Modular Furniture for Small Spaces

Abstract

A modular furniture system comprising a base module featuring a tabletop. Additional modules may comprise various appliances and features. The modules are adjustable in height and can be moved and rearranged easily. Multiple modules may be secured together to form larger arrangements of furniture. The present invention allows for customization and accessibility of furniture in indoor and outdoor spaces and is useful even within a limited space.

Claims

1. A modular furniture system comprising a plurality of interchangeable base modules, said modules comprising, a flat tabletop; tabletop sides; legs; mobility means affixed to the module, said mobility means further comprising a locking mechanism; and a coupling means, said coupling means allowing adjacent base modules to be selectively attached and detached.

2. The modular furniture system of claim 1, further comprising a height adjustment means operatively connected to the module, wherein said height adjustment means is configured to selectively alter the height of the legs and secure the module at a selected height, said height adjustment means comprising telescopic legs configured for manual or automated extension and retraction.

3. The modular furniture system of claim 1, wherein said mobility means comprises multi-directional wheels with locking capabilities.

4. The modular furniture system of claim 1, wherein said coupling means comprises fastening mechanisms such as clips, latches, magnets, and interlocking elements.

5. The modular furniture system of claim 1, wherein the modules further comprise specialized modules with integrated appliance functionality, said specialized modules capable of being interchangeably attached to said base modules via said coupling means.

6. The modular furniture system of claim 1, wherein said modules may be assembled via said coupling means to form a continuous surface across multiple modules.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] FIG. 1 is a view of the basic tabletop module of the present invention.

[0005] FIG. 2 is a view of a tabletop module of the present invention with a rectangular cutout.

[0006] FIG. 3 is a view of a module of the present invention with a scissor lift mechanism.

[0007] FIG. 4 is a view of a module of the present invention with a stove top.

[0008] FIG. 5 is a view of a module of the present invention with a sink.

[0009] FIG. 6 is a front view of the present invention showing the adjustable length legs.

[0010] FIG. 7 is a front view of the present invention showing the legs in an extended length position.

[0011] FIG. 8 is a front view of the present invention with a scissor lift mechanism.

[0012] FIG. 9 is a set of three different modules of the present invention arranged together in an L-shape.

[0013] FIG. 10 is a set of six modules of the present invention arranged to form a larger tabletop surface.

[0014] FIG. 11 is a set of five modules of the present invention arranged in a U-shape.

[0015] FIG. 12 is a top view of FIG. 10.

[0016] FIG. 13 is a top view of a set of six modules.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] All illustrations of the drawings are for the purpose of describing selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0018] The present invention relates to modular furniture units, which can be moved, adjusted, arranged, and combined in various configurations. The basic module, as shown in FIG. 1, is a table comprising a flat top (1), sides (2), legs (3), locking pin holes (4 and 5) on the upper and lower part of the legs (3), and wheels (7) with wheel locks (6).

[0019] Further variations of the basic module are planned, integrating various countertop appliances. FIG. 2 shows a module featuring a rectangular cutout in the tabletop (1). Objects or appliances are mounted within the cutout, such as a sink, as shown in FIG. 5, or a cooktop, as shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 3 shows a short module with a scissor lift (8), and FIG. 4 shows a module with a stove top. In a preferred embodiment, the scissor lift is placed on the short module, as shown in FIG. 3, and is 20 inches high with tabletop dimensions 23-inches by 23-inches. The scissor lift (8) is integrated into the module and allows countertop appliances to be elevated. The scissor lift supports the weight and operational demands of various appliances, ensuring stable elevation and positioning in line with kitchen use requirements. Further variations are contemplated to provide a diverse and customizable experience.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the tall module comprises a 25 by 25-inch tabletop (1), allowing multiple modules to be arranged and moved within a grid system. Examples of different configurations are shown in FIGS. 9-13. The tall module further comprises legs (3) with locking pin holes (4 and 5), allowing the height of each leg to be adjusted individually. The legs are telescopic, featuring an upper and lower part that can be extended and retracted. The locking pin holes (4) on the upper part of the legs (3) may be distributed at various heights, including predetermined heights such as table, countertop, or bar height. The locking pin hole (5) on the lower part of the legs (3) facilitates the engagement of a locking pin or similar device, securing the leg at the desired height. FIGS. 6 and 7 show the basic module of the present invention at two different heights, although the number of locking pin holes and range of adjustability may vary. The height adjustability emphasizes ergonomic design to cater to all users, allowing the height to be set at a comfortable level. The adjustability provides further advantages, including the ability to be placed on uneven outdoor terrain and surfaces, allowing the tabletop (1) to remain level. Other embodiments may comprise gas struts or other means by which the height can be adjusted.

[0021] The present invention comprises wheels (7) with wheel locks (6). This allows for convenience when moving or reconfiguring the module or modules. It allows for effortless reconfiguration, from transitioning to an indoor island in the kitchen to an outdoor barbecue setup to an indoor dining space, or any other configuration desired by the user. In one embodiment, all modules have standardized dimensions, enhancing uniformity and compatibility. Uniformity simplifies the process of moving various modules between different settings and enables smooth transitions. Additional embodiments may include modules of different heights to better accommodate various needs. Shorter modules may be preferred for countertop appliances including ovens and microwaves, while taller modules may be preferred for general countertop and dining purposes.

[0022] Multiple modules of the present invention may be combined in various ways. A user may place a first module in one location, then move a second module next to the first module, and so on with any number of modules. The modules may simply be placed next to each other and have the wheels (7) locked to remain in place. In other embodiments, the sides (2) of the table top may be fitted with a locking mechanism to secure the modules to each other. In another embodiment, the modules may be magnetic, allowing the magnetic force to hold the sides (2) of multiple modules together.

[0023] The modules of the present invention may be further modified or integrated for a variety of uses. For example, in an outdoor kitchen setup, a module may be tall with an inserted grill, and other modules may be set to countertop or table heights to create meal preparation or dining spaces. A sink module and cooktop module may also be included. The sink module would be able to connect to a water source.

[0024] Further height adjustability or taller modules may also be possible, such as a bar height module, which in one embodiment may be 40 inches tall. Specialized bar modules may further include beverage coolers, wine racks, or other features and accessories. Additional modules may further include built-in storage options.

[0025] The present invention is of particular utility in tiny homes, where space is at a premium. The present invention allows users to maximize their limited space with furniture that serves multiple purposes, adapts to changing needs, and can easily be reconfigured.

[0026] The present invention further ensures accessibility for users with disabilities or older users. The telescopic legs (3) and scissor lift mechanisms (8) allow the height of countertops and work surfaces to be easily adjusted to accommodate wheelchair users and others with mobility impairments. The wheels (7) and wheel locks (6) ensure that the modules of the present invention may be repositioned and stabilized as needed, providing flexibility and ease of access. The 2525-inch dimensions of the preferred embodiment of the modules are optimized for the reachability standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These dimensions ensure that all areas of the modules are within easy reach of a person seated in a wheelchair, complying with ADA guidelines for accessible work surfaces. The present invention is further designed to help individuals age in place by offering features that adapt to their changing needs over time, and the ability to easily reconfigure the modules allows older adults to adjust their living spaces as their mobility and physical needs change, ensuring that their home remains functional and safe. The sturdy design and locking mechanisms of the modules provide enhanced stability, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. The height adjustability and ergonomic design of the modules ensure that they can be used comfortably and safely by older adults, reducing physical strain and promoting independence.

[0027] Although the invention has been explained in relation to its preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.