Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02486701 2004-11-19
llvIPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO FURNITURE AND/OR
FASTENER MOUNTINGS
The present invention is concerned with improvements in and relating to
furniture
and/or nursery equipment and/or canopies, particularly, though not
exclusively, in relation
to recreational fwnitwe such as Ioungers or recliners. In another form this
invention
concerns improvements in and relating to fastener mountings, particularly for
use in
mounting canopies, sunshades and the like to furniture or to nwsery equipment,
such as
prams, push chairs and the like. In yet another form this invention concerns
improvements
in relation to fastener mountings, particularly for use in mounting canopies,
sunshades and
the like to furniture.
The use of recreational furniture such as Ioungers, recliners and deck chairs
has
become increasingly prevalent over recent years. Such fwnitwe is now commonly
found
in use in many gardens. Moreover, the collapsible nature of much of this
fiuniture means
that is often taken on family trips such as picnics, caravan holidays and
trips to the beach.
Holiday resorts and cruise liners also provide a large market for recreational
furniture.
In order to enhance the utility of such furniture the present invention seeks
to
provide attachment of a variety of accessories to one or more parts of the
furnitwe. The
invention also seeks to provide a variety of useful and versatile accessories
for such items
of fiunitwe. The invention also seeks to provide this attachment in a manner
suitable for
use on a wide variety of recreational furniture types irrespective of the
fra_mewo~k they
employ. The invention also seeks to provide accessories with an attachment
suitable for
attachment to a wide variety of recreational furniture types irrespective of
their
manufacturer. The invention also seeks to provide the attachment in a manner
sufficiently
easy to attach and detach as to be attractive to users who need to perform
such operations
regularly and in great numbers. The invention also seeks to provide canopies
which are
useful in a variety of other situations, including on nwsery equipment.
When providing a mounting for a fastener to which a canopy can be attached
problems are faced by existing mounting designs. Particular problems are faced
in terms
of an effective mounting for attachment to tubular frames. The problems are
even more
acute or unaddressed in the prior art where retrofitting to existing assembled
frames is
required.
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The present invention has amongst its aims to provide a secure mounting for
one
part of a fastener system. The present invention is aimed at both providing
secure
mountings on new items and on items to which retrofitting is required. The
present
invention has amongst its aims to provide a secure mounting which fits
effectively to a
range of different frame configurations. The present invention has amongst its
aims to
provide a mounting which is suited to retrofitting. The present invention has
amongst its
aims to provide a mounting which is easily attached to existing assembled
flames.
When providing a mounting for a fastener to make sure a canopy can be attached
problems are faced by existing by existing mounting designs. Such problems
occur with
frames of various materials and in the context of frames used for various
purposes, but
particular problems are faced in terms of providing an effective mounting on
resin frames,
such as those often used for furniture. These problems are particularly acute
and are
unaddressed by the prior art in the context of retrofitting such fastener
mountings to
existing assembled frames.
The present invention has amongst its aims to provide a secure mounting for
one
part of a fastener system. The present invention has amongst its aims to
provide a secure
mounting which fits effectively to a range of different frame configurations.
The present
invention has amongst its aims to provide a mounting which is suited to
retrofitting. The
present invention has amongst its aims to provide a mounting which is easily
attached to
existing plastic frames.
According to a fast aspect of the invention we provide a canopy, the canopy
including: a first part which includes a first arm, the first arm being
provided with a first
component of a fastener system at or towards one end, the first arm being
provided with a
joint at or towards the other end; a second part which includes a second arm,
the joint
connecting the second arm to the first arm, the joint allowing the orientation
of the first
arm to the second arm to be varied, the second arm being provided with a
second joint, the
second arm supporting a screen; a third part which includes a further arm, the
second joint
connecting the further arm to the second arm, the second joint allowing the
orientation of
the second arm to the further arm to be varied, the further arm supporting a
screen; and
wherein the second part and third part are adjustable in angle relative to one
another.
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The second arm may be connected to the further arm indirectly and preferably
through a third arm. Preferably pairs of first and/or second and/or third
and/or further
arms are provided.
The canopy may provide screening or protection against the sun. The canopy may
provide at least ?5% or even at least 90% effective shade against the sun. The
canopy may
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be formed of a fabric which allows air movement through it, particularly to
accommodate
wind. The shade provided by one or more portions of the canopy may be
increased by
using the canopy with the second arm and the further arm folded together
and/or by using
the canopy with the second arm and third arm folded together andlor by using
the canopy
with the third arm and the further arm folded together.
The attachment is preferably by means of a two part fastener system. The two
part
fastener system preferably includes a second component provided on the item.
Preferably
the first component and second component releasably engage one another to
provide the
attachment. Preferably the first component and second component can be
released and/or
attached by either hand of a user.
The item of furniture may be a chair, a declechair, a lounger, a recliner, a
seat or a
reclining seat. The item of furniture may seat one or more persons.
The first arm is preferably attached to the first component by means of a
mounting.
Preferably the mounting includes a part that receives the end of the first
arm. Preferably a
sliding fit is provided. One or more elements, such as cooperating lugs and
recesses, may
be provided to retain the mounting and first arm in position relative to one.
Preferably the first component is connected to the mounting by an element
which
can be rotated relative to the mounting. The rotatable element may be received
within a
channel. Preferably the rotatable element is mounted on a pin, ideally a pin
spanning the
channel. The mounting may join a first side part and a second side part.
Preferably the
first and second side parts define the channel. The element may be a disc
element. The
first and/or second side parts may have corresponding profiles to the element.
Preferably a
pin is provided mounted in an aperture in a first side part, passes through an
aperture in the
element and is mounted in an aperture in the second side part. The rotatable
element may
be free to rotate or may be releasably fixed in position. Preferably the part
of the mounting
which receives the arm is provided on one of the side parts. The part of the
mounting
which receives the arm may span between the two side parts.
Preferably the rotatable element is connected to the continuation part of the
first
component. The rotatable element may be connected direct to the body portion
of the first
component.
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The first component may be offset compared with the axis of the first arm. The
first component may be closer to the front surface of the upright part of the
item of
furniture than the first arm in use.
The first component may be a male component. The second component may be a
female component. Preferably a body portion of the first component is received
within the
second component during attachment. Preferably the leading edge of the body
portion of
the first component is inserted into the second component first during
attachment.
Preferably the body portion of the first component is connected to a
continuation
portion. Preferably a part of the continuation portion extends out of the
second component
in the attached stated. Preferably one or more dependant arms extend from the
leading
edge of the body portion. Preferably the one or more dependant arms extend
away from
the leading edge towards the continuation portion. Preferably a gap is defined
between
each of the one or more arms and the body portion. Each arm is preferably
provided with
a lug or protrusion. Preferably the lug or protrusion cooperates with a part
of the second
component. Preferably deforming the arm into its gap causes the attachment to
be
released. The arms may be provided with a gripper portion towards its end.
Preferably the
continuation part of the first component is mounted on the support arm.
The length of the first arm may be adjustable. The length may be adjusted by
telescoping one part of the first arm inside another part of the first arm.
Preferably the
length can be fixed using a releasable fixing. Preferably the first arm is
linear. The length
of the first arm may be variable. Preferably one or more repeat units can be
used to vary
the length of a first arm. Preferably a first joint is attached to one end and
a part of the
fastener is attached to the other end. Preferably the repeat unit is provided
with a recess at
one end. Preferably the repeat unit is provided with a protrusion at the other
end.
Preferably the protrusion is configured to match the recess. The protrusion
may be in the
form of a pin.
The first arm may be a rectangular cross-section.
Preferably two first arms are provided. Preferably the two first arms are of
equivalent configuration. A screen may be provided between the two first arms.
One or
more strips of material may be provided between the two first arms. The gap
between the
two first arms may be left open.
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The first joint may be provided at the end of the first arm. The first joint
may be an
integral part of the first arm or may be a separate component. The first arm
may be
connected to the joint by a pin which passes through the arm and is connected
to the joint.
The same pin may connected the second arm to the first joint or a different
pin may be
used. Preferably the pin connects the first joint on a first first arm with
the first joint on a
second first arm. The pin may provide support and/or a mount for a screen
and/or material
provided between the first arms and/or provided between the second arms.
The first arm or arms and/or joints therefor and/or first component or
components
of the fastener system are preferably separate components from one another.
The first arm may be received in a groove in a block which is a part of the
joint.
Preferably the first arm is clamped in the groove by a knob. The second arm
may be
received in a groove in a block which is a part of the first joint. Preferably
the second arm
is clamped in the groove by a further knob on the other side of the joint to
the first.
Preferably the blocks are different blocks. The block for the first arm may
cooperate with
the knob for the joint. Preferably rotation of the knob in one direction
allows the
orientation of the first arm and second arm to be varied. Preferably rotation
of the knob in
the other direction causes the orientation of the first and second arms to be
fixed.
Preferably the rotation releases or fixes a fixing in the joint. The racket
may take the form
of a series of radially extending ridges provided on a surface, such a surface
being
provided for each part of the joint, the surfaces carry the ridges engaging
with one another.
One part of the joint may be provided with a raised portion, sucha s a boss,
which surround
the axis of rotation. The other part of the joint may be provided with a
recessed portion
around the axis of rotation. Preferably the two cooperate with one another to
assist in the
positioning of the two parts of the joint relative to one another. One or more
of the joints,
particularly the first joint, may be provided with free rotation between the
limit in one
direction and the limit in the other direction. A resistance may be provided
to the initial
movement away from one or both of the limits of rotation. The limit of
rotation,
particularly for the first joint may be provided by a protrusion and stop
which avut one
another at the limit. The stop may be provided with or consist of a metal
component. A
pin may be provided in a plastic web in one preferred form. The protrusion
preferably
moves within a channel defined by the other part of the joint to that which
carries the
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projection. A further projection may be provided which also cooperates with a
stop at the
limit of rotation. The further projection may be provided on the outside of
the joint.
Preferably the projection rotates within an external channel in the other part
of the joint.
The channel may be open sided. The projection and further projection may be
radially and
circumferentially spaced apart. The spacing may be between 90 and 270 degrees,
more
preferably between 160 and 200 degrees. The internal channel may be
strengthened by
one or more cross pieces.
Preferably a fixing is provided in each of the first joints. Preferably the
one knob
releases or fixes the fixing in both first joints.
The fixing is preferably provided by two surfaces capable of releasable
engagement. The engagement surfaces may be spring loaded to urge them apart.
Preferably both surfaces are provided with splines. The surfaces may
alternatively be
provided with teeth and recesses, pins and apertures or other cooperating
systems.
Preferably one of the surfaces is provided on an element which is mounted on
the first
block. Preferably the other of the surfaces is mounted on the second block.
Preferably the two first joints are the same, except only one is provided with
the
knob for releasing/fixing the joints and hence the first and second arm
positions.
The second joint may be provided with an equivalent structure to the first
joint.
Alternatively the second joint may be provided with the following structure,
with the first
joint potentially having that structure too. The second joint on one side may
be linked to
the second joint on the other side by an element. The element may be a rod.
The element
may be provided within a part of the frame, for instance a cross-arm. The
joint may
include a first block and a second block. Preferably the first and second
blocks engage one
another through engagement surfaces. The engagement surfaces may be provided
with
splines and/or teeth and recesses and/or pins and apertures and/or other
cooperating
systems. The cross-arm may engage with one of the blocks, ideally through a
recess in the
block which is of matching profile to the cross-sectional profile of the cross-
arm. The first
block may be provided with a recess which receives an arm, preferably a second
arm. The
second block may be provided with a recess which receives an arm, preferably a
further
arm. Preferably a knob is provided in engagement with the element at one end
of the
element. Preferably the other end of the element, at the other joint, is
provided with a cap.
Preferably rotation of the knob in one direction releases the engagement
surfaces to allow
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rotation. Preferably rotation of the knob in the other direction tightens the
engagement
between the engagement surfaces. Preferably one direction of rotation increase
the
separation of the knob and cap. Preferably rotation in the other direction
decreases the
separation of the knob and cap. Preferably a spring is provided to urge the
engagement
surfaces into contact with one another. The spring may be provide around the
element.
The spring may engage the knob and/or a portion of the element such as a nut
provided
thereon.
The second arm or arms and/or second joints and/or further arm or arms are
preferably separate components from one another.
The second component is preferably recessed into the item of furniture. The
second component may be recessed into the frame of the item of furniture and
preferably
into the top of the frame. The second component may be recessed into a member
which is
then attached to the frame of the item of furniture. The member may be of
wood. A cover
may be provided to surround the second component and/or cover the top of the
recess into
which the second component is inserted and/or cover the junction between the
frame
material and the second component.
Preferably a second component is provided for each first component. The second
component may be provided with an aperture or recess which cooperates with a
part of the
first component, ideally with a lug or protrusion provided on one or more of
the arms of
the first component. The second component may be provided with one or more
grooves,
ridges or surfaces to guide the first component during insertion into the
second component
and/or control the position of the first component in the second component
after
attachment.
The axis of insertion andlor removal of the first component relative to the
second
component may be inclined relative to the axis of the first arm. The axis of
insertion
and/or removal for a first first component may be inclined relative to the
axis of insertion
and/or removal for a second first component. Preferably each axis is inclined
to the same
extent, but in opposite directions. Preferably the continuation of each axis
in the direction
of insertion extend towards one another.
The length of the second arm may be adjustable. The length may be adjusted by
telescoping one part of the second arm inside another part of the second arm.
The length
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can be fixed using a releasable fixing. Preferably the second arm is of fixed
length.
Preferably the second arm is linear. The second arm may be a rectangular cross-
section.
Preferably two second arms are provided. Preferably the two second arms are of
equivalent configuration. A screen may be provided between the two second
arms. One
or more strips of material may be provided between the two second arms.
The second joint may be provided with an equivalent structure to that set out
above
for the first joint, but in this case connecting the second arm and further
arm.
Preferably the two second joints are the same, except only one is provided
with the
knob for releasinglfixing the joints and hence the second and further arm
positions.
Preferably the second joint is provided at the end of the second arm.
Preferably the
second joint allows the position of the second and further arm to be adjusted
relative to one
another.
The further arm may be a single arm, particularly when the further arm is the
end
arm. The single arm may curve round from one second joint to the other, for
instance in a
semi circle. The further arm may be provided together with a second further
arm. The
further arms may be linked by a link arm. The further arms and link arm may be
connected by corner pieces. The corner pieces may be of plastic. A screen may
be
provided between the further arms and/or further arms and link arm.
Preferably a single screen is provided between the further arms and between
the
second arms. A plurality of strips may be provided between the further arms
and/or
between the second arms andlor between the first arms. The strips may be
provided
overlapping or abutting one another or with a small gap there between.
One or more of the screens may of PVC coated polyester. Yarns may be used to
form the screen or screens. The screens may be formed of weldable material.
One or
more holes or gaps may be provided in the screen or screens.
The canopy may be in three sections. The first section is preferably defined
by a
pair of first arms and a link between the first joints. The second section is
preferably
defined by a pair of second arms, the link between the first joints and a link
between the
second joints. The third section is preferably defined by the further arm or
arms, and
potentially link arm, and the link between the second joints.
Alternatively the canopy may be in four or more sections. The first section is
preferably defined by a pair of first arms and a link between the first
joints. The second
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section is preferably defined by a pair of second arms, the link between the
first joints and
the link between the second joints. The third section is preferably defined by
a pair of
further arms, the link between the second joints and the link between the
further joints.
Further sections may be provided in an equivalent manner to the third section.
The fourth
and/or final section is preferably defined by the still further arm or arms
and potentially a
still further link arm, and the link between the further j oints.
Preferably the separation between the first arms is, less than the separation
between
the second arms. In this way the first arms may be accomodated between the
second arms
in the folded state. Preferably the first arms are shorter than the second
arms. Preferably
the separation between the further arms is less than the separation between
the third arms.
In this way the further arms may be accomodated between the third arms in the
folded
state. Preferably the further arms are shorter than the third arms. Preferably
the second
and third arms fold against one another. Preferably the third arms are shorter
than the
second arms, preferably such that the joints between the third arms and the
further arms
are inside the end of the second arms in the folded state.
Preferably the first section of the canopy is generally vertically provided in
use.
Preferably the second section is generally angled up, in the direction of the
link between
the second joints, in use. Preferably the third section is generally angled
down towards its
end in use.
The canopy is preferably foldable. The first section may be folded against the
second section. Preferably the second section is folded towards the third
section, with the
first section between the second section and third section. Preferably the
canopy folds flat,
for instance so that its maximum thickness, measured perpendicular to its
maximum
length, is less than 5% of the maximum length.
Preferably the separation between the two arms of the first section is less
than the
separation between the two arms of the second section. Preferably this
configuration is
provided such that the first section may be folded in between the arms of the
second
section. A particularly low profile folding structure may be provided as a
result.
Preferably the separation between the two arms of the third section and the
separation
between the two arms of the second section are equivalent to one another.
Preferably the
configuration is provided such that the arms of the second section and the
arms of the third
section fold against one another.
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Preferably the canopy material of the first section and/or second section
and/or
third section and/or further sections is connected to at least an adjacent
section by a part of
the canopy material. Preferably the part of the canopy material which provides
the
connection extends between the one section and the other section around the
inside of the
joint and/or around the side of the joint post when the sections come together
in the folded
configuration.
Preferably the rotation of the first arm relative to the second arm is
restricted in its
extent. Preferably the rotation of the second arm relative to the third arm
and/or further
arm is restricted in its extent. Preferably the rotation of the third arm
relative to the further
arm is restricted in its extent. The rotation may be restricted by a stop
which abuts the arm
or a part of the joint which rotates therewith, when the limit of rotation is
reached. At or
close to the limit of rotation a resistance may be provided to rotation back
in the other
direction. A click style locking into position may be provided. Resistance to
rotation may
be provided at one or more intermediate extents of rotation. Such resistance
may be
provided by a racket mechanism. Preferably the restriction is provided in the
joint
between the respective arms. Preferably the second arm is allowed to rotate
from a fully
folded position, for instance a storage position in which the first arm and
second arm are
adjacent to one another, through a range of angles to a fully unfolded
position. Preferably
the range of angles is less than 340° ,and ideally 270° or less.
Preferably the third and/or
further arm is allowed to rotate from a fully folded position, for instance a
storage position
in which the third and/or further arm and first arm are adjacent one another,
through a
range of angles to a fully unfolded position. Preferably the range of angles
is less than
340° ,and ideally 270° or less. Preferably the restriction to
the second arm rotation and/or
third arm and/or further arm rotation restricts their downwards movement
towards the seat
m use.
The two first arms may be parallel to one another. The second arms may be
parallel to one another. The third arms may be parallel to one another. The
further arms
may be parallel to one another. The first, second, third and further arms may
be parallel to
one another, at least when viewed in one plane.
The second component may be attached to the item of furniture by a releasable
clamp, particularly in the case of tubular furniture. The clamp preferably
engages with a
part of the frame of the item of furniture. The part may be a top part of the
frame, for
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instance a generally horizontal part of the frame. The part may be a side part
of the frame,
for instance a generally vertical part of the frame. Preferably the second
component is
attached to the clamp by a rotatable mounting. The rotatable mounting may be
formed by
a pin which passes through an aperture in the second component and which the
clamp.
The pin preferably engages both jaws of the clamp. The pin may be rotatable in
one
direction to open the clamp by movement of the jaws. The pin may be rotatable
in the
other direction to close the clamp and preferably also to fix the orientation
of the second
component relative to the clamp. A splined engagement between the second
component
and the clamp and/or between the second component and a head piece for the pin
may be
provided to fix the orientation of the second component relative to the clamp.
The clamp may include two opposing jaws. Preferably the pin adjusts the
separation of the jaws. The jaws may each be provided with a recess to
accommodate the
frame to be clamped. The hinge between the jaws may be a flexible hinge.
The second component may be attached to the item of furniture by a mounting.
The mounting may be slid onto a part of the frame of the item of furniture,
particularly in
the case of tubular furniture. The mounting may be provided with an aperture,
preferably a
through aperture, which receives a part of the frame of the item of furniture.
The aperture
is preferably of a cross-section which matches the cross-section of the part
of the frame of
the item of furniture which it receives. One or more engagements may be
provided
between the mounting and the frame. The frame may be provided with one or more
apertures, grooves or recesses which receive a part provided on the mounting,
for instance
a pm.
Preferably the canopy is stackable with canopies of the same type.
Preferably the first arm or arms is short than the second and/or third and/or
further
arm or arms. Preferably the further arm or arms are shorter than the second
andlor third
arm or arms. Preferably the third arm or arms are shorter than the second arm
or arms.
Preferably the link between the first arms or first joints and/or the link
between the second
arms or second joints and/or the link between the third arms or third joints
are of the same
length and/or design andlor dimensions. Preferably the second and third joint,
at least, are
of the same design.
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The first aspect of the invention may include any of the features, options or
possibilities set out elsewhere in this document, including in particular
those of the second
aspect of the invention.
According to a second aspect of the invention we provide a A method of
attaching
a canopy to an item, the method including: providing the item with one or more
second
components of a fastener system; providing a canopy, the canopy including: a
first part
which includes a first arm, the first arm being provided with a first
component of a fastener
system at or towards one end, the first arm being provided with a joint at or
towards the
other end; a second part which includes a second arm, the joint connecting the
second arm
to the first arm, the joint allowing the orientation of the first arrn to the
second arm to be
varied, the second arm being provided with a second joint, the second arm
supporting a
screen; a third part which includes a further arm, the second joint connecting
the further
arm to the second arm, the second joint allowing the orientation of the second
arm to the
further arm to be varied, the further arm supporting a screen; and wherein the
second part
and the third part are adjustable in angle relative to one another; the method
further
including connecting the first component of the fastener system to the second
component.
The method of attaching may include the insertion of a part of one component,
preferably the first component, into the other component, preferably the
second
component. The insertion of the component into the other may cause a part,
particularly
one or more dependant arms, to deform from a first position to a second
position.
Preferably continued insertion causes the part to move back towards the first
position,
particularly when one or more lugs or protrusions on one of the components
enter one or
more apertures or recesses on the other component.
Preferably the canopy is attached to the item by moving the canopy towards the
item from a position above the item. Preferably a downward, generally vertical
movement
is used to achieve the attachment.
The second aspect of the invention may include any of the features, options or
possibilities set out elsewhere in this document, including in particular
those of the first
aspect of the invention.
i ( ~"'~id, n
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The second aspect of the invention may include any of the features, options or
possibilities set out elsewhere in this document, including in particular
those of the first
aspect of the invention.
According to a third aspect of the invention we provide a table for attachment
to an
item of furniture, the table including a support surface, one or more support
arms, the
support arms depending from the support surface, each support arm being
provided, at or
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towards the end away from the support surface, with a first component of a
fastener
system.
The table may be for supporting a drink andlor food and/or containers
therefore.
The attachment is preferably by means of a two part fastener system. The two
part
fastener system preferably provides a second component on the item. Preferably
the first
component and second component releasably engage one another to provide the
attachment. Preferably the attachment can be achieved by presenting the first
component
to the second in a first orientation and can be achieved by presenting the
first component to
the second in a second orientation. The second orientation may be a
180° rotation relative
to the first orientation. Preferably the first component and second component
can be
released and/or attached by either hand of a user.
The attachment may be made to one arm of the item of furniture or may be made
to
the other arm of the furniture or may be made to both arms simultaneously. The
attachment may position the table over the seat portion of the item. The
attachment may
position the table to the side of the item. The attachment position may be
changed from
time to time.
The item of furniture may be a chair, a deckchair, a lounger, a recliner, a
seat or a
reclining seat. The item of furniture may seat one or more persons.
The support surface may be planar. The support surface may be surrounded,
totally
or in part, by a raised edge or rim. The support surface may be rectangular.
The support
surface may be of the same material as the table or may include a surface of a
different
material, for instance a non-slip material.
The table may be provided with to support arms. Preferably the one or more
support arms are linear. Preferably the one or more support arms are of the
same length.
The length of the support arms may be adjustable. Preferably the one or more
support
arms depend from the underside of the support surface. Preferably the one or
more support
arms extend generally perpendicularly away from the support surface. The one
or more
support arms may be provided towards one edge of the table or support surface
in
preference to one or more of the other edges. The one or more support arms may
be
provided towards one edge, the arms being at a location 10% or less of the
distance
between the edge and its opposing edge.
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The first component may be a male component. The second component may be a
female component. Preferably a body portion of the first component is received
within the
second component during attachment. Preferably the leading edge of the body
portion of
the first component is inserted into the second component first during
attachment.
Preferably the body portion of the first component is connected to a
continuation
portion. Preferably a part of the continuation portion extends out of the
second component
in the attached stated. Preferably one or more dependant arms extend from the
leading
edge of the body portion. Preferably the one or more dependant arms extend
away from
the leading edge towards the continuation portion. Preferably a gap is defined
between
each of the one or more arms and the body portion. Each arm is preferably
provided with
a lug or protrusion. Preferably the lug or protrusion cooperates with a part
of the second
component. Preferably deforming the arm into its gap causes the attachment to
be
released. The arms may be provided with a gripper portion towards its end.
Preferably the
continuation part of the first component is mounted on the support arm.
The second component is preferably recessed into the item of furniture. The
second component may be recessed into the arm of the item of furniture and
preferably
into the top surface of the arm. Preferably a second component is provided for
each first
component. The second component may be provided with an aperture or recess
which
cooperates with a part of the first component, ideally with a lug or
protrusion provided on
one or more of the arms of the first component. The second component may be
provided
with one or more grooves, ridges or surfaces to guide the first component
during insertion
into the second component and/or control the position of the first component
in the second
component after attachment.
Preferably the table is stackable with other tables of the same type. One or
more,
and preferably all of the support arms may be foldable. Preferably a support
arm folds up
under the support surface, ideally into a substantially flat configuration.
Preferably the
extent of the support arms is within the profile of the support surface in
this folded
position. .
The third aspect of the invention may include any of the features, options or
possibilities set out elsewhere in this document, including in particular
those of the fourth
and fifth aspects of the invention.
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According to a fourth aspect of the invention we provide a method of attaching
a
table to an item of furniture, the method including providing an item of
furniture with one
or more second components of a fastener system, providing a table, the table
including a
support surface and one or more support arms, the support arms depending from
the
support surface, each support arm being provided, at or towards the end away
from the
support surface, with a first component of the fastener system, connecting the
first
component of the fastener system to the second component.
The method of attaching may include the insertion of a part of one component,
preferably the first component, into the other component, preferably the
second
component. The insertion of the component into the other may cause a part,
particularly
one or more dependant arms, to deform from a first position to a second
position.
Preferably continued insertion causes the part to move back towards the first
position,
particularly when one or more lugs or protrusions on one of the components
enter one or
more apertures or recesses on the other component.
Preferably the table is attached to the item by moving the table towards the
item
from a position above the item. Preferably a downward, generally vertical
movement is
used to achieve the attachment.
The method may provide for the attachment of the table to the item in more
than
one orientation. The table may be attached to the item in a first orientation
in which the
table protrudes across the seat portion of the item. The table may be attached
to the item in
a second orientation in which the table protrudes to the side of the item. The
first and
second orientations may be achieved by attaching the table to the item in
orientations
which are at 180° to one another.
The fourth aspect of the invention may include any of the features, options or
possibilities set out elsewhere in this document, particularly those of the
third and fifth
aspects of the invention.
According to a fifth aspect of the invention we provide a method of serving a
drink
product or food product, the method including placing the drink product or
food product
on a table, the table being at a first location, moving the table to a second
location which is
different from the first and attaching the table to an item of furniture
present at the second
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location, the table including a support surface and one or more support arms,
the support
arms depending from the support surface, each support arm being provided, at
or towards
the end away from the support surface, with a first component of a fastener
system, the
first component being connected to a second component of the fastener system
at the
second location to attach the table to the item of furniture.
The first location may be a bar, kitchen or centralised location for the
supply of
food and/or drink. The first location may be accessible to service staff, but
potentially not
users of the item of furniture. Preferably the table is brought from the first
to the second
location in response to an order or request for the food and/or drink on the
table.
Preferably the table is carried by a waiter or other member of service staff.
Preferably the
table is attached to the item of furniture by the waiter or other member of
service staff.
Preferably the table is attached to the item of furniture in an orientation of
the item of
furniture users choice. The table may be detached from the item of furniture
when the
drink and/or food is finished with. The table may be detached by the waiter or
other
member of service staff to return the finished drink and/or food to the first
location.
The fifth aspect of the invention may include any of the features, options or
possibilities set out elsewhere in this document, particularly including those
in the third
and fourth aspects of the invention.
According to a sixth aspect of the invention we provide an item of furniture
for use
as a seat, the item of furniture including a second component of a fastener
system, wherein
the second component of the fastener system is provided on an arm of the seat,
or is
provided on the frame of the seat to the side of the seat or is provided on
the frame of the
seat at the back of the seat, the second component being a female component.
The second component preferably attaches to a first component of the fastener
system and in particular to a first fastener of the type provided elsewhere in
this document.
The second component is preferably recessed into the seat. The second
component may be
recessed into the arm of the seat, or into the frame of the seat to the side
of the seat or into
the frame at the back of the seat, preferably at the top thereof. A plurality
of second
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components may be provided. Preferably second components are provided in the
top of
the back of the seat and either in the arm of the seat or in the frame to the
side of the seat.
Preferably two second components are provided at each location.
The second component may be provided with an aperture or recess which
cooperates with a part of the first component, ideally with a lug or
protrusion provided on
one or more of the arms of the first component. The second component may be
provided
with one or more grooves, ridges or surfaces to guide the first component
during insertion
into the second component and/or control the position of the first component
in the second
component after attachment.
In an alternative form the second component may be attached to the seat by a
releasable clamp, particularly in the case of tubular furniture. The clamp
preferably
engages with a part of the frame of the seat. The part may be a top part of
the frame, for
instance a generally horizontal part of the frame, for instance behind the
seat. The part
may be a side part of the frame, for instance a generally vertical part of the
frame, for
instance on the back of the seat. The part may by a side part of the frame to
the side of the
seat. Preferably the second component is attached to the clamp by a rotatable
mounting.
The rotatable mounting may be formed by a pin which passes through an aperture
in the
second component and which the clamp. The pin preferably engages both jaws of
the
clamp. The pin may be rotatable in one direction to open the clamp by movement
of the
jaws. The pin may be rotatable in the other direction to close the clamp and
preferably
also to fix the orientation of the second component relative to the clamp. A
splined
engagement between the second component and the clamp andlor between the
second
component and a head piece for the pin may be provided to fix the orientation
of the
second component relative to the clamp.
The clamp may include two opposing jaws. Preferably the pin adjusts the
separation of the jaws. The jaws may each be provided with a recess to
accommodate the
frame to be clamped. The hinge between the jaws may be a flexible hinge.
The second component is preferably used to attach one or more accessories to
the
seat, the accessories being provided with one or more first components of the
fastener
system. The accessories may be one or more of a canopy, a table, a parasol, a
windbreak,
a light, a reading stand or insect screen.
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One or more of the accessories may be provided with the seat as a kit. The kit
may
include one or more of the clamps described in this document.
Preferably the item of furniture is stackable with items of furniture of the
same
type. Preferably the accessories are stackable with accessories of the same
type.
The sixth aspect of the invention may include any of the features, options or
possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.
According to a seventh aspect of the invention we provided a method of
manufacture, preferably for a canopy for attachment to an item of furniture,
the method
including:
providing a canopy, the canopy including a plurality of sleeves for receiving
arms,
the sleeves being formed by one or more portions of the canopy being folded
over and
joined to another part of the canopy;
inserting a first arm into a sleeve, the first arm being provided with a first
component of a fastener system and being provided with a joint;
inserting a second arm into a sleeve and connecting the second arm to the
joint, the
second arm being provided with a second joint, the joint allowing the
orientation of the
first arm to the second arm to be varied;
inserting a further arm into a sleeve and connecting the further arm to the
joint on
the second arm.
A third arm may be provided between the second and further arm, preferably in
conjunction with a third joint.
Preferably the arms are slid into their respective joints. Preferably the arms
and
joints are separate components from one another.
Preferably the method provides for the manufacture of different size and shape
canopies using the same joints, but different length first arms and/or second
arms and/or
further arms and/or cross-arms. Preferably the first arm or arms is short than
the second
andlor third and/or further arm or arms. Preferably the further arm or arms
are shorter than
the second andlor third arm or arms. Preferably the third arm or arms are
shorter than the
second arm or arms. Preferably the link between the first arms or first joints
and/or the
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link between the second arms or second joints and/or the link between the
third arms or
third joints are of the same length and/or design and/or dimensions.
Preferably the joint is separate from the first arm and ideally is mounted on
the end
of each of the first arm by means of a sliding engagement. Preferably two
first arms are
provided, preferably in their own sleeves. Preferably these arms or joints are
linked by a
cross-arm. Preferably the fastener for that cross-arm is then attached and
tightened.
Preferably the joint on the second arm is separate from the second arm and
ideally
is mounted on the end of the second arm by means of a sliding engagement.
preferably
two second arms are provided, preferably in their own sleeves. Preferably
these arms or
joints are linked by a cross-arm. Preferably the fastener for that cross-arm
is then attached
and tightened.
The one or more sleeves may be formed by welding a part of the one or more
portions to the another part of the canopy.
The seventh aspect of the invention may include any of the features, options
or
possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.
According to An eighth aspect of the invention we provide a mounting, the
mounting including one part of a fastener system, the mounting being formed of
a first part
and a second part, the first and second parts releasably engaging with one
another, the first
and second parts defining a channel between the first and second parts, the
channel
receiving a frame in use, the first part 'including a first frame engaging
portion which faces
the channel at a position and a second frame engaging portion which faces the
channel at a
position, the second part including a first frame engaging portion which faces
the channel
at a position and a second frame engaging portion which faces the channel at a
position,
the axis of the channel at the position for a first frame engaging portion
being different to
the axis of the channel at the position for a second frame engaging portion.
The mounting may be formed of metallic or non-metallic materials, such as
plastics. The mounting may be formed of moulded components.
The one part of the fastener system may be a female part. The female part
preferably cooperates with a male part provided on the item to be attached to
the
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mounting. Preferably the item is a canopy, sunshade, sun screen, umbrella,
parasol,
rainshield or the like. The item may be a table.
The one part of the fastener system is preferably provided in a recess in the
mounting. The recess may be defined, at least in part, by a recess portion of
the first part
of the mounting.
In one embodiment of the invention the recess may be defined, at least in
part, by a
recess portion of the second part of the mounting. Preferably the recess is
defined by two
halves, one half being provided by the recess portion of the first part of the
mounting, the
second half being provided by the recess portion of the second part of the
mounting. The
mouth of the recess may be surrounded by a cap. Preferably the cap engages
with the first
part of the mounting. Preferably the cap engages with the second part of the
mounting.
Preferably the cap resists movement of the first part and second part away
from one
another in use. The one part of the fastener is preferably provided in a first
body part of
the mounting. Preferably the first body part is form by the first and second
parts of the
mounting. Preferably the first body part is provided to one side of the
channel. The first
body part may include a planar surface on each face, with curved transition
surfaces
linking the two faces.
In an alternative embodiment of the invention the recess may be solely defined
by a
first part of the mounting. This may particularly be the case for mountings
intended for
use on nursery equipment. Preferably the recess is defined by a cup component.
Preferably the cup component is mounted on the first part of the mounting,
particularly a
planar face thereof. The mouth of the recess is preferably flush with the
planar face. The
mouth of the recess may be surrounded by a cap. Preferably the recess is
provided to one
side of the channel. The axis of insertion and/or removal of the second part
of the fastener
relative to the first part of the fastener is preferably angled relative to
the axis of the
channel at the position for a first frame engaging portion and angled relative
to the axis of
the channel at the position for a second frame engaging portion.
Preferably the first body part includes one or more locations for releasable
fasteners. The fasteners may be screws, clips or the like. Preferably at least
two such
locations are provided on the first body part, with ideally at least four such
locations being
provided on the mounting in total. Four releasable fasteners, preferably in
the form of
screws, may particularly be provided in the case of mountings for nursery
equipment. The
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releasable fasteners may be introduced through an aperture, preferably a
recessed aperture,
in the first body part of the mounting and/or one face of the first body part.
Preferably the
releasable fasteners engage with locations on the second body part of the
mounting and/or
the inside of the face of the second body part.
The mounting may be provided with a second body portion, preferably to the
other
side of the channel to the first body portion. Preferably the second body part
is form by
the first and second parts of the mounting. The second body part may include a
planar
surface on each face, with curved transition surfaces linking the two faces.
The second
body part may be in the form of a curved surface, particularly to the outside
of the channel.
Preferably the second body part includes one or more locations for releasable
fasteners.
The fasteners may be screws, clips or the like. Preferably at least two such
locations are
provided. The releasable fasteners may be introduced through an aperture,
preferably a
recessed aperture, in the second body part of the mounting and/or one face of
the second
body part. Preferably the releasable fasteners engage with locations on the
first body part
and/or inside of the face of the first body part.
The first part of the mounting may be one half of the mounting. Preferably the
first
part of the mounting includes at least some of the first body part, channel or
body section
defining the channel and the second body part.
The second part of the mounting may be one half of the mounting. Preferably
the
first part of the mounting includes at least some of the first body part,
channel or body
section defining the channel and the second body part.
The second part of the mounting may be a mirror image of the first part.
Preferably
curved transition surfaces form a smooth junction between the first part and
second part.
The channel may be a continuous channel. The channel may only have an opening
at each end for the frame. The channel may have one or more openings in its
side. The
channel may be formed only by the first frame engaging portions and second
frame
engaging portions. Preferably the channel is defined by a body section.
Preferably the
body section links the first body part to the second body part. Transition
surfaces may link
the body section to the first and/or second body part. The body section may
have a
consistent internal profile andlor cross-section throughout, for instance
where the channel
is continuous. The body section may have a varying internal profile or cross-
section, for
instance where the channel is discontinuous or includes a chamber.
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Particularly between the positions of the first frame engaging portions and
the
second frame engaging portions the channel and/or body section may define an
opening,
particularly in the form of a chamber. The opening may be used to accommodate
a variety
of differently shaped or curve forms or curve diameters for the elements of
the frame
linking the linear first element and linear second element. The opening may be
enclosed
by the body section and/or body parts so that the only openings are those at
the ends of the
channel.
The frame may particularly be a tubular frame, normally, but not necessarily
of
circular cross-section. The frame may be of metal. The mounting may be
attached to a
corner of the frame, particularly at or near the top of the frame. The
mounting may be
attached to the frame at a location formed by a first element, preferably
linear, which is
linked to a second element, preferably linear, by a curved element. The
mounting is
preferably attached to the frame without modifying the frame and/or
dismantling the frame
in anyway.
The first engaging portion of the first part may be separate from or linked to
the
second engaging portion of the first part. The first engaging part of the
first part is
preferably provided with a profile to match the element of the frame it is to
engage. The
profile may be a half of a cylinder or less. The profile may be semi-circular
or less and
may curve along its length. The first engaging portion of the first part may
be provided
towards or at one end of the channel.
The first engaging portion of the second part may be separate from or linked
to the
second engaging portion of the second part. The first engaging part of the
second part is
preferably provided with a profile to match the element of the frame it is to
engage. The
profile may be a half of a cylinder or less. The profile may be semi-circular
or less and
may curve along its length. The first engaging portion of the second part may
be provided
towards or at one end of the channel.
The second engaging part of the first part is preferably provided with a
profile to
match the element of the frame it is to engage. The profile may be a half of a
cylinder or
less. The profile may be semi-circular or less and may curve along its length.
The second
engaging portion of the first part may be provided towards or at one end of
the channel,
preferably the other end to the first engaging portion.
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The second engaging part of the second part is preferably provided with a
profile to
match the element of the frame it is to engage. The profile may be a half of a
cylinder or
less. The profile may be semi-circular or less and may curve along its length.
The second
engaging portion of the second part may be provided towards or at one end of
the channel.
Preferably the other end to the first engaging portion.
One or more of the first and second frame engaging portions may be provided by
the same portion, for instance a continuous surface which defines the channel.
The first andlor second engaging portions may be integral to the mounting
and/or
the first part and/or the second part. The first and/or second engaging
portions may be
provided by components which are separate from the mounting and/or the first
part and/or
the second part. In particular one or more elements of the compliant material,
such as a
rubber pad, may be used to form at least part of the first and/or second
engaging portions.
The compliant material may be provided between the first part and the frame in
use and/or
between the second part and the frame in use. The compliant material may be
provided
throughout the channel. The compliant material may be provided at or adjacent
one or
both of the ends of the channel. Preferably the ends of the channel provide a
seal between
the frame and the mounting in use. The seal may be assisted by or provided by
the
compliant material. One or more different compliant materials andlor different
sizes of
compliant material and/or thicknesses of compliant material may be provided
together with
the mounting. In this way different sizes of frame may be accurately and
effectively
gripped.
The axis of the channel at the position for a first frame engaging portion
and/or the
axis of the channel at the position for a second frame engaging portion may be
considered
relative to a projection of the axis at that point, particularly as the axis
of the channel will
assume a curved path through one or more parts of the channel.
Preferably the axis of the channel at the position of both first frame
engaging
portions is the same. Preferably the axis of the channel at the position of
both second
frame engaging portions is the same. Preferably the axis at one or both of the
first frame
engaging portions is at least 30°different from the axis at one or both
of the second frame
engaging portions. More preferably the difference is at least 45°,
still more preferably at
least 60°, yet more preferably at least 75° and ideally between
85° and 95°. The axis for the
first frame engaging portion may be considered at the first frame engaging
portion position
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furthest from the second frame engaging portion. The axis for the second frame
engaging
portion may be considered at the second frame engaging portion position
furthest from the
first frame engaging portion.
Preferably one or both of the first frame engaging portions engage a first
linear
element of the frame, in use. Preferably one or both of the second frame
engaging portions
engage a second linear element of the frame, in use. Preferably the first
element and
second element each have an axis. Preferably the axes are inclined relative to
one another
by at least 30°different, more preferably the difference is at least
45°, still more preferably
at least 60°, yet more preferably at least 75° and ideally
between 85° and 95°.
The eighth aspect of the invention may include any of the features, options or
possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.
According to a ninth aspect of the invention we provide a mounting, the
mounting
including one part of a fastener system, the mounting being formed of a first
part and a
second part, the first and second parts realisably engaging with one another
around a
frame, the frame being received in a channel defined by the first and second
parts of the
mounting, each of the first part and the second part providing within the
channel and
towards or at one end of the channel a first frame engaging portion and
providing at or
towards the other end of the channel a second frame engaging portion, the
first frame
engaging portions opposing one another, the second frame engaging portions
opposing one
another, the axis of the channel at one end being at an angle of at least 75
° compared with
the axis at the other end of the channel.
The ninth aspect of the invention may include any of the features, options or
possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.
According to a tenth aspect of the invention we provide a mounting, the
mounting
including a female part of a fastener system in a recess, the mounting between
formed of a
first part which includes a first body part, a channel defining section and a
second body
part and a second part which includes a first body portion, a channel defining
section and a
second body portion, the first and second parts being substantially mirror
images of one
another, the channel defined by the first and second parts enclosing a part of
the frame of
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an item in use, the channel receiving at least part of a first linear element
of the frame, a
curved element of the frame and at least a part of a second linear element of
the frame.
The tenth aspect of the invention may include any of the features, options or
possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.
According to an eleventh aspect of the invention we provide a method of
attaching
a mounting including one part of a fastener system to a frame, the method
including:
positioning a first part of the mounting to one side of the frame, the
frame being received within a channel defined in part by the first part of the
mounting;
positioning a second part of the mounting to the other side of the
frame, the frame also being received within a channel defined in part by the
second part of
the mounting;
fastening the first and second parts of the mounting together using
one or more fasteners with the frame between them in the channel and so that
first frame
engaging portions of the first part and second part and second frame engaging
portions of
the first and second part engaging the frame;
wherein the axis of the frame at or towards one end of the channel is at a
different angle to the axis of the frame at or towards the other end of the
channel.
The method may further include attaching a canopy, sun screen or sunshade
provided with another part of the fastener system to the mounting using the
part of the
fastener system included in the mounting.
The method may further include mounting one or more further mountings on the
frame at one or more other locations. The other locations may be corners of
the frame,
particularly top corners of the frame.
The frame may particularly be the frame of a chair, sun lounger or other item
of
furniture. The frame may particularly be a tubular cross-section frame, for
instance of
metal.
The eleventh aspect of the invention may include any of the features, options
or
possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.
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According to an twelfth aspect of the invention we provide a mounting, the
mounting including one part of a fastener system, the mounting including:-
a first element, a second element and a further element;
the first element including a first item contacting surface and a first item
engaging surface, at least a portion of the first item engaging surface facing
in an opposing
direction to the first item contacting surface;
the second element including a second item contacting surface and a second
item engaging surface, at least a portion of the second item engaging surface
being in
opposition to the second item contacting surface;
the further element including a further item contacting surface;
wherein the first, second and further item contacting surfaces are each
angled relative to one another.
Preferably the first item engaging surface is provided on a first item
engaging part.
Preferably the second item engaging surface is provided on a second item
engaging part.
Preferably at least a part of the first and/or second engaging parts face the
further item
contacting surface.
According to a thirteenth aspect of the invention we provide a mounting, the
mounting including one part of a fastener system, the mounting including:-
a first element, a second element and a further element, the further element
including a further item contacting surface;
the first element including a first item contacting surface and a first item
engaging part, at least a part of the first item engaging part facing the
further item
contacting surface;
the second element including a second item contacting surface and a second
item engaging part, at least a part of the second item engaging part facing
the further item
contacting surface;
wherein the first, second and further item contacting surfaces are each
angled relative to one another.
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A first item engaging surface may be provided on the first item engaging part.
A
second item engaging surface may be provided on the second item engaging part.
The twelfth and/or thirteenth aspects may provide any of the following
features,
options or possibilities.
Preferably the mounting is formed of plastics. The mounting may be moulded.
Preferably the mounting is provided as a single integral unit. Preferably the
mounting is
formed in a single mould.
The mounting may be for an item such as a chair, reclining chair, lounger,
reclining
lounger or other item of furniture. The mounting may particularly be for the
back of an
item, and especially the corner thereof.
The one part of the fastener may be a female part. The female part preferably
cooperates with a male part provided on the item to be attached to the
mounting.
Preferably the item is a canopy, sunshade, sun screen, umbrella, parasol,
rainshield or the
like. The item may be a table.
The one part of the fastener system is preferably provided in a recess ~in the
mounting. The recess may be defined by one or more wall parts. The one part of
the
fastener system may be provided, at least in part, on the first element. The
one part of the
fastener system may be provided on the other side of the first element to the
first item
contacting surface. The one part of the fastener system may be provided, at
least in part,
on a third element which links the first element and second element.
Preferably the one or more wall parts defining the recess have a cross-
section,
relative to the direction of in which the first and second parts of the
fastener system are
joined, which lies within the perimeter of the mounting when viewed in that
direction. The
recess may be defined by a first planar wall and second opposing planar wall
which are
linked by semi-circular end walls. The one or more wall parts may be
upstanding relative
to the first andlor third element. One or more bracing components may be
provided
between the one or more wall parts and the first element and/or third element.
Two curved
bracing components may be provided, preferably one above the other. One of the
bracing
components may join to the one or more wall parts at the upper surface thereof
relative to
the first element.
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The third element may be curved, at least with respect to the surface facing
the
item in use. The surface facing the item may be an item contacting surface.
Preferably the
third element item contacting surface is configured to match the item.
The first element may be substantially planar. The first element may be
curved.
The first element may be generally horizontally provided in use. Preferably
the upper
surface of the first element, provided with the one part of the fastener
system, and the
lower part generally follow one another in profile.
The first element may be provided with a first item contacting surface on the
opposite side to the side bearing the one part of the fastener system. The
first item
contacting surface may be provided between the further element and the first
item
engaging part. The first element may be provided with a first item contacting
surface
which is configured to match the external surface of the item at its location
of use.
The first item contacting portion may be smooth. Curved transition surfaces
may
be provided between the first item contacting surface and the first item
engaging
part/surface and/or the further element.
The cross-section of the opening defined between the first item engaging
part/surface, first item contacting surface and further element preferably
matches the cross-
section of the item at that location, particularly a wall element of the item.
The first item engaging part may be provided by a protrusion from the first
element. The protrusion may project at substantially 90° to the first
contact surface. The
first item engaging part may be provided with a surface, facing the further
element and/or
adjacent to the first contact surface, which forms the first item engaging
surface.
The first item engaging surface may include one or more portions which face
the
first contact surface. In use, such one or more portions may engage with the
edge of a part
of the item and preferably at least a part of a face of the item facing away
from the contact
surface. The first item engaging surface may include one or more portions
profiled to
correspond to the edge of the item with which they are to engage. In a
particular an
arcuate surface may be provided as a portion of the first item engaging
surface.
At least a part of the first item engaging part andlor first item engaging
surface is
deformable. Preferably a first rest state is provided and a second deformed
state can be
provided. Preferably the first item engaging partlsurface is provided in the
second
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deformed state to enable mounting. Preferably the first item engaging
part/surface returns
to, or towards, the first rest state once mounted.
The first element may be provided with a continuous first item engaging
surface.
The first item engaging surface may be provided in a number of separate
sections. The
first element may be provided with a continuous first item contacting part.
The first item
contacting part may be provided in a number of separate sections.
The second element may be substantially planar. The second element may be
curved. The second element may be generally vertically provided in use.
Preferably the
outside surface of the second element and the inside surface generally follow
one another
in profile.
The second element may be provided with a second item contacting surface on
the
inside. The second item contacting surface may be provided between the further
element
and the second item engaging part. The second element may be provided with a
second
item contacting surface which is configured to match the external surface of
the item at its
location of use.
The second item contacting portion may be smooth. Curved transition surfaces
may be provided between the second item contacting surface and the second item
engaging
part/surface and/or the further element.
The cross-section of the opening defined between the second item engaging
part/surface, second item contacting surface and further element preferably
matches the
cross-section of the item at that location, particularly a wall element of the
item.
The second item engaging part may be provided by a protrusion from the second
element. The protrusion may project at substantially 90° to the second
contact surface.
The second item engaging part may be provided with a surface, facing the
further element
and/or adjacent to the second contact surface, which forms the second item
engaging
surface.
The second item engaging surface may include one or more portions which face
the
second contact surface. In use, such one or more portions may engage with the
edge of a
part of the item and preferably at least a part of a face of the item facing
away from the
contact surface. The second item engaging surface may include one or more
portions
profiled to correspond to the edge of the item with which they are to engage.
In a
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particular an arcuate surface may be provided as a portion of the second item
engaging
surface.
At least a part of the second item engaging part and/or second item engaging
surface is deformable. Preferably a first rest state is provided and a second
deformed state
can be provided. Preferably the second item engaging partlsurface is provided
in the
second deformed state to enable mounting. Preferably the second item engaging
part/surface returns to, or towards, the first rest state once mounted.
The second element may be provided with a continuous second item engaging
surface. The second item engaging surface may be provided in a number of
separate
sections. The second element may be provided with a continuous second item
contacting
part. The second item contacting part may be provided in a number of separate
sections.
The first and/or second item engaging parts/surfaces may wrap around at least
a
part of the item in use.
One of the first item engaging part or the second item engaging part may be
provided by a wall facing the respective element and/or item contacting
surface thereof,
the wall being provided on a protrusion from its respective element. The wall
may be
formed at its end solely by a planar inner surface, a planar outer surface and
a planar end
surface. Preferably one of the first or second item engaging parts is provided
with this
form. Preferably the other of the first or second item engaging parts is
provided with a
different form. The different form may include a transition surface between
the outer
surface and end surface of the wall, particularly a sloping surface between a
planar outer
surface and planar end surface. The wall may taper towards its end, preferably
with the
tapering occurnng on the outside surface of the wall.
The further element may be substantially planar. The further element may
include
on or more curved parts. The further element may be generally vertically
provided in use.
Preferably the outside surface of the further element and the inside surface
generally
follow one another in profile.
The further element may be provided with a further item contacting surface on
the
inside. The further item contacting surface may be provided adjacent to the
first element
contacting surface and the second element contacting surface. The further
element may be
provided with a further contacting surface which is configured to match the
external
surface of the item at its location of use, most preferably the back of the
item of furniture
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which the user rests against. The further contact surface preferably faces at
least a part of
the first item engaging part/surface and at least a part of the second item
engaging
part/surface.
The further item contacting portion may be smooth. Curved transition surfaces
may be provided between the further item contacting surface and the first
and/or second
item contacting surfaces.
The further element may lime the first element and second element. Preferably
the
first, second and further elements define a corner shaped mounting. The corner
shaped
mounting may include the third element. Preferably smooth or curved transition
surfaces
are provided between the third element and other elements.
The further element may be provided with one or more through apertures.
Preferably the further element is provided with at least one through aperture
for each first
item engaging part and/or protrusion. Preferably the at least one aperture is
provided on
the part of the further element nearest to the first item engaging part.
Preferably the further
element is provided with at least one through aperture for each second item
engaging part
and/or protrusion. Preferably the at least one aperture is provided on the
part of the further
element nearest to the second item engaging part.
The first and/or second and/or further elements may be angled relative to one
another of between 70° and 110°. Preferably the angle between
the further element and the
first and/or second elements is between 85° and 95°. The first
and second element item
engaging parts or surfaces may be angled relative to one another of between
70° and 110°
in one direction. The first and second element item engaging parts or surfaces
may be
generally parallel to one another in a second direction.
In an alternative embodiment of the invention at least a part of the first
and/or
second item engaging part/surface may be provided on a separate component to
the rest of
the mounting. Preferably the separate component is formed by moulding.
Preferably the
separate component is of plastics. The separate component may be in the form
of a plate.
The separate component may be provided with one or more through apertures for
fasteners. Preferably the separate component is attached to the mounting by
one of more,
preferably releasable, fasteners in use. The fasteners may be screws. The
fasteners may
engage the separate component and the mounting without passing through the
item. The
fasteners may engage with the first element and/or second element. Preferably
at least a
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part of the separate component is provided facing its element, and more
particularly its
contact surface. Preferably the separate component clamps the item between
itself and the
contact surface or surfaces.
According to a forteenth aspect of the we provide a method of attaching a
mounting
to including one part of a fastener to an item, preferably of furniture, the
method
including:-
providing a mounting, the mounting including:-
a first element, a second element and a further element;
the first element including a first item contacting surface and a first
item engaging surface, at least a portion of the first item
engaging surface facing in an opposing direction to the first
item contacting surface;
the second element including a second item contacting surface and a
second item engaging surface, at least a portion of the
second item engaging surface being in opposition to the
second item contacting surface;
the further element including a further item contacting surface;
wherein the first, second and further item contacting surfaces are
each angled relative to one another;
causing at least a part of the first and second item engaging part and/or
first
and second item engaging surface to be deformed from a first rest state to a
second
deformed state;
providing the mounting in the mounted position, the first and second item
engaging part/surface returning to the first rest state.
The transition from first rest state to deformed state may occur at the same
time for
both the first and second item engaging surfaces/parts or may occur
separately. The
deformation may be caused by pushing the mounting on to the item
The method may further include attaching a canopy, sun screen, sunshade,
provided with the other part of the fastener system, to the mounting using the
part of the
fastener system included in the mounting.
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The method may further include mounting one or more further mountings on the
item at one or more other locations. The locations may be the corners of the
item,
particularly the top corners.
The item may be a chair, sun lounger or other item of furniture. The item may
be a
moulded plastics item.
Preferably only one of the first or second item engaging parts is deformed.
Preferably the other of the first or second item engaging parts is mounting on
the frame by
means of a sliding motion. Preferably the other engaging part is so engaged
before the part
mounted by means of the deformation is engaged. Preferably the sliding motion
forms the
engagement for the second item engaging part. Preferably the deformation
provides the
engagement for the first item engaging part. Preferably the sliding motion
introduces a
part of the frame into position between the item engaging part and the item
contacting
surface.
The mounting may be removeable from the frame 3. Preferably the mounting is
removed after the item attached to the mounting has been removed. Preferably
the
mounting is removed by sliding the mounting around the frame, particularly
around the
edge thereof. The movement may seek to move one of the first or second item
engaging
parts towards the position occupied by the other. The movement may include a
rotation of
the mounting.
The fourteenth aspect of the invention may include any of the features,
options or
possibilities set out elsewhere in this document.
Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of
example only, with reference to the following drawings in which:
Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a lounger and two lounger accessories
in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2a shows an embodiment of a canopy according to the present
invention in a folded position;
Figure 2b shows an embodiment of a view of a canopy according to the
present invention in a position of use;
Figure 3 shows a side view of part of the back of a lounger and the part of
an attached canopy according to an embodiment of the present invention;
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Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the part of the canopy shown in
Figure 3;
Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a canopy according to an embodiment
of the present invention with the fabric removed;
Figure 6 illustrates an exploded view of two joints of a canopy according to
an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 7 is a perspective, partially exploded view of a canopy according to
another embodiment of the invention;
Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view along axis AA-AA of Figure 7;
Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a lounger and a lounger accessory in
accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 10 shows a side view of a first and second component of the fastener
system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the second
component is shown attached by means of a clamp to the tubular top frame of a
lounger;
Figure 11 shows a front view of a first and second component of the
fastener system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the
second component is shown attached by means of a clamp to the tubular side
frame
of a lounger.
Figure 12 shows an embodiment of a technique for providing the second
component of the fastener recessed in an item of furniture, particularly
wooden
furniture;
Figure 13 shows an embodiment of a technique for providing a second
component of a fastener an item of furniture, particularly of tubular metal
construction;
Figure 14 shows the folded form of a canopy according to the present
invention;
Figure 15 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an arm according to one
form of the invention;
Figure 16 illustrates a particularly preferred form of the invention in
exploded form;
Figure 17 illustrates the form of Figure 16 in assembled form;
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Figure 18 shows the shade which can be provided by the Figure 16 and
Figure 17 form in use;
Figure 19 shows a further folded form of a canopy according to the
invention;
Figure 20 shows a perspective view of one part of a joint;
Figure 21 shows a view of one part of a first joint;
Figure 22 shows a modular first arm concept;
Figure 23 is a front view of a mounting according to one embodiment of the
present invention in use on a frame;
Figure 24 is a rear view of the mounting of Figure 23;
Figure 25 is a front view of a mounting according to a further embodiment
of the invention;
Figure 26 is an internal view of one half of the mounting of Figure 25;
Figure 27 illustrates a further embodiment of the invention;
Figure 28 is a top perspective view of a mounting according to the further
embodiment of Figure 27, in dis assembled state;
Figure 29 is a bottom perspective view of the further embodiment as
illustrated in Figure 27 also in dis assembled state;
Figure 30 is a rear perspective view of a part of a furniture frame and a
mounting according to the present invention in a detached state;
Figure 31 illustrates the furniture frame and mounting of Figure 1 in an
attached state;
Figure 32 is a front view of a chair back incorporating two mountings
according to the present invention in attached state;
Figure 33 is a rear view of the chair back of Figure 3 also showing two
mountings according to the present invention in attached state;
Figure 34 is an illustration of an alternative embodiment of the invention;
Figure 35 is an illustration in cross-section of one catch portion
embodiment suitable for use in the present invention;
Figure 36 is an illustration in cross-section of another catch portion
embodiment suitable for use in the present invention;
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Figure 37 is an illustration in cross-section of an alternative form of
mounting according to the invention; and
Figure 3~ shows the sequence of steps involved in providing a mounting on
a frame and in then attaching an item to the mounting.
A wide variety of furniture designs exist, including a large number of
recreational
furniture forms. The applicant has sought to increase the versatility of these
through the
development of accessories for that furniture. In doing so the applicant has
sought to
produce a fastening system for the accessories which is convenient to apply to
the
furniture. The system can be applied retrospectively to existing examples of
designs as
well as integrated into new designs. Importantly, the system and accessories
are designed
to be able to attach to a wide variety of furniture designs of independent
manufacturer
from the manufacturer of the accessories. This is important in ensuring the
accessories can
be attached to a variety of furniture designs without extensive cooperation
and
standardisation of the fastening system and furniture designs. At the same
time the
applicant has sought to provide the attachment of the accessories in a way
which allows
them to be easily attached and detached as necessary from the furniture. This
is
particularly important in the case of hotels, cruise liners and the like where
very large
numbers of pieces of furniture need to be put out and then stored away each
day. The
attachment of accessories is only viable in such cases where the attachment
and
detachment process is very easy.
Over and above the attachment technique itself the applicant has sought to
provide a new range of accessories for furniture which are particularly well
adapted to
purpose due to their design. The accessories include a canopy offering
substantial
adjustability in terms of positioning, with effective sun shielding
properties, but offering
ventilation and minimising potentially disruptive effects due to wind
resistance. The
accessories also include a table design which can be used in a variety of
positions and even
be used as the tray on which to bring items being served to the furniture and
its user.
In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 two lounger accessories, a table 2
and a
canopy 4, are shown in proximity to the lounger 6 on which they will be used
in practice.
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The table 2 has a generally horizontal support surface 10 fixed to a pair of
downwardly depending support arms 12 which are attached to the support surface
10 more
towards one side 14 than towards the other. Each of the support arms 12 is
provided with
a first component 16 of a fastener system at the other end. A part of each of
the first
components 16 of the fastener system is received within a respective second
component
located in the upper surface of the arm rest 20 to provide the attachment for
the table 2.
The second component is fully recessed and provided with a flush finish to the
arm rest 20
so as to be as attractive as possible.
By providing the support arms 12 towards the one side 14 of the table 2 and by
using a fastener system which is fully reversible the table 2 is itself made
fully reversible.
Thus the table 2 may be mounted so that it extends away to the side of the
lounger 6 or, as
shown, may extend over the seat 22 of the lounger 6 and thus over the lap of
the occupant
of the lounger 6. The ability to be able to operate the first component 16
with either hand
and the fact that the first component 16 is not handed in its operation
renders the system
highly flexible. More detail of the possible nature of the engagement between
the first and
second components of the fastener system follows later in this document.
The table 2 can be attached to the lounger 6 when the lounger is first set up
for the
day. The orientation of the table 2 can then be changed by the user as their
needs change
during the day. Alternatively when the user wants a drink or other item
requiring the table
2 to be present that item can be brought to the lounger 6 on a table 2 which
is then attached
and left for the user. The finished item may be removed alone or together with
the table 2.
Different table designs may be used to bring different items to the lounger 6.
For instance
whilst a drink may be brought on a small table of the type shown in Figure 1,
a meal may
be brought on a table (not shown) which spans from one arm rest to the other
and is
attached to the lounger 6 through arms 12 on both sides which engage with the
arm rests
20. Full support in the desired position for a weighty item is thus provided.
With regard to the other accessory illustrated in Figure 1 this is in the form
of a
canopy 4 intended to provide shade from the sun. The canopy 4 is provided at
one end
with a pair of arms 32 each having an end which terminates with a first
component 34 of
the fastener system. A part of the first component 34 of the fastener system
is received in
each case within a second component 36 of the fastener system to provide the
attachment.
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In this embodiment, particularly intended for new products, the second
component 36 is recessed into the frame 38 which defines the top edge 40 of
the lounger 6.
The arms 32 depend away from the first component 34 in a manner generally
aligned with
the axis of insertion and removal of the first component 34 relative to the
second
component 36 in the simplest form of the invention. As a result the plane 42
defined
between the two arms 32 is generally co-planar with the back 44 of the lounger
6. The
other ends of the arms 32 are provided with an adjustable joint, such as a
ratchet joint 46,
described in more detail below.
Extending from the joints 46 in each case are second arms 48 which again end
in
a second adjustable joint, such as ratchet joint 50. Extending from the
ratchet joint 50 is a
further pair of arms 52 linked by an end arm 54. The second arms 48 provide
support for
canopy material 56 and the further arms 52 and link arm 54 provide support for
the canopy
material 58.
The canopy material 56 and canopy material 58 may be a single piece of
material.
A further piece of canopy material may be provided between arms 32 and this
may be
integral with the piece of canopy material 56 and even piece 58. Alternatively
as shown
the gap between the arms 32 may be left open to provide ventilation through
airflow. A
compromise between sun shielding and ventilation may be provided by using a
number of
separate, loose flaps of material between the arms 32. The canopy material may
cover the
arms, for instance by looping the material under the arms and attaching it to
the canopy
rr~aterial on the other side of the arms.
In an alternative form, not shown, the second joints SO may be joined by a
single
support arm in the form of an arc extending out towards the end of the canopy
before
returning to the joint 50 on the other side of the canopy 30.
The canopy 4 thus provided is in three principal parts A, B and C, as shown in
Figures 2a and 2b. In storage or transportable form, the canopy 4 may be
folded such that
the part A folds against part B and part B is then folded towards part C, with
part A being
between both part B and part C. When folded in this way a storage and
transportation
form for the canopy which minimises the space occupied is achieved.
Importantly this
manner of folding is possible whilst allowing the use of a safety feature.
Referring to
Figure 2a it is possible to rotate part A relative to part B about the first
joint which links
them by around 270° anticlockwise, however, beyond that point the joint
includes a stop
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which prevents further rotation. This prevents a canopy swinging down on to
the user if
they carelessly loosen the first joint. It is also possible to rotate part C
relative to part B
about the second joint which links them by around 270° clockwise. Again
further rotation
beyond that point is prevented by a stop in the second joint. Again this
prevents the end of
the canopy swinging down and potentially hitting the user if the second joint
is loosened
too much.
In use the first part A is generally fixed in position relative to the lounger
6, see
Figure 2b. The other two parts, B and C are adjustable in angle relative to
the lounger 6
and relative to each other. In general part B will be used angled up to give
height
clearance for the canopy, whilst part C will be significantly angled down to
provide
shading for the upper body of the user. The length of the parts/arms may be
variable by
telescopic action, particularly in the case of part A. The stops in the joint
prevent part B
going much further in a clockwise direction as seen in the Figure and also
prevent part C
going down too far and swinging into the user.
In a preferred form the canopy folds in a similar manner to that shown in
Figures
2a and 2b. Thus referring to Figure 14 the fastener bearing arm A folds onto
the top of,
and more preferably between part B. The part C folds onto the top of that
structure and
more preferably also folds down between. The result is a structure which folds
very flat
and occupies little space during storage and transport before and after
purchase. Face 80 is
the underside of part B in use, face 82 is the underside of part C in use and
face 84 is the
back face of part A in use.
The spacing of the two parts A of the structure is less than the spacing of
the two
parts B. As a consequence parts A fold down inside the profile of part B to
give a lower
profile folded structure. The junction between part B and joint 86 is offset
so that part C
can be folded back directly onto part B in practice as the separation of the
two parts C is
the same as the separation of the two parts B. In Figure 14 the folding
structure is shown
open slightly so as to illustrate the position of part A.
Most importantly the material mounted on parts A, B and C and extending
between the two parts A, two parts B and two parts C in each case to define
the canopy are
joined together to form a single canopy cover. The canopy cover is mounted on
the arms
by wrapping a piece of the canopy around the arm and stitching and/or welding
the canopy
edge back to the canopy so as to form a sleeve which encloses the arm. The
link between
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the canopy covers provided in this way for arms A, arms B and arms C are
provided in the
form of a strip of fabric which bridges the gap between the canopy cover
parts.
Importantly this bridge is provided on the inside of the joint so that this
piece of material
88 is relaxed and folds when the canopy is converted from the in use position
to the
storage/transportation position. If the fabric were provided around the
outside of the joint
this fabric junction would be stretched during the folding procedure and
disrupt the canopy
cover configuration.
A similar flat folding structure can be provided for a four component
structure, as
shown in Figure 19. Here the second arm 90 is the longest and ends in first
joint 92 and
second joint 94. The first joint 92 is connected to the first arm 96, shown by
the cross
markings, which is folded inside the profile occupied by the second arms 90.
The second
joint 94 is connected to the third arm 98 and this arm 98 is shorter than arm
100 so that the
third joint 100 lies inside the end 102 of the second arm 90 profile. The
further arm 104,
shown by dotted markings, is folded inside the profile occupied by the third
arm 98.
Overall a very flat low profile structure is obtained.
To provide a canopy which is effective in providing shade against sunshine,
but
which is not prone to catching by the wind it is possible to use one of a
variety of fabric
designs. Included in these are designs with single threads running in a first
direction,
alternate passing over and under a pair of threads running in a perpendicular
direction.
Spacings between the threads in both directions are provided so as to provide
through
apertures in the fabric which enable the wind to pass through yet give 92%
effective
shade. A fabric which gives 75% screening against UV can be achieved whilst
still
permitting 85% of the wind to pass through. In conjunction with even a mild
sunscreen
cream the present invention can allow a person to stay outside for
substantially longer
periods. The invention is also effective in keeping a person cool during this
period. The
shade from the third part can conveniently be increased by folding the
fourth/end part back
over it.
The canopy may deploy metal arms or may feature all plastic or aluminium arms
in which the arms and the joints and fastener are all provided entirely of
plastic, a
combination of materials is of course possible. In a preferred form the arms
are formed of
plastic extrusions of generally square cross-section, but with rounded
corners. This
construction is preferred for the second and further arms. The first arms are
preferably of
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the form illustrated in Figure 15. The cross-section of Figure 15 clearly
shows the I-beam
section 122 from which the arm 120 is formed. The I-beam section 122 is
supplemented
by a series of cross-members 124 which extend diagonally across the groove 126
defined
on either side of the I-beam section 122. The cross-members thus define a
series of
diamond shaped recesses 128 and triangular recesses 130. The I-beam section
and cross-
members are preferably integral with one another, for instance due to
production in the
same moulded process.
It is, of course, possible to include a fourth panel on the canopy by
inserting a
further pair of arms and joints into the overall configuration.
Whilst most recreational furniture, including loungers, have a substantial
frame to
them which could accommodate the second component of the fastening system
recessed
within it, the shape and configuration of the frame varies quite considerably
from one
design to the next, and particularly from one manufacturer to the next. It is
desirable for
the accessories produced according to the present invention to fit a wide
variety of
furniture designs and furniture manufacturers without requiring a specific
accessory
product in each case and / or the requirement for consistent position and
orientation of the
second component in each type of furniture.
To address this issue the capability to accommodate significant variation in
the
position and orientation of the second component is built into the invention.
Referring to
Figures 3 and 4 the function of this aspect of the invention is described.
Figure 3 provides a view of a part of the frame 200 of the lounger. The frame
200
includes a substantially vertical side 202, inclined side 204 and curved top
surface 206
which joins the side 204 on one side of the frame 200 to a corresponding
surface on the
other side of the frame 200. The second component 208 fully recessed within
the top
surface 206 of the frame 200 of the lounger, with the opening of the second
component in
the top surface 206 also. This cooperates, as shown, with a first component
210.
As can be seen in Figure 4, with the frame 200 and second component 208
omitted, the first component 210 involves a body portion 212 which enters the
second
component 208 in use, a pair of dependent arms 214 and a pair of gripper
portions 216 at
the tops of the arms 214. The continuation part 218 of the body portion 212
connects the
first component 210 to disc element 220. The disk element 220 has a central
aperture and
is received in a channel 224 in the mount 226 for the arm 228. The channel 224
is defined
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by a first side part 230 and by a second side part 232, those side parts being
joined by the
mount 226. Both parts 230 and 232 also have central apertures which correspond
in
position and size with aperture 222 in disk 220. A pin received in this
aperture allows for
the rotation of the disk 220, continuation part 218 and first component 210
relative to the
mount 226, arm 228 and the rest of the canopy. Thus whilst the arms 228 of the
canopy
are maintained substantially vertically aligned, the first component 210 can
be angled so as
to be aligned with second component 2f8 in an alignment set by the requirement
to have a
flush finish for the second component 208 with the curved top surface 206.
The arm 228 is of tubular design and is capable of receiving in its end 236
another, reduced diameter arm which can slide up and down within arm 228.
Releasable
fixings provided on each of the arms (not shown) allow the arm 228 and second
arm to be
moved in a telescopic manner to a desired position. Thus, the height of the
canopy relative
to the item of furniture can be adjusted. A lower height may be required for a
lounger than
that required for a chair, or vice versa.
Figure 5 illustrates the overall support structure for a canopy of the type
provided
according to the present invention. Thus this includes a pair of first
components 500
attached to one end of arms 502 using mounting 504. The arms 502 are generally
vertical.
These terminate in joints 506 which lead on to second arms 508, further joints
510 and
further arm portions 512 joined to link arm 514 by curves 516. Each of the
joints 506 is
joined by a cross arm 518, and in the case of joints 510 by cross arm 520. In
use of course
the canopy is covered by suitable fabric panels.
Figure 6 provides an exploded perspective view of the first component of the
fastening system, its interrelationship with first arm 550, joint 552 and arm
554.
The first component 556 is of a similar design to that set out in Figures 3
and 4
above. However, the mounting 558 receives the arm 550 and which joins the two
parts
560 and 562 together to define the channel 564 is slightly different. In this
case the mount
is provided directly between the two parts 560, 562, and also provides there
the mount for
the arm 550. Again, the position of the arm 550 relative to the first
component can be
adjusted through a variety of angles by releasing and then tightening nut 564.
The joint 552 features an adjustable knob 300 which is used to release or
tighten
the joint so as to allow movement and then fix the movement of the arms 550
and 554
relative to one another. The knob 300 cooperates with the head 302 of a shaft
304 (only
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partially shown) which passes through aperture 306 in the arm 554, and
corresponding
apertures in each of the block 308, first splined element 310, second splined
element 312,
second block 314, hole 316 in the top of arm 550, cap 318 and on across to the
other
mounting (not shown) through aperture 320 in the cap 318. The full length of
the shaft
304 is not shown. In assembly the arm 554 is received within a corresponding
shaped
channel 322 in block 308. Protrusions 324 on the first splined part 310
provide
cooperation between that first splined part 310 and the block 308. Similar
protrusions and
cooperation between the second splined part 312 and second block 314 are
provided. A
spring, not shown, is provided to urge the splined part 310 and 312 apart
unless resisted by
the tightened knob 300. The spring assists in freeing up the splined parts 310
and 312 for
relative movement when a user wants to adjust the position. Tightening up the
knob 300
forces the splined parts 310 and 312 together again to provide a fixed system.
The second
block 314 also has a channel 326 which accommodates the arm 550 in the
assembled state.
The splines on the first and second splined components 310, 312, allow the two
arms to be
rotated relative to one another when the tension is released, but fix the
position when the
knob 300 is tightened.
In a further embodiment of the invention, illustrated in Figure 7, shows the
canopy frame 550 which underlies the fabric, not shown, in use. The frame 550
includes a
first pair of components 552 attached to one end of arms 554 using a mounting
556. The
arms 554 are generally vertical in use. These terminate in joints 558 which
lead to second
arms 560, further joints 562 and further arm portions 564. The ends of the
further arm
portions 566 are joined by curve 566. One of the further joints 562 is
described in more
detail below with reference to Figure 8. Each of the further joints 562 are
linked by a cross
arm 570 and each of the joints 558 are linked by cross arm 572. The cross arms
570 and
572 are both of hollow square cross-section metal. The hollow 574 receives the
shaft 576
of the joint tightening system. Each of the ends of the cross arms 570 and 572
are received
in square profiled recesses 578 in the joints 564 and 560 respectively.
The joints 558 and 562 each feature a pair of square cross-sectioned hollows
580
which receive the ends of the square cross-sectioned elements which form the
arms 554,
second arms 560 and further arms 564 in a sliding engagement.
Referring to Figure 8, the further joint 562 on the right hand side of Figure
7 is
shown in assembled cross-section. The cross arm 570 contains the shaft 576 of
the
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tightening system. At its end, the shaft 576 is provided with a nut 577 and an
engagement
with a spring 582. The nut 577 is also attached to knob 584 by cooperation
with a recess
in the knob 584. The knob 584 is free to rotate relative to block 585 which
has a splined
surface 586 which engages with a splined surface 588 on block 590. Loosening
off the
knob 584 allows the block 585 to release its engagement with the other block
590. This
allows rotation of one block relative to the other and hence of the further
arms 564 relative
to arms 560. The spring 582 encourages the splined surfaces 586, 588 back into
contact
with one another. Tightening the knob 584 fixes the position. The operation of
the knob
584 releases and fixes the splined surfaces in both joints 562.
In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 9, the lounger 700 is of a generally
similar
construction to that discussed above in relation to Figure 1. The canopy 750
includes a
pair of arms 732 each having a first end which terminates with a first
component 754 of a
fastener system. A part of each of the first components 754 of the fastener
system is
received within a second component which is clamped (clamping means not shown)
to a
rear portion 758 of the frame 760 of the lounger 700. Details of the clamping
are provided
below. The remaining structure of the canopy 750 corresponds to that described
above for
the Figure 1 embodiment, save for the fact that the canopy material is
provided as a series
of loose, overlapping strips 762.
Figures 10 and 11 illustrate embodiments of the present invention, such as
that for
the canopy in Figure 7, in which the second components of the fastener system
are
mounted on the lounger by means of clamps 600. Such a system is particularly
useful in
relation to tubular furniture. The clamps 600 have a pair of arms 602a, 602b
connected by
a hinge 604. Each arm 602a, 602b has a cup-shaped portion 604a, 604b in
opposition to
one another and which can be fastened around a part of the frame 606 of the
lounger.
In use, a screw threaded component 608 with head 609 adjusts the separation of
the arms
602a, 602b of the clamp 600 and is slotted through a mounting hole 610 in a
mounting
portion 612. The mounting portion 612 is connected to the receiving portion
614 of the
second component 616. Tightening the component 608 causes the clamp 600 to
securely
engage the frame 606. Once fastened to the frame 606 this form of attachment
is not used
in releasing or reattaching the accessories to the lounger. Instead the fully
reversible,
quick release, single handed operable fastener system formed by the first and
second
components themselves is used. In the case of Figure 8 the clamp 600 is used
to attach the
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device to a generally horizontal tubular frame 606, for instance at the top of
the back of the
lounger. In the case of Figure 11 the clamp 600 is used to clamp to a
generally vertical
tubular frame 606, for instance as provided at the side of the back of the
lounger.
Also referring to Figure 10 and Figure 11 the fastener system based on the
first
component and second component is described. In the case of the first
component 800 it
generally comprises a body part 802 having a leading edge 804. A pair of
deformable
arms 806 with grip parts 807 depend from the lead edge 804 of the body portion
802 back
towards the trailing edge 808 of the body portion 802. In use, the lead edge
804 of the first
component 800 is inserted into the receiving portion 614 of the second
component 616.
The inside of the receiving portion 614 is configured to cause the arms 806 to
be deformed
towards the body portion 802 as the lead edge 804 of the first component is
pushed into the
receiving portion 814. Once the lugs 814 on the arms 806 reach a position
corresponding
with the position of the apertures 816 in the wall of the receiving portion
814 of the second
component 616 the resilient nature of the arms forces them out once more and
causes the
lugs 814 and apertures 816 to engage and so retain the first and second
components
together.
The internal surfaces of the receiving portion 616 are configured to abut the
surfaces of the body part 802 over a substantial area so as to provide a firm,
supported
engagement.
With particular application to wooden furniture, the second component of the
fastener may be provided recessed into a member 850, Figure 12. The block 850
may be a
structural part of the top of the frame of the item of furniture. In some
cases it may be
necessary to increase the width X of this piece compared with the member used
in the
design of furniture prior to adapting to accommodate the canopy concept. In
other cases,
such a modification is not necessary. Either way the mounting location for the
second
component 852 is provided in the member 850 without any detracting effect on
appearance. A clip in cover 854 is ideally provided to cover the top of the
recess into
which the plastic second component is inserted.
If the second component needs to be retrofitted to a design then it is
possible to
provide it in a block, in a similar configuration to that of Figure 12, with
the block then
being attached to the existing item of furniture, for instance on an
equivalent to face 856 of
Figure 12.
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In the context of tubular furniture frames, Figure 13, it is possible to
incorporate
the second component 870 on top of, or even to the side of, a mounting piece
872. The
mounting piece 872 has a through aperture 874 of cross-section which conforms
to the
tubular frame 876. In the case of a circular cross-section tube, one or more
apertures 878
or notches or grooves in the tube are provided to cooperate with matching
protrusions on
the inside of the through aperture 874. The mounting piece 872 is slid along
the tube until
the projection and aperture snap into engagement. Undesired rotation of the
mount and
canopy relative to the furniture is then resisted in an aesthetically pleasing
way.
In a preferred assembly technique, the canopy is provided in the desired shape
with a series of sleeves which receive the arms. The sleeves are in the
desired position and
are formed by folding a portion of the canopy over and welding the end of that
portion to
the main part of the canopy. The first arms bearing the first component of the
fastener are
then slid into their sleeves. The joint is then mounted on the end of each of
the first arms,
by means of a sliding engagement, before the cross-arm is attached. The
fastener for that
cross-arm is then attached and tightened. The second arms are then slid into
the joints and
their respective sleeves, before the further joints are slid onto the other
ends of the second
arms. The cross-arm is then introduced and its fastener introduced and
tightened. Finally
the further arm is introduced into its sleeve and slid into the ends of the
joints to complete
the canopy assembly. The provision of the arms, cross-arms and joints as
separate
components allows the size and shape of canopy to be made to be changed
without the
need for expensive redesign or changes to the joint manufacturing process.
Changing the
arm length and canopy shape is all that is needed.
A particularly preferred form of the invention is provided in Figure 16. This
four
section canopy uses first arms 900 which are the shortest , second arms 902
which are the
longest and third arms 904 which are shorter than the second arms and longer
than the first
arms. It may also use first 906, second 908 and third 910 link arms which are
of
equivalent length to each other and of the same length as the second further
arm/end arm
912. This reduces the number of different components that must be made and
reduces the
skill level needed for assembly. The design is shown in conjunction with
mountings 914
particularly suited to use of plastic chairs. The assembled form is shown in
Figure 17.
A key feature in allowing the wind to pass through the fabric and/or not cause
problems in other ways is to provide the canopy material between the arms in a
tight
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manner. To achieve this successfully a particular assembly sequence is useful.
Refernng
to Figure 16, the assembly starts with the canopy material in the correct form
with sleeves
to receive both the arms and the links. Link 912 is inserted into its sleeve
first. The corner
pieces 914 are then attached. Arms 916 are then inserted. Then either link 910
is inserted
followed by the first half of the joints 918 or vice versa. The arms 904 are
then inserted
into their sleeve and then into the end of the other half of joint 918. The
end of the arm
away from the joint is splayed apart slightly to cause the two halves of the
joint 918 to
engage. The half of the joint 920 is then provided on the arms 904 and then
link 908
inserted or vice versa. Arms 902 are then inserted and the joint 920 is
completed. Finally
the link arm 906 is pushed into the sleeve and slotted in to one end 922 of
the joint 924. At
the other end 926, the joint 924 is provided with a partial cuff away in its
rim so as to allow
the link arm 906 to be pushed into that joint also. The partial cut away also
provides
assistance in guiding the link arm into position correctly. The whole assembly
is acheived
without any significant slack in the fabric.
The extent of screening achieved using this type of design is shown in Figure
18
in relation to different sun angles (the numbers across the bottom). As can be
seen
significant and effective sun screening is achieved.
Referring to Figure 20, one half 940 of a joint is shown in perspective. Such
a
joint is particularly suited for use between the second and third arms. The
arm, not shown,
is inserted into the body portion 942. The body portion 942 is connected to a
disc portion
944 which carries a series of radially extending ridges 946. A surface
carrying such ridges
is also provided on the other half of the joint, not shown. The ridges 946
engage with one
another to resist movement until sufficient force is applied to overcome the
resistance
level. The centre of the joint is provided with a raised portion in the form
of a boss 948.
The axis of rotation passes through the centre. The central aperture 950 is of
hexagonal
cross-section. In this way a hexagonal cross-section link arm is locked in
position relative
to the joint once inserted. The boss 948 cooperates with a recessed portion
around the axis
of rotation of the other half.
One or more of the joints, particularly the first joint, may be provided with
free
rotation between the limit of rotation in one direction and the limit of
rotation in the other
direction. As shown in Figure 21, the limit of rotation may be defined by the
point 960 at
which a protrusion on the half of the joint not shown abuts a stop 962 in the
half 964
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shown. The stop 962 is reinforced by a metal pin 966 provided in the plastic
material. A
channel 968 in this half provides a pathway through which the protrusion can
move during
rotation. To assist in stabilising the joint a further projection is provided
on the same half
as the first. This cooperates at the limit of rotation with a different stop
970. The stop 970
is provided at one end of an external channel 972. The channel 972 is open
sided and is
separated form the channel 968 by raised part 974. By placing the two stops
180 degrees
apart increased stability to the joint is provided. The channel 968 is bridged
by a series of
webs 976 at a depth which does not interfere with the passage of the
protrusion.
To provide increased flexibility in terms of the arm length, particularly in
relation
to the first arm, a modular arm construction can be used, as illustrated in
Figure 22. The
plastic arm 980 is provided with a smaller cross-section pin 982 at one end
and with an
aperture to receive such a pin at the other end 984. Thus a further arm part
986 can be
mounted on the first 980 to provide increased length. A first joint is mounted
on one end
of the first arm and the one part of the fastener is mounted on the other end
using the same
mounting pin 982 or aperture. This means the expense of producing different
length arms
is significantly reduced.
The design of the canopy also takes into account wind action. The inclination
of
the further section, and when present third section, is design such that the
wind pushes the
canopy down towards the user. This force therefore acts against the rotational
stops
provided and does not cause the position of the sections to vary, or in an
extreme case fold
up. Furthermore, this action in conjunction with the mounting design is
effective in
dissipating the force to the furniture. Throughout an effective canopy and
mounting is
acheived.
In its various forms it should be noted that the invention achieves an
attractive,
effective canopy and mount for other items, which does not require bracing
pieces between
the arms to maintain their position or give them strength. Additionally the
canopy folds
flat in a space saving manner for ease of transport and storage.
Whilst the present invention has been illustrated in relation to loungers and
accessories therefore it should be appreciated that the invention is equally
applicable to
other items of furniture including tables, chairs and others. The accessories
can also be
different from those illustrated in the embodiments, including parasols,
windbreaks,
reading lights, reading stands, or any ancillary product.
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A significant number of different furniture designs exist. When seeking to fit
a
releasable canopy, sunshade or the like to such furniture problems are faced
in obtaining a
sufficiently secure fitting to resist the turning moment of the canopy
attached. This
problem is particularly acute with tubular framed furniture where the circular
cross-section
of the tube does not resist such turning. Mountings which use fixings that
pass through the
frame are potentially complicated to produce or install, particularly after
assembly. Holes
through the frame and the like are unattractive when not in use and are
difficult for users to
provide after purchase when seeking to retrofit. Similar problems and issues
are faced
when seeking to provide mountings on tubular frames in other situations. This
is
particularly true in the case of nursery equipment, such as push chairs,
buggies, prams and
the like.
To address these and other issues, the present invention has been developed.
The
invention is described below primarily in relation to furniture frames, but is
more widely
applicable than that.
Referring to the embodiment of Figure 23, the mounting 1001 is designed to be
securely attached to the frame 1003 of the item of furniture, such as a chair
back. The
mounting 1001 is attached to one corner 1005 of the frame 1003. The frame 1003
has a
corner 1005 defined by a first tubular element 1007, second tubular element
1009 and
connecting tubular curved element 1011 which form the continuous frame. The
second
element 1009 is generally linear and is generally horizontal. The first
element 1007 is also
generally linear and depends downward relative to the position of the second
element
1009. The first element 1007 can be generally vertically provided, provided on
an incline
or provided at a variety of angles as the furniture is adjusted, depending on
the particular
design of furniture.
The mounting lis formed of a first part and a second part, which in the
illustrated
form are halves, the front half 1013 being the more visible in Figure 23, the
rear half 1015
being the more visible in Figure 24.
The front half 1013 includes a first body part 1017 to one side of the.channel
1019
which receives the frame 1003 and a second body part 1021 to the other side of
the
channel 1019. The channel is defined by a body section 1023 which curves out
and away
from first body part 1017, around the frame 1003 before curving back to join
second body
part 1021. The body section 1023 is also curved in a further direction to
shape the channel
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1019 to the form of the parts of the frame 1003 it receives, namely the curved
element
1011, and an initial part of each of the first element 1007 and second element
1009.
The first body part 1017 and second body part 1021 have generally planar faces
and curved edges 1029 which bring the edge of the body parts 1017, 1019 round
to match
the edges 1031 of the corresponding body parts of the rear half 101 S. The
junction
between the first body part 1017 and body section 1023 and between the second
body part
1021 and body section 1023 are provided with curves 1033 to provide a smooth
transition.
The first body part 1017 importantly accommodates the first part of the
fastener
system within it. The first part in the illustrated form is a female part
provided in a recess
1035 which includes within it guide channels for ensuring accurate
introduction of the
male part 1036 of the fastener system and retaining means for maintaining the
male and
female parts in firm engagement with one another when desired. The male and
female
parts are releasable. For more details of a suitable fastener system reference
is made to
W098/17922 of the applicant.
Referring to Figure 24 in particular, the manner of introduction of the
mounting to
an existing tubular cross-section frame is described. The tubular cross-
section frame may
be existing in the context of being a produced item of furniture ready to
leave the factory
or may be an existing tubular cross-section frame in the context of being an
item of
furniture previously bought, some time ago, by a consumer and to which the
consumer
now desires to attach a mounting.
Firstly, if provided joined together, the front half 1013 and rear half 1015
are
separated by releasing the screws 1037. Each screw 1037 passes through an
aperture in the
rear half 1015 and into a blind bore on the inside of the front half 1013 in
the connected
state.
The front half 1013 can then be introduced to the front of the frame 1003 so
that
the first element 1007, curved element 1011 and second element 1009 sit in the
channel
1019. The rear half 1015 can then be brought into position from the other side
and
matched up to the front half 1013. Introduction and tightening of the screws
1037 then
brings the two halves into firm contact with one another. The dimensions of
the channel
1019 formed by the body section 1023 of the front half 1013 and body section
1023 of the
rear half 1015 are such that a firm grip on the frame 1003 is achieved. In the
illustrated
form the frame 1003 is gripped throughout the length of the channel 1019.
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As an alternative, the mounting may provide first engaging portions, on the
front
half 1013 and rear half 1015 respectively, which engage the frame 1003 and
second
engaging portions on the front half 1013 and rear half 1015 respectively,
which engage the
frame 1003. The first and second engaging portions on a half may be spaced
from one
another by a portion which does not engage the frame. The spacing of the first
engaging
portions and second engaging portions on the frame should be sufficient that
the axis of the
channel 1019 or frame 1003 at the position of the first engaging portion or
the position of
the other first engaging portion, and preferably both, lies on a different
axis to the axis of
the channel 1019 or frame 1003, at the position of the second engaging portion
or the other
second engaging portion, and preferably both. If the axes are provided in this
way the
frame 1003 provides the resistance to turning of the mounting. A situation
where the first
engaging portions engage the first element 1007 and the second engaging
portions
engaging the second element 1009 is particularly useful as the linear nature
of these two
elements and the 90° incline of their axes to one another provides
strong resistance to
rotation.
In any of the embodiments, where necessary, the grip can be assisted by one.or
more compliant elements, such as rubber pads, provided in the channel 1019 in
positions
where they will contact the frame 1003.
Unlike prior art designs, the mounting does not rely on the grip between the
mounting and the frame to provide the resistance to relative movement between
the
mounting and frame. Jaw like clamps and other designs relying on that
principal offer
insufficient resistance to the rotation of the mounting caused by the leverage
effect of the
items attached to the fastener. Beneficially the mounting does not require any
modification of the frame, for instance the introduction of holes through it
to receive
fixings for the mount. Such prior art designs are unsuitable for retrofitting
by ordinary
persons as the require skilled drilling of holes in awkward assembled frames.
If pre-
provided, such holes are unsightly when not in use. Most usefully the design
is suited to
retrofitting of the mounting by ordinary people as no dismantling of the frame
is needed.
Significant benefits arise in the present invention from the use of the pre-
existing
configuration of the frame, first element 1007, second element 1009, to resist
rotation and
other movement of the mounting relative to the frame 1003.
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In the assembled form shown the two halves are joined together by the screws
1037, but assistance in keeping the two halves together is provided in the
vicinity of the
recess 1035 for the female part of the fastener, by the use of cap 1041 which
clips over
both halves of the design.
Whilst the above mentioned embodiment uses a channel 1019 which is configured
to the curved element 1011 of the frame 1003, this is not essential. In the
form shown in
Figure 25, the mounting is labelled with equivalent numbers for equivalent
parts to those
described above. In this case the body section 1050 is not curved to give a
channel 1019
matching a particular frame 1003 configuration. Instead the body section 1050
is provided
with a frame engaging part 1052 towards one end of the channel 1019 which is
designed to
engage first element 1007 and with a second frame engaging part 1054 towards
the other
end of the channel which is designed to engage second element 1009. Between
the two
engaging parts the body section 1050 defines a chamber 1056. The chamber 1056
is
significantly greater in extent than the limited form of the channel in the
Figure 23 and 24
form. The benefits of this are illustrated in Figure 26.
Generally tubular frames feature a consistent structure at their corners. This
is
due to the consistent nature of the frame material used by different
manufacturers of such
furniture. The balance between keeping weight down and achieving the necessary
strength
means that similar or even the same diameter of tubing is widely used.
Furthermore, the
limits on the radius of curve which can be formed for such materials generally
means
consistency in that area too. However, some variation will occur. This
variation is
accommodated by the Figure 25 and 26 design. Because the chamber 1056 puts
less
restriction on the frame 1003 to conform to a particular channel shape within
the mounting
a variety of different lengths and radii of curve for the curved element 1011
can be
accommodated successfully. The mounting is still effective due to the engaging
parts
1052, 1054. As shown in Figure 26, a relatively tight curved element 1011 a
and relatively
open curved element l O1 lb can also be accommodated in this design. Greater
flexibility
to accommodate a range of manufacturers products without special build of the
design for
each is thus achieved.
In many cases furniture and other items to which it is desired to attach the
mounting feature a substantially vertical first tubular element, substantially
horizontal
second tubular element and curved linking element at an appropriate location.
However,
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in some designs, see Figure 27, particularly in furniture, the horizontal
element x
connects via the curved element y to a relatively horizontally aligned element
z with the
vertical element elsewhere. This element z may be between 0 and 40° to
the horizontal.
Whilst two more substantially horizontal element z is generally provided at a
substantial
angle to the other horizontal element x the type of mounting specifically
described above
is not as well suited to such a case.
As a consequence a further embodiment of the invention set out above has been
developed and is illustrated in Figures 27, 28 and 29.
In this case the mounting 1100 again provides a first part and second part
generally in the form of halves of the mounting. In this case the first part
is more
reasonably referred to as the upper half 1102 and the second part as the lower
half 1104.
The top half 1102 defines a channel 1106 from one side 1108 through to the
other side
1110. Similarly the lower half 1104 also defines a channel 1106 from the first
side 1108 to
the other side 1110. This channel 1106 receives the frame in use.
The channel 1106 is defined by a body section 1112 which merges into a planar
face 1114. An equivalent structure is present on both the upper and lower
halves 1102,
1104 respectively. A smooth junction between the upper half 1102 and lower
half 1104 is
provided around all edges.
The first body part 1102 once again accommodates the first part of the
fastener
system within it. The first part of the illustrated form is a female part
provided in a recess
1116 defined by a cup component 1118 which is attached to the planar face 1114
and is
provided in an aperture therein. The extent of protrusion of the cup 1118 is
accommodated
by the lower half 1104 by means of a domed portion 1120. Again the female part
is
provided with guide channels to ensure accurate introduction of the male part
of the
fastener system. The co-operation between the male and female parts of the
fastener
system allows the firm mounting of the canopy on the frame of the furniture in
use.
As with the first embodiment of the mounting system, the mounting system is
fixed to the item of furniture by introducing one half 1102 to one side of the
frame and the
other half 1104 to the other side of the frame. The two halves are pushed
together so that
the frame is received within the channel 1106 and the cup component 1118 is
received
within the domed portion 1120. The two halves are then fastened together using
releasable
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fasteners which pass through fixing locations 1122 on the lower half 1104 into
further
fixing locations 1124 provided in the upper half 1102.
Once again this embodiment of the invention also relies upon the first frame
engaging portions 1126 provided on the upper half 1102 and first frame
engaging portions
1128 provided on the lower half 1104 engaging the frame at a position which
has a
different frame axis alignment/channel axis alignment to that at the position
of the second
frame engaging portions 1130 of the upper half 1102 and the second frame
engaging
portions 1132 of the lower half 1104.
This embodiment of the invention provides the axis of insertion of the male
component into the female component of the fastener system substantially
perpendicular to
both the axis of the channel/frame at the first frame engaging portion
position and also at
the second frame engaging portion position. This contrasts with the first
embodiment of
the invention in which the axis of insertion of the male component into the
female
component of the fastener system generally corresponds to the axis of the
frame and
channel at the first frame engaging portion positions and is at 90° to
the axis of the
channel/frame at the second frame engaging portion positions.
In the context of a mounting for nursery equipment featuring tubular frames, a
mounting according to the general principle of Figure 23 can be used. It is
preferred,
however, that the female part defined by the recess 1035 is provided
integrally by the first
or second part, rather than by the two parts when positioned together. The two
part
concept is still used, but provides th clamping action on the tube only.
All of the embodiments of the invention offer the significant advantage that
the
mountings are self positioning on the frame. The co-operation between the
mounting and
the frame only truly fits at the intended location due to the careful design
of the first and
second frame engaging portions and the overall channel design to fit to the
frame profile
fully at that position only. This makes full use of the distinctive linear-
curved-linear form
of the frame.
A significant number of different furniture designs exist. When seeking to fit
a
releasable canopy, sunshade or the like to such furniture problems are faced
in obtaining a
sufficiently secure fitting to resist the turning moment of the canopy
attached. This is a
particular problem with resin framed furniture, particularly in the context of
retrofitting of
such mountings, as the materials from which the frames are formed are not
particularly
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suited to unskilled modification. The cutting of such frames, drilling of
holes in such
frames or other modifications are likely to damage the frame, significantly
weaken it or
leave the frame in an aesthetically unattractive state.
To address these and other issues, the present invention has been developed.
Referring to Figure 30 the invention is explained in the context of a chair,
but it
should be realised that it is equally applicable to a full range of furniture.
The mounting
2001 is designed to be securely attached to the frame 2003 of the item of
furniture. The
mounting 2001 is intended to attach to one corner 2005 of the frame 2003.
The frame 2003 includes a planar face 2007 which forms the back of the chair
against which the user leans in use. The frame 2003 also includes a side wall
2009, top
wall 2011 and linking wall 2013 in the form of a curve. The three walls are
provided by as
a continuous, integral part of the chair. Such a structure is readily formed
by moulding
plastic materials, for instance. The side wall 2009 is provided in a generally
vertical
configuration, the top wall 2011 is provided in a generally horizontal
configuration and the
linking wall 2013 provides for the transition between the two.
Whilst structures include common features of this nature are present in a
large
variety of furniture designs, the precise structures vary between designs. The
issue of
providing a mounting for a fastener on such frames is addressed by the
mounting of the
present invention. In particular, the mounting is able to fit a significant
number of
structures and is provided in such a way that relatively low cost variations
on that basic
structure can address most frame structures encountered. Furthermore, the
mounting
provided is reliable, aesthetically acceptable and easy to attach and detach.
The mounting 2001 is in the form of a corner shaped unit formed from a first
element 2015 intended to provide an internal surface 2017 which is configured
to match
the external surface of the wall 2009, a second element 2019 which is provided
with an
internal surface 2021 intended to match the external surface of wall 2011. The
mounting
2001 further includes a third curved element 2023 which is provided with an
internal
surface 2025 intended to match to the external surface of the curved wall 2013
and with a
further element 2027 which is provided with an internal surface 2029 intended
to match
with the planar face 2007 of the chair.
The first element 2015 is provided with a protrusion 2031 which extends
generally perpendicular relative to the surface 2017. The protrusion 2031 is
provided with
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an internal surface 2033 configured to match the edge 2035 of the first wall
2009. At the
end of the protrusion 2031 is a catch portion 2037 which is intended to
project in and
behind the inner most part of edge 2035 of the first wall 2009. At least a
portion of the
projection 2031 is deformable so as to enable the engagement to arise. This is
achieved by
the catch portion 2037 being deforming away from further element 2027 upon
contact with
the edge 2035, the catch portion 2037 sliding across the edge 2035 and then
returning
towards the further element 2027 once past the edge 2035. A snap fit is
preferred.
The second element 2019 is similarly provided with a protrusion in the form of
second protrusion 2039. This protrusion 2039 is provided with an internal
surface 2041
which matches the edge profile 2043 of second wall. The projection 2039 is
further
provided with a catch portion 2045 which is intended to extend in and behind
the
innermost edge of edge 2043. Again at least a part of the protrusion 2039 is
deformable to
allow the mounting to be introduced into position.
In an alternative form, the protrusion 2031and catch portion 2037 andlor
second
protrusion 2039 and catch portion 2045 can be provided in two or more discrete
sections
with gaps between them. The catch portion and/or the protrusion may be absent
in the
gaps. Two such sections are preferred, as can be seen in Figure 37. Ideally a
hole is
provided in the further element 2027 in that part of the further element which
is directly in
front of the protrusion and catch portion sections., see Figure 37.
In one tecluiique, to fasten the mounting 2001 to the frame 2003 the mounting
2001 is generally aligned with the corner of the frame 2003. The application
of force to
the mounting 2001 along the general direction of arrow A results in both of
the protrusions
2031 and 2039 being deformed. The protrusions can then pass over the edges
2035, 2043
and then return into position behind the edges 2035, 2043. Once in this
position the
engagement of the edges 2035, 2043 with internal surfaces 2033, 2041 and with
catch
portions 2037, 2045 restrains the mounting 2001 against any attempt to remove
it. A firm
mounting for normal use is thus provided.
If it is necessary to remove the mounting 2001 then the catch portions 2037,
2045
can be manually manipulated away from the further element 2029 so as to
release the
engagement.
As an alternative for introducing the mounting 2001 onto the frame 2003 the
protrusions could be separately deformed. This would involve the application
of force
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generally along arrow B or generally along arrow C first, followed by the
application of
force along the other of those two directions.
As a further alternative for introducing the mounting 2001 onto the frame
2003,
illustrated in the sequence of Figure 38, it is possible to click the catch
portion 2037 into
place with the edge 2035 of the frame in contact with the internal surface
2033. The
mounting can then be slid down further, generally in the direction of arrow B.
No
deformation of the catch portion 2037 is necessary to achieve this. Continuing
this motion
downward brings the catch portion 2045 into proximity with the top 2011 of the
frame
2003 and particularly the edge 2043. The application on moderate downward
force is
sufficient to cause the catch portion 2045 to deform and so bring the edge
2043 into
cooperative engagement with the internal surface 2041. This can be assisted by
optional
leverage of the catch portion 2045 using the hand. Once the mounting is in
position then
the item can be attached using the fastener 2046. This can be released as
desired to
remove the item. Specific profiles for the catch portions and internal
surfaces of particular
use in this form of the invention are described below, with reference to
Figures 35 and 36.
The mounted position is shown in Figure 31 and Figure 38.
The mounting 2001 provides on the first element 2019 a first part of the
mounting
system. In this illustration the first part is a female part 2047 provided
within recess 2049.
The recess 2049 is bounded by walls 2051 and these are provided with bracing
elements
2053 and 2055 to provide a firm engagement location between the first
component of the
fastening system provided by the mounting 2001 and the second component of the
fastening system provided on the item to be mounted. In the illustrated
example, the first
part of the fastening system in use, receives a second part of the fastening
system in the
form of a male part. The male and female parts are releasably engagable with
one another.
Ideally the canopy, sunshade and the like are fastened to the furniture frame
using one or
more such fastener systems.
In Figure 32 two mountings 2001 according to the present invention are shown
in
position, one on either corner of the frame 2003. The mountings 2001 on each
corner are
mirror images of each other. The substantial further element 2027 is most
beneficial in
resisting the turning moment applied by the canopy which extends away from the
front
face of the furniture out over the user. The large plate provided by the
further element
2027 serves to dissipate the load. The positioning of the mountings and their
form also
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assists in dissipating loads down the side wall of the furniture. The further
element 2027
also keeps the first element 2015 and second element 2019 in position relative
to one
another. The relative positions of their respective protrusions 2031 and 2039
are also
maintained as a result. Once mounted the canopy itself also assists in
providing rigidity to
the overall structure and in preventing movement of the mountings relative to
the frame.
Figure 33 shows a rear view of the mountings on the furniture frame 2003.
As the mounting 2001 is a one piece fastener it has the advantage that it does
not
require any modification, alteration or adaptation of the frame 2003 on which
it is to be
mounted. No holes need to be drilled, no working of the frame 2003 in any way
is
required. This makes such mountings 2001 particularly suitable for application
to frames
2003 during retrofitting. It also enables this option of providing a mounting
2001 for a
fastener system to be offered on new items of furniture, without being an
inevitable part
thereof.
Variations in the mounting 2001 to suit other frames 2003 can readily be
provided
by modifying the structure slightly and moulding a revised mounting 2001.
Modifications
may include changes to accommodate different wall thicknesses, different wall
depths,
different angles between side and upper walls, different curved element
profiles, different
edge profiles and the like.
A further embodiment of the invention is illustrated in Figure 34. In this
case the
first clamp portion 2100 is provided in a slightly different manner. The clamp
portion
2100 is separate from the remainder of the mounting 2001 in the unassembled
form. The
mounting 2001 is introduced in a similar way to that outlined above. However,
there is no
need to deform any part of the mounting during its introduction to the mounted
position.
Instead, the clamp portion 2100 is then introduced into position behind the
wall 2009, in
firm contact with it. The clamp portion is then fastened to the remainder of
the mounting
2001 using releasable fasteners 2102 which engage with the protrusion 2031.
The
releaseable fasteners, such as screws, pass through the clamp portion and into
the
protrusion 2031, but without touching or damaging the frame wall 2009. The
tightening of
these fasteners 2102 in effect clamps the wall 2009 between the clamp portion
2100 and
the first element 2015. A similar style clamp portion 2104 is provided for use
in
conjunction with the other protrusion 2039. Instead of engaging the
protrusions 2031,
2039 it would be possible for the releasable fasteners 2102 to pass through
the clamp
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portions 2100, 2104, through the walls 2009, 2011 and then into the mounting
2001, but
this is less desirable.
Catch portions and internal surfaces particularly appropriate for use in the
above
mentioned technique of sliding the mounting onto the frame initially are
illustrated in
Figure 35 and 36. In Figure 35 a side catch portion 2037 is illustrated in
plan view. It
features the internal surface 2033 which is profiled to match the edge of the
frame in
question. The wall 2600 defining the bounds of the internal surface is
relatively large as
the edge and catch portion 2037 do not need to deform to engage one another as
the sliding
introduction is used. A particularly strong engagement is provided as a
result. Figure 36
shows in side view the different profile used for the top catch portion 2045.
In this case
the catch portion 2045 does need to deform so as to allow the edge to pass it
and reach an
engagement with the internal surface 2041 when the mounting has slid down. To
assist
this process the wall 2700 defining in part the internal surface 2041 has a
lesser extent than
wall 2600 and additionally includes a sloping end portion 2702. This slope
encourages the
passage of the edge to its engagement position and assists in causing the
catch portion
2045 to deform. Of course the provision of the side and top catch portion in
this way
could be reversed, with a sliding engagement for the top and snap fit
engagement for the
side.
If it is necessary to remove the mounting 2001 from the frame 2003, then this
can
readily be achieved. Having removed the canopy from its engagement with the
mountings
2001, each mounting can be removed by sliding the mounting around the edge of
the frame
from it use position towards the top edge. This motion readily causes the
mounting 2001
to disengage from the frame 2003. In the Figure 31 illustration, this movement
would
involve a clockwise style rotation of the mounting 2001 towards the top edge
of the frame.
For the mounting on the other corner of the frame, not shown, the removal
technique
would involve an anti-clockwise rotation. Advantageously removal in this way
is
prevented whilst the canopy is in position as the arms of the canopy serve to
maintain the
position of the two mountings 2001 and hence resist any such movement.
In Figure 37 an alternative form for the mounting is illustrated. The mounting
is
the same in respect of each component, apart from the form of the further
element 2027.
The cross-section removes the protrusions 2031, 2039 from view and clearly
shows a
number of through apertures 2800 in the further element 2027. One or more of
these
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apertures 2800 are provided in line with the protrusions 2031, 2039 so as to
assist txi
full and complete moulding of those protrusions during the production process.
SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)
