Furniture leg assembly

Abstract

A furniture leg assembly comprises three or more legs, wherein the legs comprise respective upper portions and lower portions, the upper portions comprising a plurality of holes at least two of which are provided in each of the upper portions. A plurality of elongate fasteners are configured to connect the upper portions together in a ring such that the lower portions are held in a splayed configuration. The upper portions are configured such that, when connected by the elongate fasteners, each pair of the upper portions arranged consecutively in the ring is connected by at least one of the elongate fasteners that extends into the holes provided in each of the pair of the upper portions.

Description

FURNITURE LEG ASSEMBLYField

[0001] The present invention relates to a leg assembly for supporting furniture parts such as table tops.Background

[0002] Items of furniture often comprise a body or frame that is mounted onto a support structure. The support structure may include a leg assembly that extends downward from the body or frame to provide stability. For example, cafe tables commonly comprise a table top that is supported by a leg assembly that includes a set of three or more legs. The legs may be splayed such that they extend outward from a central vertical axis of the table. In the splayed configuration, the lower ends of the legs cover a wider area on the ground than their upper ends and, therefore, provide a stable base and foundation for the table. The upper ends of the legs may be connected together in a bundle to provide a column that supports the table top. Typically, the upper ends will be welded together or connected by a bracket or clamp assembly.

[0003] Welded connections are disadvantageous because precise welding techniques are required to ensure a strong and stable joint. Welding the upper ends into a bundle is a complex process that requires skilled expertise to perform correctly. Welding increases manufacturing costs and leads to inconsistencies in quality. Furthermore, it is difficult to apply protective coatings over the surface regions of the upper ends that are located in the weld heat affected zone at the centre of the bundle. Furthermore, if a weld fails or if the leg structure is damaged, repairs can be complex and may require specialised welding expertise to remedy. Welded joints can also create bulky and visually disruptive elements on the legs which detract from the overall aesthetic appeal of the table. Furthermore, welded parts cannot be disassembled to reduce shipping volume.

[0004] Bracket and clamp assemblies also have disadvantages. For example, they introduce a point of weakness in the leg structure, especially if not designed or manufactured with sufficient strength. The connection points between the legs and the bracket or clamp are also prone to stress and potential failure over time, particularly under heavy loads and frequent use. These types of assemblies can also be visually prominent which detracts from the overall aesthetics of the table. Designing and manufacturing a robust and aesthetically pleasing bracket orclamp can be complex and time-consuming.

[0005] The preceding discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only. The discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the present application.Summary

[0006] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a furniture leg assembly, comprising:three or more legs, the legs comprising respective upper portions and lower portions, the upper portions comprising a plurality of holes at least two of which are provided in each of the upper portions; anda plurality of elongate fasteners configured to connect the upper portions together in a ring such that the lower portions are held in a splayed configuration,wherein the upper portions are configured such that, when connected by the elongate fasteners, each pair of the upper portions arranged consecutively in the ring is connected by at least one of the elongate fasteners that extends into the holes provided in each of the pair of the upper portions.

[0007] The furniture leg assembly may comprise first and second sets of the elongate fasteners.

[0008] The first and second sets of the elongate fasteners may be vertically spaced from each other along the upper portions when the upper portions are connected.

[0009] In one embodiment, the holes may be located directly in the upper portions. The upper portions may comprise cylindrical tubes, wherein the holes are located in sidewalls of the cylindrical tubes. In another embodiment, the upper portions may comprise bracket components in which the holes are located.

[0010] Each of the elongate fasteners may comprise a shank that is configured to extend completely laterally through a first of the upper portions and partially laterally through a second of the upper portions. In other examples, the shank may be configured to extend completely laterally through each of the first and second upper portions.

[0011] The upper portions may be configured such that they are releasably connectable by the elongate fasteners.

[0012] The elongate fasteners may comprise threaded bolts that are received by threaded holes provided in the upper portions.

[0013] The upper portions may comprise holes adapted to receive heads of the threaded bolts such that the heads are countersunk in the upper portions.

[0014] The upper portions may be parallel and extend vertically when connected together by the elongate fasteners.

[0015] The furniture leg assembly may comprise three of the legs and three of the elongate fasteners, wherein the elongate fasteners are arranged together in a triangular configuration when connected to the upper portions.

[0016] The furniture leg assembly may comprise four of the legs and four of the elongate fasteners, wherein the elongate fasteners are arranged together in a square configuration when connected to the upper portions.

[0017] According to the present disclosure, there is also provided a furniture leg assembly, wherein the furniture leg assembly comprises:three or more legs for supporting a body or frame of a furniture item, wherein the legs have respective upper portions and lower portions, the upper portions comprising a plurality of holes at least two of which are provided in each of the upper portions; anda plurality of elongate fasteners connecting the upper portions together in a ring such that the lower portions are held in a splayed configuration,wherein each pair of the upper portions arranged consecutively in the ring is connected by at least one of the elongate fasteners that extends into the holes provided in each of the pair of the upper portions.

[0018] According to the present disclosure, there is also provided a table, wherein the table comprises:the furniture leg assembly as described above; anda table top mountable onto the furniture leg assembly.

[0019] The legs of the furniture leg assembly may be pivotably attachable to the table top.

[0020] The legs of the furniture leg assembly may be pivotably attachable to respective mounting brackets located on an underside of the table top.

[0021] The mounting brackets may be arranged around a perimeter of the underside. In such examples, the legs may comprise uppermost portions that are dimensioned to extend radially away from a centre of the table top and into the respective mounting brackets.

[0022] The upper portions of the furniture leg assembly may be dimensioned such that when the table is placed in a stacked arrangement with a second table, wherein the second table is vertically inverted relative to the table and comprises the furniture leg assembly as described above, the respective upper portions of the furniture leg assemblies of the table and second table have respective bases, wherein the bases are vertically spaced apart from each other.

[0023] The table top of the table may comprise a plurality of retainers configured to receive and support a plurality of respective feet of a plurality of respective legs of the furniture leg assembly of the second table.

[0024] The retainers may comprise a plurality of recesses provided in an underside of the table top. The recesses may be arranged around a perimeter of the underside at a common angular interval. In one example, the table may comprise three of the recesses and the angular interval may be 120 degrees.

[0025] The legs may comprise a plurality of respective feet dimensioned to rest on a ground surface at a plurality of respective positions, wherein the positions are distanced from a centre of the table top by a radius larger than a radius of the table top.

[0026] The legs may be dimensioned such that the respective feet vertically extend beyond a table top of a further table, when the further table is stacked on top of the table such that the table and further table are in opposite vertical orientations.

[0027] An underside of the table top may comprise a plurality of hooks for hanging objects therefrom.

[0028] According to the present disclosure, there is also provided a clothing stand, comprising:the furniture leg assembly as described above; anda plurality of hooks or pegs extending from one or more of the upper portions of the furniture leg assembly for hanging clothes.

[0029] The hooks or pegs may be located at peripheral ends of the elongate fasteners.

[0030] The hooks or pegs may be integral with the elongate fasteners.

[0031] According to the present disclosure, there is also provided a floor lamp, comprising: the furniture leg assembly as described above; anda lamp head mounted to one or more of the upper portions of the furniture leg assembly.

[0032] According to the present disclosure, there is also provided a table that comprises a table top mounted on a plurality of legs, wherein the table top comprises a plurality of retainers configured to receive and support a plurality of respective feet of a plurality of respective legs of a second table when the table is inverted and the second table is stacked on top of the table. In one example, the retainers may comprise recesses provided in an underside of the table top.Brief Description of Drawings

[0033] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:Figure 1 is an isometric view of a table, wherein the table comprises a furniture leg assembly according to an example embodiment of the invention;Figure 2 is a side elevation view of the table;Figure 3 is a cross sectional plan view of upper portions of the legs of the furniture leg assembly taken through the plane labelled A-A in Figure 2;Figure 4 is a plan view of the table;Figure 5 is a side elevation view of the table viewed from the direction labelled B-B in Figure 4;Figure 6A is a bottom view of the table, wherein the legs of the table are in a first partially assembled condition;Figure 6B is an isometric view of the table in the condition illustrated in Figure 6A;Figure 7 A is an isometric view of the table, wherein the legs are in a second partially assembled condition;Figure 7B is an isometric view of the table, wherein the legs are in a fully assembled condition;Figure 8A is a cross sectional view of a leg and mounting bracket of the table taken through the plane labelled C-C in Figure 6A;Figure 8B is a further sectional view of a leg and mounting bracket of the table;Figure 9 is a side elevation view of a plurality of the tables arranged in two stacks;Figure 10 is a side elevation view of another plurality of the tables arranged in two stacks; Figure 11 is a cross sectional plan view of upper portions of legs included in a furniture leg assembly according to a further example embodiment of the invention;Figure 12 is a cross sectional plan view of upper portions of legs included in a furniture leg assembly according to a further example embodiment of the invention;Figure 13 is a pair of isometric views of a table that comprises a furniture leg assembly according to a further example embodiment of the invention;Figure 14A is an isometric view of a clothing stand that comprises a furniture leg assembly according to a further example embodiment of the invention;Figure 14B is an isometric view of a floor lamp that comprises a furniture leg assembly according to a further example embodiment of the invention;Figure 15A is an isometric view of a clothing stand that comprises a furniture leg assembly according to a further example embodiment of the invention;Figure 15B is a side elevation view of the clothing stand of Figure 15A; andFigure 16 is a cross sectional plan view of the clothing stand of Figure 15A taken through the plane labelled A-A in Figure 15B.Description of Embodiments

[0034] Referring to Figures 1-3, an example embodiment of the present disclosure provides a furniture leg assembly 10. The furniture leg assembly 10 comprises a plurality of legs 12 which are provided with a plurality of elongate fasteners 14. The legs 12 have respective upper portions 16 and lower portions 17. The elongate fasteners 14 are configured to connect the upper portions 16 together such that the upper portions 16 are arranged in a ring. The example depicted comprises three of the legs 12, which are respectively labelled 12.1-12.3 in Figure 3, and three of the elongate fasteners 14, which are respectively labelled 14.1-14.3 in Figure 3. The three corresponding upper portions 16 of the legs 12 are labelled 16.1-16.3 respectively.

[0035] The upper portions 16 are configured such that, when they are connected by the elongate fasteners 14, each pair of the upper portions 16 arranged consecutively in the ring is connected by at least one of the elongate fasteners 14 that extends, at least partially, through each of the pair of the upper portions 16. There are three such consecutively arranged pairs in the depicted example, which are labelled 18.1-18.3 respectively. More particularly, referring toFigure 3, the fastener labelled 14.1 connects the pair of consecutively arranged upper portions labelled 18.1 , the fastener labelled 14.2 connects the pair of consecutively arranged upper portions labelled 18.2 and the fastener labelled 14.3 connects the pair of consecutively arranged upper portions labelled 18.3. The upper portions 16 are connected by the elongate fasteners 14 in this manner such that the lower portions 17 of the legs 12 are held in a splayed configuration. When engaged in the upper portions 16, the three elongate fasteners 14 are relatively arranged such that their longitudinal axes are in a triangular configuration, and the upper portions 16 are secured in a trefoil arrangement. The upper portions 16 and connecting fasteners 14 are effectively arranged in a closed loop about a central axis 40 of the furniture leg assembly 10.

[0036] The furniture leg assembly 10 can be used to support a range of different furniture parts. In the example depicted in Figures 1-10, the furniture leg assembly 10 is part of a portable table 19 and is used to support a table top 20 of the table 19. The table top 20 is mounted onto uppermost ends of the upper portions 16. An underside of the table top 20 comprises a plurality of hooks 21 for hanging objects therefrom. The table top 20 may be made of plastic and formed by a blow moulding process.

[0037] Preferably, the fasteners 14 comprise a set of threaded bolts that are used to releasably join the upper portions 16 together in the ring. Each of the upper portions 16 is generally tubular in shape and, preferably, cylindrical. Referring to Figure 3, each bolt comprises an elongate threaded shank 22 and a bolt head 24. The shank 22 of fastener 14.1 extends completely laterally through upper portion 16.1 and partially laterally through upper portion 16.3. More particularly, a pair of holes 26 are provided in respective opposed sides of the tubular sidewall of upper portion 16.1. The hole that is labelled 26.1 is located adjacent to upper portion 16.3. The other hole, that is labelled 26.2, is located away from upper portion 16.3. The two holes 26 receive the shank 22 of fastener 14.1 such that the shank 22 extends between the two holes 26 laterally through the internal tubular cavity of upper portion 16.1.

[0038] When the legs 12 are manufactured, the two holes 26 may be created together by a straight-through piercing process. As a result of the piercing process, the hole 26.2 that is located away from upper portion 16.3 is dimpled. In this form, a recess 30 is provided in the tubular sidewall for receiving the bolt head 24. An annular mouth of the hole 26.2 extends around the recess 30. The mouth is curved and inwardly tapers into the recess 30. The recess 30 and bolt head 24 are mutually adapted such that the bolt head 24 is countersunk in the upper portion 16.1 when fastener 14.1 is inserted therethrough. The countersunk bolt head 24 prevents the bolt head 24 from protruding from the outer surface of the upper portion 16.1. This advantageously prevents the bolt head 24 from inadvertently coming into contact with persons and / or objectsduring use and provides an aesthetically pleasing finish. As a result of the straight-through piercing process, the hole 26.1 that is formed adjacent to upper portion 16.3 is clean and dimple-free.

[0039] In the upper portion 16.3 that is adjacent to upper portion 16.1 , a single threaded hole 28 is provided in a side of the tubular sidewall of the upper portion 16.3 that faces hole 26.1. The hole 28 threadedly receives an end portion of the threaded shank 22 to connect upper portions 16.1 and 16.3 together. An enlargement 32 of the threaded hole 28 is included in Figure 3. Similar to hole 26.2, the hole 28 is preferably pierced into the tubular sidewall of the upper portion 16.3 during the manufacturing process, which results in the hole 28 being dimpled. In this form, the hole 28 comprises a curved annular mouth 34 that inwardly tapers into the hole 28 such that it is contiguous with an internal cylindrical portion 36 of the hole 28. The cylindrical portion 36 comprises an internal (female) thread that receives and cooperates with the external (male) thread of the shank 22.

[0040] In use, when the shank 22 is screwed into the threaded cylindrical portion 36 and the bolt head 24 is tightened, a load is applied to the circumference of the inner end of the cylindrical portion 36, as indicated by arrows labelled 38. As a result of the applied load, forces are exerted on the cylindrical portion 36 that cause its cross sectional diameter to narrow. The narrowing of the cylindrical portion 36 causes its internal thread to clamp against the external thread of the shank 22. This clamping action advantageously mitigates the risk of the two cooperating threads being stripped when the bolt head 24 is tightened. The applied load also causes the curved annular mouth 34 of the hole 28 to deform slightly. This deformation advantageously ensures that there is at least some degree of spring load in the bolted connection to prevent the fastener 14.1 from coming loose.

[0041] Fasteners 14.2 and 14.3 are configured in the same way as fastener 14.1. Similarly, each upper portion 16 in the bundle includes a set of holes that are equivalent to holes 26 and 28. Accordingly, fastener 14.2 connects upper portions 16.1 and 16.2, and fastener 14.3 connects upper portions 16.2 and 16.3, in the same way that fastener 14.1 connects upper portions 16.1 and 16.3. Each upper portion 16, therefore, has a pair of fasteners 14 extending into it, and the longitudinal axes of such pair of fasteners 14 are relatively oriented at an angle of 60 degrees.

[0042] The furniture leg assembly 10 comprises a central axis 40 that the fasteners 14 and upper portions 16 are arranged around. The fasteners 14 and upper portions 16 are rotationally symmetrical about the axis 40. The longitudinal axes of each adjacent pair of fasteners 14 are, therefore, also relatively oriented at an angle of 60 degrees. The central axis 40 is incident withthe centre of gravity, and with the geometric centre (centroid), of the set of legs 12, including the upper portions 16 of the legs 12. In this configuration, the fasteners 14 advantageously provide a strong and rigid connection between the legs 12 and ensure that the clamping load on each leg 12 is aligned with the central axis 40. The fasteners 14 also advantageously ensure that the legs 12 can only be held in fixed positions and orientations, as are depicted, in which the legs 12 are splayed.

[0043] While a set of threaded bolts are used for the elongate fasteners 14 in the example depicted, other types of fastening components may be used in other examples, such as self-tapping screws or pins that are provided with fastening devices for securing the pins into the relevant holes. Furthermore, while the upper portions 16 comprise tubes that have the holes 26 formed directly in the tube sidewalls, the holes 26 may be formed in other parts of the upper portions 16. For example, the upper portions 16 may comprise bracket components positioned on its sides that have holes formed therein.

[0044] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the furniture leg assembly 10 comprises a first (uppermost) set of the fasteners 14, which is labelled 42, and a second (lowermost) set of the fasteners 14, which is labelled 44. The two sets of fasteners 42, 44 secure the upper portions 16 of the legs 12 in parallel alignment such that the upper portions 16 extend vertically in a column that supports the table top 20. The two sets of fasteners 42, 44 are vertically spaced from each other along in the column.

[0045] The legs 12 comprise respective lower portions 17 which are joined to their upper leg portions 16. The lower portions 17 comprise a plurality of feet 48 that provide a base for the furniture leg assembly 10. Using two sets of spaced apart fasteners 42, 44, rather than a single set of fasteners, reduces the distance between the feet 48 and the closest fastening point on the legs 12. This advantageously reduces any deflection that may occur in the legs 12 over this distance when the table 19 is under load. As the upper portions 16 extend vertically in the column in parallel alignment, this configuration advantageously distributes the clamping load from the two sets of fasteners 42, 44 over a large area. This configuration also increases frictional engagement between the upper portions 16 to improve the structural strength and rigidity of the furniture leg assembly 10. In embodiments where the furniture leg assembly 10 is only required to withstand relatively light loads, a single set of the fasteners 14 may suffice.

[0046] In the example depicted, the upper portion 16 and lower portion 17 of each leg 12 are integral. During the manufacturing process, each leg 12 is bent to form its two portions 16, 17. The two portions 16, 17 are, therefore, non-coaxial. In this configuration, the set of lower portions17 of the legs 12 are outwardly splayed relative to the upper portions 16 when the legs 12 are fastened together. As used herein, the term “splayed” means that the lower portions 17 diverge outwardly from the central axis 40, such that the base of the furniture leg assembly 10 is wider than the base of a furniture leg assembly that has straight (non-splayed) legs. In the splayed arrangement, the lower portions 17 are diagonally oriented relative to the central axis 40. As used herein, the terms “upper portion” and “lower portion” of a leg are relative terms, meaning only that the upper portion is situated above the lower portion. The upper portion, therefore, is not necessarily required to be near the leg's uppermost end.

[0047] In the depicted example, the tubular legs 12 feature corresponding tubular, hollow upper portions 16 and lower portions 17. In other examples, each leg 12 may be solid along its entire length. In such solid examples, elongate cylindrical channels may be formed through the upper portions 16 that are positioned and dimensioned to receive the elongate fasteners 14. The channels may be formed using a suitable manufacturing technique, such as drilling or thermal cutting.

[0048] Referring to Figures 6A-B, 7A-B and 8A-B, a plurality of mounting brackets 50 are arranged around a perimeter of the underside of the table top 20 and affixed thereto. The mounting brackets 50 receive respective uppermost portions 52 of the legs 12 such that the legs 12 are pivotably attachable to the underside. In the example depicted, there are three of the mounting brackets 50 (labelled 50.1-50.3) which respectively receive three of the uppermost leg portions (labelled 52.1-52.3).

[0049] Referring to Figure 8A, each mounting bracket 50 comprises a boss 54 that is affixed onto a flat surface 56 of the underside of the table top 20. The boss 54 comprises a generally cylindrical channel 58 that is adapted to receive the uppermost portion 52 of a leg 12. The channel 58 is located toward a surface 60 of the boss 54 that faces away from the table top 20. The longitudinal axis of the channel 58 extends radially from the central axis 40 of the furniture leg assembly 10. The channel 58 is complementary to the cylindrical shape of the uppermost leg portion 52 to allow for axial rotation of the uppermost leg portion 52 within the channel 58. The channel 58 has a cross sectional shape that is partially circular and, as a result, a pair of inwardly protruding ridges or lips 62 are disposed at the end of the channel 58 toward the surface 60.

[0050] The mounting brackets 50 are relatively oriented on the table top 20 such that their longitudinal axes are not in parallel or axial alignment. In this arrangement, the mounting brackets 50 advantageously prevent the table top 20 from pivoting or moving relative to the legs 12 in use. The mounting brackets 50 also advantageously eliminate any requirement for mechanical fixingsto connect the legs 12 to the table top 20. In the example depicted, the mounting brackets 50 are integral with the table top 20 and are formed therewith by the blow moulding process. In other examples, the mounting brackets 50 may be separate parts that are affixed to the table top 20.

[0051] To attach a leg 12 to the underside of the table top 20, the uppermost portion 52 of the leg 12 is slotted longitudinally along, and into, the channel 58. The ridges / lips 62 extend over the uppermost portion 52 to keep the uppermost portion 52 secured in the channel 58. A metal or plastic ring 63 may be located in the channel 58. More particularly, referring to Figure 8B each ring 63 is located in a recess 59 at one end of the channel 58. The recess 59 operates as one of a plurality of tack offs for connecting the top and bottom surfaces of the mould that is used by the blow moulding process to give the two mould surfaces rigidity. In the example depicted, each ring 63 has one of the hooks 21 attached to it. When the uppermost portion 52 is slotted into the channel 58, the uppermost portion 52 is pushed through the ring 63. The uppermost portion 52 can freely rotate axially in the channel 58. When the three uppermost leg portions 52.1-52.3 are arranged in the respective channels 58 of the mounting brackets 50.1-50.3, the uppermost portions 52.1-52.3 extend radially away from the central axis 40, at angular intervals of 120 degrees, and into the channels 58.

[0052] To assemble the table 19, the assembler will initially slot two of the legs 12 into two adjacent mounting brackets 50 such that those legs 12 lie flat against the underside of the table top 20 in a stowed condition. This allows the third leg 12 to be slotted into the remaining mounting bracket 50 such that the third leg 12 is in a deployed condition. For example, in Figures 6A and 6B it can be seen that the legs labelled 12.1 and 12.2 have been slotted into the mounting brackets 50.1 and 50.2 and are lying in a stowed condition against the underside of the table top 20. The leg labelled 12.3 has been slotted into the mounting bracket 50.3 and rotated into a deployed condition. To deploy the leg labelled 12.2, the assembler will rotate the leg 12.2 in the direction indicated by arrow labelled 64 until the upper portion 16.2 of the leg 12.2 abuts the upper portion 16.3 of leg 12.3 that is deployed, as depicted in Figure 7 A. The relevant fasteners 14 in the two sets of fasteners 42, 44 will then be used to connect the upper portions 16.2, 16.3. The assembler will then rotate the leg labelled 12.1 in the same manner such that all three legs 12 are deployed, as depicted in Figure 7B. The relevant fasteners 14 in the two sets of fasteners 42, 44 will then be used to connect upper portion 16.1 to each of upper portions 16.2 and 16.3.

[0053] The table 19 is advantageously stackable. Preferably, the table 19 is configured such that when it is inverted and placed to rest on a ground surface or supporting substrate, a second table with the same structural configuration as the table 19 can be stacked on top of the table 19 in a non-inverted orientation. For this purpose, the table top 20 may comprise a plurality of retainersconfigured to receive and support a plurality of respective feet of the legs of the second table. For example, the underside of the table top 20 may comprise a plurality of recesses 70 for receiving and supporting the feet of the second table. Similarly, the recesses in the second table may be adapted to receive and support the feet 48 of the first (inverted) table 19. The recesses of each table, therefore, assist in positioning the two tables in a level position when they are stacked upright in opposite vertical orientations.

[0054] More particularly, the table 19 may comprise three of the recesses 70 that are arranged around a perimeter of the table top 20 at an angular interval of 120 degrees. In the example depicted, each recess 70 extends inwardly into the underside of the table top 20 and, furthermore, inwardly into the perimeter sidewall 71 of the table top 20. Each recess 70 comprises a sloped inner surface that extends diagonally through the table top 20 from the underside to the perimeter sidewall 71. In this configuration, the sloped inner surface is adapted to accommodate the foot of the relevant leg of the second table that extends diagonally into the recess 70. The foot bears against the sloped inner surface such that the leg is held supported in its diagonal orientation by the recess 70.

[0055] Figure 9 depicts two stacks of tables that are arranged next to one another. Each stack contains five tables, wherein each table is identical to table 19. Each stack comprises a lowermost table 72 that is not inverted and rests on the ground surface. A first pair of tables 74 is stacked on top of the lowermost table 72. The lower table 76 in the first pair 74 is inverted and rests on the table top of the lowermost table 72. The upper table 78 in the first pair 74 is not inverted and is stacked on top of the lower table 76. A second pair of tables 80 is stacked on top of the first pair 74. The lower table 82 in the second pair 80 is inverted and rests on the table top of the upper table 78 in the first pair 74. The upper table 84 in the second pair 80 is not inverted and is stacked on top of the lower table 82.

[0056] Each inverted table 76, 82 has three recesses 70 that support the three feet 48 of the legs 12 of a superjacent noninverted table (namely, the feet 48 of tables 78 and 84 respectively). Similarly, each noninverted table (namely, tables 78 and 84) has three recesses 70 that support the three feet 48 of the legs 12 of a subjacent inverted table (namely, the feet 48 of tables 76 and 82 respectively). The column provided by the upper portions 16 of the legs 12 of each stacked table has a base 85. The base 85 of each inverted table 76, 82 is positioned adjacent to the base 85 of a noninverted table 78, 84 that is stacked on top of it. The recesses 70 assist in locating the bases 85 radially when they are being stacked to maximise clearance between the bases 85. The bases 85 are, therefore, spaced apart from each other.

[0057] Referring to Figure 4, the feet 48 of the legs 12 rest on the ground surface at respective positions that are distanced from the central axis 40 of the table 19 by a radius labelled r;. The radius of the table top 20 is labelled r2. To improve the stability of the table 19, r;> r2. Furthermore, this facilitates stacking of the table 19. More particularly, the peripheral ends (tips) of the feet 48 are dimensioned such that they vertically protrude beyond the topside of the table top of the adjacent table that the feet 48 engage with in the stack.

[0058] By way of example, referring to the first pair 74 of stacked tables in the leftmost stack depicted in Figure 9, the peripheral ends 88 of the feet 48 of the uppermost table 78 in the pair 74 protrude vertically below the topside of the table top 20 of the (lowermost) subjacent table 76 in the pair 80. The recesses 70 in the table top 20 of the subjacent table 76 assist the peripheral ends 88 to protrude in this manner. The peripheral ends 88 are, therefore, positioned around the table top 20 of the lowermost table 72 in the stack that is immediately underneath table 76. The peripheral ends 88 advantageously prevent the first pair 74 of stacked tables from moving sideways relative to the lowermost table 72 in use. Similarly, the peripheral ends 86 of the feet 48 of the lowermost table 76 in the first pair 74 protrude vertically above the topside of the table top 20 of the uppermost (superjacent) table 78 in the first pair 74. The peripheral ends 86 are, therefore, positioned around the table top 20 of the lowermost table 82 in the second pair 80 of stacked tables. The peripheral ends 86 advantageously prevent the second pair 80 of stacked tables from moving sideways relative to first pair 74 in use.

[0059] The tables may be stacked in the disclosed manner in other configurations. For example, Figure 10 depicts two stacks of tables. Each stack contains six tables. The lowermost table in each stack is inverted such that the surface of its table top rests on the ground surface. Furthermore, in lieu of recesses, each table may comprise other types of retainers for receiving the feet of a vertically adjacent table. For example, each table may comprise a plurality of brackets or clips disposed about a perimeter of the table underside for receiving and holding the feet.

[0060] Referring again to Figure 3, as described above, each pair of upper leg portions 16 arranged consecutively in the ring is connected by an elongate fastener 14 that extends completely laterally through the first of the upper portions 16 in the pair and partially laterally through the second of the upper portions 16 in the pair. It will be appreciated, however, that each elongate fastener 14 may connect each pair of consecutively arranged upper portions 16 in a different manner. For example, Figure 11 depicts a table leg assembly 90 according to a further embodiment of the invention. Like the table leg assembly 10 depicted in the preceding figures, the table leg assembly 90 comprises three legs 92 having three respective tubular upper portions94 arranged in a ring, wherein each pair 96 of upper portions 94 consecutively arranged in the ring is connected by an elongate fastener 98. However, the elongate fastener 98 extends completely laterally through both of the two upper portions 94 in the relevant pair 96, rather than completely through the first of the upper portions 94 and partially through the second of the upper portions 94 in the pair 96. To allow each fastener 98 to extend completely through two upper leg portions 94 in this manner without coming into contact with each other, the fasteners 98 are vertically spaced from each other along the longitudinal axis of the column that is formed by the connected upper leg portions 94.

[0061] In the embodiments depicted in Figures 1 to 11, each of the table leg assemblies 10, 90 has three legs connected by three elongate fasteners in a trefoil structure. However, a higher number of legs may be included in other embodiments. For example, Figure 12 depicts four upper portions 102.1-4 of a table leg assembly 100 that comprises four legs connected in a ring by four elongate fasteners 104.1-4. Each pair of upper leg portions 102.1-4 arranged consecutively in the ring is connected by one of the elongate fasteners 104.1-4. The four elongate fasteners 104.1-4 are relatively arranged such that their longitudinal axes are in a square configuration.

[0062] Where this specification, including the claims, refers to a pair of upper portions (or other components) that are “arranged consecutively” to one another in a ring, this means the upper portions in the pair are immediate neighbours in the relevant ring-shaped structure - i.e., one is located immediately clockwise and the other is located immediately anticlockwise in relation to the pair. In other words, the two upper portions are directly circularly adjacent to each other. For example, referring to the embodiment depicted in Figure 12, the upper portions labelled 102.1 and 102.2 are a pair that are arranged consecutively in the ring formed by the set of four upper portions 102.1-4. In contrast, the upper portions that are labelled 102.1 and 102.3, which are opposite one another, are not arranged consecutively in the ring. By connecting consecutively arranged pairs of upper portions by elongate fasteners, each leg is advantageously prevented by a fastener from rotating about an axis that is perpendicular to the central axis of the table leg assembly. The fasteners form a ring-shaped central hub that clamps the tubular upper portions together with clamping forces that are directed toward the centre of the assembly. Furthermore, as each upper portion is fastened directly to two immediate neighbouring upper portions by two respective elongate fasteners, the resultant structure provides a rigid and durable connection.

[0063] In the embodiment depicted in Figures 1-9, the table top 20 is mounted onto the leg assembly 10 by an arrangement of mounting brackets 50. However, other types of mechanisms may be used to mount the table top 20. For example, Figure 13 depicts a furniture leg assembly110 wherein a table top 112 of a table 114 is fixed to the upper portions 116 of the legs of the furniture leg assembly 110 by a plurality of threaded bolts 118. The threaded bolts 118 are received through a plurality of respective apertures provided in flanges 120 located at the tops of the upper portions 116.

[0064] The furniture leg assembly 10 may be used in furniture other than tables. For example, Figure 14A depicts a clothing stand 130 that comprises three legs 132. The legs 132 have three respective upper portions 134 that are arranged together in a ring to provide an upright support of the clothing stand 130. The clothing stand 130 also comprises three sets of elongate fasteners, which are labelled 136.1 to 136.3 respectively, that connect the upper portions 134 together in the ring. Each pair of the upper portions 134 consecutively arranged in the ring is connected by at least one of the elongate fasteners in the sets 136.1 to 136.3. The elongate fasteners hold the lower portions of the legs 132 in an outwardly splayed configuration.

[0065] The clothing stand 130 comprises a set of hooks or pegs for hanging hats, coats and / or other items of clothing. The hooks or pegs may be separate parts that are attached to the upright support 134 of the clothing stand 130. In other embodiments, the hooks or pegs may be integral with the elongate fasteners. For example, in Figure 14A the elongate fasteners 136.1-3 have peripheral ends that project outwardly from the upright support 134 to provide the hooks or pegs.

[0066] Figure 14B depicts a floor lamp 140 that comprises three legs 142. The legs 142 have three respective upper portions 144 that are arranged together in a ring. The upper portions 144 are connected by three elongate fasteners 146 in the ring. Each pair of the upper portions 144 consecutively arranged in the ring is connected by at least one of the elongate fasteners 146 such that the lower portions of the legs 142 are held by the fasteners 146 in an outwardly splayed configuration. One of the upper portions 146 extends vertically from the bundle to provide an upright support 148 of the floor lamp 140. A lamp head 150 mounted on the upright support 148.

[0067] Figures 15A, 15B and 16 depict a clothing stand 160. The clothing stand 160 has substantially the same configuration as the clothing stand 130 in Figure 14A except that it comprises six elongate fasteners 162.1-6, which are provided in the form of threaded bolts. Furthermore, the elongate fasteners 162.1-6 are arranged at different heights along the longitudinal axis of the three upper portions 164.1-3 of the legs of the clothing stand 160. A clothes peg 166 is fastened onto the end of each bolt via a screwed connection.

[0068] For the purpose of this specification, the word “comprising” means “including but not limited to”, and the word "comprises" has a corresponding meaning. It is to be understood that, ifany prior art is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

[0069] The above embodiments have been described by way of example only and modifications are possible within the scope of the claims that follow.

Claims

Claims1. A furniture leg assembly, comprising:three or more legs, the legs comprising respective upper portions and lower portions, the upper portions comprising a plurality of holes at least two of which are provided in each of the upper portions; anda plurality of elongate fasteners configured to connect the upper portions together in a ring such that the lower portions are held in a splayed configuration,wherein the upper portions are configured such that, when connected by the elongate fasteners, each pair of the upper portions arranged consecutively in the ring is connected by at least one of the elongate fasteners that extends into the holes provided in each of the pair of the upper portions.

2. The furniture leg assembly according to claim 1 , comprising first and second sets of the elongate fasteners.

3. The furniture leg assembly according to claim 2, wherein the first and second sets of the elongate fasteners are vertically spaced from each other along the upper portions when the upper portions are connected.

4. The furniture leg assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the holes are located directly in the upper portions.

5. The furniture leg assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the upper portions comprise bracket components in which the holes are located.

6. The furniture leg assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the elongate fasteners comprises a shank configured to extend completely laterally through a first of the upper portions and partially laterally through a second of the upper portions.

7. The furniture leg assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper portions are configured such that they are releasably connectable by the elongate fasteners.

8. The furniture leg assembly according to claim 7, wherein the elongate fasteners comprise threaded bolts that are received by threaded holes provided in the upper portions.

9. The furniture leg assembly according to claim 8, wherein the upper portions comprise holes adapted to receive heads of the threaded bolts such that the heads are countersunk in the upper portions.

10. The furniture leg assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper portions are parallel and extend vertically when connected together by the elongate fasteners.

11. A furniture leg assembly, wherein the furniture leg assembly comprises:three or more legs for supporting a body or frame of a furniture item, wherein the legs have respective upper portions and lower portions, the upper portions comprising a plurality of holes at least two of which are provided in each of the upper portions; anda plurality of elongate fasteners connecting the upper portions together in a ring such that the lower portions are held in a splayed configuration,wherein each pair of the upper portions arranged consecutively in the ring is connected by at least one of the elongate fasteners that extends into the holes provided in each of the pair of the upper portions.

12. A table, comprising:the furniture leg assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10; anda table top mountable onto the furniture leg assembly.

13. The table according to claim 12, wherein the legs are pivotably attachable to the table top.

14. The table according to claim 13, wherein the legs are pivotably attachable to respective mounting brackets located on an underside of the table top.

15. The table according to claim 14, wherein the mounting brackets are arranged around a perimeter of the underside, and wherein the legs comprise uppermost portions that are dimensioned to extend radially away from a centre of the table top and into the respective mounting brackets.

16. The table according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the table top comprises a plurality of retainers configured to receive and support a plurality of respective feet of a plurality ofrespective legs of a second table when the table is inverted and the second table is stacked on top of the table.

17. The table according to claim 16, wherein the retainers comprise a plurality of recesses provided in an underside of the table top.

18. The table according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the second table accords with the table described in any one of claims 12 to 17.

19. The table according to any one of the claims 12 to 18, wherein the legs comprise a plurality of respective feet dimensioned to rest on a ground surface at a plurality of respective positions, wherein the positions are distanced from a centre of the table top by a radius larger than a radius of the table top.

20. The table according to claim 19, wherein the legs are dimensioned such that the respective feet vertically extend beyond a table top of a further table, when the further table is stacked on top of the table such that the table and further table are in opposite vertical orientations.

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