Reversible couch

Abstract

A reversible couch is disclosed. The couch includes a base having first and second opposite sides, first and second opposite ends, and a top surface. A removable backing is provided, configured to rest on or over a portion of the top surface. The couch also has connectors for releasably connecting the removable backing to the base. The couch also includes a cushion. The cushion includes a cut-out section configured to accommodate the backing at different positions on the base. A method is also provided for configuring the couch. The method includes the steps of removing the removable backing from a first section of the base, changing the position of the cushion to accommodate the removable backing along a second section of the base, and installing the removable backing along the second section of the base. Preferably, the couch is a chaise couch.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The disclosed invention relates to the field of furniture. More specifically, the invention relates to a couch such as a chaise having a reversible backing.

[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0004] The general concept of convertible and reversible furniture is known in the art. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,817,573 describes a convertible living room furniture set that consists of eight modular pieces that may serve as either a chair or console table. U.S. Pat. No. 3,910,630 describes a convertible seat and couch structure. Dual-faced cushion sections rest on support structures that allow the cushion sections to pivot or break apart to form a chair, recliner, couch, or bed.

[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 5,000,512 describes an upholstered seating unit. A plurality of support members attach to an internal frame structure and are movable. In this way, cushions may be easily removed for cleaning or replacement as individual units. Other patents disclosing convertible, removable or reversible features include U.S. Pat. No. 3,864,764, U.S. Pat. No. 3,972,565, U.S. Pat. No. 4,395,071, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,241,317.

[0006] There remains a need for a reversible couch. Further, there exists a need for a method of arranging an item of furniture by moving the furniture and by also moving the position of a backing on the furniture.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] A reversible couch is first provided. In one embodiment, the couch includes a base having first and second opposite sides, first and second opposite ends and a top surface. The couch further includes a removable backing configured to rest on or over a portion of the top surface, and a cushion dimensioned to substantially cover the top surface of the base. The cushion has first and second opposite surfaces. In one embodiment, the cushion contains a cut-out section configured to accommodate the backing at different positions on the base.

[0008] A means for releasably connecting the backing to the base is provided. In one aspect, the reversible couch may have at least one bracket post connected to and extending below the removable backing. The bracket posts mate with corresponding bracket connectors disposed within the base at a plurality of positions. The bracket connectors permit the removable backing to be placed at different positions on the base.

[0009] In another aspect, the reversible couch may have at least one bracket connector positioned along the first side of the base proximate the first end, and at least one bracket connector positioned along the first side of the base proximate the second end. In yet another aspect, at least one bracket connector is positioned along the first side of the base proximate the first end, and at least one bracket connector positioned along the second side of the base proximate the first end.

[0010] In yet another embodiment, at least one bracket connector is positioned along the first end of the base, and at least one bracket connector is positioned along the second end of the base. The base may be a polygon having four sides, with at least one bracket connector positioned along the base in each of four quadrants of the base. The removable backing may have two posts, and the bracket connectors may define pairs of female connectors disposed within the base at a plurality of positions for receiving the two posts, respectively. In one aspect, the cut-out section of the cushion exists within a quadrant of the cushion.

[0011] Unique to this design is the reversible cushion and the removable backing. In One embodiment, the reversible couch converts from a couch with a left-sided reversible couch to a right-sided reversible couch. As such, the function of the furniture piece is not altered. This feature further allows users flexibility in arranging the couch in smaller spaces such as apartments or town homes.

[0012] A method of arranging an item of furniture is also provided. In one embodiment, the method includes the step of providing an item of furniture comprising a base, a removable backing configured to rest on or over a portion of the base, and a cushion having a cut-out section configured to accommodate the removable backing at different sections on the base. The method also includes the steps of removing the removable backing from a first section of the base, changing the position of the cushion to accommodate the removable backing along a second section of the base, and installing the removable backing along the second section of the base. In one aspect, the step of changing the position of the cushion may require flipping the cushion from having its first surface resting on the base, to having its second surface resting on the base.

[0013] In another aspect, the method of arranging furniture may include the step of moving the base from a first position where its first end is adjacent to an object, to a second position where its second end is adjacent to the object. This object may be a wall or another article of furniture such as a couch, e.g., a chaise couch.

[0014] A method of arranging a chaise couch is also provided. In one embodiment, the method includes the step of providing a chaise couch comprising a base. The base has first and second opposite sides, first and second opposite ends, and a top surface. Also provided is a removable backing configured to rest on or over a portion of the base, a connector assembly releasably connecting the removable backing from the base, and a cushion having first and second opposite surfaces. The cushion may have a cut-out section configured to accommodate the removable backing at different sections on the base.

[0015] In one aspect, the method also includes the steps of removing the removable backing from a first section of the base, changing the position of the cushion to accommodate the removable backing along a second section of the base, and installing the removable backing along the second section of the base. In one aspect, the step of changing the position of the cushion comprises the step of flipping the cushion from having its first surface resting on the base, to having its second surface resting on the base.

[0016] In another aspect, the method of arranging a couch may include the step of moving the base from a first position where its first end is adjacent to a first end of a separate couch, to a second position where its second end is adjacent to a second end of the separate couch.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present invention can be better understood, certain drawings or flow charts are appended hereto. It is to be noted, however, that the appended illustrations depict only selected embodiments of the inventions and are therefore not to be considered limiting of scope, for the inventions may admit to other equally effective embodiments and applications.

[0018] FIG. 1 presents a perspective view of the reversible couch, in one embodiment. A removable backing is seen exploded above a base of the couch.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the reversible couch of FIG. 1, with the cushion exploded from the base. The backing is not shown.

[0020] FIG. 3 shows a front view of a bracket assembly system as may be used with the couch of FIG. 1.

[0021] FIG. 4 presents a perspective view of the reversible couch, in one embodiment, with the base, cushion, and backing cut away to expose the base frame structure.

[0022] FIG. 5 presents a flow chart demonstrating illustrative steps performed to arrange an item of furniture, in one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Definitions

[0023] As used herein, the term "couch" means any article of furniture on which one may sit, and which has a major axis.

[0024] The term "chaise couch" means a couch which does not have dual arm rests.

DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0025] FIG. 1 presents a perspective view of a reversible chaise couch 100, in one embodiment. Fundamentally, the couch 100 includes a base 110, a cushion 120, and a removable backing 130. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the backing 130 is shown exploded away from the base 110.

[0026] The illustrative base 110 is rectangular in shape. However, the base 110 may be in the shape of any polygon that is capable of supporting the backing 130. The base 110 preferably rests on a set of four legs 116, with each leg 116 being secured at a lower corner quadrant of the base 110. The legs 116 allow for easier movement of the base 110 on surfaces such as hardwood floors, and allow for easier cleaning of the floor surface beneath the base 110. In another aspect, the base 110 may include an additional pair of legs (not shown) located intermediate of the corner legs 116. An intermediate pair of legs may be especially suitable for a couch 100 of extraordinary length. The legs 116 may be fabricated from any rigid material capable of supporting the weight of the couch 100 and a human body. Suitable materials include a hard wood or durable resin.

[0027] The base 110 is fabricated from a frame. FIG. 4 presents a cutaway perspective view of the base 110 of FIG. 1, exposing a framework 168. In the illustrated embodiment, the framework 168 is substantially rectangular in shape. The framework 168 is preferably comprised of solid wood members. In an alternative embodiment, the framework 168 is comprised of a rigid component such as plastic, treated wood, wood laminates or particle board.

[0028] The framework 168 is formed by a pair of end frame supports 150, a middle frame support 152, and a pair of side frame supports 154. The end frame supports 150 and side frame supports 154 may be cut to various lengths to form various sized couches. The middle frame support 152 is cut at a length approximately equal to the width of the couch 100. The end frame supports 150 and side frame supports 154 are secured to each other at right angles. This may be accomplished by insertion of a plurality of fasteners 169 such as screws or nails. The middle support 152 may be secured in a similar manner at a central location between the end frame supports 150.

[0029] The base 110 length and width are preferably dimensioned so as to accommodate a person in a reclined position. The base 110 height is preferably that of an average complimentary couch or chair. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 110 is approximately 24 inches high, 60 inches long and 30 inches wide. However, it is understood that the present inventions are not limited to any specific dimensions for the base 110 A durable material such as leather, woven cloth or any other cover material known in the art covers the framework 168 and gives the base 110 the aesthetic appearance of a single, movable unit.

[0030] As noted, the couch 100 also includes a cushion. The cushion is shown at 120 in FIG. 1, resting atop the base 110. Preferably, the cushion 120 is dimensioned so as to substantially rest on or cover a portion of a top surface 113 (see FIG. 2) of the base 110. The cushion 120 contains a first end 121 that aligns with a first end 112 of the base 110. The cushion 120 also includes a second end 122 that aligns with a second end 111 of the base 110. The cushion 120 may be two separate pieces that together substantially cover the base 110.

[0031] The cushion 120 is filled with upholstery filler such as foam, down feathers, layered batting or other filler known in the art. The filler is encased in an upholstery covering or shell such as leather or woven cloth that aesthetically matches the covering of the base 110. The thickness or height of the cushion 120 is consistent and is dimensioned so as to provide comfortable support to a user. The length and width is preferably also complimentary to that of the top surface 113 of the base 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the cushion is approximately 4 to 8 inches thick, 20 to 60 inches long and 15 to 30 inches wide. However, it is understood that the present inventions are not limited to any specific dimensions for the cushion 120.

[0032] In one embodiment, the cushion 120 contains a cut-out section 124 in one quadrant. The cut-out section 124 is dimensioned to engage the removable backing 130. In another aspect, the cushion 120 may be dimensioned to accommodate a pair of removable backings 130. For instance, backings 130 may be placed in a side-by-side relationship, or in opposing orientations. In use, the removable backing 130 provides a resting place for a human arm or back depending on the orientation of the resting body.

[0033] The removable backing 130 shown in FIG. 1 is substantially shaped as a rectangle. However, other shapes may be employed. The shape of the removable backing 130 is preferably formed by a durable plastic or wooden framework. The framework is encased in an upholstery covering such as leather or woven cloth that aesthetically matches the covering of the base 110 and the cushion 120. The length of the removable backing 130 is approximately equal to half the length of the base 110. The width is approximately 4 to 8 inches. In an alternative embodiment, the removable backing 130 is substantially the same length as the base 110. In this aspect, one removable backing 130 extends the entire length of the base 110. In yet another embodiment, two removable backing 130 units may be placed in a side-by-side orientation so as to extend the entire length of the base 110. Removable backing 130 units may also be placed on adjoining sides of the base to form a right angle. However, the present inventions are not limited by any specific dimensions or placements for the backing 130.

[0034] FIG. 2 presents another perspective view of the reversible couch 100 of FIG. 1. In this view, the cushion 120 is exploded away from the base 110. The dimensions of the illustrative base 110 are more clearly seen. Further, the dimensions of the cushion 120, including the cut-out section 124, are more clearly seen. Once again, the cut-out section 124 is preferably disposed in one quadrant of the cushion 120. The cushion 120 may optionally be adapted to have more than one cut-out section 124 to accommodate the use of multiple removable backing sections 130.

[0035] The cushion 120 has a first surface 123 and an opposing second surface (not seen). In the view of FIG. 2, the cushion 120 is lying on its second surface. The cushion 120 is positioned so that the first end 121 is lined up with the second end 112 of the base 110. In an alternative embodiment, the first end 121 of the cushion 120 may be lined up with the first end 111 of the base 110. This is accomplished by either flipping the cushion over onto its first surface 123, or by rotating the cushion 120. In either arrangement, an end of the cushion 120 and an end of the base 110 can abut another complimentary piece of furniture such as a chair or couch in a substantially perpendicular manner so as to form an extension of the complimentary furniture piece. This allows a portion of a user's body to extend out to rest on the top or first surface 123 of the cushion 120. In yet another embodiment, an end of the cushion 120 and an end of the base 110 can abut a wall. By placing the couch 100 in this orientation, the user may minimize the amount of space needed for the couch 100. The availability of this placement is especially suitable for smaller rooms.

[0036] The couch also includes a releasable connector. An illustrative connector is shown at 140 in FIG. 3. FIG. 3 presents a front view of an illustrative bracket assembly system 140. The bracket assembly 140 is comprised of a bracket post 142 and a corresponding bracket connector 144. In the illustrated embodiment, both the bracket post 142 and bracket connector are fabricated 144 from a cast metal. In another aspect, the bracket post 142 and bracket connector 144 may be fabricated from any durable materials such as a plastic or metal alloy. The bracket post 142 has two openings 147a on an upper portion. A fastener such as a screw or bolt engages each of the openings 147a in order to secure the bracket post 142 to a framework portion of the removable backing 130. The bracket post 142 also includes an elongated member 143 that extends below the upper portion of the bracket post 142. The elongated member 143 has a centrally located single opening 147b.

[0037] The bracket connector 144 includes an aperture 145 that, in use, slideably engages an elongated member 143 of the bracket post 142. The aperture 145 is substantially oval in shape. The bracket connector 144 also includes two openings 147c on a single wall through an upper portion. A fastener such as a screw or bolt engages each of the openings 147c in order to secure the bracket connector 144 to the framework 168 of the base 110. The bracket connector 144 further includes a single opening 147d centrally located on a tapered end 148 that aligns with the opening 147b on the bracket post 142 when the engaged. A fastener such as bolt or screw may be installed through the aligned openings 147b, 147d. In this way, the bracket post 142 is secured within the bracket connector 144.

[0038] In use, one or more bracket posts 142 is secured to the removable backing 130. In one aspect, a pair of bracket posts 142 extends from a bottom surface 135 of the removable backing 130. The bracket posts 142 are dimensioned to slideably engage corresponding bracket connectors 144 disposed in the base 110. It is understood that the locations of the bracket posts 142 and bracket connectors 144 forming the connector assembly 140 may be reversed. In this aspect, the bracket posts 142 may be secured to the framework 168 of the base 110, and the bracket connectors 144 may be secured to the backing 130 in order to slideably receive the corresponding bracket post 142.

[0039] In an alternative embodiment, the releasable connector defines a quick connect system (not shown). The quick connect system may employ pairs of brackets, as with assembly 140 of FIG. 3. In this aspect, a spring loaded button is centrally located along the elongated member 143. In use, a user pushes the button and slides the elongated member 143 into the aperture 145 and secures the elongated member 143 within the tapered end 148 of the bracket connector 144. Once the elongated member 143 is sufficiently secured within the tapered end 148, the spring loaded button aligns with the opening 147c on the bracket connector 144. Once aligned, the spring pushes the button outward into the opening 147c thus locking the bracket post 142 within the bracket connector 144. In another embodiment, the quick connect system employs snaps or latches. In another embodiment, a releasable connector is provided which represents tenons extending from the removable backing 130, and into holes along the framework 168 of the base 110.

[0040] It is preferred that the releasable connector, such as bracket assembly 140, be disposed at multiple positions around the base 110. In the exploded view of FIG. 2, multiple bracket connectors 144 are positioned at varying locations around the perimeter of the base 110. In this way, the removable backing 130 may be inserted or removed and relocated to various locations along the base 110.

[0041] Referring now to FIG. 4, FIG. 4 presents a cutaway view of the base 110 to show the framework 168. In the illustrated embodiment, the framework 168 is substantially rectangular in shape. FIG. 4 also shows a reversible backing 130 exploded above the framework 168. Most importantly, FIG. 4 shows one optional positioning of bracket connectors 144 along the framework 168.

[0042] The bracket connectors 144 are secured to the end frame supports 150 and middle frame support 152 at various locations For proper alignment of the removable backing 130, the corresponding bracket posts 142 are secured to an opposing interior face 160 at each end 161 of the removable backing 130. In an alternative embodiment, the bracket connectors 144 are secured to an interior surface 170 of the side frame supports 154. The corresponding bracket posts 142 are secured to the interior face 171 of the removable backing 130.

[0043] A method for arranging furniture is also disclosed herein. FIG. 5 presents a flow chart 200 demonstrating illustrative steps performed to arrange an item of furniture, in one embodiment. It is understood that the order of some of the steps from FIG. 5 may be changed, and that the sequence of steps is merely for illustration. It is also understood that some steps may be optional.

[0044] At step 210, a user is provided an item of furniture having a base, a removable backing and a cushion. The item of furniture is preferably a couch 100 from FIGS. 1 and 2. At step 220, the user removes the removable backing from a first section of the base. At step 230, the user changes the position of the cushion to accommodate the position of the removable backing along a second section of the base. In one embodiment, this requires the user to flip the cushion from having its first surface resting on the base, to having its second surface resting on the base. In another embodiment, the user rotates the cushion to place a cutaway section at a different position relative to the base.

[0045] At step 240, the user installs the removable backing along the second section of the base. In one aspect, installation is done at a position along the base where the cutaway section of the cushion is placed. Optionally, at step 250, the user moves the base from a first position where its first end is adjacent to an object such as another article of furniture or a wall, to a second position where its second end is adjacent to the object.

[0046] A method of arranging a chaise couch is also provided. In one embodiment the method includes the step of providing a chaise couch having a base with first and second opposite sides, first and second opposite ends, and a top surface. Also provided is a removable backing configured to rest on a portion of the base, a releasable connector releasably connecting the removable backing from the base, and a cushion having first and second opposite surfaces as well as a cut-out section configured to accommodate the removable backing at different sections on the base. In addition, the method also includes the steps of removing the removable backing from a first section of the base, changing the position of the cushion to accommodate the removable backing along a second section of the base and installing the removable backing along the second section of the base. In one aspect, the step of changing the position of the cushion comprises the step of flipping the cushion from having its first surface resting on the base, to having its second surface resting on the base.

[0047] In another aspect, the method of arranging a chaise couch may include the step of moving the base from a first position where its first end is adjacent to a first end of a couch, to a second position where its second end is adjacent to a second end of the couch.

[0048] Thus, an improved couch has been provided in various arrangements. Further, methods for arranging furniture such as a couch have been disclosed. It is understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the inventions, which may be embodied in various forms. It is intended that alternatives, modifications and equivalents may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Therefore, the details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as the basis for the claims.

Claims

1. A reversible couch, comprising: a base having first and second opposite sides, first and second opposite ends, and a top surface; a removable backing configured to rest over a portion of the top surface; and a cushion dimensioned to substantially cover the top surface of the base, the cushion having first and second opposite surfaces, and having a cut-out section configured to accommodate the backing at different positions on the base.

2. The reversible couch of claim 1, further comprising: a releasable connector for releasably connecting the removable backing from the base.

3. The reversible couch of claim 2, wherein the releasable connector is a bracket assembly.

4. The reversible couch of claim 1, further comprising: at least one bracket post connected to and extending below the removable backing; and bracket connectors for receiving a respective one of the at least one bracket post, the bracket connectors being disposed within the base at a plurality of positions to permit the removable backing to be placed at different positions on the base.

5. The reversible couch of claim 4, wherein: at least one bracket connector is positioned along the first side of the base proximate the first end, and at least one bracket connector is positioned along the first side of the base proximate the second end.

6. The reversible couch of claim 4, wherein: at least one bracket connector is positioned along the first side of the base proximate the first end, and at least one bracket connector is positioned along the second side of the base proximate the first end.

7. The reversible couch of claim 4, wherein: at least one bracket connector is positioned along the first end of the base, and at least one bracket connector is positioned along the second end of the base.

8. The reversible couch of claim 4, wherein: the base defines a polygon having four sides, and at least one bracket connector is positioned along the base in each of four quadrants of the base.

9. The reversible couch of claim 4, wherein: the removable backing receives two posts, and the bracket connectors define pairs of female connectors disposed within the base at a plurality of positions for receiving the two posts, respectively.

10. The reversible couch of claim 1, wherein the cut-out section is placed within a quadrant of the cushion.

11. The reversible couch of claim 1, wherein the cushion defines two cushions which together substantially cover the top surface of the base, excepting the cut-out section.

12. A method of arranging an item of furniture, comprising the steps of: providing an item of furniture comprising: a base, a removable backing configured to rest on or over a portion of the base, and a cushion having a cut-out section configured to accommodate the removable backing at different sections on the base; removing the removable backing from a first section of the base; changing the position of the cushion to accommodate the removable backing along a second section of the base; and installing the removable backing along the second section of the base.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein: the base has first and second opposite sides, first and second opposite ends, and a top surface, and the removable backing is configured to rest on a portion of the top surface.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the item of furniture further comprises: a releasable connector releasably connecting the removable backing from the base.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the releasable connector comprises: bracket posts connected to and extending below the removable backing, and bracket connectors for receiving the bracket posts, the bracket connectors being disposed in the base at a plurality of positions to permit the removable backing to be placed at different sections on the base.

16. The method of claim 12, wherein the cushion: has first and second opposite surfaces; is dimensioned to substantially cover the top surface of the base, but excepting the cut-out section; and the step of changing the position of the cushion comprises flipping the cushion from having its first surface resting on the base, to having its second surface resting on the base.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the item of furniture is a couch.

18. The method of claim 12, wherein the cushion defines two cushions which together substantially cover the top surface of the base, excepting the cut-out section.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein: the base has a first end and a second end; and the method further comprises the step of moving the base from a first position where its first end is adjacent to an object, to a second position where its second end is adjacent to the object.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the object is a wall.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein the object is a couch.

22. A method of arranging a chaise couch, comprising the steps of: providing a chaise couch, comprising: a base having first and second opposite sides, first and second opposite ends, and a top surface, a removable backing configured to rest on a portion of the base, a releasable connector releasably connecting the removable backing from the base, and a cushion having a cut-out section configured to accommodate the removable backing at different sections on the base, and the cushion having first and second opposite surfaces; removing the removable backing from a first section of the base; changing the position of the cushion to accommodate the removable backing along a second section of the base; and installing the removable backing along the second section of the base.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the manually releasable connector comprises: bracket posts connected to and extending below the removable backing, and bracket connectors for receiving the bracket posts, the bracket connectors being disposed within the base at a plurality of positions to permit the removable backing to be placed at different sections on the base.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the step of changing the position of the cushion comprises flipping the cushion from having its first surface resting on the base, to having its second surface resting on the base.

25. The method of claim 24, further comprising the step of moving the base from a first position where its first end is adjacent to a first end of a couch, to a second position where its second end is adjacent to a second end of the couch.