resting on the base 1106c (optionally with a box spring or foundation disposed between the mattress 1116c and the base 1106c). While the upright members 1108cl, 1180c2 are not illustrated as being “audio-enhanced” such as upright members 108a, 108b in FIG. 1, or otherwise discussed herein, it will be understood that the upright members 1108c 1, 1108c2 can be “audio-enhanced” with speakers, wires, speaker controllers, etc.

[0070] The base 1106c, like the bases in other modular furniture assemblies, includes a receiver / amplifier 1110c and a speaker 1114c, such as a subwoofer of the sound system 1010c. The sound and light assembly 1030c 1 can be a front right speaker of the sound system 1010c, the sound and light assembly 1030c2 can be a front left speaker of the sound system 1010c, the sound and light assembly 1030c3 can be a right surround speaker, the sound and light assembly 1030c4 18SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)can be a left surround speaker of the sound system 1010c, and the external speaker 1090c can be a center speaker of the sound system 1010c. In this way, the speakers of the surround sound system 1010c can be mounted to existing light fixtures, whether in the ceiling 1006c or supported by a light fixture support 1020c 1 , 1020c2 (such as side tables), and provide a pleasing aesthetic feel to the setting 1000c through reducing cables and speakers resting upon the floor 1004c.

[0071] In this manner, a 5.1 surround sound system can be created using the sound and light assemblies 1030cl, 1030c2, 1030c3, 1030c4, and the external speaker 1092c (an optionally the audio-video device 1090c). This surround sound system can operate with the audio-video device 1090c, with the external speaker 1092c and / or the receiver / amplifier 1110c controlling the operation of all the audio-video components under the control of the mobile device 1112c or other remove control.

[0072] Turning to Figure 8, illustrated is another room or setting lOOOd, including walls 1002d, a floor 1004d, and a ceiling 1006d, in which at least one sound and light assembly can be used as part of a sound system 101 Od, whether the sound system 101 Od provides only audio or if the sound system 101 Od is part of an audio-video system. The sound system lOlOd can be a surround sound system defined by X.Y, where X is a number of full bandwidth channels and Y is a number of low-frequency channels of a sound system. X is greater than 2 and Y is greater than 1. For instance, the sound system lOlOd of Figure 8 can be a 5.1 surround sound system. It will be understood that in other configurations the sound system lOlOd can be any of a 2.1 sound system, a 3.1 sound system, a 4.1 sound system, a 5.1 sound system, a 6.1 sound system, a 7.1 sound system, a 8.1 sound system, a 9.1 sound system, etc.

[0073] As illustrated the setting lOOOd can be a bedroom having a furniture assembly 1100c in the form of a bed, ceiling mounted light fixtures 1020dl, 1020d2, 1020d3,1020d4 (such as associated with recessed lighting or other ceiling or roof supported lighting as described in relation to Figure 6) having associated sound and light assemblies 1030dl, 1030d2, 1030d3,1030d4, and light fixtures 1020d5 , 1020d6 having associated sound and light assemblies 1030d5 , 1030d6. The light fixtures 1020d5, 1020d6, such as table lamps, are supported by the light fixture supports 1040dl, 1040d2, such as side tables. A furniture assembly 1100d2, such as drawers, can also be included and upon which rests an audio-video device 1090d, such as a television, liquid crystal display, LED display, projector, short throw projector, combinations or modifications thereof. An external speaker 1092d, such as a center speaker, center console, or center channel, can also be 19SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)supported by the furniture assembly 1100c2 (or alternatively the external speaker 1092d can rest upon the floor 1004d or be mounted to the wall 1002d or the ceiling 1006d). The external speaker 1092d can be operated by the mobile device 1112d or controlled by a console controller that is similar to a remote control or provided through controls on the center console itself.

[0074] Reference has been made to furniture assembly 1100d2 supporting an audio-video device 1090d and external speaker 1092d, furniture assembly 1100d2 can also include audio-video device 1090d and external speaker 1092d within one or more cavities or spaces of furniture assembly 1100d2, such as within a top of furniture assembly 1100d2 or within other interior chambers or spaces. Additionally, furniture assembly 1100d2 can be modular in that is formed from multiple interconnected or combinable units or members to create and provide the form and function of the furniture assembly.

[0075] The external speaker 1092d, with the furniture assembly 1 lOOd and the sound and light assemblies 1030dl, 1040d2, 1030d3,1030d4, 1030d5, and 1030d6 (and optionally the audio-video device 1090d and / or the furniture assembly 1100d2) form the sound system lOlOd. While the furniture assembly 1100d2 is illustrated as a chest of drawers, the furniture assembly 1100d2 can also be a chair, a sofa, a bed frame, a coffee table, an end table, a side table, a desk, a server, a hutch, a bookcase, a cupboard, a door, a credenza, a console, a sideboard, a cabinet, a bookcase, cabinetry, a wardrobe, or combinations or modifications thereof.

[0076] As illustrated in Figure 8, the furniture assembly 1 lOOd include a base 1106d, upright member 1108dl in the form of a footboard, an upright member 1108d2 in the form of a headboard, and a mattress 1116d resting on the base 1106d (optionally with a box spring or foundation disposed between the mattress 1116d and the base 1106d). While the upright members 1108dl, 1180d2 are not illustrated as being “audio-enhanced” such as upright members 108a, 108b in FIG. 1, or otherwise discussed herein, it will be understood that the upright members 1108dl , 1108d2 can be “audio-enhanced” with speakers, wires, speaker controllers, etc.

[0077] The base 1106d includes a receiver / amplifier H lOd and a speaker 1114d, such as a subwoofer of the sound system lOlOd. The sound and light assembly 1030dl can be a front right speaker of the sound system lOlOd, the sound and light assembly 1030d2 can be a front left speaker of the sound system lOlOd, the sound and light assembly 1030d3 can be a right surround speaker of the sound system 101 Od, the sound and light assembly 1030d4 can be a left surround speaker of the sound system 101 Od, the sound and light assembly 1030d5 can be a right surround speaker 20SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)of the sound system 101 Od, the sound and light assembly 1030d6 can be a left surround speaker of the sound system 101 Od, and the external speaker 1092d can be a center speaker of the speaker system 101 Od. In this way, the speakers of the sound system lOlOd can be mounted to existing light fixtures, whether in the ceiling 1006d or supported by a light fixture support 1040dl , 1040d2 (such as side tables), and provide a pleasing aesthetic feel to the setting lOOOd through reducing cables and speakers resting upon the floor 1004d. Therefore, a 5.1 surround sound system can be created using the furniture assembly HOOd, the sound and light assemblies 1030dl, 1040d2, 1030d3 , 1030d4, 1030d5, and 1030d6 and the external speaker 1092d. This surround sound system can operate with the audio-video device 1090d, with the external speaker 1092d and / or the receiver / amplifier l l lOd controlling the operation of all the audio-video components under the control of the mobile device 1112d or other remove control.

[0078] Turning to Figure 9, illustrated is another room or setting 1 OOOe, including walls 1002e, a floor 1004e, and a ceiling 1006e, in which at least one sound and light assembly can be used as part of a sound system lOlOe, whether the sound system lOlOe provides only audio or if the sound system lOlOe is part of an audio-video system. The sound system lOlOe can be a surround sound system defined by X.Y, where X is a number of full bandwidth channels and Y is a number of low-frequency channels of a sound system. X is greater than 2 and Y is greater than 1. For instance, the sound system lOlOe of Figure 9 can be a 5.1 surround sound system. It will be understood that in other configurations the sound system lOlOe can be any of a 2.1 sound system, a 3.1 sound system, a 4.1 sound system, a 5.1 sound system, a 6.1 sound system, a 7.1 sound system, a 8.1 sound system, a 9.1 sound system, etc.

[0079] As illustrated the setting 1000c can be a bedroom having a furniture assembly 1 lOOel in the form of a bed, ceiling mounted light fixtures 1020el, 1020e2, (such as associated with recessed lighting or other ceiling or roof supported lighting as described in relation to Figure 6) having associated sound and light assemblies 1030el, 1030e2, and wall mounted light fixtures 1020e3, 1020e4 having associated sound and light assemblies 1030e3, 1030e4 (such as associated with sconces, picture lights, recessed lights, uplight lights, track lights, etc.). The light fixtures 1020e3, 1020e4 (which are illustrates as including a body or base 1080e, a sound and light assembly holder 1082e, and a shade 1084e) are mounted to the wall 1002e, and are illustrated positioned above the bed or furniture assembly HOOel. A furniture assembly 1100e2, such as drawers, can also be included and upon which rests an audio-video device 1090e, such as a21SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)television, liquid crystal display, LED display, projector, short throw projector, combinations or modifications thereof. An external speaker 1092e, such as a center speaker, center console, or center channel, can also be supported by the furniture assembly 1100e2 (or alternatively the external speaker 1092e can rest upon the floor 1004e or be mounted to the wall 1002e or the ceiling 1006e). The external speaker 1092e can be operated by the mobile device 1112e or controlled by a console controller that is similar to a remote control or provided through controls on the center console itself.

[0080] Reference has been made to furniture assembly 1100e2 supporting an audio-video device 1090e and external speaker 1092e, furniture assembly 1100e2 can also include audio-video device 1090e and external speaker 1092e within one or more cavities or spaces of furniture assembly 1100e2 or within other interior chambers or spaces. Additionally, furniture assembly 1100e2 can be modular in that is formed from multiple interconnected or combinable units or members to create and provide the form and function of the furniture assembly.

[0081] The external speaker 1092e, with the furniture assembly 1100e2 and the sound and light assemblies 1030el, 1030e2, 1030e3, 1030e4 (and optionally the audio-video device 1090e and / or the furniture assembly 1100e2) form the sound system lOlOe. While the furniture assembly 1100e2 is illustrated as a chest of drawers, the furniture assembly 1100e2 can also be a chair, a sofa, a bed frame, a coffee table, an end table, a side table, a desk, a server, a hutch, a bookcase, a cupboard, a door, a credenza, a console, a sideboard, a cabinet, a bookcase, cabinetry, a wardrobe, or combinations or modifications thereof.

[0082] As illustrated in Figure 9, the furniture assembly 1 lOOel include a base 1106e, upright member 1108e 1 in the form of a footboard, an upright member 1108e2 in the form of a headboard, and a mattress 1116e resting on the base 1106e (optionally with a box spring or foundation disposed between the mattress 1116c and the base 1106e). While the upright members 1108el, 1180e2 are not illustrated as being “audio-enhanced” such as upright members 108a, 108b in FIG. 1, or otherwise discussed herein, it will be understood that the upright members 1108el , 1108e2 can be “audio-enhanced” with speakers, wires, speaker controllers, etc.

[0083] The base 1106e includes a receiver / amplifier l l lOe and a speaker 1114e, such as a subwoofer of the sound system lOlOe. The sound and light assembly 1030el can be a front right speaker of the sound system 101 Oe, the sound and light assembly 1030e2 can be a front left speaker of the sound system lOlOe, the sound and light assembly 1030e3 can be a right surround speaker, 22SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)the sound and light assembly 1030e4 can be a left surround speaker of the sound system lOlOe, and the external speaker 1092e can be a center speaker of the speaker system lOlOe. In this way, the speakers of the surround sound system lOlOe can be mounted to existing light fixtures, whether in the ceiling 1006e or wall 1002e, and provide a pleasing aesthetic feel to the setting lOOOe through reducing cables and speakers resting upon the floor 1004e. Therefore, a 5.1 surround sound system can be created using the furniture assembly 1 lOOel, the sound and light assemblies 1030el, 1030e2, 1030e3, 1030e4, and the external speaker 1092e. This surround sound system can operate with the audio-video device 1090e, with the external speaker 1092e and / or the receiver / amplifier H lOe controlling the operation of all the audio-video components under the control of the mobile device 1112e or other remove control.

[0084] Turning to Figure 10, illustrated is another room or setting lOOOf, including walls 1002f, a floor 1004f, and a ceiling 1006f, in which at least one sound and light assembly can be used as part of a sound system 101 Of, whether the sound system 101 Of provides only audio or if the sound system lOlOf is part of an audio-video system. The sound system lOlOf can be a surround sound system defined by X.Y, where X is a number of full bandwidth channels and Y is a number of low- frequency channels of a sound system. X is greater than 2 and Y is greater than 1. For instance, the sound system lOlOf of Figure 10 can be a 5.1 surround sound system. It will be understood that in other configurations the sound system lOlOf can be any of a 2.1 sound system, a 3.1 sound system, a 4.1 sound system, a 5.1 sound system, a 6.1 sound system, a 7.1 sound system, a 8.1 sound system, a 9.1 sound system, etc.

[0085] In contrast to the setting lOOOe, the setting lOOOf uses four ceiling mounted light fixtures rather than two. As illustrated, the setting lOOOf can be a bedroom having a furniture assembly HOOfl in the form of a bed, ceiling mounted light fixtures 1020fl, 1020f2, 1020f3, 1020f4, (such as associated with recessed lighting or other ceiling or roof supported lighting as described in relation to Figure 6) having associated sound and light assemblies 1030fl, 1030f2, 103013, 1030f4, and wall mounted light fixtures 1020f5 , 1020f6 having associated sound and light assemblies 1030F5 , 1030F6 (such as associated with sconces, picture lights, recessed lights, uplight lights, track lights, etc.). The light fixtures 1020F5, 1020f6 (that can have the same form as the light fixtures 1020e3, 1020e4) are mounted to the wall 1002f, and are illustrated positioned above the bed or furniture assembly 1 lOOfl. A furniture assembly 1100£2, such as drawers, can also be included and upon which rests an audio-video device 1090f, such as a television, liquid crystal 23SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)display, LED display, projector, short throw projector, combinations or modifications thereof. An external speaker 1092f, such as a center speaker, center console, or center channel, can also be supported by the furniture assembly 1100f2 (or alternatively the external speaker 1092f can rest upon the floor 1004fa or be mounted to the wall 1002f or the ceiling 10061). The external speaker 1092f can be operated by the mobile device 1112f or controlled by a console controller that is similar to a remote control or provided through controls on the center console itself.

[0086] Reference has been made to furniture assembly 1100f2 supporting an audio-video device 1090f and external speaker 1092f, furniture assembly 110012 can also include audio-video device 1090f and external speaker 1092f within one or more cavities or spaces of furniture assembly 110012, such as within a top of furniture assembly 110012 or within other interior chambers or spaces. Additionally, furniture assembly 110012 can be modular in that is formed from multiple interconnected or combinable units or members to create and provide the form and function of the furniture assembly.

[0087] The external speaker 1092f, with the furniture assembly 1 lOOfl and the sound and light assemblies 103011, 103012, 103013, 1030T4, 1030f5, 1030T6 (and optionally the audio-video device 1090f and / or the furniture assembly 110012) form the sound system lOlOf. While the furniture assembly 110012 is illustrated as a chest of drawers, the furniture assembly 110012 can also be a chair, a sofa, a bed frame, a coffee table, an end table, a side table, a desk, a server, a hutch, a bookcase, a cupboard, a door, a credenza, a console, a sideboard, a cabinet, a bookcase, cabinetry, a wardrobe, or combinations or modifications thereof.

[0088] As illustrated in Figure 10, the furniture assembly 1 lOOfl include abase 1106f, upright member 1108fl in the form of a footboard, an upright member 110812 in the form of a headboard, and a mattress 1116f resting on the base 1106f (optionally with a box spring or foundation disposed between the mattress 1116f and the base 1106f). While the upright members 1108fl , 118012 are not illustrated as being “audio-enhanced” such as upright members 108a, 108b in FIG. 1, or otherwise discussed herein, it will be understood that the upright members 1108fl , 110812 can be “audio-enhanced” with speakers, wires, speaker controllers, etc.

[0089] The base 1106f includes a receiver / amplifier l l lOf and a speaker 1114f, such as a subwoofer of the sound system lOlOf. The sound and light assembly 103011 can be a front right speaker of the sound system lOlOf, the sound and light assembly 103012 can be a front left speaker of the sound system 101 Of, the sound and light assembly 103013 can be a right surround speaker, 24SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)the sound and light assembly 1030f4 can be a left surround speaker of the sound system 101 Of, the sound and light assembly 1030f5 can be a right surround speaker, the sound and light assembly 1030T6 can be a left surround speaker of the sound system lOlOf, and the external speaker 1092f can be a center speaker of the speaker system 101 Of, In this way, the speakers of the surround sound system lOlOf can be mounted to existing light fixtures, whether in the ceiling 1006f or wall 1002f, and provide a pleasing aesthetic feel to the setting lOOOf through reducing cables and speakers resting upon the floor 1004f. Therefore, a 5.1 surround sound system can be created using the module furniture assembly 1100, the sound and light assemblies 1030fl, 103012, 103013, 1030f4, 1030f5, 1030f6, and the external speaker 1092f. This surround sound system can operate with the audio-video device 1090f, with the external speaker 1092f and / or the receiver / amplifier 1 lOOf controlling the operation of all the audio-video components under the control of the mobile device 1112f or other remove control.

[0090] Turning to Figure 11, illustrated is a room or setting 1000g, including walls 1002g, a floor 1004g, and a ceiling 1006g, in which at least one sound and light assembly can be used as part of a sound system 1010g, whether the sound system 1010g provides only audio or if the sound system 1010g is part of an audio-video system. The sound system 1010g can be a surround sound system defined by X.Y, where X is a number of full bandwidth channels and Y is a number of low-frequency channels of a sound system. X is greater than 2 and Y is greater than 1. For instance, the sound system 1010g of Figure 11 can be a 5.1 surround sound system. It will be understood that in other configurations the sound system 1010g can be any of a 2.1 sound system, a 3.1 sound system, a 4.1 sound system, a 5.1 sound system, a 6.1 sound system, a 7.1 sound system, a 8.1 sound system, a 9.1 sound system, etc.

[0091] As illustrated the setting 1000g can be a bedroom having a furniture assembly 1100g 1, such as a bed, and a furniture assembly 1100g2, such as drawers, upon which rests an audio-video device 1090g, such as a television, liquid crystal display, LED display, projector, short throw projector, combinations or modifications thereof. An external speaker 1092g, such as a center speaker, center console, or center channel, can also be supported by the furniture assembly 1100g2 (or alternatively the external speaker 1092g can rest upon the floor 1004g or be mounted to the wall 1002g or the ceiling 1006g). The external speaker 1092g can be operated by the mobile device 1112g or controlled by a console controller that is similar to a remote control or provided through controls on the center console itself.25SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

[0092] Reference has been made to furniture assembly 1100g2 supporting an audio-video device 1090g and external speaker 1092g, furniture assembly 1100g2 can also include audio-video device 1090g and external speaker 1092g within one or more cavities or spaces of furniture assembly 1100g2, such as within a top of furniture assembly 1100g2 or within other interior chambers or spaces. Additionally, furniture assembly 1100g2 can be modular in that is formed from multiple interconnected or combinable units or members to create and provide the form and function of the furniture assembly.

[0093] The external speaker 1092g with the furniture assembly HOOgl (and optionally the audio-video device 1090g and / or the furniture assembly 1100g2) form the sound system 1010g. While the furniture assembly 1100g2 is illustrated as a chest of drawers, the furniture assembly 1100g2 can also be a chair, a sofa, a bed frame, a coffee table, an end table, a side table, a desk, a server, a hutch, a bookcase, a cupboard, a door, a credenza, a console, a sideboard, a cabinet, a bookcase, cabinetry, a wardrobe, or combinations or modifications thereof.

[0094] The furniture assembly HOOgl the furniture assembly HOOgl include a base 1106g, upright member 1108gl in the form of a footboard, an upright member 1108g2 in the form of a headboard, and a mattress 1116g resting on the base 1106g (optionally with a box spring or foundation disposed between the mattress 1116c and the base 1106c). As with the modular furniture assembly 1100a (and the modular furniture assembly 100), the base 1106g, the footboard 1108gl, the headboard 1108g2 are audio -enhanced or otherwise enhanced with electronic components, with the footboard 1108gl and the headboard 1108g2 being similar to the audioenhanced upright members 108 described herein and the base 1106g being similar to the audioenhanced base 106. For instance, the footboard 1108gl includes a speaker 1102gl and a speaker 1102g 1, while the headboard 1108g2 includes a speaker 1102g3 and a speaker 1102g3.

[0095] The base 1106g includes speaker 1102g5, speaker 1102g6, a receiver / amplifier 1110g, a speaker 1114g, such as a subwoofer of the sound system 1010g, and an electronic component 1120g, such as an induction charger (e.g., for wirelessly charging phones or other electrical devices), or other electrical charger. Another electronic component corresponding to component 1120g, such as another induction charger, may be positioned in a corresponding location on the left side of base 1106g. As shown in Figure 11, such electronic components 1120g, e.g., induction chargers, are positioned at approximate shoulder locations on base 1106g, e.g., adjacent an end of the base 1106g and away from the center of the mattress, so as to be conveniently accessible to a 26SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)user. A user can place a phone on or near base 1106g adjacent electronic component 1120g (e.g., induction charger) to electrically charge the phone, for example.

[0096] Each speaker 1102gl, 1102g2, 1102g3, 1102g4, 1102g5, 1102g6 of the footboard 1108gl , the headboard 1108g2, and base 1106g is connected by a wires to a speaker controller, such as described in relation to Figure 2A and upright member 108a. Alternatively, speaker 1102gl, 1102g2, 1102g3, 1102g4, 1102g5, 1102g6 can be in wireless communication with speaker controller, or individual speaker controllers can be directly integrated with each speaker 1102gl , 1102g2, 1102g3, 1102g4, 1102g5, 1102g6. In still another configuration, the footboard 1108gl and / or the headboard 1108gl can accommodate sound and light assemblies, such as described herein, in place of or in addition to the speakers 1102gl, 1102g2, 1102g3, 1102g4, 1102g5, 1102g6. For instance, the footboard 1108gl and / or the headboard 1108gl and / or the base 1106g can include a holder, such as sound and light holder 82 of Figure 4A, that can receive one the sound and light assembly 30 (Figure 1) (or other sound and light assemblies described herein), to provide the function of audio in the sound system 1010g. Additionally, depending upon the light transmission characteristics of the cover, such as the cover 104 (Figure 1), the user can utilize the light or illumination characteristics of the sound and light assembly 30 (Figure 1). As before, the sound and light assemblies can be controlled by a user using remote control, mobile device, switches, etc. While references is made to using sound and light assemblies in relation to the modular furniture assembly HOOgl, it will be understood that other furniture assemblies (including the furniture assemblies 1100g2 and similar furniture assemblies) can also accommodate or use sound a light assemblies. Therefore, the sound and light assemblies can be used in, but not limited to, a chairs, a sofa, a bed frame, a coffee table, an end table, a side table, a desk, a server, a hutch, a bookcase, a cupboard, a door, a credenza, a console, a sideboard, a cabinet, a bookcase, cabinetry, a wardrobe, or combinations or modifications thereof. Additionally, the sound and light assemblies can be used in any structure that includes a holder or other structure to provide power to the sound and light assemblies.

[0097] As illustrated in Figure 11 , the speaker 1102g 1 can be a front right speaker of the sound system 1010g, the speaker 1102g2 can be a front left speaker of the sound system 1010g, the speaker 1102g3 can be a right surround speaker of the sound system 1010g, the speaker 1102g4 can be a left surround speaker of the sound system 1010g, and the external speaker 1092g can be a center speaker of the sound system 1010g. In this manner, a 5.1 surround sound system can be 27SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)created using the furniture assembly HOOgl, the speakers 1102gl, 1102g2, 1102g3, 1102g4, and the external speaker 1092g. This surround sound system can operate with the audio-video device 1090g, with the external speaker 1092g and / or the receiver / amplifier 1110g controlling the operation of all the audio- video components under the control of a mobile device or other remove control.

[0098] Additionally, the speaker 1102g5 (and a corresponding speaker on the left side of base 1106g) and the speaker 1102g6 (and a corresponding speaker on the left side of base 1106g) can also form part of the surround sound system and function with any of the front speaker, left speaker, right surround speaker, left surround speaker, or any other of a surround sound system. In one implementation, speaker 1102g6, and its corresponding speaker on the left side of base 1106g, are located at or near the rear end of the base 1106g, i.e., adjacent the headboard 1108g2 in Fig. 11.

[0099] In one implementation: (i) speakers 1102g5, 1102g6, their corresponding left speakers, and electronic component 1120g (e.g., an induction charger) and its corresponding left component, as well as subwoofer speaker 1114g and related electronic components, are embedded within a rigid (e.g., wooden) base 1106g and are hidden from view, for example, by having perforations in the rigid base 1106g that increase the acoustic transparency of base 1106g, enabling the speakers 1102g5-6 and 1114g to project sound through the perforations in the base 1106g. In one such implementation: (i) speakers 1102g5-6, their corresponding left speakers, and electronic component 1120g (e.g., an induction charger), as well as subwoofer speaker 1114g (and any other speakers and electronic components referenced herein) are configured, positioned, oriented, and operate to account for material types, including correcting sound loss through at least partially acoustically transparent materials; and (ii) base 1106g, (and any other rigid structure disclosed herein), can be formed as a solid, nondrapable, rigid structure that has perforations therein to increase the acoustic transparency of the rigid structure.

[0100] Thus, is it apparent from this disclosure that: (i) any rigid furniture assemblies (e.g., chests of drawers, chairs, bed frames, bed rails, headboards, footboards, coffee tables, end tables, side tables, desks, servers, hutches, bookcases, cupboards, doors, credenzas, consoles, sideboards, cabinets, bookcases, cabinetry, shelves, drawers, etc.), such as those disclosed or referenced herein, can be formed as solid, nondrapable, rigid structures that have perforations therein to increase the acoustic transparency of the rigid structures; and that (ii) any of the speakers and 28SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)electronic components disclosed herein can be embedded, hidden, positioned, and function within such solid, nondrapable, rigid, and / or perforated structures.

[0101] Turning to Figure 12, illustrated is a room or setting lOOOh, including walls 1002h, a floor 1004h, and a ceiling 1006h, in which at least one sound and light assembly can be used as part of a sound system 101 Oh, whether the sound system 101 Oh provides only audio or if the sound system 101 Oh is part of an audio-video system. The sound system lOlOh can be a surround sound system defined by X.Y, where X is a number of full bandwidth channels and Y is a number of low-frequency channels of a sound system. X is greater than 2 and Y is greater than 1. For instance, the sound system 101 Oh of Figure 12 can be a 5.1 surround sound system. It will be understood that in other configurations the sound system lOlOh can be any of a 2.1 sound system, a 3.1 sound system, a 4.1 sound system, a 5.1 sound system, a 6.1 sound system, a 7.1 sound system, a 8.1 sound system, a 9.1 sound system, etc.

[0102] As illustrated the setting lOOOh can be a bedroom having a furniture assembly 1 lOOhl, such as one of the described modular furniture assemblies, with light fixture supports 1040hl, 1040h2 supporting sound and light assemblies 1030hl , 1030h2 (or speakers such as speakers 102 or 1102 described herein). For instance, the light fixture supports 1040hl, 1040112 can be side tables with the sound and light assemblies 1030hl, 1030h2 (or speakers such as speakers 102 or 1102) embedded or mounted therewithin.

[0103] Turning to Figure 13, illustrated is the light fixture support 1040111, with a similar discussion possible for the light fixture support 1040112. The light fixture support 1040hl is in the nature of a side table including a table body 1200 supported by table legs 1202; the table body 1200 including a top panel 1208a, and end and front and back panels 1208b-e. At least one sound and light assembly 1030h5 (or speakers such as speakers 102 or 1102) embedded and integrated within the light fixture support 1040hl. For instance, the light fixture support 1040111 includes the sound and light assembly 1030115, 1030117. More generally, the light fixture support 1040111 can be considered a furniture assembly as described herein (i.e., modular or not). The sound and light assemblies 1030h5, 1030117 may be mounted to and within light fixture support 1040111, for example, such that the light fixture support 1040hl acts as a speaker cover for each sound and light assembly 1030h5 , 1030117. Each sound and light assembly 1030h5 , 1030h7 can be connected by a wire 1216 to a speaker controller 1218 that controls tuning of each speaker. Alternatively, speaker 102 can be in wireless communication with speaker controller 1118, or individual speaker 29SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)controllers can be directly integrated with each sound and light assembly 1030h5, 1030h7. In an implementation, speaker controller 1218 may include an amplifier and / or receiver. The speaker controller 1218 and the sound and light assemblies 1030h5, 1030h7 are electrically connected to a power source, such as mains power, a battery, etc. to power the speaker controller 1218 and the sound and light assemblies 1030115, 1030117. Optionally, the light fixture support 1040111 can include an internal power source, such as a battery, etc.

[0104] The sound and light assemblies 1030h5, 1030h7 are embedded within table body 106 (e.g., a wooden, polymer, or metal table body 1200) such that each sound and light assembly 1030h5 , 1030h7 is covered by a solid, rigid, nondrapable structure, e.g., by respective portion 1204 of rigid table body 1200 adjacent respective speakers. The solid, nondrapable, rigid panels 1208a- e of table body 1200 are perforated in such portions 1204a, 1204b adjacent respective sound and light assembly 1030115, 1030117 to make each panel rigid panel 1208a, 1208c for instance, partially acoustically transparent structure.

[0105] Table body 1200 of light fixture support 1040hl thus includes one or more perforated panels having respective portions, such as 1104, that are adjacent respective sound and light assembly 1030h5, 1030h7, e.g., covering a respective sound and light assembly 1030h5, 1030h7 either above the respective sound and light assembly 1030h5, 1030h7 or to the side of the sound and light assembly 1030h5, 1030h7, as shown in Figure 13.

[0106] Table body 1200 and its respective panels are made of solid, nondrapable, rigid materials, such as wood for example, which are perforated, e.g., such as having perforations drilled or otherwise formed therein. As shown in Figure 13, such perforations in panel portion 1104 adjacent respective sound and light assembly 1030h5, 1030117 are in the native surface of table body 1200, as opposed to having separate, aesthetically displeasing, perforated, grill plates or covers that are not part of the native surface mounted onto the table body 1200 and covering a respective speaker. By having perforations in the native surfaces of table body 1200, as shown in Figure 13, as opposed to having a separately mounted perforated plate or perforated cover that is not part of the native surface, the perforations are less visible to a user and are more hidden from view, and less disruptive to the native surface of table body 1200, making the light fixture support 1040hl more aesthetically pleasing, less disrupted, and more similar to a natural smooth surface.

[0107] As illustrated in Figure 13, light fixture support 1040111 is in the nature of a side table that includes a table body 1200 supported by legs 1202, it being understood that the table body 30SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)1200 can alternatively rest directly on a floor or other structure upon which the light fixture support 1040hl is to be positioned. The light fixture support 1040hl shown in Figure 13 has the form of a table, but it will be understood that a furniture assembly having a perforated partially acoustically transparent rigid structure such as perforated portion 1104 of table body 1200 can be a variety of standalone or built-in furniture assemblies, such as but not limited to chairs, sofas, bed frames, coffee tables, end tables, side tables, desks, servers, hutches, bookcases, cupboards, doors, credenzas, consoles, sideboards, cabinets, bookcases, cabinetry, wardrobes, or combinations thereof, etc.

[0108] The table body 1200 includes the top panel 1208a having perforated portions 1204a covering an adjacent, respective hidden speaker mounted within table body 1200, as well as end panels 1208c having perforated portion 1204b covering a respective adjacent hidden sound and light assembly 1030h7 mounted within the table body 1200. These panels also enclose or partially enclose an interior of the table body 1200, wherein sound and light assemblies 1030h5, 1030h7 are hidden from view, but are able to emit sound through table body 1200, the sound transmission of which is improved by the perforations in table body 1200.

[0109] As illustrated in Figures 13, perforated portions 1204a, 1204b of the table body 1200 have a plurality of perforations extending therethrough. The form, shape, size, and density of the perforations 1210 can be varied based, at least in part, upon a type and thickness of material used to form the perforated portions, the perforation size, and the perforation amount. For instance, the perforated portions 1204a, 1204b may have a mesh appearance in which the perforations 1210 are square or rectangular shaped. In another configuration, the perforations 1210 of the partially acoustically transparent structure have a generally circular shape and can be formed within a monolithic structure (e.g., panels of table body 1200 being monolithic panels) such as through drilling, molding, cutting, punching, piercing, laser cutting, puncturing, and / or combinations thereof. The monolithic structure can include organic materials, polymeric material, natural material, composite material, and / or combinations thereof. For instance, the perforated partially acoustically transparent structure can be formed of wood (such as MDF, other engineered wood or non-engineered wood), optionally with a veneer, in which the perforations 1210 are drilled, cut, punched, pierced, laser cutting, punctured, and / or combinations thereof. In another configuration, the perforated partially acoustically transparent structure is formed of a polymer or composite panel or member in which the perforations 1200 are drilled, cut, punched, pierced, laser cutting, 31SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)punctured, and / or combinations thereof. A hole density, hole size, and perforation (void) fraction can vary based upon the material and other factors. In one implementation, the perforations are sized in order to allow some of the sound from a particular speaker to be emitted therethrough, but are small enough that the perforations themselves are invisible or as hidden from view as possible, thus appearing as a more natural surface than a separate perforated plate or cover mounted onto a furniture surface.

[0110] Returning to Figure 12, ceiling mounted fixtures 1020hl, 1020112, 1020h3, 1020114, (such as associated with recessed lighting or other ceiling or roof supported lighting) having associated sound and light assemblies 1030hl , 1030h2, 1030h3 , 1030h4 can form part of the sound system 101 Of. A furniture assembly 1100h2, such as drawers, can also be included and upon which rests an audio-video device 1090h, such as a television, liquid crystal display, LED display, projector, short throw projector, combinations or modifications thereof. An external speaker 1092h, such as a center speaker, center console, or center channel, can also be supported by the furniture assembly 1100h2 (or alternatively the external speaker 1092h can rest upon the floor 1004h or be mounted to the wall 1002h or the ceiling 1006h). The external speaker 1092h can be operated by the mobile device 1112h or controlled by a console controller that is similar to a remote control or provided through controls on the center console itself.

[0111] The external speaker 1092h with the furniture assembly 1100h2, and the sound and light assemblies 1030hl, 1030112, 1030113, 1030h4 (and optionally the audio-video device 1090h), form the sound system 101 Oh. While the furniture assembly 1100h2 is illustrated as a chest of drawers, the furniture assembly 1100h2 can also be a chair, a sofa, a bed frame, a coffee table, an end table, a side table, a desk, a server, a hutch, a bookcase, a cupboard, a door, a credenza, a console, a sideboard, a cabinet, a bookcase, cabinetry, a wardrobe, or combinations or modifications thereof.

[0112] As illustrated in Figure 12, the furniture assembly 11 OOhl include a base 1106h, upright member 1108hl in the form of a footboard, an upright member 1108h2 in the form of a headboard, and a mattress 1116h resting on the base 1106h (optionally with a box spring or foundation disposed between the mattress 1116h and the base 1106h). While the upright members 1108hl, 1180h2 are not illustrated as being “audio-enhanced” such as upright members 108a, 108b in FIG. 1, or otherwise discussed herein, it will be understood that the upright members 1108hl , 1108c2 can be “audio-enhanced” with speakers, wires, speaker controllers, etc.32SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

[0113] The base 1106h includes a receiver / amplifier l l lOh and a speaker 1114h, such as a subwoofer of the sound system lOlOh. The sound and light assembly 1030hlcan be a front right speaker of the sound system 101 Oh, the sound and light assembly 1030h2 can be a front left speaker of the sound system 101 Oh, the sound and light assembly 1030h3 can be a right surround speaker of the sound system 101 Oh, the sound and light assembly 1030h4 can be a left surround speaker of the sound system 101 Oh, the sound and light assembly 1030h5 can be a right surround speaker of the sound system 101 Oh, the sound and light assembly 1030h6 can be a left surround speaker of the sound system lOlOh, and the external speaker 1092h can be a center speaker of the sound system 101 Oh. In this way, the speakers of the sound system lOlOh can be mounted to existing light fixtures, whether in the ceiling 1006h or within a light fixture support 1040hl , 1040h2 (such as side tables), and provide a pleasing aesthetic feel to the setting 1000c through reducing cables and speakers resting upon the floor 1004h.

[0114] Additionally, a 5.1 surround sound system can be created using the furniture assembly HOOh, the sound and light assemblies 1030hl-1030h6, and the external speaker 1092h. This surround sound system can operate with the audio-video device 1092h, with the external speaker 1092h and / or the receiver / amplifier l l lOh controlling the operation of all the audio-video components under the control of the mobile device 1114h or other remove control.

[0115] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting. Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant work of furniture assemblies and audio systems.

[0116] Numbers, percentages, ratios, or other values stated herein are intended to include that value, and also other values that are “about” or “approximately” the stated value, as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art encompassed by the present disclosure. A stated value should therefore be interpreted broadly enough to encompass values that are at least close enough to the stated value to perform a desired function or achieve a desired result. The stated values include at least the variation to be expected in a suitable manufacturing or production process, and may include values that are within 5%, within 1%, within 0.1%, or within 0.01% of a stated value.33SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

[0117] A person having ordinary skill in the art should realize in view of the present disclosure that equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that various changes, substitutions, and alterations may be made to implementations disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Equivalent constructions, including functional “means-plus-function” clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function, including both structural equivalents that operate in the same manner, and equivalent structures that provide the same function. It is the express intention of the applicant not to invoke means-plus-function or other functional claiming for any claim except for those in which the words ‘means for' appear together with an associated function. Each addition, deletion, and modification to the implementations that falls within the meaning and scope of the claims is to be embraced by the claims.

[0118] The terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” as used herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than 5% of, within less than 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and within less than 0.01% of a stated amount. Further, it should be understood that any directions or reference frames in the preceding description are merely relative directions or movements. For example, any references to “up” and “down” or “above” or “below” are merely descriptive of the relative position or movement of the related elements.

[0119] Some ranges may be disclosed herein. Additional ranges may be defined between any values disclosed herein as being exemplary of a particular parameter, including disclosed range endpoints. All such ranges are contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0120] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to various implementations, it will be understood that these implementations are illustrative and that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to them. Many variations, modifications, additions, and improvements are possible. More generally, implementations in accordance with the present disclosure have been described in the context of particular examples. Functionality may be separated or combined in blocks differently in various implementations of the disclosure or described with different terminology. These and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements may fall within the scope of the disclosure as defined in the claims that follow.34SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An audio-enhanced furniture system, comprising: a furniture assembly comprising a speaker system positioned within the furniture assembly, the speaker system comprising a speaker that is hidden from view; and a sound and light assembly forming part of an audio system including the speaker, the sound and light assembly being external to the furniture assembly.

2. The audio-enhanced furniture system as recited in claim 1, wherein the audio system is a sound system.

3. The audio-enhanced furniture system as recited in claim 2, wherein the sound system comprises a surround sound system.

4. The audio-enhanced furniture system as recited in claim 1, wherein the sound and light assembly is disposed within a ceiling fixture.

5. The audio-enhanced furniture system as recited in claim 1, wherein the sound and light assembly is disposed within a wall fixture.

6. The audio-enhanced furniture system as recited in claim 1, wherein the sound and light assembly is disposed within a lamp.

7. The audio-enhanced furniture system as recited in claim 6, wherein the sound and light assembly is disposed within a table lamp.

8. The audio-enhanced furniture system as recited in claim 6, wherein the sound and light assembly is disposed within a self-standing floor lamp.35SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)9. The audio-enhanced furniture system as recited in claim 1, wherein the audio system is a surround sound system and the speaker is one of a left surround speaker, right surround speaker, a left front speaker, or a right speaker of the surround system.

10. The audio-enhanced furniture system as recited in claim 1, wherein the audio system is a surround sound system and the sound and light assembly is one of a left surround speaker, right surround speaker, a left front speaker, or a right speaker of the surround system.

11. The audio-enhanced furniture system of claim 1, further comprising a speaker controller in communication with the speaker, the speaker controller being configured to control a level of sound generated by the speaker, wherein the speaker controller is selectively controlled by at least one of a mobile device, a remote controller, or a console controller.

12. The audio-enhanced furniture system of claim 11 , wherein the speaker controller is in communication with the sound and light assembly and being configured to control a level of sound generated by the sound and light assembly.

13. The audio-enhanced furniture system of claim 1, wherein the furniture assembly comprises a chair, a sofa, a bed frame, a coffee table, an end table, a side table, a desk, a server, a hutch, a bookcase, a cupboard, a door, a credenza, a console, a sideboard, a cabinet, a bookcase, cabinetry, a wardrobe, a chest of drawers, or combinations or modifications thereof.

14. The audio-enhanced furniture system of claim 1, further comprising a center channel forming part of the audio system.

15. The audio-enhanced furniture system of claim 1, wherein the furniture assembly comprises a modular furniture assembly comprising a base and an audio-enhanced upright member.36SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

Images