PORTABLE FURNTITURE SYSTEM

Abstract

A portable furniture system includes a first panel having a horizontally oriented slot and a second panel removably extending through the slot. The horizontally oriented slot has a top edge and a bottom edge, wherein the top edge is horizontally offset from the bottom edge and wherein a bottom portion of the first panel forms at least one front leg. A first portion of the second panel on a rear side of the horizontally oriented slot forms at least one rear leg. The second portion of the second panel on a front side of the horizontally oriented slot forms a resting surface.

Claims

1. A portable furniture system comprising: a first panel having a horizontally oriented slot, the horizontally oriented slot having a top edge and a bottom edge, the top edge being horizontally offset from the bottom edge, wherein a bottom portion of the first panel forms at least one front leg, a second panel removably extending through the slot, wherein a first portion of the second panel on a rear side of the horizontally oriented slot forms at least one rear leg and wherein a second portion of the second panel on a front side of the horizontally oriented slot forms a resting surface.

2. The portable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the resting surface forms a seat.

3. The portable furniture system of claim 2, wherein the top edge is bowed in a first direction.

4. The portable furniture system of claim 3, wherein the bottom edge is bowed in a second direction opposite the first direction.

5. The portable furniture system of claim 2, wherein the bottom edge is bowed.

6. The portable furniture system of claim 2, wherein the second panel is formed from a fiber composite material.

7. The portable furniture system of claim 2, wherein at least one of the first panel and the second panel comprises a hollow shell.

8. The portable furniture system of claim 2, wherein the at least one of the first panel and the second panel further comprises a filling within the hollow shell.

9. The portable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the top edge and the bottom edge are horizontally offset by at least 10 mm and no greater than 100 mm.

10. The portable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the top edge and the bottom edge are horizontally offset by at least 30 mm and no greater than 50 mm.

11. The portable furniture system of claim 1 further comprising a retainer for releasably securing the first panel and the second panel in a stacked relationship.

12. The portable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the first portion of the second panel has a first material composition having a first degree of resilient flexibility and wherein the second portion of the second panel has a second material composition having a second degree of resilient flexibility less than the first degree of resilient flexibility.

13. The portable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the first panel has a top portion having a third material composition having a third degree of material flexibility and wherein the bottom portion had a fourth material composition having a fourth degree of resilient flexibility greater than the third degree of resilient flexibility.

14. The portable furniture system of claim 1 further comprising a backpack comprising: a compartment; shoulder straps extending forwardly from the compartment; and a mount forward the compartment below the shoulder straps, the mount being configured to releasably secure at least one of the first panel and the second panel to the compartment below the shoulder straps.

15. The portable furniture system of claim 14, wherein the mount comprises at least one strap configured to extend through an opening in the at least one of the first panel and the second panel.

16. The portable furniture system of claim 14, wherein the mount comprises a sleeve configured to releasably receive at least one of the first panel and the second panel.

17. The portable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the second portion of the second panel is angled such the resting surface is horizonal and such portions of the second panel extend rearwardly and downwardly between the first edge and the second edge.

18. The portable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the first edge is above the second edge.

19. The portable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the first edge and the second edge extend along parallel inclined planes.

20. The portable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the horizontally oriented slot has a length of at least 4 inches.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] FIG. 1 a front view of an example slotted panel for a portable furniture system.

[0004] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the example slotted panel of FIG. 1.

[0005] FIG. 3 is a front view of an example insertion panel for the portable furniture system of FIG. 1.

[0006] FIG. 4 is a side view of the insertion panel of FIG. 3.

[0007] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a fragmentary portion of one example of the insertion panel of FIG. 4.

[0008] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a fragmentary portion of one example of the insertion panel of FIG. 4.

[0009] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a fragmentary portion of one example of the insertion panel of FIG. 4.

[0010] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a fragmentary portion of one example of the insertion panel of FIG. 4.

[0011] FIG. 9 is a side view illustrating assembly of the slotted panel of FIG. 1 and the insertion panel of FIG. 3 to form a part of the portable furniture system.

[0012] FIG. 10 is a side view illustrating an example alignment of the slotted panel of FIG. 1 and the insertion panel of FIG. 3 when the portable furniture system is disassembled.

[0013] FIG. 11 is a sectional view illustrating an example stacking the slotted panel of 1 and the insertion panel of FIG. 3 for transport and/or storage.

[0014] FIG. 12 is a sectional view illustrating an example portable furniture system.

[0015] FIG. 13 is a sectional view illustrating an example portable furniture system.

[0016] FIG. 14 is a sectional view illustrating an example portable furniture system.

[0017] FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of an example slotted panel for forming an example portable furniture system.

[0018] FIG. 16 is a rear perspective view of the example slotted panel of FIG. 15.

[0019] FIG. 17 is a side view of the example slotted panel of FIG. 15.

[0020] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of an example insertion panel for the portable furniture system of FIG. 15.

[0021] FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of the example insertion panel of FIG. 18.

[0022] FIG. 20 is a side view of the example insertion panel of FIG. 18.

[0023] FIG. 21 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the example insertion panel of FIG. 18.

[0024] FIG. 22 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the example insertion panel of FIG. 18.

[0025] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the example insertion panel of FIG. 18.

[0026] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the example slotted panel of FIG. 15, and the example insertion panel of FIG. 18 assembled to form the example portable furniture system.

[0027] FIG. 25 is a top perspective view of the example portable furniture system of FIG. 24.

[0028] FIG. 26 is a side perspective view of the example portable furniture system of FIG. 24.

[0029] FIG. 27 is a bottom perspective view of the example portable furniture system of FIG. 24.

[0030] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the assembled portable furniture system of FIG. 24.

[0031] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the assembled portable furniture system of FIG. 24.

[0032] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the assembled portable furniture system of FIG. 24.

[0033] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the assembled portable furniture system of FIG. 24.

[0034] FIG. 32 is a section view of the assembled portable furniture system of FIG. 24.

[0035] FIG. 33 is a side view of the disassembled portable furniture system of FIG. 24 with the example slotted panel of FIG. 15 and the example insertion panel of FIG. 18 being inter-nested.

[0036] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the inter-nested slotted panel and insertion panel of FIG. 33.

[0037] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the inter-nested slotted panel and insertion panel of FIG. 33.

[0038] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the inter-nested slotted panel and insertion panel of FIG. 33.

[0039] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the inter-nested slotted panel and insertion panel of FIG. 33.

[0040] FIG. 38 is a side view of a portable furniture system comprising the slotted panel and the insertion panel of the system of FIG. 33.

[0041] FIG. 39 is a side view of a portable furniture system comprising the slotted panel and the insertion panel of the system of FIG. 33 forming part of a backpack.

[0042] FIG. 40 is a side view of a portable furniture system comprising the interested slotted panel and insertion panel of the system of FIG. 33 forming part of a backpack.

[0043] Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and the size of some parts may be exaggerated to more clearly illustrate the example shown. Moreover, the drawings provide examples and/or implementations consistent with the description; however, the description is not limited to the examples and/or implementations provided in the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES

[0044] Disclosed are various examples of a portable furniture system that may be utilized to provide a portable piece of furniture, such as a chair or table. The example portable furniture systems may be compactly stacked or arranged for storage, shipping and for transport by a person, such as a backpacker. The example portable furniture systems may be quickly and easily expanded or assembled to provide the piece of portable furniture, such as the portable chair or the portable table/desk.

[0045] In some implementations, the example portable furniture systems are formed by two distinct panels that may be stacked for compact storage, shipping and transport. A first one of the panels, referred to as the slotted panel, comprises a horizontally oriented slot. The term horizontally oriented slot means that a linear line drawn between endpoints of the slot has a horizontal orientation or a near horizontal orientation. The slot itself, between the endpoints, may be curved or linear. The slot itself may include interconnected slot segments with the different slot segments comprising different connected curved slot segments or different linear, differently angled slot segments.

[0046] The slotted panel has a lower or bottom portion configured to form one or more legs and feet of the piece of portable furniture. The slotted panel has a top or upper portion that may provide a back wall or a back support (in the case of a chair).

[0047] A second one of the panels, referred to as the insertion panel is configured to pass through the slot. The insertion panel has a lower or bottom portion configured to form one or more legs and feet of the portable piece of furniture. The insertion panel has a top or upper portion configured to provide a support surface or platform for the piece of portable furniture. The platform provided by the top or upper portion of the insertion panel may serve as a seating surface in the case of a chair or a tabletop or desktop (in the case of a table or desk). The platform is a generally horizontally oriented surface, a surface that faces upwardly.

[0048] In some implementations, the insertion panel is captured within the slot. In other implementations, the insertion panel is completely removable from the slot. In some implementations, the insertion panel is configured to be pivoted, while within the slot, to a compact storage or transport position in which a top portion of the insertion panel extends substantially parallel to the top portion of the slotted panel on a first side of the slotted panel while a bottom portion of the insertion panel extends substantially parallel to the bottom portion of the slotted panel on a second opposite side of the slotted panel.

[0049] The slotted panel additionally comprises horizontal braces for distributing stress and loads, wherein the braces comprise at least one brace that braces against underside of the insertion panel on a first side of the slotted panel and at least one brace that braces against a top side of the insertion panel on a second side of the slotted panel. In some implementations, those surfaces of the brace that brace against the insertion panel comprises edges of the slot are integrally formed as part of a single unitary body with the slotted panel. In some implementations, those surfaces of the brace that brace against the insertion panel comprise separate extensions extending from the slotted panel, independent of the slot. The braces facilitate the use of lighter materials for insertion panels. As result, the portable furniture systems are lighter in weight and potentially more compact to facilitate easier transport by a person, such as a backpacker.

[0050] In some implementations, the example portable furniture systems may comprise additional features for enhanced comfort or utility. For example, in some implementations, the example portable furniture systems may comprise retainers for releasably retaining backings or cushions on the top portion of the slotted panel and upon a seating surface provided by top portion of the insertion panel. Such retainers may be in the form of magnets, snaps, hook and loop fastener arrangements and the like.

[0051] In some implementations, the example portable furniture systems may comprise accessories, such as cupholders, which may be provided on the top portion of the insertion panel. In such implementations, cupholders may be formed by a collapsible material such that the cupholders may collapse to a collapsed state for passage through the slot. For example, in some implementations, at least side walls of the cupholder may be accordion-like and/or may be formed from a fabric or flexible polymer. In some implementations, the sidewalls of the cupholder may be formed from a netting.

[0052] In some implementations, the slotted panel and the insertion panel may include retainers for releasably securing the panels together in the collapsed or compact state, wherein the panels are generally stacked while the insertion panel is extending through the slot or in implementations where the panels are stacked while the insertion panel is removed from the slot. The retainers may be in the form of cooperating magnets, cooperating hook and loop fastener arrangements, cooperating snaps, hooks or other fasteners. In some implementations, straps with buckles may be used to releasably secure the slotted panel and the insertion panel together in the compact stacked or folded state.

[0053] In some implementations, when in the compact or stacked state, the pair of panels forming the portable piece of furniture may be configured to be releasably secured to the back of a backpack, the side of the backpack facing away from the person wearing the backpack. In some implementations, the pair of panels, when in the compact or stacked state, may be configured to be releasably secured to the front of the backpack, the side of the backpack facing towards the person wearing the backpack. In some implementations, at least one of the pair of panels may include a retainer for its securement to the backpack. In some implementations, the backpack may comprise a sleeve, straps or other mechanisms for securing the pair of panels, when in the compact or stacked state, on the front of the backpack such that the pair of panels cooperate to form a frame, brace, spine or other rigid backing for the backpack. In such implementations, the backpack itself may be substantially formed from a canvas or other fabric or polymeric material, lacking a rigid backbone or other frame structure but for the frame provided by the compact or stacked pair of panels.

[0054] For purposes of this disclosure, the term coupled shall mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members, or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate member being attached to one another. Such a joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature. The term operably coupled shall mean that two members are directly or indirectly joined such that motion may be transmitted from one member to the other member directly or via intermediate members.

[0055] For purposes of this disclosure, the phrase configured to denotes an actual state of configuration that fundamentally ties the stated function/use to the physical characteristics of the feature proceeding the phrase configured to.

[0056] For purposes of this disclosure, the term releasably or removably with respect to an attachment or coupling of two structures means that the two structures may be repeatedly connected and disconnected to and from one another without material damage to either of the two structures or their functioning.

[0057] FIGS. 1-4 illustrate an example pair of panels forming an example portable furniture system 20. FIGS. 1 and 2 are front and rear views, respectively, of an example slotted panel 24 of system 20. FIG. 3 and front and side views, respectively, of an example insertion panel 26. Slotted panel 24 and insertion panel 26 cooperate to form a piece of portable furniture, such as an example chair and/or table/desk.

[0058] As shown by FIGS. 1 and 2, panel 24 comprises a horizontally oriented slot 28, a pair of front braces 30-1, 30-2 (collectively referred to as braces 30), and a pair of rear braces 332-1, 32-2 (collectively referred to as braces 32). Slot 28 generally extends between and divides panel 24 into a bottom portion 36 and a top portion 38. As will be described hereafter, bottom portion 36 form for the portable piece of furniture being formed by system 20. Top portion 38 provides a backing surface or a back rest for the portable piece of furniture being formed by system 20. In the example illustrated, bottom portion 36 is illustrated as being straight or flat to form a single leg and a single foot for bearing against the ground or other underlying terrain. In other implementations, bottom portion 36 may include one or more upwardly extending notches along its upper edge such a bottom portion 36 forms more than one leg and more than one foot for the portable piece of furniture. In some implementations, panel 24 is flat or planar. In other implementations, panel 24 may be curved. In some implementations, bottom portion 36 may be curved while top portion 38 is flat, or vice versa.

[0059] Slot 28 passes completely through slotted panel 24 and is configured to receive insertion panel 26. In the example illustrated, slot 28 extends across a majority of the width of panel 24. In some implementations, slot 28 may have a length (left to right as seen in FIGS. 1 and 2) corresponding to the maximum width that is provided by insertion panel 26. In other implementations, slot 20 may have a length less than that of the support surface to be provided by insertion panel 26.

[0060] As shown by FIG. 1, front braces 30 project from the forward or front face 31 of panel 24 and are configured to brace or bear against (contact) an underside the portion of panel 26 that is extending forwardly from slot 28, those portions that form the of the piece of portable furniture of system 20. As shown by FIG. 2, rear braces 32 project from a rear face 33 of panel 20 and are configured to brace or bear against (contact) a topside of the portion of panel 26 that is extending rearwardly from slot 28, those portions that form the rearwardly extending leg or legs and foot or feet of the piece of portable furniture formed by system 20. The horizontal offsetting or spacing points of contact between the braces and the insertion panel 26 provide enhanced structural support for insertion panel 26. In some implementations, the offset O (shown in FIG. 9) is at least 10 mm. In some implementations, the offset O is at least 10 mm and no greater than 100 mm. In some implementations, the offset O is at least 30 mm. In one implementation, the offset O is 40 mm.

[0061] Although system 20 is illustrated as including a pair of front braces at the illustrated locations, in other implementations, system 20 may include a single front brace 30 or a single rear brace 32 or may include a greater number of front braces 30 and/or a greater number of rear braces 32. In some implementations, as will be described hereafter, those portions of bottom portion 36 and top portion 38 that form the edges of slot 28 are forwardly and rearwardly offset, respectively, to form a front brace and a rear brace, wherein one or both of the illustrated braces 30 and 32 may be omitted. In such implementations, the offset may be formed by forwarding rearwardly curving those portions of bottom portion 36 and top portion 38, respectively. In such implementations, the offset may be provided by providing such edges with a polygonal line or shape. For example, those portions of bottom portion 36 forming or defining a lower edge of slot 38 may be formed from one or more linear segments such that the edge has a polygon profile extending along slot 28. Likewise, those portions of top portion 36 forming or defining a top edge of slot 38 may be formed from one or more linear segments such that the edge has a polygon profile extending along slot 28. The polygon shapes may have concave faces facing the remainer of the slotted panel 24.

[0062] The braces 30, 32 facilitate the use of lighter materials for insertion panel 26. As result, the portable furniture systems 20 are lighter in weight and potentially more compact to facilitate easier transport by a person, such as a backpacker. Various structural configurations may be employed to reduce the weight of insertion panel 26.

[0063] FIGS. 5-8 are cross-sectional views of fragmentary portions of insertion panel 26, illustrating various structural configurations for panel 26. In some implementations, insertion panel 26 may be formed from a solid, lightweight material 40, as shown in FIG. 5, such as a composite fiber material or carbon fiber material. In other implementations, material 40 may comprise a carbon fiber, steels, aluminum alloys, engineering plastics, fiber infused plastics, fiberglass, flax and wood, or combinations thereof. In some implementations, the insertion panel 26 may comprise other perforated portions 42, as shown in FIG. 6, to reduce the weight of panel 26. As shown by FIG. 7, in some implementations, insertion panel 26 may have an outer skin or shell 44 of a first material and an inner hollow core 46 that is filled with a lightweight material, such as a lightweight filler 48 such as a foam, wood, paper or other lightweight material. In such implementations, outer skin or shell 44 may be formed from the same material as material 40 (carbon fiber, steels, aluminum alloys, engineering plastics, fiber infused plastics, fiberglass, flax and wood). As shown by FIG. 8, in some implementations, braces 30 and 32 facilitate the use of a structural configuration comprising both perforations and a skin or shell that is filled with a lightweight material.

[0064] In some implementations, the insertion panel 26 may be formed from a variety of different lightweight materials or may be dimensioned so as to be lightweight. The insertion panel 26 may be formed from materials such as carbon fiber, steels, aluminum alloys, engineering plastics, fiber infused plastics, fiberglass, flax and wood. In some implementations, slotted panel 24 may likewise be formed from any of the aforementioned lightweight materials and may have any of the example configuration shown in FIG. 5-8 as that of insertion panel 26. In some implementations, the insertion panel 26 and the slotted panel 24 may be formed from different materials and/or have different structural configurations.

[0065] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate an example insertion panel 26. Insertion panel 26 is configured to provide one or more feet in a support surface for the piece of portable furniture formed by system 20. Insertion panel 26 comprises bottom portion 46 and top portion 48. Bottom portion 46 extends at one end of panel 26 and is configured to provide one or more legs for the piece of portable furniture. Top portion 48 extends from the other end of panel 26 and is configured to provide a supporting surface for the chair or table/desk formed by system 20.

[0066] FIG. 9 illustrates system 20 in an assembled or active in use state, forming the piece of portable furniture (chair or table/desk). As shown by FIG. 9, slotted panel 24 has a generally vertical or upright orientation when system 20 is configured, assembled or expanded to form the piece of portable furniture 21. A lower edge (or edges) of slotted panel 24 and engage the ground, terrain floor or ground 47 to form one or more feet 49. In some implementations, slotted panel 24 is perpendicular to the underlying terrain, ground or floor 47 when furniture 21 is formed. In some implementations, slotted panel 24 has a vertical orientation that is not perpendicular to the underlying floor 47 but is angled forwardly or rearwardly.

[0067] As further shown by FIG. 9, when system 20 is assembled to form furniture 21, panel 26 passes through slot 28 and bottom portion 46 angles downwardly from the slot 28 until forming a foot (or feet) 50 that engage or contact the underlying terrain, floor or ground 47. Bottom portion 46 is braced on its top or upper side by braces 32 on a rear side of the piece of portable furniture 21 formed by system 20.

[0068] Top portion 48 extends from a front side of slot 28 of panel 24. Top portion 48 provides a support surface or platform 52 to provide a seating surface for a chair or a tabletop or desktop for a table or desk. Platform 52 may be angled relative to bottom portion 46 such that platform 52 is more level with respect to the horizon. Top portion 48 is braced by braces 30 on its lower or underside. In some implementations platform 52 is imperforate. As shown by broken lines, in some implementations, platform 52 is perforated for airflow and to reduce weight. In some implementations, platform 52 may include larger openings therethrough to reduce weight and provide breathability, wherein such larger openings (shown in broken lines in FIG. 3) are covered or filled with open fabric or netting 53.

[0069] As shown by broken lines in FIG. 9, furniture 21 may be provided with additional optional accessories. In some implementations, top portion 38 of slotted panel 24 may be configured to support one or more padded panels 56 which may serve as a soft compressible backing for when furniture 21 comprises a chair. Such padded panels 56 may include one or more layers of foam. In some implementations, the padded panel 56 may be permanently or fixedly secured to top portion 38. In other implementations, padded panel 56 may be releasably secured to top portion 38 by retainer 58. The retainer 58 may have portions supported by both panel 56 and top portion 38 of slotted panel 24. The retainer 58 may be in the form of a hook and loop fastener, snaps, magnets, straps with buckles, other releasable fastening mechanisms.

[0070] Furniture 21 may additionally comprise one or more padded panels 60 which may serve as a soft compressible seating surface for when furniture 21 comprises a. Such padded panels 60 may comprise one or more layers of foam. In some implementations, the padded panel 60 may be permanently affixed or secured to top portion 48 of panel 46, wherein the combined thickness of top portion 48 and padded panel 60 is sufficiently thin so as to be passable through slot 28. In some implementations, the padded panel 60 may be permanently affixed or secured to top portion 48 of panel 46, wherein the combined thickness of top portion 48 and padded panel 60 is greater than the height of slot 28, but wherein panel 26 is withdrawn from slot 28 by sliding bottom portion 46 through slot 28 . . . . In other implementations, padded panel 60 may be releasably secured to bottom portion by retainer 62. The retainer 62 may have portions support by both panel 60 and top portion 48 of insertion panel 26. The retainer 62 may be in the form of a hook and loop fastener, snaps, straps with buckles, other releasable fastening mechanisms.

[0071] In some implementations, top portion 48 may additionally comprise one or more cupholders 70. Each of such cupholders 70 extends through an opening in platform 52 and includes outer sides and a floor. In some implementations, the cupholders may be collapsible for compact storage and/or to facilitate passage through slot 28. The sides of such cupholders may be accordion-like or may be formed from a flexible or collapsible material such as a flexible fabric or polymer. In some implementations, the sides such cupholders may be formed from a fabric or polymer netting.

[0072] FIG. 10 illustrates system 20 in a disassembled state, ready for stacking for the storage, shipping or transport of system 20. In the disassembled state, panel 26 is withdrawn from the slot 28 of slotted panel 24 and oriented as shown in FIG. 10. In the example illustrated, insertion panel 26 additionally includes one or more apertures 74 which are configured to receive braces 30 (or braces 32) to provide enhanced stack ability and compaction of panels 24 and 26. Apertures 74 have a number and locations corresponding to the number and locations of braces 30 (or braces 32). In some implementations, additional apertures may be provided to facilitate multiple options for strapping the stacked panels 24, 26 to a backpack, vehicle, or other racking system. Such additional apertures may also provide hand openings to facilitate carrying by hand.

[0073] In some implementations, rather than being integrally formed as part of a single unitary body with panel 24, retainers 30 and/or 32 may be separate components from slotted panel 24 (as seen in FIG. 11) such as externally threaded bolts/pins or externally smooth bolts/pins) and may be removable from slotted panel 24 to facilitate closer positioning of panels 24 and 26. For example, in some implementations, braces 30 and/or 32 are screwed/bolted into panel 24 and may be unscrewed from panel 24. Braces 30 and/or 32 have external threads that are threaded into corresponding or through internally threaded bores in panel 24. In the case of braces 10 and/or 32 comprising pins, such pins may be inserted and tightly fit into bores.

[0074] In some implementations, those braces 30, 32 that are removable may be tethered by a strap, chain, cord or the like. For example, braces 30 may be releasably connected to panel 24 (being screwed into panel 24, inserted into blind bores of panel 24, releasably fastened to panel 24) for assembly and may be tethered to panel 24 by tethers 81 (schematically shown in broken lines) or tethered to panel 26 by tether 83 (schematically shown in broken lines) when disassembled for stacking. Likewise, braces 32 may be releasably connected to panel 24 (being screwed into panel 24, inserted into blind bores of panel 24, releasably fastened to panel 24) for assembly and may be tethered to panel 24 by tethers 85 (schematically shown in broken lines) or tethered to panel 26 by tethers 87 (schematically shown in broken lines) when disassemble for stacking. In implementations where braces 30 or 32 are separable or removable from panel 24, apertures 74 may be omitted.

[0075] FIG. 11 illustrates panels 24 and 26 in a stacked state. In the stacked state, apertures 74 receive braces 30-1 and 30-2 such that panel 24 may be more closely positioned relative to panel 26. In some implementations, system 20 may additionally comprise retainers to releasably secure panels 24 and 26 in the stacked state. For example, in some implementations, one or both of panels 24 and 26 may be provided with retainers 76. In the example illustrated, system 20 comprises retainers 76-1 in the form of cooperating magnets. System 20 additionally comprises retainers in the form of straps 76-2 which wrap about both of panels 24 and 26 and are releasably secured by fasteners 77, such as buckles. In some implementations, other releasable mechanisms may be used to releasably secure panels 24 and 26 in the stacked state. For example, in some implementations, panel 24 and/or panel 26 may include integrally formed mating snaps, hooks or the like for releasably securing such panels 24 and 26 in the stacked state. In some implementations, retainer 76 may be omitted.

[0076] FIGS. 12-14 illustrate example portable furniture systems that may additionally include a backpack. FIG. 12 illustrates portable furniture system 120. System 120 is similar to system 20 described above except that system 120 additionally comprises backpack 200. Backpack 200 comprises an outer shell or body 202, an interior compartment 204, shoulder straps 206 and furniture retainers 208. Body 202 and interior compartment 204 are schematically illustrated. As should be appreciated, body 202 and interior compartment 204 may have a variety of different sizes, shapes and configurations. For example, body 202 may provide with a plurality of different compartments, pockets and the like which may be slightly opened and closed by zippers, buckles, straps and the like. In the example illustrated, body 202 may be provided with a stiffer or more rigid frame or backing extending along the front 211 of backpack 200, the front being the side of backpack 200 that faces the person wearing backpack 200. Shoulder straps 206 extend from the front 211 and are configured to extend over and about the shoulders of the person wearing backpack 200. Shoulder straps 206 may include one or more buckles, fasteners and the like (not shown) for adjusting the length of such shoulder straps.

[0077] Retainers 208 (also referred to as mounts) are configured to secure the disassembled system 20 along the back side 213 of backpack 200. In one implementation, retainer 208 comprise flexible straps extending from the body 202 of backpack 200, wherein the flexible straps are configured to wrap around the stacked panels 24 and 26. The flexible straps may be releasably secured in the wrapped state by buckles, snaps, fasteners and the like. In the example illustrated, system 20 is particularly illustrated as including retainers 76-1 which may comprise cooperating magnets, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, hooks, or the like.

[0078] As shown by FIG. 12, retainers 208 may secure the disassembled or unstacked system 20 such that platform 52 projects or overhangs portions of backpack 200. In some implementations, the overhanging panel 52 may cover and protect portions of backpack 200 from rainfall or snowfall. In other implementations, the disassembled system 20 may be retained along the backside of backpack 200 and opposite orientation such a panel 52 angles and project rearwardly away from backpack 200 as shown in FIG. 13. As shown by FIG. 13, panel 52 may comprise couplers 220 for securing additional articles. For example, coupler 220 may be in the form of a hook, strap, snaps or the like for securing or suspending an article 221 from platform 52. By way of example, article 221 may be a rolled sleeping bag, pillow, tarp or other camping article. In the implementation illustrated, platform 52 may cover and protect the underlying article 221.

[0079] As further shown by FIG. 13, insertion panel 26 may additionally comprise an article securement mechanism 222 for securing articles along the backside of the insertion panel 26. Mechanism 222 may be in the form of one or more straps releasably secured by a buckle 223 or other fastener, for wrapping about an example article 224. By way of example only, the article 224 may be a camping article, such as a tent, first aid kit, water bottle or the like. In some implementations, coupler 220 and/or mechanism 222 may be a supplemental container for containing articles. For example, the supplemental container may be in the form of a collapsible basket, pouch or the like.

[0080] FIG. 14 illustrates an example portable furniture system 320. System 320 comprises system 20 described above and additionally comprises backpack 400. Backpack 400 is similar to backpack 200 except that backpack 400 utilizes one or both of panels 24, 26 of system 20 as a frame or backing for the backpack 400. In the example illustrated, backpack 400 is similar to backpack 200 except that backpack 400 additionally comprises panel retainer 380 and padding 382.

[0081] Panel retainer 380 extends from body 202 along the front side 211 of backpack 400, along the same side from which shoulder straps 206 extend. Panel retainer 38 is configured to secure one or both of panels 24 and 26 along the front side 211 such that one or both of panel 24, 26 serve as a frame or backing for backpack 400. In such an implementation, backpack 400 may omit any internal or other rigid spine, frame, backing of the like. As a result, system 20 is incorporated as part of backpack 400, replacing an otherwise provided spine, frame or backing to reduce the overall weight of system 320.

[0082] In the example illustrated, retainer 380 comprises a sleeve, pouch or pocket for receiving one or both of panels 24, 26. The sleeve or pocket may be formed from an elastic material tightly receiving and gripping panels 24, 26. In other implementations, retainer 380 may comprise one or more straps, brackets or the like secured to and extending from body 202, wherein the straps, brackets or the like are connected to one or both of panels 24, 26 to retain panels 24, 26 in place against front 211 of backpack 400. In instances where system 20 is not being utilized, panels 24 and 26 of system 20 may be withdrawn or separated from backpack 400, permitting backpack 400 to be utilized without panels 24, 26.

[0083] Padding 382 comprise a layer of padding, such as a foam padding, secured to retainer 380 so as to extend between panels 24 and/or 26 and the back of the person wearing backpack 400. In some implementations, padding 32 is releasably secured to the pouch or sleep forming retainer 380. In some implementations, padding 382 may be omitted or may be provided on an internal surface of the pocket or sleeve forming retainer 380.

[0084] FIGS. 15-37 illustrate portions of an example portable furniture system 520. FIGS. 15, 16 and 17 are front perspective, rear perspective and side views, respectively, of an example slotted panel 524 of system 20. FIGS. 18, 19 and 20 are top, bottom perspective and side views, respectively, of an example insertion panel 526. Slotted panel 524 and insertion panel 526 cooperate to form a piece of portable furniture, such as an example chair and/or table/desk.

[0085] As shown by FIGS. 15-17, panel 524 comprises a horizontally oriented slot 528, a front brace 530, and a rear brace 532. Slot 528 generally extends between and divides panel 524 into a bottom portion 536 and a top portion 538. As will be described hereafter, bottom portion 536 forms one or more feet for the portable piece of furniture being formed by system 520. Top portion 538 provides a backing surface or a back rest for the portable piece of furniture being formed by system 520. In the example illustrated, bottom portion 536 comprises a V-shaped opening or notch 537 to form a pair of feet 549 for bearing against the ground or other underlying terrain. Each of the feet 549 has a lower curved bottom surface or sole 551 extending a forward direction (in the same direction that brace 530 extends or projects). Soles 551 of feet 549 assist in providing a larger surface area for feet 549, reducing a likelihood of feet 549 sinking into the underlying ground when system 520 is expanded to the use state, serving as a chair or other furniture. In other implementations, bottom portion 536 may include additional or fewer number of feet. In some implementations, panel 524 is flat or planar. In other implementations, panel 524 may be curved as shown, forming a concave profile facing in the forward direction. This concave profile further assists in providing stable support for panel 524 when system 520 is in an in use furniture state. In some implementations, bottom portion 536 may be curved while top portion 38 is flat, or vice versa.

[0086] Slot 528 passes completely through slotted panel 524 and is configured to receive insertion panel 526. In the example illustrated, slot 528 extends across a majority of the width of panel 24. In some implementations, slot 528 may have a length (left to right as seen in FIGS. 15 and 16) corresponding to the maximum width that is provided by insertion panel 526. In the example illustrated, slot 528 may have a length less than that of the support surface to be provided by insertion panel 526 such that the extent to which insertion panel 526 is passed through slot 528 is limited or controlled for predetermined positioning of panels 524 and 526.

[0087] As shown by FIG. 15, front brace 530 is formed by a forwardly projecting edge of slot 528. Although this forwardly projecting edge is illustrated as a single forwardly curving edge, in other implementations, front brace 530 may be formed by more than one curved edge, may be formed from a forwardly projecting polygon edge or a plurality of forwardly projecting polygons (two linear edges converging at a forward point, three forwardly projecting sides of a square or rectangle, three sides of a decagon, four sides of an octagon or the like). Brace 530 is configured to brace or bear against (contact) an underside the portion of panel 526 that is extending forward from slot 528, those portions that form the of the piece of portable furniture of system 520.

[0088] Rear brace 532 projects from a rear face 533 of panel 520 and are configured to brace or bear against (contact) a topside of the portion of panel 526 that is extending rearwardly from slot 528, those portions that form the rearwardly extending leg or legs of the piece of portable furniture formed by system 520. Rear brace 532 is formed by a rearwardly projecting edge of slot 528. Although this rearwardly projecting edge is illustrated as a single rearwardly curving edge, in other implementations, rear brace 532 may be formed by more than one curved edge, may be formed from a rearwardly projecting polygon edge or a plurality of rearwardly projecting polygons (two linear edge is converging at a rearward point, three rearwardly projecting sides of a square or rectangle, three sides of a decagon, four sides of an octagon or the like). Brace 532 is configured to brace or bear against (contact) a topside of the portion of panel 526 that is extending rearwardly from slot 528, those portions that form the of the piece of portable furniture of system 520.

[0089] The oppositely curved edges of slot 528 that form the front brace 530 and the rear brace 532 are offset by an offset distance O shown in FIG. 17. The horizontal offsetting or spacing points of contact between the braces 530, 532 and the insertion panel 526 provide enhanced structural support for insertion panel 526. In some implementations, the offset O (shown in FIG. 17) is at least 10 mm. In some implementations, the offset O is at least 10 mm and no greater than 100 mm. In some implementations, the offset O is at least 30 mm. In one implementation, the offset O is 40 mm.

[0090] The braces 530, 532 facilitate the use of lighter materials for insertion panel 526. As result, the portable furniture systems 520 are lighter in weight and potentially more compact to facilitate easier transport by a person, such as a backpacker. Various structural configurations may be employed to reduce the weight of insertion panel 526. FIGS. 5-8 are cross-sectional views of fragmentary portions of insertion panel 526, illustrating various structural configurations for panel 526. In some implementations, insertion panel 526 may be formed from a solid, lightweight material 40, as shown in FIG. 5, such as a composite fiber material or carbon fiber material. In some implementations, the insertion panel 526 may comprise other perforated portions 42, as shown in FIG. 6, to reduce the weight of panel 26. As shown by FIG. 7, in some implementations, insertion panel 526 may have an outer skin or shell 44 of a first material and an inner hollow core 46 that is filled with a lightweight material, such as a lightweight filler 48 such as a foam, wood, paper or other lightweight material. In such implementations, outer skin or shell 44 may be formed from the same material as material 40 (carbon fiber, steels, aluminum alloys, engineering plastics, fiber infused plastics, fiberglass, flax and wood). As shown by FIG. 8, in some implementations, braces 530, 532 facilitate the use of a structural configuration comprising both a perforations and a skin or shell that is filled with a lightweight filler material.

[0091] In some implementations, the insertion panel 526 may be formed from a variety of different lightweight materials or may be dimensioned so as to be lightweight. The insertion panel 526 may be formed from material such as carbon fiber, steels, aluminum alloys, engineering plastics, fiber infused plastics, fiberglass, flax and wood. In some implementations, slotted panel 524 may likewise be formed from any of the aforementioned lightweight materials and may have any of the example configuration shown in FIGS. 5-8 as that of insertion panel 526. In some implementations, the insertion panel 526 and the slotted panel 524 may be formed from different materials or have different structural configurations.

[0092] FIGS. 18-20 illustrate an example insertion panel 526. Insertion panel 526 is configured to provide one or more feet and a support surface for the portable piece of furniture formed by system 520. Insertion panel 26 comprises bottom portion 546 and top portion 548. Bottom portion 546 extends at one end of panel 526 and is configured to provide one or more feet 550 for the piece of portable furniture. As shown by FIGS. 20 and 22, each of feet 550 has an upwardly curved sole 551, an upwardly curved lower surface 551, which reduces the likelihood of the foot 550 penetrating the underlying floor, terrain or ground. In the example illustrated, bottom portion 546 has a first narrow leg portion 557 extending from upper portion 548 to an end portion forming feet 550. Feet 550 are wider than leg portion 557 provided a larger surface area for resting against an underlying terrain, ground or floor. In some implementations, bottom portion 546 may be formed from a material composition and/or may be shaped and dimensioned so as to be resiliently flexible, serving as a springlike leg for furniture 721. In such implementations, the springlike leg may result in a rocking chair sensation. In some implementations, top portion 548 may be formed from the same material as bottom portion 546 or may be formed from a material providing a greater degree of stiffness or not being resiliently flexible such that platform 552 is more stable, while bottom portion 546 is substantially flexible and bendable to a degree greater than that of platform 552.

[0093] Top portion 548 extends from the other end of panel 526 and is configured to provide a supporting surface for the chair or table/desk formed by system 520. Top portion 548 forms a platform 552 which is wider than leg portion 557 in which serves as a supporting surface for the portable piece of furniture to be formed by system 520. In the example illustrated, platform 552 has a lower concave surface or profile and rounded top edge surfaces. This construction provides greater strength for platform 552 and provides a more comfortable edge for when platform 552 serves as a seating surface.

[0094] As shown by FIGS. 18, 19 and 21, top portion 548 further comprises an insertion tab 559 which is wider than leg portion 557, but narrower than panel 552. Insertion tab 557 may have a width corresponding to or less than the horizontal length of slot 528 such insertion tab 557 fits within slot 558 and such that the shoulder between the insertion tab 557 and panel 552 abuts against portions of panel 524 on opposite lateral sides of slot 528, controlling and indicating the proper positioning of insertion panel 526 within slot 528 and across panel 524.

[0095] FIGS. 24-27 illustrate system 20 in an assembled or active in use state, forming the piece of portable furniture (chair or table/desk). As shown by FIG. 24, slotted panel 24 has a generally vertical or upright orientation when system 20 is configured, assembled or expanded to form the piece of portable furniture 21. A lower edge (or edges) of slotted panel 24 and engage the ground, terrain or floor 47 (shown in FIG. 26) to form one or more feet 551. In some implementations, slotted panel 524 is perpendicular to the underlying terrain, ground or floor 47 when furniture 521 is formed. In the example illustrated, slotted panel 524 has a vertical orientation that is not perpendicular to the underlying floor 47, but is angled forwardly or rearwardly, obtuse to floor 47.

[0096] FIGS. 24-27 illustrate system 520 assembled or expanded to form furniture 521. FIG. 32 is a sectional view of the assembled furniture 521 formed by system 520. In the furniture forming state, panel 526 passes through slot 528 and bottom portion 546 angles downwardly from the slot 528 until forming a foot (or feet) 550 that engage or contact the underlying terrain, floor or ground 47. Bottom portion 546 is braced on its top or upper side by brace 532 on a rear side of the piece of portable furniture 521 formed by system 520.

[0097] Top portion 548 extends from a front side of slot 528 of panel 524. Top portion 548 provides a support surface or platform 552 to provide a seating surface for a chair or a tabletop or desktop for a table or desk. Platform 552 may be angled relative to bottom portion 546 such that platform 552 is more level with respect to the horizon. Top portion 548 is braced by brace 530 on its lower or underside. In some implementations platform 552 is imperforate. In some implementations, platform 552 is perforated for airflow and to reduce weight. In some implementations, platform 552 may include larger openings therethrough to reduce weight and provide breathability, wherein such larger openings (shown in broken lines in FIG. 25) are covered or filled with open fabric or netting 553.

[0098] FIGS. 33-37 illustrates system 520 in a folded or stacked state for the storage, shipping or transport of system 520. In the stacked state, panel 526 is captured within the slot 528. In other implementations, the insertion panel is completely removable from the slot. In the example illustrated, the insertion panel 526 is configured to be pivoted, while within the slot 528, to a compact storage or transport position shown in which top portion 548 of the insertion panel 526 extends substantially parallel to the top portion 538 of the slotted panel 524 on a first side of the slotted panel 524 while a bottom portion 546 of the insertion panel 526 extends substantially parallel to the bottom portion 536 of the slotted panel 524 on a second opposite side of the slotted panel 524. This compact state is facilitated by the horizontal offset O between the forward and rearward edges of slot 528 forming braces 530 and 532, respectively, wherein the horizontal offset O is greater than the thickness of insertion panel 526 and those portions of insertion panel 526 that extend between braces 530 and 532 or across slot 528.

[0099] In some implementations, system 520 may additionally comprise retainers to releasably secure panels 524 and 526 in the stacked state. For example, in some implementations, one or both of panels 524 and 526 may be provided with retainers 576. In the example illustrated, system 520 comprises retainers 576-1 in the form of cooperating magnets (shown in FIG. 33). System 520 additionally comprises retainers in the form of straps 576-2 (shown in FIG. 33) which wrap about both of panels 524 and 526 and are releases secured by fasteners 577 (schematically shown), such as buckles. In some implementations, other releasable mechanisms may be used to releasably secure panels 524 and 526 in the stacked state. For example, in some implementations, panel 524 and/or panel 526 may include integrally formed mating snaps, hooks or the like for releasably securing panels 524 and 526 in the stacked state. In some implementations, retainers 576 may be omitted.

[0100] FIG. 38 is a side view illustrating portions of an example portable furniture system 720 in an assembled in use furniture state, forming furniture 721. Furniture 721 is configured as a chair. In some implementations, system 721 may alternatively serve as a table or desk. System 720 is similar to system 520 described above except that system 720 additionally comprises a padded panel padded panel 760, cupholder 770 and actuatable awning 776.

[0101] Top portion 538 of slotted panel 524 may be configured to support one or more padded panels 756 which may serve as a soft compressible backing for when furniture 721 comprises a chair. Such padded panels 756 may include one or more layers of foam. In some implementations, the padded panel 756 may be permanently or fixedly secured to top portion 538. In other implementations, padded panel 756 may be releasably secured to top portion 538 by retainers 758 (schematically illustrated). The retainers 758 may have portions support by both panel 756 and top portion 538 of slotted panel 524. The retainer 758 may be in the form of a hook and loop fastener, snaps, straps with buckles, or other releasable fastening mechanisms.

[0102] Furniture 721 may additionally comprise one or more padded panels 760 which may serve as a soft compressible seating surface for when furniture 721 comprises a seat or chair. Such padded panels 760 may comprise one or more layers of foam. In some implementations, the padded panel 760 may be permanently affixed or secured to top portion 548 of panel 526, wherein the combined thickness of top portion 548 and padded panel 760 is sufficiently thin so as to be passable through slot 528. In some implementations, the padded panel 760 may be permanently affixed or secured to top portion 548 of panel 526, wherein the combined thickness of top portion 548 and padded panel 760 is greater than the height of slot 528, but wherein panel 526 is withdrawn from slot 528 by sliding bottom portion 546 through slot 528 . . . . In other implementations, padded panel 760 may be releasably secured to bottom portion by retainer 762. The retainer 762 may have portions support by both panel 760 and top portion 548 of insertion panel 526. The retainer 762 may be in the form of a hook and loop fastener, snaps, straps with buckles, other releasable fastening mechanisms.

[0103] In some implementations, top portion 548 may additionally comprise one or more cupholders 770. Each of such cupholders 770 extends through an opening in platform 552 and includes outer sides and a floor. In some implementations, the cupholders 770 may be collapsible for compact storage and/or to facilitate passage through slot 528. The sides of such cupholders 770 may be accordion-like or may be formed from a flexible or collapsible material such as a flexible fabric or polymer. In some implementations, the sides of such cupholders may be formed from a fabric or polymer netting.

[0104] Actuatable awning 776 serves as a roof or covering for extending over platform 552 (when furniture 721 is formed by system 720). The roof or covering may protect the person seated upon platform 552 from rain, snow or the elements. The roof or covering may protect any articles resting upon platform 552 when furniture 721 is used as a table/desk. As indicated by arrow 777, awning 776 is actuatable between and in use state (shown in solid lines) and a withdrawn out of use state (shown in broken lines. In the example illustrated, awning 776 may comprise one or more panels of canvas, fabric, polymer sheets or the like which are pivotally coupled top portion 538 of slotted panel 524. In the example illustrated, awning 776 is coupled to panel 524 by a hinge 779 which may be in the form of a mechanical hinge or a living hinge (a flexible flap or band of material permitting line 776 to bend and thereby pivot between the two illustrated states. As shown by FIG. 38, awning 776, in the unused rear state extends parallel to top portion 538 of panel 524 such that it does not substantially interfere with the reconfiguration of panels 524 and 526 into the stacked state shown and described above with respect to FIG. 33-37. In some implementations, awning 776 may comprise a compressible cushioning panel, wherein the cushioning panel of the awning 776 may function similar to the padding 382 (shown in FIG. 40) when system is in the stacked state and awning 776 is in the unused state, wherein the padding of awning 776 is sandwiched between panels 524, 526 and the back of a person wearing the backpack and using the stacked panels 524, 526 as a backpack frame or brace.

[0105] FIGS. 39 and 40 illustrate example portable furniture systems that may additionally include a backpack. FIG. 39 illustrates portable furniture system 820. System 820 is similar to system 720 described above except that system 820 additionally comprises backpack 200 and mounts or retainers 208, both of which are described above.

[0106] As shown by FIG. 39, retainers 208 serve as mounts for securing the system 720, while in the stacked state, such that platform 552 projects or overhangs portions of backpack 200. In some implementations, the overhanging panel 52 may cover and protect portions of backpack 200 from rainfall or snowfall. In other implementations, the disassembled system 20 may be retained along the backside of backpack 200 in an opposite orientation such a panel 552 angles and project rearwardly away from backpack 200 (similar to as shown in FIG. 13). As shown by FIG. 13, panel 552 may comprise couplers 224 securing additional articles. For example, coupler 520 may be in the form of a hook, strap, snaps or the like for securing or suspending an article 221 from platform 52. By way of example, article 221 may be a rolled sleeping bag, pillow, tarp or other camping article. In the implementation illustrated, platform 52 may cover and protect the underlying article 221.

[0107] As further shown by FIG. 13, insertion panel 552 may additionally comprise an article securement mechanism 222 for securing articles along the backside of the insertion panel 26. Mechanism 222 may be in the form of one or more straps releasably secured by a buckle 223 or other fastener, for wrapping about an example article 224. By way of example only, the article 224 may be a camping article, such as a tent, first aid kit, water bottle or the like. In some implementations, coupler 220 and/or mechanism 222 may be a supplemental container for containing articles. For example, the supplemental container may be in the form of a collapsible basket, pouch or the like.

[0108] FIG. 40 illustrates an example portable furniture system 920. System 920 comprises system 720 described above and additionally comprises backpack 400, described above. Backpack 400 is similar to backpack 200 except that backpack 400 utilizes one or both of panel 524, 526 of system 720 as a frame or backing for the backpack 400. In the example illustrated, backpack 400 is similar to backpack 200 except that backpack 400 additionally comprises panel retainer 380, and padding 382, described above.

[0109] Panel retainer 380 extends from body 202 along the front side 211 of backpack 400, along the same side from which shoulder straps 206 extend. Panel retainer 38 is configured to secure one or both of panels 524 and 526 along the front side 211 such that one or both of panels 524, 526 serve as a frame or backing for backpack 400. In such an implementation, backpack 400 may omit any internal or other rigid spine, frame, backing of the like. As a result, system 720 is incorporated as part of backpack 400, replacing an otherwise provided spine, frame or backing to reduce the overall weight of system 920.

[0110] In the example illustrated, retainer 380 comprises a sleeve or pocket for receiving one or both of panels 524, 526. The sleeve or pocket may be formed from an elastic material tightly receiving grip panels 524,5 26. In other implementations, retainer 380 may comprise one or more straps, brackets or the like secured to and extending from body 202, wherein the straps, brackets or the like connected to one or both of panels 524, 526 to retain panels 524, 526 in place against front 211 of backpack 400. In instances where system 720 is not being utilized, panels 524 and 526 of system 720 may be withdrawn or separated from backpack 400, permitting backpack 400 to be utilized without panels 524, 526.

[0111] Padding 382 comprise a layer of padding, such as a foam padding, secured to retainer 380 so as to extend between panels 524 and/or 526 and the back of the person wearing backpack 400. In some implementations, padding 382 is releasably secured to the pouch or sleep forming retainer 380. In some implementations, padding 382 may be omitted or may be provided on an internal surface of the pocket or sleeve forming retainer 380. As described above, in some implementations, padding 382 may alternatively be pivotably coupled to one of panels 524, 526 to also serve as an awning (awning 776), wherein padding 382 may be received withing the pouch forming retainer 380. In some implementations, padding 382 may be releasably affixed to at least one of panels 524, 526 by magnets, clips, straps, hook and loop fasteners, and the like, wherein the stacked panels 524, 526 with the retained padding 382 are within the pouch of retainer 380 or are otherwise releasably secured to the shoulder strap side of backpack 400 without retainer 380 (where retainer 380 is omitted) and wherein the padding 382 is sandwiched between panel 524, 526 and the back of the person wearing the backpack 400.

[0112] Although the claims of the present disclosure are generally directed to a portable furniture system, the present disclosure is additionally directed to the features set forth in the following definitions. [0113] 1. A portable furniture system comprising: [0114] a first panel having a horizontally oriented slot, the horizontally oriented slot having a top edge and a bottom edge, the top edge being horizontally offset from the bottom edge, wherein a bottom portion of the first panel forms at least one front leg; and [0115] a second panel removably extending through the slot, wherein a first portion of the second panel on a rear side of the horizontally oriented slot forms at least one rear leg and wherein a second portion of the second panel on a front side of the horizontally oriented slot forms a resting surface. [0116] 2. The portable furniture system of Definition 1, wherein the resting surface forms a seat. [0117] 3. The portable furniture system of Definition 2 further comprising a pad coupled to the resting surface. [0118] 4. The portable furniture system of Definition 2, wherein the top edge is bowed in a first direction. [0119] 5. The portable furniture system of Definition 4, wherein the bottom edge is bowed in a second direction opposite the first direction. [0120] 6. The portable furniture system of Definition 2, wherein the bottom edge is bowed. [0121] 7. The portable furniture system of Definition 2, wherein the second panel is formed from a fiber composite material. [0122] 8. The portable furniture system of Definition 2, wherein at least one of the first panel and the second panel comprises a hollow shell. [0123] 9. The portable furniture system of Definition 2, wherein the at least one of the first panel and the second panel further comprises a filling within the hollow shell. [0124] 10. The portable furniture system of Definition 9, wherein the filling comprises a foamed material. [0125] 11. The portable furniture system of Definition 1, wherein the top edge and the bottom edge are horizontally offset by at least 10 mm and no greater than 100 mm. [0126] 12. The portable furniture system of Definition 1, wherein the top edge and the bottom edge are horizontally offset by at least 30 mm and no greater than 50 mm. [0127] 13. The portable furniture system of Definition 1 further comprising a retainer for releasably securing the first panel and the second panel in a stacked relationship. [0128] 14. The portable furniture system of Definition 1, wherein the first portion of the second panel has a first material composition having a first degree of resilient flexibility and wherein the second portion of the second panel has a second material composition having a second degree of resilient flexibility less than the first degree of resilient flexibility. [0129] 15. The portable furniture system of Definition 1, wherein the first panel has a top portion having a third material composition having a third degree of material flexibility and wherein the bottom portion had a fourth material composition having a fourth degree of resilient flexibility greater than the third degree of resilient flexibility. [0130] 16. The portable furniture system of Definition 1, wherein the first panel additionally comprises a periphery and at least one cutout internal to the periphery. [0131] 17. The portable furniture system of Definition 16, wherein the second panel additionally comprises a second periphery and at least one second cutout internal to the second periphery. [0132] 18. The portable furniture system of Definition 1, wherein the at least one cutout and the at least one second cutout are configured to align with one another when the first panel and the second panel are stacked. [0133] 19. The portable furniture system of Definition 11, wherein the second panel additionally comprises a periphery and at least one cutout internal to the periphery. [0134] 20. The portable furniture system of Definition 1 further comprising a backpack comprising: [0135] a compartment; [0136] shoulder straps extending forwardly from the compartment; and [0137] a mount forward the compartment below the shoulder straps, the mount being configured to releasably secure at least one of the first panel and the second panel to the compartment below the shoulder straps. [0138] 21. The portable furniture system of Definition 20, wherein the mount comprises at least one strap configured to extend through an opening in the at least one of the first panel and the second panel. [0139] 22. The portable furniture system of Definition 20, wherein the mount comprises a sleeve configured to releasably receive at least one of the first panel and the second panel. [0140] 23. The portable furniture system of Definition 1, wherein the at least one first leg comprises at least one foot extension. [0141] 24. The portable furniture system of Definition 1, wherein the second portion of the second panel comprises a cup projecting below the resting surface. [0142] 25. The portable furniture system of Definition 24, wherein the cup is collapsible. [0143] 26. The portable furniture system of Definition 1 further comprising a pad coupled to a top portion of the first panel. [0144] 27. The portable furniture system of Definition 2, wherein the pad is releasably coupled to the top portion of the first panel. [0145] 28. The portable furniture system of Definition 27, further comprising a second pad releasably coupled to the resting surface. [0146] 29. The portable furniture system of Definition 1 further comprising a netting extending across an aperture in the resting surface. [0147] 30. The portable furniture system of Definition 1 further comprising a netting extending across an aperture in a top portion of the first panel. [0148] 31. The portable furniture system of Definition 1 further comprising a netting extending across an aperture in a top portion of the first panel. [0149] 32. The portable furniture system of Definition 1, wherein the second portion of the second panel is angled such the resting surface is horizonal and such portions of the second panel extend rearwardly and downwardly between the first edge and the second edge. [0150] 33. The portable furniture system of Definition 1, wherein the first edge is above the second edge. [0151] 34. The portable furniture system of Definition 1, wherein the first edge and the second edge extend along parallel inclined planes.

[0152] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to example implementations, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. For example, although different example implementations may have been described as including features providing one or more benefits, it is contemplated that the described features may be interchanged with one another or alternatively be combined with one another in the described example implementations or in other alternative implementations. Because the technology of the present disclosure is relatively complex, not all changes in the technology are foreseeable. The present disclosure described with reference to the example implementations and set forth in the following claims is manifestly intended to be as broad as possible. For example, unless specifically otherwise noted, the claims reciting a single particular element also encompass a plurality of such particular elements. The terms first, second, third and so on in the claims merely distinguish different elements and, unless otherwise stated, are not to be specifically associated with a particular order or particular numbering of elements in the disclosure.