An adaptable fitting for securing a headboard to a bedframe

Abstract

A fitting (1) for securing a headboard (2) to a bedframe (3). The fitting (1) is adaptable to different bedframe widths and comprises a connecting element (10) configured to engage with the headboard (2), an intermediate element (20) configured to engage with the bedframe (3), and a tightening means (30) for bringing the intermediate element (20) into engagement with the bedframe (3). The intermediate element (20) is arranged between the connecting element (10) and the tightening means (30).

Description

[0001] AN ADAPTABLE FITTING FOR SECURING A HEADBOARD TO A BEDFRAME

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to a fitting for securing a headboard to a bedframe, where the fitting is adaptable to different bedframe widths. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a fitting assembly comprising such a fitting.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] When joining two single beds to form a double bed, the single bedframes including their surrounding fabrics build excess volume as compared to a conventional double bed. As an example, two connected 90 cm wide single beds are wider than a 180 cm wide double bed, which results in a wider bedframe as compared to a standard double bed frame.

[0006] It goes without saying that issues arise when trying to connect a double bed sized headboard to a joined bed of the type described above, since new types of headboards that are tailored to fit the exact size of the two joined single beds need to be manufactured. This is unnecessary from an economical and environmental point of view. It is understood that there is room for improvements.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] An object of the present invention is to solve or at least mitigate the problems related to prior art. This object is achieved by means of the technique set forth in the appended independent claims; preferred embodiments being defined in the related dependent claims.

[0009] In an aspect, a fitting for securing a headboard to a bedframe is provided. The fitting is adaptable to different bedframe widths and comprises: a connecting element configured to engage with the headboard, an intermediate element configured to engage with the bedframe, and a tightening means for bringing the intermediate element into engagement with the bedframe. The intermediate element is arranged between the connecting element and the tightening means. Advantageously, the fitting is adaptable to different bed sizes and is thus suitable for connecting a double sized headboard to a double bed or to two single beds that have been joined to form a bed that is slightly bigger than a double bed.

[0010] In an embodiment, the connecting element is configured to engage with a recess of the headboard. Preferably, the recess is provided at a bottom portion of the headboard. This way, the fitting can properly secure the headboard to the bedframe which prevents the headboard from falling onto the bed. Furthermore, the fitting enables the headboard to be secured to the bedframe without involving the floor.

[0011] In another embodiment, the connecting element is at least partially provided with a threaded portion, where the threaded portion is configured to mesh with a matching threaded portion of the tightening means. This provides a convenient way of tightening the fitting that may or may not require any tools for the user.

[0012] In yet an embodiment, the intermediate element is configured to engage with the bedframe by engagement with a protrusion of the bedframe or of a foot flange connected thereto. Engaging with a protrusion of a foot flange is particularly advantageous since it avoids direct tensioning of the bedframe structure and thus distributes load into the bedframe in an advantageous way.

[0013] In a further embodiment, the tightening means is rotatably connectable to the connecting element. This is advantageous in that it provides a simple connection between the different parts of the fitting.

[0014] In an embodiment, the connecting element is substantially elongated along a longitudinal axis. This is advantageous since the connecting element may be elongated to a certain length in order to suit different bedframe thicknesses.

[0015] In another embodiment, the connecting element has a proximal end, a distal end, and a mid-section extending there between, where the distal end has a protruding portion extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Preferably, the connecting element is L-shaped. The distal end is favorable in that it enables insertion of the connecting element into the recess of the headboard.

[0016] In yet an embodiment, the intermediate element has a substantially cylindrical hollow center portion extending along a center axis which substantially coincides with the longitudinal axis of the connecting element. The hollow center portion provides room for the connecting element to extend through the intermediate element and engage with the tightening means.

[0017] In another embodiment, the intermediate element has a proximal end and a distal end. The intermediate element comprises tabs at the proximal end, protruding radially inwards towards the center axis of the hollow center portion. The tabs are provided to indicate to the user that the connecting element has reached the end of the intermediate element facing the tightening means.

[0018] In yet an embodiment, the hollow center portion is configured to receive the proximal end of the connecting element. This enables the connecting element to extend through the intermediate element.

[0019] In an embodiment, the hollow center portion comprises a concentric pattern of grooves extending radially outwards from the center axis. This provides rigidity to the structure and reduces manufacturing costs.

[0020] In yet an embodiment, the intermediate element comprises a stopping surface configured to abut against the protrusion of the bedframe or of the foot flange connected thereto. The stopping surface ensures that there is an abutment surface that the protrusion can abut against when the tightening means tightens the fitting in a direction towards the bedframe and headboard.

[0021] In a further embodiment, the intermediate element comprises a skirt configured to enclose the protrusion of the bedframe or of the foot flange connected thereto, upon abutment against the stopping surface. The skirt ensures that the protrusion stays in place when the fitting is tightened against the bedframe.

[0022] In yet an embodiment, the tightening means comprises a threaded fastener configured to match the threaded portion at the proximal end of the connecting element. Preferably, the tightening means is a nut. This is beneficial since it provides an intuitive way for the user to assemble the headboard to the bedframe. Furthermore, a threaded engagement is often considered as a strong engagement.

[0023] In another aspect, a fitting assembly is provided, that comprises a fitting according to what has been described above, and a headboard connector. The headboard connector comprises a female part connectable to the headboard, and a male part connectable to the bedframe. The female part has a receiving section configured to receive a tongue portion of the male part, and the receiving section is wider than the tongue portion.

[0024] The fitting assembly is beneficial in that it provides a means for securing the headboard to the bedframe, at the same time as it provides room for adapting to different bedframe widths. Both the fitting and the headboard connector provide space - also referred to as slack - that enables the adaptation to different bedframe widths.

[0025] In general, the fitting according to what has been described above provides the ability to compensate for the dimensional discrepancy between a double-bed sized headboard and a bedframe made slightly too wide after joining two single beds into one. In other words, the fitting provides a means of compensating for the difference in bedframe width with respect to a double-bed sized headboard after joining two single beds together.

[0026] Advantageously, the same headboard can be used for a double bed and two connected single beds of comparable sizes (e.g. a 180 cm width bed and two connected 90 cm width beds). To cater for slight size differences and tolerances, and the fact that there will be covers with varying thickness between the two single beds, space is built in the fitting assembly so that the fitting assembly can be offset and / or angled sideways. This is better for the environment as it leads to less consumption.

[0027] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] By way of example, embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0029] Fig. l is a perspective view of a headboard connected to a bedframe, where the bedframe is made up by two joined single beds,

[0030] Fig. 2 is a close-up perspective view of a bottom corner of the headboard and bedframe, connected by a fitting,

[0031] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a fitting assembly connecting the headboard to the bedframe at a corner of the bedframe,

[0032] Fig. 4 is a detailed view of Fig. 3 without the headboard and bedframe,

[0033] Fig. 5 is an exploded view of the fitting,

[0034] Fig. 6 is a distal end view of an intermediate element of the fitting, Fig. 7 is a close-up view of the intermediate element of Figs 5 and 6 abutting a protrusion of a foot flange which is part of, or connected to, the bedframe,

[0035] Fig. 8 is a bottom end view of the fitting adapting to a headboard that is slightly smaller than the bedframe,

[0036] Fig. 9 is a bottom end view of the fitting that is aligned with the headboard and bedframe,

[0037] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a female part of a headboard connector,

[0038] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a male part of the headboard connector,

[0039] Fig. 12 is a front view of the headboard connector including the female and male parts of Figs 10 and 11, and

[0040] Fig. 13 is a cross-section of a fitting according to a further embodiment.

[0041] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0042] With reference to Fig. 1, a bed is shown, built up by two single beds having their respective bedframes joined together to form a double bed. Each single bed is for example a 90 cm wide bed, or an 80 cm wide bed, for instance of the divan type or of the wooden-base spring mattress type. In these types of beds, the mattresses lay on top of the bedframe and thus have the same width as the bedframe. Together, the adjoined single beds result in a double bed which is slightly larger than a standard 180 cm wide bed, or 160 cm wide bed, due to the build up of material from each one of the two single beds. For example, two joined 90 cm single beds may be about 10 mm wider than a 180 cm double bed.

[0043] A fitting 1 connects a headboard 2 to the bedframe 3, which hereinafter represents the joint bedframe of the two single beds. In particular, the fitting 1 is provided at a corner of the bedframe 3 facing the headboard 2. Preferably, there is more than one fitting 1, such as one at each comer of the bedframe 3 facing the headboard 2. There may be additional fittings (not shown) provided at other parts of the bed, in the area between the bedframe 3 and the headboard 2. The fitting 1 is suitable for use with, and in particular is adaptable to, different bedframe widths as will be understood from the following description. In Fig. 2, the fitting 1 is shown from another perspective, securing the headboard 2 to the bedframe 3. The bedframe 3 is hereby represented as having two bedframe parts 4, 5, where the first bedframe part 4 has a longitudinal extension facing and extending along the length of the headboard 2, and the second bedframe part 5 has a longitudinal extension pointing in a direction away from the headboard 2.

[0044] The fitting 1 includes a connecting element 10 that engages with the headboard 2. In particular, the connecting element 10 is configured to engage with a recess 2’ of the headboard 2. Preferably, and as illustrated in Fig. 2, the recess 2’ is provided at a bottom portion of the headboard 2. The part of the connecting element 10 engaging with the recess 2’ is preferably form-fitted with the recess 2’. For example, if the recess is cylindrically shaped, the connecting element 10 is preferably also cylindrically shaped and has a matching dimension. As shown in Fig. 2, a portion of the connecting element 10 is inserted into the recess 2’.

[0045] Furthermore, the fitting 1 includes an intermediate element 20 that is configured to engage with the bedframe 3. Alternatively, the intermediate element 20 may be described as being engageable with a part of the bedframe 3 or a separate part connected thereto, such as a foot flange 40. Put differently, the intermediate element 20 is configured to engage with the bedframe 3 by engagement with a protrusion of the bedframe or of a foot flange connected thereto. Preferably, the intermediate element 20 engages with a separate protruding element connected to the bedframe 3, such as a foot flange 40. The foot flange 40, hereby referred to as a corner plate 40, may be considered as a separate element or as forming part of the bedframe 3. Preferably, the comer plate 40 is used for mounting a bed leg. As shown in Fig. 2, the intermediate element 20 abuts the corner plate 40 of the bedframe 3. The intermediate element 20 is connected to the connecting element 10 and is in contact with the comer plate 40 attached to the bedframe 3.

[0046] The fitting 1 further includes a tightening means 30 that brings the intermediate element 20 into engagement with the bedframe 3. When the tightening means 30 is tightened, the intermediate element 20 is brought into contact with the corner plate 40 of the bedframe 3. The user can select how tight the tightening means 30 should be adjusted. The actuation of the tightening means 30 adjusts the dimensions of the fitting 1, such that the fitting 1 is adapted to different bedframe 3 of varying sizes. To ensure a secure connection between the headboard 2 and bedframe 3, the intermediate element 20 is arranged between the connecting element 10 and the tightening means 30.

[0047] At an upper part of the bedframe 3, a headboard connector 60, 70 is provided, which is divided into a female part 60 connected to the headboard 2, and a male part 70 connected to the bedframe 3, and more specifically the first part 4 of the bedframe 3. Together, the fitting 1 and the headboard connector 60, 70 form part of a fitting assembly, which will be described in more detail below.

[0048] Fig. 3 shows an inner comer of the bed of Fig. 1. The first bedframe part 4 is connected to the headboard 2 via the headboard connector 60, 70. In particular, the male part 70 of the headboard connector 60, 70 is attached to the first bedframe part 4 via a comer bracket 50. Moreover, the corner plate 40 is attached to the corner bracket 50 as well as the first and second bedframe parts 4, 5. Only part of the fitting 1 is show in Fig. 3 since the connecting element 10 is hidden behind the first bedframe part 4.

[0049] In Fig. 4, the corner bracket 50 is illustrated, having a shape that fits the right angle of the corner of the bedframe 3. The comer bracket 50 has a bent portion with recesses 52 configured to receive corresponding attachments means 55, such as a dowel, screw of the like, for fixing the comer bracket 50 to the respective bedframe parts 4, 5 (see Fig. 4 in conjunction with Fig. 3). Correspondingly, the corner plate 40 is connected to the corner bracket 50 and has similar recesses (not shown) with attachment means 45, such as a dowel, screw of the like, for fixing the corner plate 40 to the respective bedframe parts. The comer plate 40 also has at least one protrusion 41 which is configured to extend inwards from the bedframe part(s) 4, 5. By ‘inwards’ is meant either parallel to the longitudinal extension of the headboard 2, or perpendicularly to the longitudinal extension of the headboard 2. 1.e. ‘inwards’ means either parallel to the longitudinal extension of the headboard 2 towards a centre of the bedframe 3, or perpendicularly to the longitudinal extension of the headboard 2 towards a centre of the bedframe 3. At least one protrusion 41 of the corner plate 40 points inwards perpendicularly to the longitudinal extension of the headboard 2, i.e. in a direction pointing away from the headboard 2. Another protrusion 41’ may point inwards parallel to the longitudinal extension of the headboard 2. As illustrated in Fig. 4, the intermediate element 20 of the fitting 1 is configured to be engaged with the at least one protrusion 41 pointing away from the headboard 2 when the headboard 2 is mounted to the bedframe 3. As briefly illustrated, the male part 70 of the headboard 2 connector 60, 70 is attached to the bent portion of the comer bracket 50 on the first bedframe part 4, by means of attachment means, preferably screws.

[0050] The fitting 1 will now be described in more detail in relation to Fig. 5. As mentioned, the fitting 1 has a connecting element 10, an intermediate element 20 and a tightening means 30. These three parts 10, 20, 30 are preferably provided as three separate entities that are connectable to form the fitting 1. In Fig, 5, the different parts of the fitting 1 are related to a longitudinal axis LA. In particular, the longitudinal axis LA may be referred to as the longitudinal axis LA of the connecting element 10. This is because the connecting element 10 is substantially elongated along the longitudinal axis LA. The connecting element 10, which may also be referred to as a connecting rod, has a proximal end 11, a distal end 12, and a mid-section 13 extending there between. Preferably, the distal end 12 is integral with the proximal end 11 and the mid-section 13. The distal end 12 has a protruding portion 14 extending substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis LA. In Fig. 5, the connecting element 10 is substantially L-shaped. However, it may have other shapes, such as a J-shape, or a more hook-like shape. The protruding portion 14 is the part of the connecting element 10 that is configured to engage with the headboard recess 2’ (see Fig. 2). Therefore, the protruding portion 14 of the connecting element 10 may also be referred to as a headboard engaging portion. For an improved engagement between the connecting element 10 and the headboard recess 2’, the protruding portion 14 may have a rugged surface. Further to the above, the connecting element 10 is at least partially provided with a threaded portion 15, preferably at least at its proximal end 11. The threaded portion 15 is configured to mesh with a matching threaded portion 35 of the tightening means 30. Hence, in the connected state, the threaded portion 15 of the connecting element 10 is mated with the matching threaded portion 35 of the tightening means 30.

[0051] It follows that the tightening means 30 is rotatably connectable to the connecting element 10 via the threaded portion 35, which may also be referred to as a threaded fastener 35. Other than the threaded fastener 35, the tightening means 30 preferably also includes, or is, a nut 31, such as a wing nut. Hence, in one embodiment, the threaded portion 35 is part of the nut 31 forming the tightening means 30. In Fig. 5, the threaded portion 35 is included in the nut 31. The nut 31 is a wing nut. The threaded portion 35 may be formed in one piece, integrally, with the nut 31, or it can be a separate threaded fastener 35 housed inside the nut 31 (as shown in e.g. Fig. 13). Optionally, a tool may be used to tighten the nut 31. Moreover, the tightening means 30 preferably also includes a washer 33, as shown in Fig. 5. When the fitting 1 is mounted, the washer 33 is arranged between the nut 31 and the intermediate element 20.

[0052] The intermediate element 20 is arranged between the connecting element 10 and the tightening means 30 and has a proximal end 21 facing the nut 31 of the tightening means 30 and a distal end 22 facing the protruding portion 14 of the connecting element 10. Specifically, the intermediate element 20 is arranged between the protruding portion 14 of the connecting element 10 and the tightening means 30. Furthermore, the intermediate element 20 has an outer portion 23 that is substantially frustoconically shaped and preferably has a pattern of ridges and grooves. The frustoconical shape is beneficial in that it can withstand the pressure exerted on it by the tightening means 30. Furthermore, the pattern of ridges and grooves contributes to the structural integrity of the intermediate element 20. It is also beneficial when it comes to lowering production cost since less material is required than if the intermediate element body would have been completely solid with no grooves.

[0053] As illustrated in Fig. 5, the intermediate element 20 is preferably cup-shaped, or cone-shaped. It may thus also be referred to as a cup-shaped element or cup. Furthermore, the intermediate element 20 has a substantially cylindrical hollow center portion 25 that creates an opening for the connecting element 10 to extend through, all the way from the distal end 22 to the proximal end 21 into threaded engagement with the threaded portion 35 of the tightening means 30. The intermediate element 20 comprises the hollow center portion 25, which receives the connecting element 10. In use, the connecting element 10 is inserted through the hollow center portion 25. In particular, it is the proximal end 11 of the connecting element 10 that is received at the distal end 22 of the hollow center portion 25. For instance, the hollow center portion 25 may be described as a cylindrical cut out, or cavity, extending along the center of the intermediate element 20.

[0054] Fig. 6 shows the distal end 22 of the intermediate element 20. The hollow center portion 25 is substantially cylindrical and extends along a center axis CA represented by a dot. The center axis CA substantially coincides with the longitudinal axis LA of the connecting element 10 when the connecting element 10 is inserted through the center portion 25 of the intermediate element 20. At the proximal end 21 of the intermediate element 20, there are tabs 26 protruding radially inwards towards the center axis CA of the hollow center portion 25. In Fig. 6, three tabs 26 are shown. However, there may be more than three tabs. The purpose of the tabs 26 is to provide a sensation of reaching an engagement between the threaded portion 15 at the distal end 11 of the connecting element 10 and the proximal end 21 of the intermediate element 20. This way, the user knows that the connecting element 10 and the tightening means 30 are ready to mesh.

[0055] Furthermore, the hollow center portion 25 exhibits a concentric pattern of grooves 25’ extending radially outwards from the center axis CA. These grooves 25’, illustrated in Figs 5-7 as having a fan-like shape extending out from the hollow center portion 25 into the body of the intermediate element 20, contribute further to the structural integrity of the intermediate element 20 and provide a lightweight structure since there is less material involved in its production than if it would have been a complete solid body. The grooves 25’ may be considered as voids, or cavities, of the intermediate element 20, extending parallel to the center axis CA. As exemplified in Figs 5 and 6, there may be six grooves 25’ extending outwards from the center axis. However, there may be fewer or more grooves 25’, such as three to five grooves, or seven to nine grooves.

[0056] The intermediate element 20 has a stopping surface 27 at its distal end 22, which is configured to abut against the protrusion 41 of the bedframe 3, or of the comer plate 40 connected thereto, see Fig. 7. Furthermore, the intermediate element 20 has a skirt 28 configured to enclose the protrusion 41 of the bedframe 3 or of the corner plate 40 connected thereto, upon abutment against the stopping surface 27 (see Fig. 7). The skirt 28 has an inner skirt portion 29 extending radially outwards from the stopping surface 27 towards the distal end 22 of the intermediate element 20. The skirt

[0057] 28 is arranged as an annular flange at the distal end 22 of the intermediate element 20. The skirt 28 extends around a periphery of the distal end 22 of the intermediate element 20. The skirt 28 extends distally towards the distal end 22, such that a cavity is formed between the stopping surface 27 and the circumventing skirt 28. The inner skirt portion

[0058] 29 may also be referred to as an abutment surface. The protrusion 41 of the bedframe 3, or the foot flange connected thereto, is configured to abut against the inner skirt portion 29. This is clear from Fig. 7. Explained differently, the inner skirt portion 29 represents an inner wall portion that is configured to trap the protrusion 41 of the bedframe 3, or of the foot flange connected thereto, once the connecting element 10 is engaged to the headboard recess 2’ and the tightening means 30 has tightened the intermediate element 20 towards the bedframe 3 (or the foot flange). The tightening means 30 tightens the fitting 1 by screwing the nut 31, which in turn forwards the intermediate element 20 towards the connecting element 10. Preferably, the inner skirt portion 29 is wider than the protrusion 41 to allow some play when the bedframe 3 and headboard 2 are to be connected by the fitting 1. The stopping surface 27 of the intermediate element 20 acts as a stopper. It both prevents the protrusion 41 of the bedframe 3, or the foot flange connected thereto, from being absorbed by the intermediate element 20, as well as provides a stable surface for the fixation of the bedframe 3 to the headboard 2.

[0059] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the skirt 28 may include protrusions, such as spikes or studs, extending in a direction parallel to the center axis CA, that are configured to engage with matching holes in the bedframe 3.

[0060] Referring now to Figs 8 and 9, the fitting 1 is shown securing the headboard 2 to the bedframe 3. The proximal end 11 of the connecting element 10 is engaged with the recess 2’ of the headboard 2. Correspondingly, the stopping surface 27 and the inner skirt portion 29 of the intermediate element 20 enclose the protrusion 41 of the corner plate 40 and the intermediate element 20 is tightened against the protrusion 41 of the comer plate 40 connected thereto, via the tightening means 30. As mentioned, the comer plate 40 may be part of the bedframe 3 or connected thereto. The protrusion 41 may be described as having a protrusion axis PA extending in a direction pointing away from the headboard 2, and in particular substantially perpendicularly with respect to the headboard 2.

[0061] In other words, in use as shown in Figs. 8 and 9, the distal end 12 of the connecting element 10 is engaged with the recess 2’ of the headboard 2. The proximal end 11 of the connecting element 10 is inserted through the hollow center portion 25 of the intermediate element 20. The connecting element 10 is provided with the threaded portion 15 at its the proximal end 11 which engages the matching threaded portion 35 of the tightening means 30. The tightening of the tightening means 30 can be adjusted such that the dimensions of the fitting 1 are adopted for different dimensions of the bedframe 3. The protrusion 41 of the bedframe 3 is engaged by intermediate element 20, most preferably by the skirt 28 of the intermediate element 20.

[0062] Fig. 8 represents a case where there is a dimensional discrepancy between the headboard 2 and the bedframe 3. This may be the case where the headboard 2 is made for a traditional 180 cm sized bed and the bedframe 3 is made up by two joined 90 cm single beds. As mentioned, the inner skirt portion 29 of the intermediate element 20 is bigger than the protrusion 41 and allows some play with respect to the protrusion 41. In Fig. 8, the longitudinal axis LA of the connecting element 10 coincides with the center axis CA of the intermediate element 20. However, the longitudinal axis LA is angled with respect to the protrusion axis PA. Allowance is built in the fitting 1 so that the fitting 1 can be angled sideways, i.e. angled with respect to the protrusion axis PA of the protrusion 41. The fitting 1 is slightly angled with respect to the corner plate 40, as a result of the dimensional discrepancy between the headboard 2 and the bedframe 3. In particular, the headboard 2 is relatively smaller than the bedframe 3 in Fig. 8. A width of the skirt 28 and its inner skirt portion 29 is broader than the protrusion 41 to facilitate the angling of the fitting 1.

[0063] In contrast, Fig. 9 represents a case where there is a perfect fit between the headboard 2 and the bedframe 3. This is the case where the headboard 2 has the same size as the bedframe 3, i.e. where the headboard 2 is made for a 180 cm sized double bed, and the bedframe 3 is a double bed of 180 cm. Here, the longitudinal axis LA of the connecting element 10 coincides with the center axis CA of the intermediate element 20 as well as the protrusion axis PA. In Fig. 9, the fitting 1 is aligned with respect to the protrusion 41 of the corner plate 40, as there is no dimensional discrepancy between the headboard 2 and the bedframe 3.

[0064] A fitting assembly may be provided to ensure that the headboard 2 is properly connected to the bedframe 3. The fitting assembly may be described as an add-on for connecting two joined single beds to a double bed sized headboard, and includes a fitting 1 according to what has been described above, and a headboard connector 60, 70. The fitting assembly 1, 60, 70 is beneficial in that there is no need to dismount parts of the bed to adapt the headboard to a slightly larger bedframe. The fitting 1 may be referred to as a bottom fitting, or a bottom side connection, and the headboard connector 60, 70 may be referred to as a top fitting, or top side connection. The headboard connector 60, 70 will now be described in relation to Figs 10-12.

[0065] Fig. 10 shows a female part 60 of the headboard connector. The female part 60 has a receiving section 61 configured to receive a tongue portion 71 of the male part 70 (see Fig. 11), and is connectable to the headboard 2 by fasteners (such as screws, not shown) going through recesses 62, also referred to as holes 62, of the female part 60.

[0066] Fig. 11 shows the male part 70 of the headboard connector. The male part 70 has a tongue portion 71 configured to mate with the receiving section 61 of the female part 60. Furthermore, the male part 70 is connectable to the bedframe via fasteners 75, such as screws, going through recesses 72, also referred to as holes 72, of the male part 70. The male part 70 may also be described as having a clamping portion 78 clamping the bedframe 3 structure for an even stronger connection. Furthermore, the clamping portion 78 has a benefit of providing a tight fit against the bedframe 3 to prevent movement of the headboard connector 60, 70 with respect to the bedframe 3 over time. The clamping portion 78 is preferably hidden beneath a bedframe cover fabric, whereas the tongue portion 71 protrudes from the fabric.

[0067] In Fig. 12, the tongue portion 71 of the male part 70 of the headboard connector has been inserted into the receiving section 61 of the female part 60. The tongue portion 71 has a tongue portion width Wl, and the receiving section 61 has a receiving section width W2. The receiving section width W2 is wider than the tongue portion width Wl. A dashed area is shown in Fig. 12, representing an empty space, slack space, or tolerance area, where the tongue area 71 can be arranged depending on whether the fitting assembly needs to be adapted to a slightly wider bedframe width than what the headboard is actually made for. In other words, space is built in the headboard connector 60, 70 so that the tongue portion 71 can be offset sideways, i.e. the tongue portion 71 can be offset with respect to receiving section 61.

[0068] Together, the fitting 1 and the headboard connector 60, 70 contribute to a stable and versatile fitting assembly 1 ,60 ,70 that ensures a secure connection between the headboard 2 and bedframe 3. The versatility, or adaptability, comes from the fact that both the fitting and the headboard connector make use of play in their respective structures. The play may also be described as slack, tolerance, or wiggle room. Furthermore, the simple yet effective connection of the distal end of the fitting with the headboard 2 recess reduces the risk of having the headboard 2 fall onto the user in their sleep.

[0069] The fitting assembly 1, 60, 70, which includes the fitting 1 and the headboard connector 60, 70, may also be considered to include the corner bracket 50 and corner plate 40 as described above, preferably where the corner plate 40 is connectable to the bottom of the bedframe 3, having a protrusion 41 with which the fitting 1 is to be engaged.

[0070] Alternatively, a fitting assembly according to another embodiment may include the fitting 1 as described herein, and the corner plate 40 and optionally also the corner bracket 50. The comer plate 40 is preferably a separate protruding element connected to the bedframe 3. Preferably, the corner plate 40 is connectable to the bottom of the bedframe 3, and has a protrusion 41 with which the fitting 1 is to be engaged The intermediate element 20 of the fitting 1 may engage the protrusion 41. Preferably, the intermediate element 20 has a skirt 28 on its distal end 22. In one embodiment, the skirt 28 is arranged as an annular flange at the distal end 22 and forms a cavity at the distal end 22 of the intermediate element 20. The cavity may have a width being larger than the protrusion 41 of the comer plate 40.

[0071] Fig. 13 shows a fitting 1 according to another embodiment of the invention. The fitting 1 is configured to connect two bedframes 3 to each other (not shown). The fitting 1 comprises a connecting element 10, two intermediate elements 20, and two tightening means 30. The intermediate elements 20 are identical to the intermediate element 20 as described with reference to the fitting in Figs. 2-9.

[0072] The connecting element 10 has a proximal end 11 which has been inserted through the hollow center portion 25 of the first intermediate element 20. The connecting element 10 is provided with the threaded portion 15 at its proximal end 11 which engages the matching threaded portion 35 of the first tightening means 30. The first tightening means 30 has the same features as the tightening means 30 described with reference to Figs. 2-9. In Fig. 13, the threaded portion 35 is embedded into the nut 31. Alternatively, the threaded portion 35 may be formed integrally or in one piece with the nut 31.

[0073] A distal end 12 of the connecting means 10 also has a threaded portion 15. The connecting element 10 of this embodiment is an elongated rod, which is threaded along its entire length. Alternatively, it may comprise two separate threaded portions 15 at each distal and proximal end 11, 12. The distal end threaded portion 15 is inserted through the hollow center portion 25 of the second intermediate element 20. The intermediate elements 20 further have the proximal end 21 which comprising a recess. The recess is formed by an annular flange 28’, also referred to as a skirt 28’. The recess in the second intermediate element 20 houses the second tightening means 30. The recess preferably has a shape corresponding to the outer surface shape of the nut 31. For instance, the recess may have a hexagonal, or square shape.

[0074] The second tightening means 30 is a nut 31 which has a threaded portion 35 engaging the distal end threaded portion 15 of the connecting element 10. The second tightening means 30 is inserted into the recess at the proximal end 21 of the second intermediate element 20, and engaged with the threaded portion 15 of the connecting element 10.

[0075] When the fitting 1 is mounted, as shown in Fig. 13, a washer 33 is arranged between the first tightening means 30 and the first intermediate element 20. In the first tightening means 30, the threaded portion 35 is embedded into the nut 31 or may be integral with the nut 31.

[0076] The two intermediate elements 20 comprises the skirt 28 and features as described with reference to Figs. 6-9, and hence, the two intermediate elements 20 are configured to engage a protrusion 41 of two different bedframes 3, such that the fitting 1 can connect the bedframes 3 together.

[0077] Hence, the intermediate element 20 can be used in both the fitting 1 as described in Figs. 1-9, used to connect a bedframe 3 to a headboard 2, but also as a fitting 1 for connecting two bedframes 3 to each other as described with reference to Fig. 13. This provides manufacturing benefits, since the same component can be used for both purposes.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A fitting (1) for securing a headboard (2) to a bedframe (3), said fitting (1) being adaptable to different bedframe widths and comprising: a connecting element (10) configured to engage with the headboard (2); an intermediate element (20) configured to engage with the bedframe (3); and a tightening means (30) for bringing the intermediate element (20) into engagement with the bedframe (3), wherein the intermediate element (20) is arranged between the connecting element (10) and the tightening means (30).

2. The fitting according to claim 1, wherein the connecting element (10) is configured to engage with a recess (2’) of the headboard (2), preferably wherein the recess (2’) is provided at a bottom portion of the headboard (2).

3. The fitting according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting element (10) is at least partially provided with a threaded portion (15), and wherein the threaded portion (15) is configured to mesh with a matching threaded portion (35) of the tightening means (30).

4. The fitting according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate element (20) is configured to engage with the bedframe (3) by engagement with a protrusion (41) of the bedframe (3) or of a foot flange (40) connected thereto.

5. The fitting according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the tightening means (30) is rotatably connectable to the connecting element (10).

6. The fitting according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting element (10) is substantially elongated along a longitudinal axis (LA).

7. The fitting according to claim 6, wherein the connecting element (10) has a proximal end (11), a distal end (12), and a mid-section (13) extending there between,wherein the distal end (12) has a protruding portion (14) extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (LA), preferably wherein the connecting element (10) is L-shaped.

8. The fitting according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the intermediate element (20) has a substantially cylindrical hollow center portion (25) extending along a center axis (CA) which substantially coincides with the longitudinal axis (LA) of the connecting element (10).

9. The fitting according to claim 8, wherein the intermediate element (20) has a proximal end (21) and a distal end (22), wherein the intermediate element (20) comprises tabs (26) at the proximal end (21), protruding radially inwards towards the center axis (CA) of the hollow center portion (25).

10. The fitting according to claim 8 and 9, wherein the hollow center portion (25) is configured to receive the proximal end (11) of the connecting element (10).

11. The fitting according to any one of claims 8-10, wherein the hollow center portion (25) comprises a concentric pattern of grooves (25’) extending radially outwards from the center axis (CA).

12. The fitting according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate element (20) comprises a stopping surface (27) configured to abut against a protrusion (41) of the bedframe (3) or of a foot flange (40) connected thereto.

13. The fitting according to claim 12, wherein the intermediate element (20) comprises a skirt (28) configured to enclose the protrusion (41) of the bedframe (3) or of the foot flange (40) connected thereto, upon abutment against the stopping surface14. The fitting according to any one of claims 7-13, wherein the tightening means (30) comprises a threaded fastener (35) configured to match the threaded portion (15) at the proximal end (11) of the connecting element (10), preferably wherein the tightening means (30) is a nut (31).

15. A fitting assembly comprising a fitting (1) according to any of the preceding claims, and a headboard connector (60, 70) comprising a female part (60) connectable to the headboard, and a male part (70) connectable to the bedframe (3), wherein the female part (60) has a receiving section (61) configured to receive a tongue portion (71) of the male part (70), and wherein the receiving section (61) is wider than the tongue portion (71).

16. A bed assembly comprising a headboard (2) and a fitting (1) securing the headboard (2) to a bedframe (3), said fitting (1) being adaptable to different bedframe widths and comprising: a connecting element (10) engaged with the headboard (2); an intermediate element (20) configured to be engaged with the bedframe (3); and a tightening means (30) configured to bring the intermediate element (20) into engagement with the bedframe (3), wherein the intermediate element (20) is arranged between the connecting element (10) and the tightening means (30).

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