Joint fixing

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a joint fixing (100) for attaching a first furniture member to a second furniture member The joint fixing has a first elongate body (102) shaped to be received in a corresponding first slot of the first furniture member, and a second elongate body (104) shaped to be received in corresponding second slot of the second furniture member. The first elongate body is directly joined to the second elongate body such that the first and second elongate bodies at least partially overlap.

Description

JOINT FIXING

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a joint fixing for attaching a first furniture member to a second furniture member, and to a furniture assembly comprising the joint fixing.BACKGROUND

[0002] Furniture fixings typically include screws, bolts and the like for fixing together different furniture members. Commonly, dowels are used to strengthen joints, and various clamping fasteners are often used in combination with dowels. Dowels are typically straight pieces of material (usually wood) that are inserted into parallel holes formed in the two furniture members to be joined. Adhesive is commonly used to strengthen joints.

[0003] Various efforts have been made to provide easy-assembly furniture, particularly for flatpack furniture that is assembled by the consumer. However, assembly of flatpack furniture typically requires multiple fixings and multiple types of fixings, as well as specific tools for those fixings.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention provides a joint fixing for attaching a first furniture member to a second furniture member, the joint fixing comprising: a first elongate body shaped to be received in a corresponding first slot of the first furniture member, and a second elongate body shaped to be received in corresponding second slot of the second furniture member, wherein the first elongate body is directly joined to the second elongate body such that the first and second elongate bodies at least partially overlap.

[0005] In examples, each of the first elongate body and the second elongate body has a first width where the first elongate body is joined to the second elongate body, and a second width at a position spaced from the other of the first elongate body and the second elongate body. The second width is greater than the first width.

[0006] In examples, the first elongate body and the second elongate body each comprise a flat side. The flat side of the first elongate body is joined directly to the flat side of the second elongate body.

[0007] In examples, the first elongate body and / or the second elongate body comprises a partial cylinder comprising more than half of a full cylinder.

[0008] In other examples, the first elongate body and / or the second elongate body comprises a trapezoidal prism having a joined side attached to the other of the first elongate body and the second elongate body, and an opposite side, the opposite side being wider than the joined side.

[0009] In other examples, the first elongate body and / or the second elongate body comprises an obround.

[0010] In other examples, the first elongate body and / or the second elongate body comprises a keyhole shape.

[0011] In some examples, the first elongate body and / or the second elongate body is at least partially tapered in a lengthwise direction. For example, the first elongate body and / or the second elongate body may have a cylindrical portion and a tapered portion.

[0012] In some examples, the first elongate body has the same shape as the second elongate body. In other examples, the first elongate body has a different shape to the second elongate body.

[0013] In examples, the first elongate body and the second elongate body extend in parallel directions. The first elongate body and the second elongate body may fully or partially overlap along their lengths.

[0014] In other examples, the first elongate body and the second elongate body extend in nonparallel directions. For example, the first elongate body may extend perpendicularly to the second elongate body. In examples, the first elongate body extends at an angle of between 0 degrees and 90 degrees relative to the second elongate body, preferably between 10 degrees and 80 degrees, preferably between 20 degrees and 70 degrees. In examples, the first elongate body extends at an angle relative to the second elongate body, the angle being one of: 0 degrees, 22.5 degrees, 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 60 degrees, 67.5 degrees, and 90 degrees.

[0015] In examples, each of the first elongate body and the second elongate body comprises opposite ends. The first elongate body may be joined to the second elongate body at a position between the opposite ends of the first elongate body and the second elongate body.

[0016] In examples, the first elongate body is joined to the second elongate body such that an edge of the first elongate body is aligned with an end of the second elongate body. In other examples, the first elongate body is joined to the second elongate body such that edges of the first elongate body are spaced from opposite ends of the second elongate body.

[0017] In some examples, the joint fixing may further comprise an undercut at an edge where the first elongate body is joined to the second elongate body.

[0018] In some examples, the first elongate body and the second elongate body may have the same length, and in other examples they may have different lengths.

[0019] A further aspect of the present invention provides a furniture assembly comprising: a first furniture member having a first slot, a second furniture member having a second slot, and the joint fixing described above, wherein the first elongate body of the joint fixing is received in the first slot and the second elongate body of the joint fixing is received in the second slot such that the joint fixing fixes the first furniture member to the second furniture member.

[0020] In some examples, the furniture assembly may also a include a sleeve encompassing the first elongate body and / or the second elongate body. The sleeve may be of complementary shape to the first and / or second elongate body. The sleeve may encompass the elongate body so that it is arranged between the elongate body and the groove when assembled. The sleeve may have an internal shape that corresponds to the external shape of the respective elongate body, and an external shape that corresponds to the shape of the groove.

[0021] In examples, the first furniture member and the second furniture member are joined in a non-parallel arrangement, for example perpendicular. In examples, the first slot is formed in an end of the first furniture member and opens into a side of the first furniture member. In examples, the second slot is formed in an end of the second furniture member and opens into a side of the second furniture member.

[0022] In some examples, the first slot and / or the second slot extends only partway through a thickness of the first furniture member or second furniture member, respectively, such that the first slot and / or the second slot has a closed end.

[0023] In some examples, the first slot and / or the second slot is oriented such that a load applied to the furniture assembly in use urges the joint fixing against the respective closed end of the first slot and / or second slot.

[0024] In examples, the furniture assembly further comprises a third furniture member. Assembly of the third furniture member with the first and / or second furniture member may prevent removal of the joint fixing from the first and / or second slot. In examples, the furniture assembly comprises a plurality of furniture members, in particular, four or more. In examples, the furniture assembly comprises a locking furniture member, which is the last furniture member assembled into the furniture assembly.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] Examples of the invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0026] FIG. 1A to FIG. 6B illustrate various example joint fixings that have elongate bodies with a partially cylindrical shape.

[0027] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B illustrate an example joint fixing with tapered elongate bodies.

[0028] FIG. 8 illustrates an example joint fixing with partially tapered elongate bodies.

[0029] FIG. 9 illustrates an example joint fixing with partially tapered elongate bodies and a hole at one end of each tapered body.

[0030] FIG. 10A to FIG. 11B illustrate an example joint fixing with parallel, partially cylindrical elongate bodies.

[0031] FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B illustrate an example joint fixing with angled elongate bodies.

[0032] FIG. 13, FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 illustrate example joint fixings with trapezoidal prism elongate bodies.

[0033] FIG. 16 illustrates an example joint fixing with elongated cylindrical elongate bodies.

[0034] FIG. 17 illustrates an example joint fixing with keyhole shaped elongate bodies.

[0035] FIG. 18A to FIG. 18F illustrate various furniture joints formed using a joint fixing.

[0036] FIG. 19 illustrates an example angled furniture j oint formed using a joint fixing.

[0037] FIG. 20A and FIG. 20B illustrate an example furniture joint formed using a joint fixing with trapezoidal prism elongate bodies.

[0038] FIG. 21 illustrates an example furniture assembly.

[0039] FIG. 22A illustrates an example chair.

[0040] FIG. 22B illustrates an aspect of the subject matter in accordance with one embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 22C illustrates an aspect of the subject matter in accordance with one embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 23 illustrates an example stool.

[0043] FIG. 24 A to FIG. 24C illustrates an example furniture joint including a complementary sleeve.

[0044] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The various examples described in detail below provide a joint fixing for attaching a first furniture member to a second furniture member. Further joint fixings can be used to attached further furniture members in order to assemble furniture. The first furniture member and the second furniture member may form at least a part of a furniture assembly, such as a chair, stool or table.

[0046] In all of the examples the joint fixing comprises a first elongate body and a second elongate body. The first elongate body is shaped to be received in a corresponding first slot of the first furniture member, and the second elongate body is shaped to be received in corresponding second slot of the second furniture member. The first elongate body is directly joined to the second elongate body such that the first and second elongate bodies at least partially overlap.

[0047] In examples, the first elongate body is directly joined to the second elongate body. That is, there is no intermediate part or material between the first elongate body and the second elongate body. For example, the first elongate body and the second elongate body may both have flat sides that are attached to each other. There is no spacing between the first elongate body and the second elongate body. It will be appreciated that this results in a flush fixing of the first furniture member to the second furniture member as the entirety of the first elongate body and the second elongate body are received in the corresponding first slot and second slot.

[0048] Preferably, the joint fixing is made as one component, for example moulded or machined as a single component. The joint fixing is preferably made from metal (e.g., steel or aluminium), polymer, or wood.

[0049] The joining apparatus may further include a sleeve of complementary shape to the first and / or second elongate body, wherein the sleeve is placed within the respective furniture slot. This reduces the deterioration of the joint over time caused by friction and moisture. It also permits the joining of furniture members comprised of metal.

[0050] In preferred examples the first elongate body and the second elongate body are shaped and sized to form a press-fit or interference fit with the corresponding slot in the furniture member. Adhesive may additionally be provided to strengthen the joint.

[0051] As will be described below, the joint fixing and the slots may provide various mounting arrangements and angles of the first furniture member relative to the second furniture member. This allows the joint fixing to be used to construct furniture without the need for different types of fasteners and fixings, and without the need for tools associated with conventional fixings. It may also permit the furniture to be disassembled, if necessary, without damaging the furniture members.

[0052] FIG. 1A and FIG. IB illustrate a first example joint fixing 100. The joint fixing 100 comprises a first elongate body 102 and a second elongate body 104. As will be described further hereinafter, the first elongate body 102 and second elongate body 104 are both shaped to be received in corresponding slots of furniture members.

[0053] As shown, the first elongate body 102 is directly joined to the second elongate body 104 such that the first elongate body 102 and the second elongate body 104 at least partially overlap.

[0054] In this example, the first elongate body 102 and the second elongate body 104 are both partial cylinders. The first elongate body 102 has a flat side 106 and the second elongate body 104 has a flat side 108. The partial cylinders are both more than half of a full cylinder. The flat side 106 is directly joined to the flat side 108.

[0055] In particular, each of the first elongate body 102 and the second elongate body 104 has opposite ends 112 and a constant cross-sectional shape extending between the opposite ends 112. In this example the constant cross-sectional shape is a partial circle (including the flat side 106, flat side 108, respectively), thereby forming the partial cylinders.

[0056] In this way, the flat side 106 and the flat side 108 have a first width which is less than the maximum width of the first elongate body 102 and second elongate body 104. The maximum width is a second width and defined at the widest point of the partial cylinders.

[0057] Edges 110, 114 are defined at the join between the flat side 106 of the first elongate body 102 and the flat side 108 of the second elongate body 104.

[0058] The first elongate body 102 and the second elongate body 104 extend perpendicularly to each other. One side of the flat side 108 of second elongate body 104 is aligned with one of the opposite ends 112 of the first elongate body 102. Similarly, one side of the flat side 106 of the first elongate body 102 is aligned with one of the opposite ends 112 of the second elongate body 104.

[0059] The example joint fixing 200 of FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B is similar to that of FIG. 1A and FIG. IB. The joint fixing 200 comprises a first elongate body 202 and a second elongate body 204. As will be described further hereinafter, the first elongate body 202 and second elongate body 204 are both shaped to be received in corresponding slots of furniture members.

[0060] As shown, the first elongate body 202 is directly joined to the second elongate body 204 such that the first elongate body 202 and the second elongate body 204 at least partially overlap.

[0061] In this example, the first elongate body 202 and the second elongate body 204 are both partial cylinders. The first elongate body 202 has a flat side 206 and the second elongate body 204 has a flat side 208. The partial cylinders are both more than half of a full cylinder. The flat side 206 is directly joined to the flat side 208.

[0062] In particular, each of the first elongate body 202 and the second elongate body 204 has opposite ends 212 and a constant cross-sectional shape extending between the opposite ends 212. In this example the constant cross-sectional shape is a partial circle (including the flat side 206, flat side 208, respectively), thereby forming the partial cylinders.

[0063] In this way, the flat side 206 and the flat side 208 have a first width which is less than the maximum width of the first elongate body 202 and second elongate body 204. The maximum width is a second width and defined at the widest point of the partial cylinders.

[0064] Edges 210, 214 are defined at the join between the flat side 206 of the first elongate body 202 and the flat side 208 of the second elongate body 204.

[0065] The first elongate body 202 and the second elongate body 204 extend perpendicularly to each other. One side of the flat side 208 of second elongate body 204 is aligned with one of the opposite ends 212 of the first elongate body 202. Similarly, one side of the flat side 206 of the first elongate body 202 is aligned with one of the opposite ends 212 of the second elongate body 204.

[0066] In this example, an undercut 216 is formed at edge 210. The undercut 216 is a radius cut extending into the joint fixing 200 at the edge 210. As will be apparently hereinafter, the undercut 216 allows a better fit of the joint fixing 200 with the furniture members during use. In addition, the undercut 216 makes it easier to manufacture the joint fixing 200 from a solid block of material by machining.

[0067] The example of FIG. 3 A and FIG. 3B is similar to the example of FIG. 1A and FIG. IB. The joint fixing 300 comprises a first elongate body 302 and a second elongate body 304. As will be described further hereinafter, the first elongate body 302 and second elongate body 304 are both shaped to be received in corresponding slots of furniture members.

[0068] As shown, the first elongate body 302 is directly joined to the second elongate body 304 such that the first elongate body 302 and the second elongate body 304 at least partially overlap.

[0069] In this example, the first elongate body 302 and the second elongate body 304 are both partial cylinders. The first elongate body 302 has a flat side 306 and the second elongate body 304 has a flat side 308. The partial cylinders are both more than half of a full cylinder. The flat side 306 is directly joined to the flat side 308.

[0070] In particular, each of the first elongate body 302 and the second elongate body 304 has opposite ends 312 and a constant cross-sectional shape extending between the opposite ends 312. In this example the constant cross-sectional shape is a partial circle (including the flat side 306, flat side 308, respectively), thereby forming the partial cylinders.

[0071] In this way, the flat side 306 and the flat side 308 have a first width which is less than the maximum width of the first elongate body 302 and second elongate body 304. The maximum width is a second width and defined at the widest point of the partial cylinders.

[0072] Edges 310, 314 are defined at the join between the flat side 306 of the first elongate body 302 and the flat side 308 of the second elongate body 304.

[0073] The first elongate body 302 and the second elongate body 304 extend perpendicularly to each other. One side of the flat side 308 of second elongate body 304 is aligned with one of the opposite ends 312 of the first elongate body 302. Similarly, one side of the flat side 306 of the first elongate body 302 is aligned with one of the opposite ends 312 of the second elongate body 304.

[0074] In this example, the edges 310, 314 are offset from the opposite ends 312 of the second elongate body 304 such that the first elongate body 302 and the second elongate body 304 are joined to each other, and overlap, partway along the length of the second elongate body 304. One of the opposite ends 312 of the first elongate body 302 is aligned with an edge of the flat side 308 of the second elongate body 304 at edge 318. In this way, the first elongate body 302 and the second elongate body 304 are joined to each other partway along their lengths, forming a T-shape as viewed in FIG. 3B.

[0075] The example of FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B is similar to the example of FIG. 3 A and FIG. 3B. The joint fixing 400 comprises a first elongate body 402 and a second elongate body 404. As will be described further hereinafter, the first elongate body 402 and second elongate body 404 are both shaped to be received in corresponding slots of furniture members.

[0076] As shown, the first elongate body 402 is directly joined to the second elongate body 404 such that the first elongate body 402 and the second elongate body 404 at least partially overlap.

[0077] In this example, the first elongate body 402 and the second elongate body 404 are both partial cylinders. The first elongate body 402 has a flat side 406 and the second elongate body 404 has a flat side 408. The partial cylinders are both more than half of a full cylinder. The flat side 406 is directly joined to the flat side 408.

[0078] In particular, each of the first elongate body 402 and the second elongate body 404 has opposite ends 412 and a constant cross-sectional shape extending between the opposite ends 412. In this example the constant cross-sectional shape is a partial circle (including the flat side 406, flat side 408, respectively), thereby forming the partial cylinders.

[0079] In this way, the flat side 406 and the flat side 408 have a first width which is less than the maximum width of the first elongate body 402 and second elongate body 404. The maximum width is a second width and defined at the widest point of the partial cylinders.

[0080] Edges 410, 414 are defined at the join between the flat side 406 of the first elongate body 402 and the flat side 408 of the second elongate body 404.

[0081] The first elongate body 402 and the second elongate body 404 extend perpendicularly to each other.

[0082] In this example, the edges 410, 414 are offset from the opposite ends 412 such that the first elongate body 402 and the second elongate body 404 are joined to each other, and overlap, partway along their lengths. In addition, the opposite ends 412 of the first elongate body 302 are offset from the sides of the flat edges 410, 414. In this way, the first elongate body 402 and the second elongate body 404 are joined to each other partway along their lengths, forming a cross-shape as viewed in FIG. 4B.

[0083] The example of FIG. 5 A and FIG. 5B is similar to the example of FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B. The joint fixing 500 comprises a first elongate body 502 and a second elongate body 504. As will be described further hereinafter, the first elongate body 502 and second elongate body 504 are both shaped to be received in corresponding slots of furniture members.

[0084] As shown, the first elongate body 502 is directly joined to the second elongate body 504 such that the first elongate body 502 and the second elongate body 504 at least partially overlap.

[0085] In this example, the first elongate body 502 and the second elongate body 504 are both partial cylinders. The first elongate body 502 has a flat side 506 and the second elongate body 504 has a flat side 508. The partial cylinders are both more than half of a full cylinder. The flat side 506 is directly joined to the flat side 508.

[0086] In particular, each of the first elongate body 502 and the second elongate body 504 has opposite ends 512 and a constant cross-sectional shape extending between the opposite ends 512. In this example the constant cross-sectional shape is a partial circle (including the flat side 506, flat side 508, respectively), thereby forming the partial cylinders.

[0087] In this way, the flat side 506 and the flat side 508 have a first width which is less than the maximum width of the first elongate body 502 and second elongate body 504. The maximum width is a second width and defined at the widest point of the partial cylinders.

[0088] Edges 510, 514 are defined at the join between the flat side 506 of the first elongate body 502 and the flat side 508 of the second elongate body 504.

[0089] The first elongate body 502 and the second elongate body 504 extend perpendicularly to each other.

[0090] In this example, the edges 510, 514 are offset from the opposite ends 512 such that the first elongate body 502 and the second elongate body 504 are joined to each other, and overlap, partway along their lengths. In addition, the opposite ends 512 of the first elongate body 502 are offset from the sides of the flat edges 510, 514. In this way, the first elongate body 502 and the second elongate body 504 are joined to each other partway along their lengths, forming a cross-shape as viewed in FIG. 5B.

[0091] In this example, an undercut 516 is formed at edge 510. The undercut 516 is a radius cut extending into the joint fixing 500 at the edge 510. Similarly, an undercut 522 is also formed at edge 514. An undercut 520 is also formed at edge 518, which is formed along the side of the flat side 508 where the first elongate body 502 overhangs. As will be apparently hereinafter, the undercuts 516, 520, 522 allow a better fit of the joint fixing 500 with the furniture members during use. In addition, the undercut 516 makes it easier to manufacture the joint fixing 500 from a solid block of material by machining.

[0092] The example of FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B is similar to the example of FIG. 5 A and FIG. 5B. The joint fixing 600 comprises a first elongate body 602 and a second elongate body 602. As will be described further hereinafter, the first elongate body 602 and second elongate body 604 are both shaped to be received in corresponding slots of furniture members.

[0093] As shown, the first elongate body 602 is directly joined to the second elongate body 604 such that the first elongate body 602 and the second elongate body 604 at least partially overlap.

[0094] In this example, the first elongate body 602 and the second elongate body 604 are both partial cylinders. The first elongate body 602 has a flat side 606 and the second elongate body 604 has a flat side 608. The partial cylinders are both more than half of a full cylinder. The flat side 606 is directly joined to the flat side 608.

[0095] In particular, each of the first elongate body 602 and the second elongate body 604 has opposite ends 612 and a constant cross-sectional shape extending between the opposite ends 612. In this example the constant cross-sectional shape is a partial circle (including the flat side 606, flat side 608, respectively), thereby forming the partial cylinders.

[0096] In this way, the flat side 606 and the flat side 608 have a first width which is less than the maximum width of the first elongate body 602 and second elongate body 604. The maximum width is a second width and defined at the widest point of the partial cylinders.

[0097] Edges 610, 614 are defined at the join between the flat side 606 of the first elongate body 602 and the flat side 608 of the second elongate body 604.

[0098] The first elongate body 602 and the second elongate body 604 extend perpendicularly to each other.

[0099] In this example, the edges 610, 614 are offset from the opposite ends 612 such that the first elongate body 602 and the second elongate body 604 are joined to each other, and overlap, partway along their lengths. In addition, the opposite ends 612 of the first elongate body 602 are offset from the sides of the flat edges 610, 614. In this way, the first elongate body 602 and the second elongate body 604 are joined to each other partway along their lengths, forming a cross-shape as viewed in FIG. 6B.

[0100] In this example, an undercut 616 is formed at edge 610. The undercut 616 is a radius cut extending into the joint fixing 600 at the edge 610. Similarly, an undercut 620 is also formed at edge 614. An undercut 622 is also formed at edge 618, which is formed along the side of the flat side 608 where the first elongate body 602 overhangs. Additionally, in this example, an undercut 624 is formed along edge 626, opposite to the edge 618 where the first elongate body 602 overhangs the first elongate body 602 on the other side. As will be apparently hereinafter, the undercuts 616, 620, 622, 624 allow a better fit of the joint fixing 600 with the furniture members during use. In addition, the undercuts 616, 620, 622, 624 make it easier to manufacture the joint fixing 600 from a solid block of material by machining.

[0101] In the example of FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B the first elongate body 702 and the second elongate body 704 are tapered partial cylinders. In particular, each of the first elongate body 702 and the second elongate body 704 includes a first opposite end 712 and a second opposite end 728. The first opposite ends 712 are larger than the second opposite ends 728. As with previous examples, the first elongate body 702 and the second elongate body 704 include a flat side 706, 708, respectively, which are directly joined to each other. The first elongate body 702 and the second elongate body 704 are perpendicular to each other.

[0102] In examples, the first elongate body 702 and the second elongate body 704 may be joined to each other, at their flat sides 706, 708, in the various arrangements described with reference to FIG. 1A to FIG. 6B. Additionally or alternatively, the joint fixing 700 may include one or more undercuts as described above.

[0103] In the example of FIG. 8 the joint fixing 800 includes a first elongate body 802 and a second elongate body 804 that are each partially tapered. In particular, each of the first elongatebody 802 and the second elongate body 804 includes a cylindrical portion 830 that forms the first opposite end 812, and a tapered portion 832 that forms the second opposite end 828. The second opposite ends 828 are smaller than the first opposite ends 812. The tapered portions 832 may make it easier to insert the joint fixing 800 into the slots of the furniture members and the cylindrical portions 830 may provide a secure fit and hold the joint fixing 800 in the slots.

[0104] The example joint fixing 900 of FIG. 9 is similar to that of FIG. 8 and includes a first elongate body 902 and a second elongate body 904 that are each partially tapered. In particular, each of the first elongate body 902 and the second elongate body 904 includes a cylindrical portion 930 that forms the first opposite end 912, and a tapered portion 932 that forms the second opposite end 928. The second opposite ends 928 are smaller than the first opposite ends 912. In this example, the second opposite ends 928 further include a hole 934. The holes 934 may make it easier to disassemble the joint fixing 900 from the slots in the furniture members.

[0105] In the example of FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B the joint fixing 1000 includes a first elongate body 1002 and a second elongate body 1004 that each include a flat side (not visible) joined to each other to form edges 1010, 1014. In this example the first elongate body 1002 and the second elongate body 1004 both comprise a partial cylinder having a flat side, and the flat sides are joined to each other along their entire lengths, and in parallel arrangement, so that the first elongate body 1002 and the second elongate body 1004 are parallel and overlap along their entire lengths. The opposite ends 1012 are therefore parallel and aligned.

[0106] In examples, the edges 1010, 1014 may include an undercut as described above. In examples, the first elongate body 1002 and the second elongate body 1004 may be tapered as described with reference to FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B.

[0107] In the example of FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B the joint fixing 1100 includes a first elongate body 1102 and a second elongate body 1104 that each include a flat side 1106, 1108 joined to each other to form edges 1110, 1114. In this example the first elongate body 1102 and the second elongate body 1104 both comprise a partial cylinder having a flat side 1106, 1108, and the flat sides 1106, 1108 are joined to each other partially along their lengths, and in parallel arrangement, so that the first elongate body 1102 and the second elongate body 1104 are parallel and each overhangs from the other at one end.

[0108] In examples, the edges 1110, 1114 may include an undercut as described above. In examples, the first elongate body 1102 and the second elongate body 1104 may be tapered as described with reference to FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B.

[0109] In the example of FIG. 12 A, as with previous examples, the joint fixing 1200 includes a first elongate body 1202 and a second elongate body 1204, both with flat sides 1206, 1208. The flat sides 1206, 1208 are directly joined to each other and the first elongate body 1202 and the second elongate body 1204 partially overlap. As illustrated, in this example the first elongate body 1202 and the second elongate body 1204 are angled with respect to each other - they are non-perpendicular and non-parallel. It will be appreciated that the first elongate body 1202 and the second elongate body 1204 may be arranged at any angle with respect to each other, but in furniture construction common angles would be 22.5 degrees, 45 degrees, and 67.2 degrees.

[0110] The angled arrangement shown in FIG. 12A may be applied to any of the examples described with reference to FIG. 1 A to FIG. 1 IB.

[0111] In examples, the edges 1210, 1214 may include an undercut as described above. In examples, the first elongate body 1202 and the second elongate body 1204 may be tapered as described with reference to FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B.

[0112] FIG. 13 to FIG. 17 illustrate joint fixings 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700 with alternative example shapes.

[0113] As with previous examples, in each of these examples the joint fixing 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700 includes a first elongate body 1302, 1402, 1502, 1602, 1702 and a second elongate body 1304, 1404, 1504, 1604, 1704. The first elongate body 1302, 1402, 1502, 1602, 1702 includes a flat side 1306, 1406, 1506, 1606, 1706. The second elongate body 1304, 1404, 1504, 1604, 1704 includes a flat side 1308, 1408, 1508, 1608, 1708. The flat side 1306, 1406, 1506, 1606, 1706 of the first elongate body 1302, 1402, 1502, 1602, 1702 is directly joined to the flat side 1308, 1408, 1508, 1608, 1708 of the second elongate body 1304, 1404, 1504, 1604, 1704, defining an edge 1310, 1410, 1510, 1610, 1710 and an edge 1314, 1414, 1514, 1614, 1714. In alternative examples, the edges may include undercuts as previously described.

[0114] As illustrated, in these examples the opposite ends 1312, 1412, 1512, 1612, 1712 of the first elongate body 1302, 1402, 1502, 1602, 1702 and the second elongate body 1304, 1404, 1504, 1604, 1704 have different shapes.

[0115] In particular, in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 the opposite ends 1312, 1412 are trapezoidal, and as such the first elongate body 1302, 1402 and the second elongate body 1304, 1404 aretrapezoidal prisms. A narrower side of each of the trapezoidal prisms forms the flat side 1306, 1406, 1308, 1408 of the respective first elongate body 1302, 1402 and second elongate body 1304, 1404. The sides opposite to the flat sides 1306, 1406, 1308, 1408 are wider.

[0116] In the example joint fixing 1500 of FIG. 15 the opposite ends 1512 of the first elongate body 1502 and the second elongate body 1504 are trapezoidal with rounded corners, and as such the first elongate body 1502 and the second elongate body 1504 are trapezoidal prisms with rounded edges.

[0117] In the example joint fixing 1600 of FIG. 16 the opposite ends 1612 of the first elongate body 1602 and the second elongate body 1604 are obround (semi-circular ends with straight sides). The first elongate body 1602 and the second elongate body 1604 are therefore elongated obrounds. The curvature of the obround shape adjacent to the flat side 1606 and the flat side 1608 means that the first elongate body 1602 and the second elongate body 1604 are narrower at the flat side 1606 and flat side 1608 than at the widest point of the obround, which ensures that the joint fixing 1600 cannot be laterally pulled out of the slots during use.

[0118] In the example joint fixing 1700 of FIG. 17 the opposite ends 1712 are keyhole shaped, with the narrower parts of the keyhole forming the flat side 1706 and the flat side 1708 and being joined to each other. The narrower parts of the keyhole shape are attached to each other, and as such the first elongate body 1702 and the second elongate body 1704 are narrower at the flat side 1706 and flat side 1708 than at the widest point of the keyhole shape, which ensures that the joint fixing 1700 cannot be laterally pulled out of the slots during use.

[0119] FIG. 18A to FIG. 18F illustrate example furniture joints 1800 that are formed using the example joint fixings described above. In all of these examples the furniture joint 1800 includes a joint fixing 1802 used to secure a first furniture member 1804 to a second furniture member 1806. The joint fixing 1802 may be any of the examples described above, with the shapes of the joint fixing 1802 and the corresponding slots being changed appropriately. It will be appreciated that the illustrated example furniture joints 1800 are merely examples, and the various joint fixings described above can be used to form other furniture joints that are not illustrated, for example with different angles or relative orientations of the first furniture member 1804 and the second furniture member 1806.

[0120] In each of these examples the first furniture member 1804 includes a first slot 1808 and the second furniture member 1806 includes a second slot 1810. The furniture j oint 1800 is formed by a joint fixing 1802, which is inserted into the first slot 1808 and into the second slot1810. In particular, the first elongate body of the joint fixing 1802 is inserted into the first slot1808 and the second elongate body of the joint fixing 1802 is inserted into the second slot 1810.

[0121] It will be appreciated that the first slot 1808 and the second slot 1810 are shaped according to the shape of the joint fixing 1802. Therefore, although FIG. 18A to FIG. 18F show partially cylindrical slots, other slot shapes would be used with other joint fixings 1802.

[0122] The width of the first elongate body and the second elongate body of the joint fixing 1802 prevents them being pulled out of the first slot 1808 and the second slot 1810 laterally, thereby securing the first furniture member 1804 to the second furniture member 1806. In particular, as described above, the first elongate body and the second elongate body are both narrower at the point at which they are joined to each other, and wider at another point. In this way, the first elongate body and the second elongate body are prevented from being pulled out of the slots in a lateral direction.

[0123] In examples, the first slot 1808 and the second slot 1810 are sized for a push fit or interference fit with the first elongate body and the second elongate body, respectively, so that the joint fixing 1802 is firmly pushed into the first furniture member 1804 and the second furniture member 1806 and joins them together. Adhesive may be used to increase the strength of the furniture joint 1800. Accordingly, the joint fixings 1802 are not easily pulled out of the slots in the axial direction.

[0124] In some examples the first slot 1808 and the second slot 1810 extend from one side of the respective furniture member to the other. However, preferably the first slot 1808 and the second slot 1810 extend only partially across the respective furniture member, as illustrated in FIG. 18A to FIG. 18E, such that the first slot 1808 and the second slot 1810 define a closed end. In this case, the first slot 1808 and the second slot 1810 may be oriented in the first furniture member 1804 and the second furniture member 1806 such that load applied to the furniture joint 1800 urges the joint fixing 1802 into the first slot 1808 and the second slot 1810, against the closed end, thereby providing a rigid furniture joint 1800 during use.

[0125] In the example of FIG. 18A and FIG. 18B the first slot 1808 is formed from a side 1814 of the first furniture member 1804 and extends partway towards an opposite side and opens through an end 1812 of the first furniture member 1804. The second slot 1810 is formed in a side 1814 of the second furniture member 1806 and extends partway to an opposite side,opening into another side. Once assembled, as shown in FIG. 18B, the end 1812 of the first furniture member 1804 is held against the second furniture member 1806.

[0126] In the example of FIG. 18C and FIG. 18D the first slot 1808 is formed from a side 1814 of the first furniture member 1804 and extends partway towards an opposite side and opens through an end 1812 of the first furniture member 1804. The second slot 1810 is formed in the end 1812 of the second furniture member 1806 and extends partway into the second furniture member 1806, opening into the side 1814. Once assembled, as shown in FIG. 18D, the end 1812 of the first furniture member 1804 is held against the side of the second furniture member 1806 and aligned with the end 1812 of the second furniture member 1806.Accordingly, the first furniture member 1804 and the second furniture member 1806 are held perpendicularly to each other, forming a corner.

[0127] In the example of FIG. 18E and FIG. 18F both of the first slot 1808 and the second slot 1810 are formed in a side 1814 of the respective first furniture member 1804 and second furniture member 1806 and extend partway to an opposite side, opening through the ends 1812. Once assembled, as shown in FIG. 18F, the first furniture member 1804 and the second furniture member 1806 are joined end-to-end.

[0128] FIG. 19 illustrates a furniture joint 1900 that can be formed using the joint fixing 1200 of FIG. 12 A. As shown, the furniture joint 1900 includes a first furniture member 1904 and a second furniture member 1906. The first furniture member 1904 includes a first slot 1908 and the second furniture member 1906 includes a second slot 1910. The second furniture member 1906 is sized and shaped to receive the first elongate body 1202 of the joint fixing 1200, and the second slot 1910 is sized and shaped to receive the second elongate body 1204 of the joint fixing 1200.

[0129] As shown, the first slot 1908 and the second slot 1910 are angled (non-parallel and non-perpendicular) with respect to the first furniture member 1904 and the second furniture member 1906, and the angle corresponds to the angle between the first elongate body 1202 and the second elongate body 1204 of the joint fixing 1200. Accordingly, the first furniture member 1904 and the second furniture member 1906 are fixed to each other at an angle, as shown in FIG. 19.

[0130] FIG. 20A and FIG. 20B illustrate an example furniture joint 2000. In this example the furniture joint 2000 is formed between a first furniture member 2004, a second furniture member 2006 and a third furniture member 2008, using two joint fixings 2002. The jointfixings 2002 have elongate bodies with a trapezoidal prism shape, and may be the example joint fixings 1300, 1400 of FIG. 13 and FIG. 14.

[0131] The first furniture member 2004 includes a first slot 2010 and the second furniture member 2006 has a second slot 2012, the first slot 2010 and the second slot 2012 being configured to receive one of the joint fixings 2002 to form a joint therebetween in a similar way as described with reference to FIG. 18A to FIG. 18F above. The second furniture member 2006 also includes a third slot 2014 and the third furniture member 2008 includes a fourth slot 2016, the third slot 2014 and the second furniture member 2006 being configured to receive another of the joint fixings 2002 to form a joint therebetween in a similar way as described with reference to FIG. 18A to FIG. 18F above.

[0132] It will also be appreciated that different shaped slots may be provided for use with different joint fixings, in particular any joint fixing described with reference to FIG. 1A to FIG. 17. This allows various furniture joints to be formed, with parallel, perpendicular or angled attachment between two or more further members. For example, the slots may be partially cylindrical, trapezoidal, rounded trapezoidal, obround, or keyhole shaped.

[0133] FIG. 21 illustrates an example furniture assembly 2100 formed by joining together multiple furniture members 2102 using multiple joint fixings 2104. As shown, and as described above, each furniture member 2102 includes one or more slots and the joint fixings 2104 are inserted into the slots to join the furniture members 2102 together.

[0134] As illustrated, the slots are preferably arranged such that, when a load is applied to the furniture assembly 2100 in use, the joint fixings 2104 are urged into the slots, against closed ends. For examples, as shown, applying a load from above (e.g., by sitting on the furniture assembly 2100), the joint fixings 2104 are all urged downwards against closed ends of the slots.

[0135] FIG. 22 A shows an example chair 2200 formed by joining together various furniture members to form a frame 2208 with chair legs 2202, a seat 2204 and a backrest 2206.

[0136] In this example the frame 2208, chair legs 2202 and backrest 2206 are formed from elongate furniture members with square or oblong cross-sections, and the seat 2204 is formed from several sheet components. The joint fixings can be used to secure together square, oblong and sheet furniture members.

[0137] As shown in FIG. 22B, multiple joint fixings 2212, only some of which are indicated for clarity, are used to secure together the furniture members. The joint fixings 2212 may be used in additional to conventional straight dowel pins.

[0138] In this example the furniture members and the joint fixings 2212 are arranged such that they self-lock. That is, during assembly a first joint is formed using a joint fixing 2212 inserted into one of the furniture members, and then when initial furniture member is assembled with a further furniture member the further furniture members prevents movement of the initial furniture member and / or directly prevents the joint fixing 2212 from sliding out of the slot. In this way, the joint fixings 2212 can be push-fit into the slots in the furniture members, without the need for a tight interference fit or adhesive. This also makes it easier to disassemble the furniture, if required. As shown in FIG. 22C, a locking furniture member 2210 can be the last to be assembled into the furniture assembly and provides a final blocking of the other joint fixings 2212. The locking furniture member 2210 is preferably a tight fit so that the furniture is securely held together.

[0139] FIG. 23 shows an example stool 2300 formed by joining together various furniture members to form a frame 2302 with legs 2304. The assembly is similar to that of the chair 2200 described above.

[0140] FIG. 24A illustrates an example joint fixing 2402 that includes a sleeve 2404, 2410. In this example, the furniture joint 2400 is formed between a first furniture member 2406 and a second furniture member 2412 using the joint fixing 2402. The joint fixing 2402 has two elongate bodies of partial cylindrical shape, as described above. The illustrated joint fixing 2402 is similar to that of FIG. 7 but the sleeve 2404 can be applied to any of the abovedescribed example joint fixings. A first sleeve 2404 is disposed about the first elongate body of the joint fixing 2402, and a second sleeve 2410 is disposed about the second elongate body. The sleeves 2404, 2410 are disposed between the respective elongate body and the slot 2408, 2414 in the furniture member 2406, 2412 when the furniture joint 2400 is assembled.

[0141] An internal shape of each sleeve 2404, 2410 corresponds to the external shape of the respective elongate body, and an external shape of each sleeve 2404, 2410 matches the shape of the respective slot 2408, 2414 in the furniture member 2406, 2412. A thickness of the sleeve 2404, 2410 may be constant or varying. The sleeves 2404, 2410 may be made from metal, for example stainless steel or similar.

[0142] The sleeves 2404, 2410 and joint fixing 2402 are arranged such that the sleeves 2404, 2410 slot into the furniture slots 2408, 2414 and encompass the elongate bodies of the joint fixing 2402. That is, during assembly, the sleeves 2404, 2410 are inserted into furniture slots 2408, 2414 respectively. In this way, joint fixing 2402 can be push-fit or interference-fit intothe sleeves 2404, 2410 without the risk of damaging the components. This reduces the deterioration of the joint over time caused by moisture and friction (e.g., during disassembly and reassembly). It also permits the joining of furniture members comprised of metal.

[0143] It will be appreciated that various different furniture members could be joined together in various different ways, using the joint fixings described herein, to form any kind of furniture assembly, for example a chair, stool, table, shelve, media stand, and others.

[0144] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words “comprise” and “contain” and variations of them mean “including but not limited to”, and they are not intended to (and do not) exclude other moieties, additives, components, integers or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise.

[0145] Features, integers, characteristics, or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and / or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. The invention is not restricted to the details of any foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A joint fixing for attaching a first furniture member to a second furniture member, the joint fixing comprising: a first elongate body shaped to be received in a corresponding first slot of the first furniture member, and a second elongate body shaped to be received in corresponding second slot of the second furniture member, wherein the first elongate body is directly joined to the second elongate body such that the first and second elongate bodies at least partially overlap.

2. The joint fixing of claim 1, wherein each of the first elongate body and the second elongate body has a first width where the first elongate body is joined to the second elongate body, and a second width at a position spaced from the other of the first elongate body and the second elongate body, and wherein the second width is greater than the first width.

3. The joint fixing of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first elongate body and the second elongate body each comprise a flat side, and wherein the flat side of the first elongate body is joined directly to the flat side of the second elongate body.

4. The joint fixing of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first elongate body and / or the second elongate body comprises a partial cylinder comprising more than half of a full cylinder.

5. The joint fixing of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first elongate body and / or the second elongate body comprises a trapezoidal prism having a joined side attached to the other of the first elongate body and the second elongate body, and an opposite side, the opposite side being wider than the joined side.

6. The joint fixing of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first elongate body and / or the second elongate body comprises an obround.

7. The joint fixing of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first elongate body and / or the second elongate body comprises a keyhole shape.

8. The joint fixing of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first elongate body and / or the second elongate body is at least partially tapered in a lengthwise direction.

9. The joint fixing of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first elongate body has the same shape as the second elongate body.

10. The joint fixing of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first elongate body and the second elongate body extend in parallel directions.

11. The joint fixing of claim 10, wherein the first elongate body and the second elongate body fully or partially overlap along their lengths.

12. The joint fixing of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first elongate body and the second elongate body extend in non-parallel directions.

13. The joint fixing of claim 12, wherein the first elongate body extends perpendicularly to the second elongate body.

14. The joint fixing of claim 12, wherein the first elongate body extends at an angle of between 0 degrees and 90 degrees relative to the second elongate body, preferably between 10 degrees and 80 degrees, preferably between 20 degrees and 70 degrees.

15. The joint fixing of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein each of the first elongate body and the second elongate body comprises opposite ends, and wherein the first elongate body is joined to the second elongate body at a position between the opposite ends of the first elongate body and the second elongate body.

16. The joint fixing of claim 15, wherein the first elongate body is joined to the second elongate body such that an edge of the first elongate body is aligned with an end of the second elongate body.

17. The joint fixing of claim 15, wherein the first elongate body is joined to the second elongate body such that edges of the first elongate body are spaced from opposite ends of the second elongate body.

18. The joint fixing of any one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising an undercut at an edge where the first elongate body is joined to the second elongate body.

19. The joint fixing of any one of claims 1 to 18, comprising a sleeve encompassing the first elongate body and / or the second elongate body.

20. A furniture assembly comprising: a first furniture member having a first slot, a second furniture member having a second slot, and the joint fixing of any of claim 1 to claim 19, wherein the first elongate body of the joint fixing is received in the first slot and the second elongate body of the joint fixing is received in the second slot such that the joint fixing fixes the first furniture member to the second furniture member.

21. The furniture assembly of claim 20, wherein the first furniture member and the second furniture member are joined in a non-parallel arrangement, for example perpendicular.

22. The furniture assembly of claim 20 or 21, wherein the first slot is formed in an end of the first furniture member and opens into a side of the first furniture member.

23. The furniture assembly of any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the second slot is formed in an end of the second furniture member and opens into a side of the second furniture member.

24. The furniture assembly of any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein the first slot and / or the second slot extends only partway through a thickness of the first furniture member or second furniture member, respectively, such that the first slot and / or the second slot has a closed end.

25. The furniture assembly of claim 24, wherein the first slot and / or the second slot is oriented such that a load applied to the furniture assembly in use urges the joint fixing against the respective closed end of the first slot and / or second slot.

26. The furniture assembly of any one of claims 20 to 25, further comprising a third furniture member that is attachable to the first furniture member and / or second furniture member, and wherein assembly of the third furniture member with the first and / or second furniture member prevents removal of the joint fixing from the first slot and / or from the second slot, and optionally wherein the furniture assembly further comprises a locking furniture member.

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