INTERCHANGEABLE UPHOLSTERY
20260041242 ยท 2026-02-12
Inventors
Cpc classification
International classification
Abstract
An interchangeable upholstery system is configured to be dcor-convertible. The interchangeable upholstery system includes a frame configured to provide a structural support for a piece of furniture. A first decorative panel includes upholstery and is configured to be attached to the frame and to be interchangeable with a second decorative panel. A dcor-convertible fastener system is configured to secure the first decorative panel to the frame.
Claims
1. An interchangeable upholstery system configured to be dcor-convertible, comprising: a frame configured to provide a structural support for a piece of furniture; a first decorative panel comprising upholstery and configured to be attached to the frame and to be interchangeable with a second decorative panel; and a dcor-convertible fastener system configured to secure the first decorative panel to the frame.
2. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein the dcor-convertible fastener system is further configured to allow the first decorative panel to be non-destructively removed from the frame and be replaced by the second decorative panel, and wherein the first decorative panel is reusable.
3. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein the dcor-convertible fastener system is a tie system comprising: a mated pair of a series of grommets built into matching ends of the upholstery of the first decorative panel; and a tie configured to pass through the grommets and to be tightened to marry the mated pair, causing the dcor-convertible fastener system to secure the first decorative panel onto the frame.
4. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 3, wherein the grommets are made of metal, plastic, wood, bamboo, or rubber.
5. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein the dcor-convertible fastener system comprises snaps.
6. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein the dcor-convertible fastener system comprises buckles.
7. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein the dcor-convertible fastener system comprises a loop and hook system.
8. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein the dcor-convertible fastener system comprises an elastic cord system.
9. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein a fastener of the dcor-convertible fastener system comprises: a base configured to secure the first decorative panel to the frame; and a first removable decorative top configured to be interchanged with a second decorative removable top having a different dcor from the first decorative removable top.
10. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein the first decorative panel is a layered panel comprises layers comprising: a padding layer; a webbing layer surrounding the padding layer and configured to provide support and non-sagging form for the first decorative panel and to remain flexible to provide comfort to a person in contact with the first decorative panel; and an outer decorative layer providing a first dcor that is different from a second dcor of the second decorative panel.
11. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 10, wherein the layered panel further comprises a non-slip layer primarily covering a region of the first decorative panel contacting the frame and configured to prevent slipping of the first decorative panel relative to the frame.
12. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 10, wherein the layers of the layered panel are sewn together or glued together.
13. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 10, wherein the outer decorative layer is made of fabric, leather, or a recycled material.
14. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 10, wherein the outer decorative layer comprises advertising.
15. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 10, wherein the layered panel further comprises a smart chip embedded between the layers.
16. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 10, wherein the outer decorative layer is treated with a protective coating configured to prevent stains.
17. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein applications of the interchangeable upholstery system include homes, theaters, stadiums, offices, camping, mass transit, boats, schools, and medical facilities.
18. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein a theme of the first decorative panel is selected from a group comprising seasons, holidays, life events, colors, patterns, sports teams, animal themes, and pet themes.
19. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein the furniture is a chair, a stool, a couch, a desk, or a bed.
20. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 19, wherein the interchangeable upholstery system for the bed includes one or more of a headboard, a footboard, skirts, and pillows.
21. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein the frame includes a customer-selected finish selected from a group comprising antique brass, shiny brass, brushed nickel, satin nickel, stainless steel, a composite, faux wood, and chrome.
22. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein interchanging the first decorative panel and the second decorative panel is completable by a human in under two minutes without damaging either panel.
23. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein components of the dcor-convertible fastener system are obtainable from one or more of an online site and a brick-and-mortar location.
24. The interchangeable upholstery system of claim 1, wherein public applications of the dcor-convertible fastener system include tamper-resistant fasteners.
25. A furniture upholstery system dcor conversion kit, comprising: a first decorative panel comprising upholstery and configured to be attached to a frame of a piece of furniture and to be interchangeable with a second decorative panel upon removal of the second decorative panel from the frame, wherein the frame is configured to provide a structural support for the piece of furniture; and a dcor-convertible fastener system configured to secure the first decorative panel to the frame.
Description
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
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[0034] Like reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0035] The following detailed description describes techniques for an interchangeable upholstery system. Various modifications, alterations, and permutations of the disclosed implementations can be made and will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and the general principles defined may be applied to other implementations and applications, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In some instances, details unnecessary to obtain an understanding of the described subject matter may be omitted so as to not obscure one or more described implementations with unnecessary detail, and such details are within the skill of one of ordinary skill in the art. The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the described or illustrated implementations, but to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the described principles and features.
[0036] The interchangeable upholstery system can include the use of decorative elements, e.g., reflective of high-end interior design. The decorative elements can include upholstery fabric of different colors, styles, patterns, and weights. The decorative elements can be theme-based, such as using styles, patterns, symbols, or wording associated with seasons, holidays, life events (e.g., birthdays, graduations, or weddings), sports teams, animal themes, and pet themes. In some implementations, the decorative elements can include advertising. Materials used in upholstery can include fabric, leather, or recycled materials.
[0037] By using the interchangeable upholstery system, the upholstery on furniture can be changed, e.g., to match the appearance preferences for different seasons and/or dcors. Changing the furniture upholstery can include a complete swap-out and replacement of upholstery components. The swapped-out upholstery components can go into storage, for example. The swapping-out is one factor that differentiates the interchangeable upholstery system over the use of slip covers, which typically cover up upholstery.
[0038] In some implementations, applications of the interchangeable upholstery system can include homes, theaters, stadiums, offices, camping equipment, mass transit, boats, schools, and medical facilities. When public applications of the interchangeable upholstery system occur, dcor-convertible fastener systems can include tamper-resistant fasteners so as not to be easily removable or otherwise tampered with. Components of the dcor-convertible fastener system can be obtainable from one or more of an online site and a brick-and-mortar location.
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[0040] The interchangeable upholstery system 100 includes a first decorative panel. As an example, the first decorative panel can collectively include interchangeable fabric components 108 (e.g., a chair back 108a and a chair seat 108b). The first decorative panel can be constructed using upholstery and can be configured to be removably attached to the frame (e.g., chair frame 106) so as to be interchangeable with a second decorative panel (e.g., any of the decorative panels shown in decorative chairs 112-128). To convert the chair 102 into one of the other chairs 104, the first decorative panel can be non-destructively removed from the frame and be replaced by the second decorative panel. Doing so allows the first decorative panel to be reusable for future changes of dcor.
[0041] In some implementations, the chair frame 106 can include some kind of ridges, e.g., to prevent the panel from slipping down the chair frame. In some implementations, the layered panel can include a non-slip layer (e.g., non-slip on a metal frame) primarily covering a region of the first decorative panel contacting the frame and configured to prevent slipping of the first decorative panel relative to the frame.
[0042] In the example shown in
[0043] The interchangeable upholstery system 100 can be configured to be dcor-convertible, meaning that components of the interchangeable upholstery system 100 can be changed to update the dcor, e.g., to change the look of chairs in an office or around a dining room table. A person may convert their furniture, for example, to reflect a change of season or simply to change the dcor. The process of interchanging the first decorative panel and the second decorative panel can be completed by a human in under two minutes without damaging either panel.
[0044] In some cases, the person may have multiple changes of upholstery in storage, e.g., a set for each season, or multiple sets for different occasions. For example, a set of chair covers can include a summer theme (e.g., sunbursts), a spring theme (e.g., flowers), an autumn theme (e.g., leaves), or a winter theme (e.g., snowflakes).
[0045] The interchangeable upholstery system 100 includes a dcor-convertible fastener system configured to secure the first decorative panel to the frame. Fasteners used in the interchangeable upholstery system can themselves be decorative, such as by using decorative snaps, bows, ties, clasps, buckles, clips, or knobs. In some implementations, fasteners used in the interchangeable upholstery system can include the use of a loop and hook system (e.g., VELCRO or similar).
[0046] In some implementations, the dcor-convertible fastener system can include the use of elastic (e.g., bungee) cords and/or a spring-loaded plastic cord locking system. In some implementations, decorative chains can be used and can be connected using threaded components. Fasteners can be sold separately to allow for a change of dcor without making a change to the underlying upholstery. For example, different types of ties can exist that are each interchangeable components of a tie and grommet design.
[0047] In some implementations, a decorative fastener can itself be convertible. For example, the decorative fastener can include a base that is configured to secure the first decorative panel to the frame. The decorative fastener can further include a first removable decorative top configured to be interchanged with a second decorative removable top, having a different dcor from the first decorative removable top.
[0048] Each of the interchangeable fabric components 108a and 108b can include an inner padding layer, a webbing layer, and an outer decorative layer, as will be described in more detail in
[0049] In some implementations, decorative panels, such as for chairs, can be different within a set. For example, in a set of decorative panels for a fall theme, each chair can have a different colored leaf.
[0050] In some implementations, the interchangeable fabric components 108 can include slip-over components, such as a chair back 108a that simply slips over the chair frame 106 and stays in place (at least in part) by gravity. In this example, the chair back 108a can be a closed-top panel that slips over and rests, for example, on a top cross bar of the chair frame 106. In this way the chair back 108a can also be easily removable by lifting the chair back 108a over the chair frame 106 to quickly and easily replace chair back 108a with a different style. In these types of examples, decorative fasteners need not be used (e.g., to hold the chair back 108a to the chair frame 106), but can be optional.
[0051] In some implementations, a chair back can be preconfigured for fast and easy installation. For example, a chair back with a grommet and laces system can be manufactured to have a loose-fit state of the laces so that the chair back can be lowered over a chair back in a few seconds. Then the laces can be slightly tightened to further engage with the chair frame. The laces can be tied, e.g., in a bow or other pattern. Such systems can be installed in under 30 seconds, for example. Faster installations can be realized using spring-loaded plastic cord locks, such as quick-release tie systems that are used in sports and camping gear. Removal of such chair backs can be completed in under 10 seconds.
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[0055] In some implementations, materials used in the layers 402-406 can be machine washable, e.g., using floor-fast, unshrinkable material in a combined decorative panel 202, or can be surface wipeable using a damp cloth. Other types of the webbing layers 406 can be used that provide a level of stiffness while being flexible enough to be comfortable for someone sitting in the chair. In some implementations, the decorative panel 202 can be sprayed or otherwise treated with a protective coating configured to prevent stains.
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[0067] While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to particular implementations. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented, in combination, in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations, separately, or in any suitable sub-combination. Moreover, although previously described features may be described as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or variation of a sub-combination.
[0068] Particular implementations of the subject matter have been described. Other implementations, alterations, and permutations of the described implementations are within the scope of the following claims and will be apparent to those skilled in the art. While operations are depicted in the drawings or claims in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed (some operations may be considered optional), to achieve desirable results. In certain circumstances, multitasking or parallel processing (or a combination of multitasking and parallel processing) may be advantageous and performed as deemed appropriate.
[0069] Moreover, the separation or integration of various system modules and components in the previously described implementations should not be understood as requiring such separation or integration in all implementations. It should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together into a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.
[0070] Accordingly, the previously described example implementations do not define or constrain the present disclosure. Other changes, substitutions, and alterations are also possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Described implementations of the subject matter can include one or more embodiments, alone or in combination.
[0071] For example, in a first aspect, an interchangeable upholstery system is configured to be dcor-convertible. The interchangeable upholstery system includes a frame configured to provide a structural support for a piece of furniture. A first decorative panel includes upholstery and is configured to be attached to the frame and to be interchangeable with a second decorative panel. A dcor-convertible fastener system is configured to secure the first decorative panel to the frame.
[0072] The foregoing and other described implementations can each, optionally, include one or more of the following embodiments:
[0073] In a first embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the dcor-convertible fastener system is further configured to allow the first decorative panel to be non-destructively removed from the frame and be replaced by the second decorative panel, and the first decorative panel is reusable.
[0074] In a second embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the dcor-convertible fastener system is a tie system that includes a mated pair of a series of grommets built into matching ends of the upholstery of the first decorative panel and a tie configured to pass through the grommets and to be tightened to marry the mated pair, causing the dcor-convertible fastener system to secure the first decorative panel onto the frame.
[0075] In a third embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the grommets are made of metal, plastic, wood, bamboo, or rubber.
[0076] In a fourth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the dcor-convertible fastener system includes snaps.
[0077] In a fifth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the dcor-convertible fastener system includes buckles.
[0078] In a sixth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the dcor-convertible fastener system includes a loop and hook system.
[0079] In a seventh embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the dcor-convertible fastener system includes an elastic cord system.
[0080] In an eighth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where a fastener of the dcor-convertible fastener system includes: a base configured to secure the first decorative panel to the frame; and a first removable decorative top configured to be interchanged with a second decorative removable top having a different dcor from the first decorative removable top.
[0081] In a ninth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the first decorative panel is a layered panel that includes layers. The layers include: a padding layer; a webbing layer surrounding the padding layer and configured to provide support and non-sagging form for the first decorative panel and to remain flexible to provide comfort to a person in contact with the first decorative panel; and an outer decorative layer providing a first dcor that is different from a second dcor of the second decorative panel.
[0082] In a tenth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the layered panel further includes a non-slip layer primarily covering a region of the first decorative panel contacting the frame and is configured to prevent slipping of the first decorative panel relative to the frame.
[0083] In an eleventh embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the layers of the layered panel are sewn together or glued together.
[0084] In a twelfth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the outer decorative layer is made of fabric, leather, or a recycled material.
[0085] In a thirteenth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the outer decorative layer includes advertising.
[0086] In a fourteenth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the layered panel further includes a smart chip embedded between the layers.
[0087] In a fifteenth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the outer decorative layer is treated with a protective coating configured to prevent stains.
[0088] In a sixteenth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where applications of the interchangeable upholstery system include homes, theaters, stadiums, offices, camping, mass transit, boats, schools, and medical facilities.
[0089] In a seventeenth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where a theme of the first decorative panel is related to seasons, holidays, life events, colors, patterns, sports teams, animal themes, and pet themes.
[0090] In an eighteenth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the furniture is a chair, a stool, a couch, a desk, or a bed.
[0091] In a nineteenth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the interchangeable upholstery system for the bed includes one or more of a headboard, a footboard, skirts, and pillows.
[0092] In a twentieth embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where the frame includes a customer-selected finish is antique brass, shiny brass, brushed nickel, satin nickel, stainless steel, a composite, faux wood, and chrome.
[0093] In a twenty-first embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where interchanging the first decorative panel and the second decorative panel is completable by a human in under two minutes without damaging either panel.
[0094] In a twenty-second embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where components of the dcor-convertible fastener system are obtainable from one or more of an online site and a brick-and-mortar location.
[0095] In a twenty-third embodiment, combinable with any of the previous or following embodiments, where public applications of the dcor-convertible fastener system include tamper-resistant fasteners.
[0096] In a second aspect, a furniture upholstery system dcor conversion kit includes a first decorative panel includes upholstery and that is configured to be attached to a frame of a piece of furniture and to be interchangeable with a second decorative panel upon removal of the second decorative panel from the frame. The frame is configured to provide a structural support for the piece of furniture. A dcor-convertible fastener system configured to secure the first decorative panel to the frame.