A furniture assembly

Abstract

The present invention discloses a furniture assembly comprises a main panel (102); and a plurality of subsidiary panels (110) which are pivotal relative to the main panel (102), the subsidiary panels (110) being hingable from a stowed position, in which they lie in flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel (102), to a deployed position of use; wherein stabilizing members are provided to maintain the subsidiary panels (110) in their deployed position of use; and wherein the stabilizing members are adapted for toolless connection between adjacent subsidiary panels (110) to prevent the collapse of the deployed subsidiary panels (110) and into their stowed position and to prevent the separation of the adjacent subsidiary panels (110).

Description

[0001] A FURNITURE ASSEMBLY

[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0003] The invention relates to a furniture assembly. More particularly, the invention relates to a furniture assembly in which its panels are pivotable from a stowed position to a deployed position of use, and stabilizing members are provided to maintain the panels in their deployed position of use.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Furniture assembly represents a pivotal aspect of the interior design and home furnishing industry. When it comes to delivering furniture to consumers, two primary approaches have emerged, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. The first approach involves delivering furniture in its fully assembled form. While this method offers a high level of convenience to the end user, it comes with significant drawbacks that have prompted alternative solutions. Notably, transporting fully assembled furniture incurs substantial transportation costs and often presents logistical difficulties, particularly when dealing with large, bulky pieces. Additionally, it can be burdensome for homeowners to navigate narrow doorways, staircases, or other obstructions when moving already assembled furniture.

[0006] The second approach involves packaging furniture as knockdown or flat-pack items. This method has gained popularity as a response to the challenges associated with delivering fully assembled furniture. It offers several advantages, including substantial cost savings. By disassembling the furniture into more compact and stackable components, manufacturers can optimize the use of space during transportation, reducing both shipping expenses and environmental impact. Furthermore, the knockdown approach makes it significantly easier to move furniture within a home, as users can navigate tight spaces and challenging corners more effectively. However, one of the downsides of this approach is that it places the responsibility of furniture assembly directly into the hands of the end user. While this may be seen as a minor inconvenience for some, it can indeed present a challenge for individuals who are less inclined or equipped to handle furniture assembly.

[0007] Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a furniture assembly that can address to the challenges associated with both fully assembled and knockdown furniture. To be more precise, there is a need for a furniture assembly that can be transported with convenience, ease of conversion from a knockdown state into a fully functional state, and possesses versatility through the attachment of supplementary panels or accessories for transforming the furniture assembly into various type of furniture such as tables, cabinets and / or racks. This invention provides such a furniture assembly.

[0008] SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0009] In a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a furniture assembly comprises a generally rectangular main panel having two opposing transverse ends; and a plurality of subsidiary panels which are pivotal relative to the main panel, the subsidiary panels being hingable from a stowed position in which they lie in flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel, to a deployed position of use; wherein the subsidiary panels includes at least two subsidiary panels, each hinged at one transverse end of the main panel, and at least one subsidiary panel hinged on the main panel at a position between the at least two subsidiary panels; wherein stabilizing members are provided to maintain the subsidiary panels in their deployed position of use; wherein the stabilizing members are adapted for connection between adjacent subsidiary panels to prevent the collapse of the deployed subsidiary panels into their stowed position and to prevent the separation of the adjacent subsidiary panels; wherein the stabilizing members comprise a combination of tie rods and / or intermediate panels which extend between, and connect together, a pair of adjacent subsidiary panels; wherein at least one pair of adjacent subsidiary panels is secured in the deployed position by the tie rods and at least one remaining pair of adjacent subsidiary panels is secured in the deployed position by the intermediate panels; and wherein the at least one pair of adjacent subsidiary panels and the intermediate panels are interconnected to form a cabinet or a rack.

[0010] In this embodiment of the invention, the subsidiary panels may provide ground engaging legs to support the main panel when the subsidiary panels are deployed into an upright position of use relative to the main panel.

[0011] In this embodiment of the invention, the subsidiary panels may be hinged on the main panel at varying heights, allowing them to stack one on top of another in the flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel.

[0012] In this embodiment of the invention, a plurality pairs of L-shaped connectors may be provided to hinge the subsidiary panels to the main panel at varying heights, each L- shape connector comprises a first portion that is attachable to the main panel, a second portion arranged perpendicularly to the first portion, and a protrusion on the second portion that can be rotatably inserted to a complimentary hole on the subsidiary panel.

[0013] In this embodiment of the invention, the main panel may further include a pair of flanges, each extended perpendicularly from one longitudinal end of the main panel, and the subsidiary panels are hinged on both the flanges via dowel connectors.

[0014] In this embodiment of the invention, the main panel may further include a pair of elongated connectors respectively attached to the longitudinal ends of the main panel, each elongated connectors includes a rod body, a plurality of protrusions of varying length extended outwardly away from the main body, and a hole located at an end portion of each protrusions for the subsidiary panels to be hinged thereon via rivet or pin connectors.

[0015] In this embodiment of the invention, each tie rod may include a pair of non- detachable protrusions for insertion into complementary holes in the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels.

[0016] In this embodiment of the invention, the tie rods may be attached to the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels via fasteners.

[0017] In this embodiment of the invention, the tie rods may intersect or cross over each other to form a cross configuration while attached to the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels.

[0018] In this embodiment of the invention, the subsidiary panels and the intermediate panels may be adapted for slotted interconnection with one another.

[0019] In this embodiment of the invention, the intermediate panels may be normal to the subsidiary panels and some of the intermediate panels may be normal to other intermediate panels.

[0020] In this embodiment of the invention, at least one of the intermediate panels may be supported between the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels via shelf pins.

[0021] In this embodiment of the invention, a door panel may be provided to at least one of the cabinet or rack, whereby the door panel is attached to the cabinet or rack via a pair of spring-loaded pin.

[0022] In this embodiment of the invention, the intermediate panels may be hinged on one of the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels, allowing them to rotate from a retracted position to an expanded position where a groove on the intermediate panels engage support rails of the other subsidiary panel, thereby forming the interlocking connection.

[0023] In this embodiment of the invention, the intermediate panels may be hinged on one of the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels, allowing them to rotate from a vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation, whereby further tie rods are inserted into the intermediate panels to secure the intermediate panels in their horizontal orientation.

[0024] In this embodiment of the invention, an arrangement of a table top supported by at least one cabinet or rack can be formed by the furniture assembly.

[0025] In this embodiment of the invention, an arrangement of a television cabinet can be formed by the furniture assembly.

[0026] In this embodiment of the invention, an arrangement of a multi-column cabinet can be formed by the furniture assembly.

[0027] In a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a furniture assembly comprises a main panel; and a plurality of subsidiary panels which are pivotal relative to the main panel, the subsidiary panels being hingable from a stowed position, in which they lie in flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel, to a deployed position of use; wherein stabilizing members are provided to maintain the subsidiary panels in their deployed position of use; and wherein the stabilizing members are adapted for toolless connection between adjacent subsidiary panels to prevent the collapse of the deployed subsidiary panels and into their stowed position and to prevent the separation of the adjacent subsidiary panels. In this embodiment of the invention, the stabilizing members may comprise a combination of tie rods, intermediate panels, or both which extend between, and connect together, a pair of adjacent subsidiary panels.

[0028] In this embodiment of the invention, at least one pair of adjacent subsidiary panels can be secured in the deployed position by the tie rods and at least one remaining pair of adjacent subsidiary panels can be secured in the deployed position by the intermediate panels, and the at least one pair of adjacent subsidiary panels and the intermediate panels can be interconnected to form a cabinet or a rack.

[0029] In this embodiment of the invention, the subsidiary panels can be hinged on the main panel at varying heights, allowing them to stack one on top of another in the flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel.

[0030] In this embodiment of the invention, a plurality pairs of L-shaped connectors can be provided to hinge the subsidiary panels to the main panel at varying heights, each L- shape connector may comprise a first portion that is attachable to the main panel, a second portion arranged perpendicularly to the first portion, and a protrusion on the second portion that can be rotatably inserted to a complimentary hole on the subsidiary panel.

[0031] In this embodiment of the invention, the main panel may further include a pair of flanges, each extended perpendicularly from one longitudinal end of the main panel, and the subsidiary panels are hinged on both the flanges via dowel connectors.

[0032] In this embodiment of the invention, each dowel connector may comprise a block body with a first surface and a second opposing surface, whereby the first surface may include a dowel protrusion that can be rotatably inserted into a complimentary hole on the flanges, and the second surface includes a plurality of dowel protrusion that can be inserted to complimentary holes on the subsidiary panels at a fixed orientation.

[0033] In this embodiment of the invention, the main panel may further include a pair of elongated connectors respectively attached to the longitudinal ends of the main panel, each elongated connectors includes a rod body, a plurality of protrusions of varying length extended outwardly away from the main body, and a hole located at an end portion of each protrusions for the subsidiary panels to be hinged thereon via rivet or pin connectors.

[0034] In this embodiment of the invention, each tie rod may include a pair of non- detachable protrusions for insertion into complementary holes in the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels.

[0035] In this embodiment of the invention, the tie rods can be attached to the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels via fasteners.

[0036] In this embodiment of the invention, the tie rods may intersect or cross over each other to form a cross configuration while attached to the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels.

[0037] In this embodiment of the invention, the subsidiary panels and the intermediate panels can be adapted for slotted interconnection with one another.

[0038] In this embodiment of the invention, the intermediate panels can be normal to the subsidiary panels and at least one of the intermediate panels can be normal to other intermediate panels.

[0039] In this embodiment of the invention, at least one of the intermediate panels can be supported between the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels via shelf pins. In this embodiment of the invention, at least one of the intermediate panels can be in the form of one or more rear panels connected to the subsidiary panels via a plurality of pin fasteners.

[0040] In this embodiment of the invention, each pin fastener may include a serrated body with a first portion insertable into a complimentary hole on the rear panels and a second portion insertable into a complimentary hole on the subsidiary panels.

[0041] In this embodiment of the invention, a door panel can be attached to the main panel, the subsidiary panels, the stabilizing members or any combination thereof via a pair of spring-loaded pin connector.

[0042] In this embodiment of the invention, sliding mechanisms can be provided for the installation of drawers between the adjacent subsidiary panels.

[0043] In this embodiment of the invention, the intermediate panels can be hinged on one of the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels, allowing them to rotate from a retracted position to an expanded position where a groove on the intermediate panels engages a respective support rod of the other subsidiary panel, thereby forming the interlocking connection.

[0044] In this embodiment of the invention, the main panel may include a first side and a second opposing side, and the plurality of subsidiary panels may include a plurality of first subsidiary panels that pivot towards a direction which the first side is facing and a plurality of second subsidiary panels that pivot towards a direction which the second side is facing, whereby the first and second subsidiary panels are oriented in opposing directions during the deployed position and a cabinet or a rack is formed on each side of the main panel when the stabilizing members are provided to both of the first and second subsidiary panels.

[0045] In this embodiment of the invention, the types of connectors used to hinge the subsidiary panels to the main panel may vary depending on the sides of the subsidiary panels.

[0046] In this embodiment of the invention, the types of connectors used to hinge the subsidiary panels to the main panel vary depending on the sides of the main panel.

[0047] One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the invention is well adapted to carry out the objects and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The embodiments described herein are not intended as limitations on the scope of the invention.

[0048] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the invention, there is illustrated in the accompanying drawing the preferred embodiments from an inspection of which when considered in connection with the following description, the invention, its construction and operation and many of its advantages would be readily understood and appreciated.

[0050] Fig. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a first embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0051] Fig. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the first embodiment of the furniture assembly in a stowed position.

[0052] Fig. 3 is a front view diagram illustrating the first embodiment of the furniture assembly in the stowed position.

[0053] Fig. 4 is a top view illustrating the first embodiment of the furniture assembly in the stowed position.

[0054] Fig. 5 is a side view diagram illustrating the first embodiment of the furniture assembly in the stowed position.

[0055] Figs. 6-8 illustrates a method of installing one or more first intermediate panels to the first embodiment of the furniture assembly in a deployed position.

[0056] Figs. 9-10 illustrates a method of installing one or more second intermediate panels to the first embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0057] Figs. 11-13 illustrates a method of installing tie rods to the first embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0058] Fig. 14 is a perspective view illustrating a second embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0059] Fig. 15 is a perspective view illustrating the second embodiment of the furniture assembly in a stowed position.

[0060] Fig. 16 is a front view diagram illustrating the second embodiment of the furniture assembly in the stowed position.

[0061] Fig. 17 is a top view illustrating the second embodiment of the furniture assembly in the stowed position.

[0062] Fig. 18 is a perspective view illustrating one or more L-shape connectors of the second embodiment of the furniture assembly.

[0063] Fig. 19 is a side view illustrating the second embodiment of the furniture assembly in the stowed position.

[0064] Fig. 20 is a perspective view illustrating a third embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0065] Fig. 21 is a perspective view illustrating the third embodiment of the furniture assembly in a stowed position.

[0066] Fig. 22 is a perspective view illustrating the third embodiment of the furniture assembly in a deployed position.

[0067] Figs. 23-24 illustrates a method of installing tie rods to the third embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0068] Figs. 25-26 illustrates a method of installing one or more second intermediate panels to the third embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0069] Figs. 27-28 illustrates a method of installing one or more first intermediate panels to the third embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0070] Figs. 29-30 illustrates a method of installing one or more third intermediate panels to the third embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0071] Figs. 31-33 illustrates a method of installing one or more fourth intermediate panels to the third embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0072] Figs. 34-35 illustrates a method of installing one or more spring-loaded pin to one or more door panels of the third embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0073] Figs. 36-37 illustrates a method of installing the one or more door panels to the third embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0074] Fig. 38 is a perspective view illustrating the door panels in an open configuration.

[0075] Fig. 39 is a perspective view illustrating the door panels in a closed configuration.

[0076] Fig. 40 is a perspective view illustrating one or more drawers installed to the third embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0077] Fig. 41 is a perspective view illustrating a fourth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0078] Fig. 42 is a perspective view illustrating a hinge configuration of the fourth embodiment of the furniture assembly. Fig. 43 is a front view illustrating the fourth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a stowed position.

[0079] Fig. 44 is a perspective view illustrating the fourth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the stowed position.

[0080] Fig. 45 is a perspective view illustrating the fourth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a deployed position.

[0081] Figs. 46-48 illustrates a method of installing tie rods to the fourth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0082] Fig. 49-51 illustrates a method of operating one or more first intermediate panels of the fourth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0083] Fig. 52 is a perspective view illustrating a fifth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0084] Fig. 53 is a perspective view illustrating a hinge configuration of the fifth embodiment of the furniture assembly.

[0085] Fig. 54 is a front view illustrating the fifth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a stowed position.

[0086] Fig. 55 is a perspective view illustrating the fifth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the stowed position.

[0087] Fig. 56 is a perspective view illustrating the fifth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a deployed position.

[0088] Figs. 57-58 illustrates a method of installing tie rods to the fifth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0089] Fig. 59-61 illustrates a method of operating one or more first intermediate panels of the fifth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0090] Fig. 62 is a perspective view illustrating a sixth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0091] Fig. 63 is a perspective view illustrating a hinge configuration of the sixth embodiment of the furniture assembly.

[0092] Fig. 64 is a front view illustrating the sixth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a stowed position.

[0093] Fig. 65 is a perspective view illustrating the sixth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the stowed position.

[0094] Fig. 66 is a perspective view illustrating the sixth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a deployed position.

[0095] Figs. 67-68 illustrates a method of installing tie rods to the sixth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0096] Fig. 69-70 illustrates a method of operating two or more first intermediate panels of the sixth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0097] Fig. 71-72 illustrates a method of installing further tie rods to first intermediate panels of the sixth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0098] Fig. 73 is a perspective view illustrating a seventh embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0099] Fig. 74 is a perspective view illustrating an eighth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0100] Fig. 75 is a perspective view illustrating a ninth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0101] Fig. 76 is a perspective view illustrating a tenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0102] Fig. 77 is a perspective view illustrating an eleventh embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0103] Fig. 78 is a perspective view illustrating a twelfth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0104] Fig. 79 is a perspective view illustrating the twelfth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the stowed position.

[0105] Fig. 80 is a front view illustrating the twelfth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a stowed position. Fig. 81 is a perspective view illustrating the twelfth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a deployed position.

[0106] Fig. 82 is an exploded view of the twelfth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a deployed position.

[0107] Fig. 83 is a perspective view illustrating a type of the dowel connector of the furniture assembly.

[0108] Fig. 84 illustrates a method of installing the second intermediate panel to the twelfth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0109] Fig. 85 illustrates a method of installing the third intermediate panel to the twelfth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0110] Fig. 86 illustrates a method of installing a plurality of the fourth intermediate panels to the twelfth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0111] Fig. 87 illustrates an alternative method of installing a first intermediate panel to the twelfth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0112] Fig. 88 illustrates a method of installing the door panels to the twelfth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0113] Fig. 89 is a perspective view illustrating a thirteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration. Fig. 90 is a perspective view illustrating the thirteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the stowed position.

[0114] Fig. 91 is a front view illustrating the thirteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a stowed position.

[0115] Fig. 92 is a perspective view illustrating the thirteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a deployed position.

[0116] Fig. 93 is an exploded view of the thirteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a deployed position.

[0117] Fig. 94 illustrates a method of installing the second intermediate panel to the thirteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0118] Fig. 95 illustrates a method of installing a plurality of the fourth intermediate panels to the thirteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0119] Fig. 96 is a perspective view illustrating a fourteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0120] Fig. 97 illustrates a method of installing the second intermediate panel to the fourteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0121] Fig. 98 illustrates a method of installing a plurality of the fourth intermediate panels to the fourteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0122] Figs. 99-102 illustrates an alternative method of assembling the fourteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly.

[0123] Fig. 103 is a perspective view illustrating a fifteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0124] Fig. 104 is a front view illustrating the fifteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a stowed position.

[0125] Fig. 105 is a perspective view illustrating the fifteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a deployed position.

[0126] Fig. 106 illustrates a method of installing the second intermediate panel to the fifteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0127] Fig. 107 illustrates a method of installing the first intermediate panel and the third intermediate panel to the fifteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0128] Figs. 108-109 illustrates a method of installing a plurality of the fourth intermediate panels and a dividing panel to the fifteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0129] Fig. 110 illustrates a method of installing the door panels to the fifteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position. Fig. Ill is a perspective view illustrating a sixteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0130] Fig. 112 is a perspective view illustrating a seventeenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0131] Fig. 113 is a perspective view illustrating an eighteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0132] Fig. 114 is a perspective view illustrating the eighteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a stowed position.

[0133] Fig. 115 is a perspective view illustrating the eighteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in a deployed position.

[0134] Fig. 116 illustrates a method of installing a plurality of the first intermediate panels to the eighteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0135] Fig. 117 is a perspective view illustrating a nineteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration.

[0136] Fig. 118 illustrates a method of installing a plurality of the second intermediate panels to the nineteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0137] Fig. 119 is a perspective view illustrating a twentieth embodiment of the furniture assembly in its assembled configuration. Fig. 120 illustrates a method of installing the second intermediate panel to the twentieth embodiment of the furniture assembly in the deployed position.

[0138] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0139] The invention generally provides a furniture assembly that comprises a main panel with a pair of opposing transverse ends and a pair of opposing longitudinal ends, along with a plurality of subsidiary panels capable of pivoting in relation to the main panel, transitioning from a stowed position, where the subsidiary panels overlap and lie flat against the main panel, to a deployed state for use. Among these subsidiary panels, there are at least two subsidiary panels, each hinged at one of the main panel's transverse ends, and at least one subsidiary panel hinged between these subsidiary panels. To ensure stability, the invention incorporates stabilizing members for connecting adjacent subsidiary panels, effectively preventing the collapse of deployed panels into their stowed position and the separation of adjacent subsidiary panels. These stabilizing members comprise a combination of tie rods and / or intermediate panels spanning and linking a pair of adjacent subsidiary panels. At least one pair of adjacent subsidiary panels is secured in the deployed position by tie rods, while at least one of the remaining pairs is secured by the intermediate panels, resulting in an interconnected structure capable of forming either a cabinet or a rack. The subsidiary panels and the intermediate panels can be in the form of a board panel made of particleboard, medium-density fibreboard, plywood, solid wood, hardboard, melamine, veneered wood or any combination thereof. Alternatively, the subsidiary panels can be in the form of a frame panel made of wood, plastic, metal or any combination thereof. It should be noted that the different connectors used in the different embodiments, such as dowel connectors, pin connectors, spring-loaded pin connectors, and rivet connectors are interchangeable or replaceable by any other types of conventional connectors.

[0140] The invention will now be described in greater detail, by way of example, with reference to the drawings.

[0141] Referring to Fig. 1, a first embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The assembly of furniture of this embodiment forms a table top 100 supported by at least one cabinet or rack 101 and at least one subsidiary panel 110. The furniture assembly comprises a main panel 102, three subsidiary panels 110, a plurality of intermediate panels 121, 122, and a pair of tie rods 131. Preferably, the main panel 102 is preferably of a rectangular shape, having a pair of opposing transverse ends, a pair of opposing longitudinal ends, and a pair of flanges 103, each extended from one longitudinal end of the main panel 102. Each flange 103 includes three spaced-apart holes 104, with two holes are each located at one transverse end of the main panel 102, and the remaining one hole is located between the two holes. The heights of the holes 104 differ from one another, enabling the subsidiary panels 110 to be pivotally hinged on the flanges 103 at various heights using dowel connectors 105. Such arrangement allows the subsidiary panels 110 to stack on top of each other in a flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel 102 when in a stowed position as shown in Figs. 2 to 5. The subsidiary panels 110 are of the same lengths.

[0142] The subsidiary panels 110 are pivotable from a stowed position to a deployed position. A pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 and the intermediate panels 121, 122 are adapted for slotted interconnection with one another. Referring to Figs. 6 to 8, the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 include two pair of grooves 111 for receiving two first intermediate panels 121 to divide the space between the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 into two or more compartments. It should be understood that the number of grooves 111 may vary to create one or more compartments. As shown in Figs. 9 & 10, a second intermediate panel 122 can be slotted between the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 to form a rear support board. Preferably, the intermediate panels 121, 122 are normal to the subsidiary panels 110 and the first intermediate panels 121 are normal to the second intermediate panel 122.

[0143] Figs. 11 to 13 shows the pair of tie rods 131 being attached to another pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 to enhance the structural integrity of the furniture assembly. Once the tie rods 131 are securely attached, the furniture assembly can be flipped over to upright position to create a table top 100 with an integrated side cabinet or rack 101. Preferably, each free end of the tie rods 131 includes a non-detachable protrusion to be inserted into complimentary holes 112 on the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110. The tie rods 131 can intersect or cross over each other to form a cross configuration while attached to the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110. Ground engaging legs can be provided to support the main panel 102 when the subsidiary panels 110 are deployed into the upright position of use relative to the main panel 102.

[0144] Referring to Figs. 14 to 19, a second embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. Similar to the first embodiment, the assembly of furniture of this embodiment forms a table top 200 supported by at least one cabinet or rack 101 and at least one subsidiary panel 110. The method of assemble the furniture of the second embodiment is exactly the same as the first embodiment shown in Figs. 6 to 13. In the second embodiment, the pair of flanges 103 of the first embodiment are replaced by a plurality pairs of L-shaped connectors 203 shown in Fig. 18. Preferably, each L-shape connector comprises a first portion 204 that is attachable to the main panel 102, a second portion 205 arranged perpendicularly to the first portion 204, and a protrusion 206 on the second portion 205 that can be rotatably inserted to a complimentary hole on the subsidiary panel 110. The protrusions 206 of each L-shape connector 203 are positioned at varying height to allow the subsidiary panels 110 to stack on top of each other in a flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel 102 when in a stowed position as shown in Figs. 15 & 16. Referring to Fig. 20, a third embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The assembly of furniture in this embodiment forms a television cabinet 300. The furniture assembly comprises a main panel 102, four subsidiary panels 110, a plurality of intermediate panels 121, 122, 123, 125 and two pairs of tie rods 131. Preferably, the main panel 102 is preferably of a rectangular shape, having a pair of opposing transverse ends, a pair of opposing longitudinal ends, and a pair of flanges 103, each extended from one longitudinal end of the main panel 102. The subsidiary panels 110 are pivotally hinged between the pair of flanges 103 at varying heights using dowel connectors, allowing them to stack on top of each other in a flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel 102 when in a stowed position as shown in Fig. 21. The subsidiary panels 110 are pivotable from a stowed position to a deployed position as shown in Fig. 22.

[0145] Figs. 23 to 24 shows the two pairs of tie rods 131 being attached to two pairs of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 to enhance the structural integrity of the furniture assembly. Preferably, each free end of the tie rods 131 includes a non-detachable protrusion to be inserted into complimentary holes 112 on the pairs of adjacent subsidiary panels 110. The tie rods 131 can intersect or cross over each other to form a cross configuration while attached to the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110. As shown in Figs. 25 & 26, each pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 is slotted with a second intermediate panel 122 therebetween to act as the rear support boards for the furniture assembly. Referring to Figs. 27 & 28, a middle pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 includes a pair of grooves 111 for receiving a first intermediate panel 121 in a slotted interconnection manner. As shown in Figs. 29 & 30, a third intermediate panel 125, which includes an elongated panel with a plurality of protrusions 126, is inserted into complimentary holes on a side which is opposed to the side where the tie rods 131 are attached thereto. Not only do the third intermediate panel 125 and the tie rods 131 prevent the deployed subsidiary panels 110 from collapsing into the stowed position, but they also enhance the structural integrity of the furniture assembly. As shown in Figs. 31 to 33, a plurality of fourth intermediate panels 123 are supported in a horizontal manner between each pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 via shelf pins 124. The fourth intermediate panels 123 divide the spaces between each pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 into two or more compartments. A television cabinet 300 with multiple columns of cabinets or racks 101 are formed after the fourth intermediate panels 123 are installed.

[0146] Figs. 34 & 35 shows an exemplary of one or more door panels 140. Each door panel 140 includes a pair of holes 142 for accommodating spring-loaded pin connectors 141. Preferably, each of the spring-loaded pin connectors 141 consists of a tubular hollow body, a rod body with one end portion slidably contained within the tubular hollow body and the other end portion protruding from the tubular hollow body, a spring unit responsible for exerting the necessary force to extend or retract the rod body, and a stopper configured to prevent the rod body from sliding out completely. Preferably, the tubular hollow body is inserted entirely into the hole 142 of the door panel 140, leaving only the rod portion protruding from the door panel 140. As shown in Figs. 36 & 37, the door panels 140 can be attached to the television cabinet 300 between the flange 103 and the third intermediate panel 125. During the installation of the door panels 140, a user can exert force to retract the protruding rod portion into the tubular hollow body, enabling the door panels 140 to be positioned between the flange 103 and the third intermediate panel 125. Subsequently, the spring unit is configured to push the protruding rod portion into the complimentary holes on the flange 103 and / or the third intermediate panel 125. Once the door panels 140 are attached to the television cabinet 300, they are rotatable between an open position, as shown in Fig. 38, and a closed position, as shown in Fig. 39. In the open position, the door panels 140 can be rotated to a position where they stack on the side walls of the television cabinet 300. Alternatively, sliding mechanisms can be provided for the installation of drawers 150 as shown in Fig. 40 to replace the door panels 140. Referring to Fig. 41, a fourth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The assembly of furniture of this embodiment forms a table top 400 supported by at least one cabinet or rack 101 and at least one subsidiary panel 110. The furniture assembly comprises a main panel 102, three subsidiary panels 110, a plurality of intermediate panels 121, and a pair of tie rods 131. Preferably, the main panel 102 is preferably of a rectangular shape, having a pair of opposing transverse ends, a pair of opposing longitudinal ends, and a pair of elongated connectors 403, each attached to one longitudinal end of the main panel 102. As shown in Fig. 42, each elongated connectors 403 includes a rod body and three protrusions 404 of varying length extended outwardly away from the main body 102. At the end portion of each protrusions 404 are provided with a hole for the subsidiary panels 110 to be hinged thereon via pin connectors. Alternatively, the protrusions 404 can be of the same length but the holes of the different protrusions 404 are located at different heights. Nevertheless, it should be understood that the pin connectors can be easily replaced by any conventional connectors.

[0147] The subsidiary panels 110 are pivotable from a stowed position, as shown in Figs 43 & 44, to a deployed position, as shown in Figs. 45. Figs. 46 to 48 shows a pair of tie rods 131 being attached to a pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 to enhance the structural integrity of the furniture assembly. Preferably, the tie rods 131 are attached to the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 via fasteners 132. In one specific example, the fasteners 132 are threaded bolts that can be screwed into complimentary threaded holes on the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110. The tie rods 131 can intersect or cross over each other to form a cross configuration while attached to the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110. After the attachment of the tie rods 131, the furniture assembly in the deployed position can be flipped over into an upright position as shown in Fig. 49. In this embodiment, one or more first intermediate panels 121 are hinged on one of the subsidiary panels 110 via the spring-loaded pin connectors 141, allowing them to rotate from a retracted position to an expanded position where a groove 127 of each first intermediate panels 121 engage a support rod 113 of an adjacent subsidiary panel 110, thereby forming the interlocking connection as shown in Figs. 50 & 51. A table top 400 which is supported by at least one cabinet or rack 101 and at least one subsidiary panel 110 is then assembled.

[0148] Referring to Fig. 52, a fifth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The assembly of furniture of this embodiment forms a table top 500 supported by at least two cabinet or racks 101. The furniture assembly comprises a main panel 102, four subsidiary panels 110, a plurality of intermediate panels 121, and a pair of tie rods 131. Preferably, the main panel 102 is preferably of a rectangular shape, having a pair of opposing transverse ends, a pair of opposing longitudinal ends, and a pair of elongated connectors 403, each attached to one longitudinal end of the main panel 102. As shown in Fig. 53, each elongated connectors 403 includes a rod body and four protrusions 404 of varying length extended outwardly away from the main body 102. At an end portion of each protrusions 404 are provided with a hole for the subsidiary panels 110 to be hinged thereon via pin connectors. Alternatively, the protrusions 404 can be of the same length but the holes of the different protrusions 404 are located at different heights.

[0149] The subsidiary panels 110 are pivotable from a stowed position, as shown in Figs 54 & 55, to a deployed position, as shown in Figs. 56. Figs. 57 to 58 shows a pair of tie rods 131 being attached to a middle pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 to enhance the structural integrity of the furniture assembly. Preferably, the tie rods 131 are attached to the middle pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 via fasteners 132. In one specific example, the fasteners are threaded bolts that can be screwed into complimentary threaded holes on the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110. The tie rods 131 can intersect or cross over each other to form a cross configuration while attached to the middle pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110. After the attachment of the tie rods 131, the furniture assembly in the deployed position can be flipped over as shown in Fig. 59. In this embodiment, one or more first intermediate panels 121 are hinged on two of the subsidiary panels 110, allowing them to rotate from a retracted position to an expanded position where a groove 127 of each first intermediate panels 121 engage a support rod 113 of an adjacent subsidiary panel 110, thereby forming the interlocking connection as shown in Figs. 60 & 61. A table top 500 which is supported by two cabinets or racks 101 is then assembled.

[0150] Referring to Fig. 62, a sixth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The assembly of furniture of this embodiment forms a table top 600 supported by one or more cabinets or racks 101. The furniture assembly comprises a main panel 102, a pair subsidiary panels 110, a plurality of rotatable panels 170, and a pair of tie rods 131. Preferably, the main panel 102 is preferably of a rectangular shape, having a pair of opposing transverse ends, a pair of opposing longitudinal ends, and a pair of elongated connectors 403, each attached to one longitudinal end of the main panel 102. As shown in Fig- 63, each elongated connectors 403 includes a rod body and two protrusions 404 of varying length extended outwardly away from the main body 102. At an end portion of each protrusion 404 are provided with a hole for the subsidiary panels 110 to be hinged thereon via pin connectors or dowel connectors 105.

[0151] The subsidiary panels 110 are pivotable from a stowed position, as shown in Figs 64 & 65, to a deployed position, as shown in Figs. 66. Figs. 67 & 68 shows a pair of tie rods 131 being attached to the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 to enhance the structural integrity of the furniture assembly. Preferably, the tie rods 131 are attached to the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 via fasteners 132. In one specific example, the fasteners are threaded bolts that can be screwed into complimentary threaded holes on the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110. The tie rods 131 can intersect or cross over each other to form a cross configuration while attached to the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110. After the attachment of the tie rods 131, the furniture assembly in the deployed position can be flipped over as shown in Fig. 69. In this embodiment, two or more rotatable panels 170 are hinged on two of the subsidiary panels 110, allowing them to rotate from a vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation as shown in Fig. 70. While the two or more rotatable panels 170 are rotated to the horizontal orientation, further tie rods 171, of a same or similar configuration to the tie rods 131 in the first, second and third embodiments, can be provided to secure the rotatable panels 170 in their horizontal orientation and thereby transforming each subsidiary panels 110 into a cabinet or rack 101. As shown in Figs. 71 & 72, protruding ends of the further tie rods 171 can be respectively inserted into complimentary holes 172 on the rotatable panels 170. A table top 600 which is supported by two cabinet or racks 101 is then assembled.

[0152] Referring to Fig. 73, a seventh embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The furniture assembly comprises a main panel 102 with a first side and a second side, three subsidiary panels 110 on the first side, two subsidiary panels 110 on the second side, a plurality of intermediate panels 121, and two pairs of tie rods 131. The main panel 102 is preferably rectangular, with a pair of opposing transverse ends, a pair of opposing longitudinal ends, and a pair of elongated connectors 403, each attached to one longitudinal end of the main panel 102. Each elongated connector 403 includes a rod body with three downward-facing protrusions 404 of varying lengths extending outwardly from the main panel 102, and two upward-facing protrusions 404 of varying lengths extending in the opposite direction of the downward -facing protrusions 404. Each protrusion 404 has a complimentary hole for hinging the subsidiary panels 110 using pin connectors. Alternatively, the protrusions 404 can be of the same length but the holes of the different protrusions 404 are located at different heights. However, it should be noted that the pin connectors can be easily replaced with any conventional connectors. The assembly method for the first side is shown in Figs. 41 to 51. The assembly method for the second side involves the following steps: operating the pair of subsidiary panels 110 to its deployed position, attaching the pair of tie rods 131 to the pair of subsidiary panels 110, and attaching the first intermediate panels 121 to the pair of subsidiary panels 110 by engaging each groove 127 of the first intermediate panels with the corresponding support rod 113 of the subsidiary panels 110, thereby forming an interlocking connection.

[0153] Referring to Fig. 74, an eighth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The eighth embodiment is similar to the seventh embodiment, with an exclusion of the pair of tie rods 131 for the subsidiary panels 110 on the second side of the main panel 102. Instead, each subsidiary panel 110 includes one or more support frames 114 to which the first intermediate panels 121 are attached using screws 116. More specifically, the support frames 114 have one or more through holes 115, and the first intermediate panels 121 have corresponding holes 128 for receiving the screws 116. Alternatively, the support frames 114 can be provided with protrusions that fit into the holes 128 of the first intermediate panels 121.

[0154] Referring to Fig. 75, a ninth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The furniture assembly comprises a main panel 102 with a first side and a second side. Each side of the main panel 102 has a pair of subsidiary panels 110, a plurality of intermediate panels 121, and a pair of tie rods 131. In this embodiment, both sides of the main panel 102 have the same configuration as per the second side of the seventh embodiment.

[0155] Referring to Fig. 76, a tenth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The tenth embodiment is similar to the seventh embodiment, but the pair of tie rods 131 for the subsidiary panels 110 on the second side of the main panel 102 are replaced by a second intermediate panel 122. Preferably, the second intermediate panel is attached to the subsidiary panels 110 via screws attachment 116.

[0156] Referring to Fig. 77, an eleventh embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The eleventh embodiment is similar to the fifth embodiment but includes additional first intermediate panels attached to the middle pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 in a similar manner to the ninth embodiment.

[0157] Referring to Fig. 78, a twelfth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The furniture assembly comprises a main panel 102, four subsidiary panels 110, and a plurality of intermediate panels 121, 122, 123, 125. Preferably, the main panel 102 has a pair of flanges 103, each extended from one longitudinal end of the main panel 102. The subsidiary panels 110 are pivotally hinged between the pair of flanges 103 at varying heights using a further type of dowel connectors 106, allowing them to stack on top of each other in a flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel 102 when in a stowed position as shown in Figs. 79 to 81. The subsidiary panels 110 are pivotable from a stowed position to a deployed position as shown in Fig. 81. The further type of dowel connectors 106 each comprises a block body 107 with a first surface and a second opposing surface, whereby the first surface includes a dowel protrusion 108 that can be rotatably inserted into a complimentary hole on the flanges 103, and the second surface includes a plurality of dowel protrusion 108 that can be inserted to complimentary holes 104 on the subsidiary panels 110 at a fixed orientation. Fig. 84 shows the second intermediate panel 122 being attached to all the subsidiary panels 110 via pin fasteners 117. Each pin fastener 117 may include a serrated body with a first portion insertable into a complimentary hole 122a on the second intermediate panel 122 and a second portion insertable into a complimentary hole on the subsidiary panels 110. The first portion of the pin fastener 117 may have a diameter larger than the second portion. Preferably, the second intermediate panel 122 is a rear panel. As shown in Fig. 85, a third intermediate panel 125, which includes an elongated panel with a plurality of holes 125a, is attached to a side of the subsidiary panels which is opposed to the side where the second intermediate panel 122 are attached thereto. The subsidiary panels include one or more pin fasteners 117 for insertion into the holes 125a of the third intermediate panel 125. Not only do the second intermediate panel 122 and third intermediate panel 125 prevent the deployed subsidiary panels 110 from collapsing into the stowed position, but they also enhance the structural integrity of the furniture assembly. As shown in Fig. 86, a plurality of fourth intermediate panels 123 are supported in a horizontal manner between each pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 via shelf pins 124. The fourth intermediate panels 123 divide the spaces between each pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 into two or more compartments. Alternatively, the fourth intermediate panels 123 can be replaced by the first intermediate panel 121 as shown in Fig. 87. In this embodiment, each pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 includes a pair of grooves 111 for receiving a first intermediate panel 121 in a slotted interconnection manner. Fig. 88 shows the door panels 140 can be attached to the furniture assembly between the flange 103 and the third intermediate panel 125. Alternatively, sliding mechanisms can be provided for the installation of drawers 150 to replace the door panels 140.

[0158] Referring to Fig. 89, a thirteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The furniture assembly comprises a main panel 102, three subsidiary panels 110, and a plurality of intermediate panels 122, 123. Preferably, the main panel 102 has a pair of flanges 103, each extended from one longitudinal end of the main panel 102. Each flange 103 includes three spaced-apart holes 104, with two holes are each located at one transverse end of the main panel 102, and the remaining one hole is located between the two holes. The heights of the holes 104 differ from one another, enabling the subsidiary panels 110 to be pivotally hinged on the flanges 103 at various heights using dowel connectors 105. Such arrangement allows the subsidiary panels 110 to stack on top of each other in a flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel 102 when in a stowed position as shown in Figs. 90 to 91. The subsidiary panels 110 are of the same length. Referring to Figs. 92 & 93, the subsidiary panels 110 are pivotable from a stowed position to a deployed position. Fig. 94 shows the second intermediate panel 122 being attached to all the subsidiary panels 110 via the pin fasteners 117 to prevent the deployed subsidiary panels 110 from collapsing into the stowed position. As shown in Fig. 95, a plurality of fourth intermediate panels 123 are supported in a horizontal manner between a pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 via shelf pins 124.

[0159] Referring to Figs. 96 to 98, a fourteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. Similar to the thirteenth embodiment, the fourteenth embodiment comprises a main panel 102, three subsidiary panels 110, and a plurality of intermediate panels 122, 123. In this embodiment, instead of having a single second intermediate panel, two second intermediate panels 122 are provided. One attached to all the subsidiary panels 110 via the pin fasteners 117, and the other one attached to a pair of adjacent subsidiary panels 110 via the pin fasteners 117.

[0160] Figs. 99 to 102 illustrates an alternative assembly method, in which the fourth intermediate panels 123 are replaced with the first intermediate panels 121. In this embodiment, the furniture assembly includes two second intermediate panels 122, one attached to a first adjacent pair of subsidiary panels 110 via the pin fasteners 117, and the other one attached to a second adjacent pair of subsidiary panels 110 via a slotted interconnection manner. The furniture assembly also includes two first intermediate panels 121, which are slotted into grooves 111 of the second adjacent pair of subsidiary panels 110 using the same slotted interconnection method. In general, the slotted interconnection may include one panel having a tongue profile and the other panel having a groove profile that is complimentary to the tongue profile. The insertion of the tongue profile into the groove profile forms an interlocking joint that firmly connects the two panels. The tongue and groove profile may have a dovetail cross-section.

[0161] Referring to Fig. 103, a fifteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The furniture assembly generally comprises a plurality of intermediate panels 121- 123, and a main panel 102 with a first side and a second side, a pair of subsidiary panels 110 on the first side, a pair of subsidiary panels 110 on the second side. The first side of main panel 102 has a pair of flanges 103, each extended downwardly from one longitudinal end of the main panel 102 for the attachment of the subsidiary panels 110. The second side of the main panel has a plurality pairs of L-shaped connectors 203 that are similar to the L-shaped connectors 203 of the second embodiment. The subsidiary panels 110 are positioned at varying height to allow the subsidiary panels 110 to stack on top of each other in a flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel 102 when in a stowed position as shown in Fig. 104. As shown in Fig. 105, when the subsidiary panels 110 are in the deployed position, the subsidiary panels 110 on the first side are facing towards a direction opposing to the subsidiary panels 110 on the second side. Fig. 106 illustrates two second intermediate panels 122, each attached both sides of the subsidiary panels 110 via the pin fasteners 117. Fig. 107 illustrates a third intermediate panel 125 attached to the subsidiary panels 110 on the first side via the pin fasteners 117, and a first intermediate panel 121 with grooves 127 respectively for slotting into an edge of the subsidiary panels 110 on the second side. As shown in Fig. 108 & 109, a plurality of fourth intermediate panels 123 are supported in a horizontal manner between the subsidiary panels 110 on both side via shelf pins 124, and a dividing panel 129 supported an upright manner on the fourth intermediate panels 123 to separate the respective spaces into multiple compartments. Fig. 110 shows the door panels 140 can be attached between the flange 103 and the third intermediate panel 125 on the first side of the main panel 102.

[0162] Referring to Fig. Ill, a sixteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. In this embodiment, the first side of the main panel 102 can have the same configuration of any of the thirteenth and fourteenth embodiments shown in Figs. 89 to 102. The second side of the main panel 102 can have the same configuration of the second side of the fifteenth embodiment shown in Figs. 103 to 110.

[0163] Referring to Fig. 112, a seventeenth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. In this embodiment, both the first side and the second side of the main panel 102 can have the same configuration of the second side of the fifteenth embodiment shown in Figs. 103 to 110. Nevertheless, one side of the subsidiary panels 110 is connected to the L-shaped connectors 203 for both first and second side of the main panel 102, and the other side of the subsidiary panels 110 is connected to flanges 103 for both first and second side of the main panel 102. It should be noted that the connectors 103, 203, 403 at the different sides of the main panel 102 and / or the different sides of the subsidiary panels 110 may differ.

[0164] Referring to Fig. 113, an eighteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The furniture assembly generally comprises a plurality of intermediate panels 121, and a main panel 102 with a first side and a second side, a pair of subsidiary panels 110 on the first side, a pair of subsidiary panels 110 on the second side. The main panel 102 comprises a pair of elongated connectors 403, each includes a rod body with two downward-facing protrusions 404 of varying lengths extending outwardly from the main panel 102, and two upward-facing protrusions 404 of varying lengths extending in the opposite direction of the downward -facing protrusions 404 to allow the subsidiary panels 110 to stack on top of each other in a flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel 102 when in a stowed position as shown in Fig. 114. Alternatively, the protrusions 404 can be of the same length but the holes of the different protrusions 404 are located at different heights. As shown in Figs. 115 & 116, both sides of the main panel 102 can have the same configuration of the second side of the eighth embodiment as shown in Fig. 74.

[0165] Referring to Figs. 117 & 118, a nineteenth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The nineteenth embodiment is similar to the eighteenth embodiment, but instead of having the support frame 115 and the screw attachment 116, they are replaced by one or more foldable second intermediate panels 122 attached to the subsidiary panels 110 on both sides via screws 122b. In this embodiment, the subsidiary panels 110 are provided with a plurality of support rods 113 for insertion into respective grooves 127 of the first intermediate panels 121, thereby forming an interlocking connection. The foldable second intermediate panels 122 can be formed by two rear panels with one of their edges connected via adhesive laminate.

[0166] Referring to Figs. 119 & 120, a twentieth embodiment of the furniture assembly is illustrated. The twentieth embodiment is similar to the fifth embodiment, but instead of having the tie rods 131, they are replaced by a second intermediate panel 122 attached to the middle adjacent subsidiary panels 110 via screw attachment 116. In this embodiment, the subsidiary panels 110 are provided with holes 115 for the insertion of the screws to engage with the second intermediate panel 122. In this embodiment, the second intermediate panel 122 is in the form of a frame.

[0167] The present disclosure includes as contained in the appended claims, as well as that of the foregoing description. Although this invention has been described in its preferred form with a degree of particularity, it is understood that the present disclosure of the preferred form has been made only by way of example and that numerous changes in the details of construction and the combination and arrangements of parts may be resorted to without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A furniture assembly comprising: a main panel (102); and a plurality of subsidiary panels (110) which are pivotal relative to the main panel (102), the subsidiary panels (110) being hingable from a stowed position, in which they lie in flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel (102), to a deployed position of use; wherein stabilizing members are provided to maintain the subsidiary panels (110) in their deployed position of use; and wherein the stabilizing members are adapted for toolless connection between adjacent subsidiary panels (110) to prevent the collapse of the deployed subsidiary panels (110) and into their stowed position and to prevent the separation of the adjacent subsidiary panels (110).

2. The furniture assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the stabilizing members comprise a combination of tie rods (131), intermediate panels (121, 122, 125), or both which extend between, and connect together, a pair of adjacent subsidiary panels (HO).

3. The furniture assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein at least one pair of adjacent subsidiary panels (110) is secured in the deployed position by the tie rods (131) and at least one remaining pair of adjacent subsidiary panels (110) is secured in the deployed position by the intermediate panels (121, 122, 125), and the at least one pair of adjacent subsidiary panels (110) and the intermediate panels (121, 122, 125) are interconnected to form a cabinet or a rack (101).

4. The furniture assembly as claimed in any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the subsidiary panels (110) are hinged on the main panel (102) at varying heights, allowing them tostack one on top of another in the flat overlapping relationship relative to the main panel (102).

5. The furniture assembly as claimed in claim 4, wherein a plurality pairs of L-shaped connectors (203) are provided to hinge the subsidiary panels (110) to the main panel (102) at varying heights, each L-shape connector (203) comprises a first portion (204) that is attachable to the main panel (102), a second portion (205) arranged perpendicularly to the first portion (204), and a protrusion (206) on the second portion (205) that can be rotatably inserted to a complimentary hole on the subsidiary panel (HO).

6. The furniture assembly as claimed in claim 4, wherein the main panel (102) further includes a pair of flanges (103), each extended perpendicularly from one longitudinal end of the main panel (102), and the subsidiary panels (110) are hinged on both the flanges (103) via one or more connectors.

7. The furniture assembly as claimed in claim 6, wherein each connector comprises a block body (107) with a first surface and a second opposing surface, whereby the first surface includes a dowel protrusion (108) that can be rotatably inserted into a complimentary hole on the flanges (103), and the second surface includes a plurality of dowel protrusions (108) that can be inserted to complimentary holes (104) on the subsidiary panels (110) at a fixed orientation.

8. The furniture assembly as claimed in claim 4, wherein the main panel (102) further includes a pair of elongated connectors (403) respectively attached to the longitudinal ends of the main panel (102), each elongated connectors (403) includes a rod body, a plurality of protrusions (404) extended outwardly away from the main body (102), and a hole located at an end portion of each protrusions (404) for the subsidiary panels (110) to be hinged thereon via one or more connectors.

9. The furniture assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein each tie rod (131) includes a pair of non-detachable protrusions for insertion into complementary holes (112) in the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels (110).

10. The furniture assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein the tie rods (131) are attached to the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels (110) via fasteners (132).

11. The furniture assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein the tie rods (131) intersect or cross over each other to form a cross configuration while attached to the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels (110).

12. The furniture assembly as claimed claim 2, wherein the subsidiary panels (110) and the intermediate panels (121, 122) are adapted for slotted interconnection with one another.

13. The furniture assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein the intermediate panels (121, 122) are normal to the subsidiary panels (110) and wherein some intermediate panels (121) are normal to other intermediate panels (122).

14. The furniture assembly as claimed in claim 13, wherein at least one of the intermediate panels (123) are supported between the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels (110) via shelf pins (124).

15. The furniture assembly as claimed in claim 13, wherein the intermediate panels (122) are in the form of one or more rear panels connected to the subsidiary panels (110) via a plurality of pin fasteners (117).

16. The furniture assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein the intermediate panels (121) are hinged on one of the pair of adjacent subsidiary panels (110), allowing them to rotate from a retracted position to an expanded position where a groove (127) on the intermediate panels (121) engage a respective support rod (113) of the other subsidiary panel (110), thereby forming the interlocking connection.

17. The furniture assembly as claimed in any of claims 1 to 16, wherein the main panel (102) includes a first side and a second opposing side, and the plurality of subsidiary panels (110) includes a plurality of first subsidiary panels that pivot towards a direction which the first side is facing and a plurality of second subsidiary panels (110) that pivot towards a direction which the second side is facing, whereby the first and second subsidiary panels (110) are oriented in opposing directions during the deployed position and a cabinet or a rack (101) is formed on each side of the main panel (102) when the stabilizing members are provided to both of the first and second subsidiary panels (110).

18. The furniture assembly as claimed in claims 4 to 8 & 17, wherein the types of connectors (103, 203, 403) used to hinge the subsidiary panels (110) to the main panel (102) vary depending on the sides of the subsidiary panels (110).

19. The furniture assembly as claimed in claims 4 to 8 & 17, wherein the types of connectors (103, 203, 403) used to hinge the subsidiary panels (110) to the main panel (102) vary depending on the sides of the main panel (102).

Images