U.S. patent application number 14/820403 was filed with the patent office on 2017-02-09 for configurable table.
This patent application is currently assigned to ELEVEN23 MARKETING LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Armen Sevada Gharabegian. Invention is credited to Armen Sevada Gharabegian.
Application Number | 20170035196 14/820403 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 57909038 |
Filed Date | 2017-02-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170035196 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gharabegian; Armen Sevada |
February 9, 2017 |
CONFIGURABLE TABLE
Abstract
A configurable table, comprises a first element link frame, a
second element link frame, a first connection node, a second
connection node, and a plurality of magnetic elements. Each of the
connection nodes comprises a channel, the channel have a plurality
of holders. The plurality of magnetic elements are disposed in the
plurality of holders and connecting to the first element link frame
and the second element fame.
Inventors: |
Gharabegian; Armen Sevada;
(Glendale, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Gharabegian; Armen Sevada |
Glendale |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
ELEVEN23 MARKETING LLC
GLENDALE
CA
|
Family ID: |
57909038 |
Appl. No.: |
14/820403 |
Filed: |
August 6, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 13/06 20130101;
F16B 2001/0035 20130101; A47B 2200/0032 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47B 13/00 20060101
A47B013/00; F16B 1/00 20060101 F16B001/00 |
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. A configurable table, comprising: a first element link frame; a
second element link frame; a first connection node, the connection
node comprising a channel, the channel having a plurality of
holders; a plurality of magnetic elements, the plurality of
magnetic elements being disposed in the plurality of holders, and
connecting to the first element link frame and the second element
link frame; and a second connection node, the second connection
node comprising a channel, the channel having a plurality of
holders, and the plurality of magnetic elements being disposed in
the plurality of holders in the second connection node.
3. The configurable table of claim 2, wherein the channels of the
first connection node are present on a top surface of the first
connection node and the channels of the second connection node are
present on a bottom surface of the second connection node.
4. The configurable table of claim 3, further comprising a table
top.
5. The configurable table of claim 2, wherein the first connection
node is in a parallel plane with regard to the second connection
node.
6. The configurable table of claim 2, further including a plurality
of floor placeholders.
7. The configurable table of claim 6, the plurality of placeholders
including a magnetic element and a container.
8. The configurable table of claim 2, wherein the first element
link frame comprises two horizontal sections connected to two
vertical sections.
9. The configurable table of claim 8, wherein the two horizontal
sections comprise two pieces connected at a right angle.
10. A configurable table, comprising: a first element link frame; a
second element link frame; a first connection node comprising two
channels; a second connection node comprising two channels; and a
plurality of magnetic elements, the plurality of magnetic elements
disposed in the two channels of the first connection node and the
two channels of the second connection node, and the plurality of
magnetic elements connecting the first connection node to the first
element link frame and the second element link frame and connecting
the second connection node to the first element link frame and the
second element link frame.
11. The configurable table of claim 10, further comprising a
plurality of floor placeholders disposed on a bottom surface of the
first element link frame.
12. (canceled)
13. The configurable table of claim 10, further comprising a table
top.
14. (canceled)
15. A configurable table, comprising: a first element link frame; a
second element link frame; a first circular connection node
comprising two channels; a second circular connection node
comprising two channels; and a plurality of magnetic elements
disposed in the two channels of the first and second circular
connection node and connecting the first element link frame to the
second element link frame.
16. The configurable table of claim 15, an inside surface of the
first element link frame connected to a channel on an outside
surface of the first circular connection node and an outside
surface of the first element link frame connected to a channel on
an inside surface of the first circular connection node.
17. The configurable table of claim 15, an inside surface of the
second element link frame connected to a channel on an outside
surface of the second circular connection node and an outside
surface of the second element link frame connected to a channel on
an inside surface of the second circular connection node.
18. The configurable table of claim 15, wherein the first element
link frame rests on a surface and the second element link frame
does not rest on the surface.
19. The configurable table of claim 15, the first circular
connection node comprises a first circular half with one of the two
channels fastened to a second circular half with a second of the
two channels.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] 1. Field
[0002] The subject matter disclosed herein relates to a methods and
systems for providing a table platform that is configurable to
address different customer needs.
[0003] 2. Information/Background of the Invention
[0004] Conventional table designs are designed with specific
dimensions in order to allow for easy and low cost manufacture in
overseas locations. The result is a table or table system that has
specific dimensions for pairing with chairs, sofas, ottomans and
other types of furniture. Modifications in a design of a table
system results in higher cost of manufacture. This leaves interior
designers, house owners, studio designers, or exhibit designers
with little flexibility in meeting different needs of clients
and/or customers.
[0005] Accordingly, a need exists for a table or table system
design that has flexibility to meet the varying needs of different
clients.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0006] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive aspects are described with
reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals
refer to like parts throughout the various figures unless otherwise
specified.
[0007] FIG. 1A illustrates an element link frame according to an
embodiment
[0008] FIG. 1B illustrates a configurable table without a top
according to an embodiment.
[0009] FIG. 1C illustrates a connection node according to an
embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 1D is illustrative of a connection node including four
channels according to an embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 1E illustrates a configurable table without a top
utilizing a connection node comprising four channels.
[0012] FIG. 1F illustrates a multi-piece connection node according
to an embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 2A illustrates an embodiment of a configurable table
including an oval node connection.
[0014] FIG. 2B illustrates an embodiment of a configurable table
including a rectangular node connection.
[0015] FIG. 3A illustrates a connection node frame according to an
embodiment;
[0016] FIG. 3B illustrates a cross section of the connection node
frame according to an embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 4A illustrates a top perspective view of configurable
table including connection node frames according to an
embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 4B illustrates a bottom perspective view of
configurable table including connection node frames according to an
embodiment;
[0019] FIG. 5A illustrates a top perspective view of a configurable
table according to an embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 5B illustrates an exploded view of the configurable
table of FIG. 5A;
[0021] FIG. 6A illustrates a top perspective view of a configurable
table with a top according to an embodiment;
[0022] FIG. 6B illustrates a top perspective view of a configurable
table according to an embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 6C illustrates a bottom perspective view of a
configurable table with a top according to an embodiment;
[0024] FIG. 7A illustrates a configurable table base according to
an embodiment;
[0025] FIG. 7B illustrates a bottom perspective view of a
configurable table according to an embodiment;
[0026] FIG. 8A illustrates a connection node for a configurable
table according to an embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 9 illustrates a floor placeholder for a configurable
table according to an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] In the following detailed description, numerous specific
details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of
claimed subject matter. For purposes of explanation, specific
numbers, systems and/or configurations are set forth, for example.
However, it should be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art
having benefit of this disclosure that claimed subject matter may
be practiced without specific details. In other instances,
well-known features may be omitted and/or simplified so as not to
obscure claimed subject matter. While certain features have been
illustrated and/or described herein, many modifications,
substitutions, changes and/or equivalents may occur to those
skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that
appended claims are intended to cover any and all modifications
and/or changes as fall within claimed subject matter.
[0029] Reference is now made in detail to the description of
non-limiting embodiments as illustrated in the drawings. While the
embodiments described may use specific materials or configurations,
there is no intent to limit the subject matter to the embodiment or
embodiments disclosed herein. Accordingly, various modifications to
the embodiments presented may be readily apparent to those skilled
in the art, and the generic principles described herein can be
applied to other non-limiting embodiments without departing from
the spirit or scope of the claimed subject matter. As such, this
detailed description of various alternative embodiments should not
be construed to limit the scope or breadth of the present
apparatus, system and method as set forth in the claims
[0030] The invention disclosed herein is directed to a furniture
assembly. In the following description, numerous details are set
forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present
invention. It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that
variations of these specific details are possible while still
achieving the results of the present invention. In other instance,
well-known components are not described in detail in order not to
unnecessarily obscure the present invention.
[0031] References throughout this specification to one
implementation, an implementation, one embodiment, an embodiment
and/or the like means that a particular feature, structure, and/or
characteristic described in connection with a particular
implementation and/or embodiment is included in at least one
implementation and/or embodiment of claimed subject matter. Thus,
appearances of such phrases, for example, in various places
throughout this specification are not necessarily intended to refer
to the same implementation or to any one particular implementation
described. Furthermore, it is to be understood that particular
features, structures, and/or characteristics described are capable
of being combined in various ways in one or more implementations
and, therefore, are within intended claim scope, for example. In
general, of course, these and other issues vary with context.
Therefore, particular context of description and/or usage provides
helpful guidance regarding inferences to be drawn.
[0032] Likewise, in this context, the terms "coupled", "connected,"
and/or similar terms are used generically. It should be understood
that these terms are not intended as synonyms. Rather, "connected"
is used generically to indicate that two or more components, for
example, are in direct physical, including electrical, contact;
while, "coupled" is used generically to mean that two or more
components are potentially in direct physical, including
electrical, contact; however, "coupled" is also used generically to
also mean that two or more components are not necessarily in direct
contact, but nonetheless are able to co-operate and/or interact.
The term coupled is also understood generically to mean indirectly
connected, for example, in an appropriate context.
[0033] The terms, "and", "or", "and/or" and/or similar terms, as
used herein, include a variety of meanings that also are expected
to depend at least in part upon the particular context in which
such terms are used. Typically, "or" if used to associate a list,
such as A, B or C, is intended to mean A, B, and C, here used in
the inclusive sense, as well as A, B or C, here used in the
exclusive sense. In addition, the term "one or more" and/or similar
terms is used to describe any feature, structure, and/or
characteristic in the singular and/or is also used to describe a
plurality and/or some other combination of features, structures
and/or characteristics. Likewise, the term "based on" and/or
similar terms are understood as not necessarily intending to convey
an exclusive set of factors, but to allow for existence of
additional factors not necessarily expressly described. Of course,
for all of the foregoing, particular context of description and/or
usage provides helpful guidance regarding inferences to be drawn.
It should be noted that the following description merely provides
one or more illustrative examples and claimed subject matter is not
limited to these one or more illustrative examples; however, again,
particular context of description and/or usage provides helpful
guidance regarding inferences to be drawn.
[0034] FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate a configurable table according to an
embodiment. FIG. 1A illustrates an element link frame according to
an embodiment. A configurable table may include a plurality of
element link frames. In an embodiment, the element link frame 110
may be comprised of stainless steel. An element link frame 110 may
be comprised of other metals such as aluminum, steel, nickel, gold,
platinum, or similar metals. In an embodiment, an element link
frame 110 may have pairs of horizontal sections (e.g., a first pair
115 116 and a second pair 120 121). In an embodiment, pairs of
horizontal sections (the first pair 115 116 and the second pair 120
121) may be parallel to one other, e.g., may lie in different
vertical planes but have a same horizontal orientation. This may
allow a table top to be placed in a fashion to be parallel to a
floor surface. In an embodiment, a first section 115 and a second
section 116 may be positioned at right angles to each other. In
other embodiments, a first horizontal section 115 and a second
horizontal section 116 may be positioned atfrom 45 degrees to 135
degrees with respect to each other. Pairs of link element
horizontal sections (the first pair 115 116 and the second pair 120
121) may be connected or coupled to each other by link vertical
elements 117 and 118. In an embodiment, pairs of horizontal
sections 115 116 and 120 121 may be connected to vertical elements
117 and 118 by rounded pieces 119. In an embodiment, vertical
elements 117 and 118 may be comprised of stainless steel. In an
embodiment, rounded pieces 119 may be comprised of stainless steel.
In an embodiment, element link frames 110 may provide strong
support based on the material strength, uniformity in design and
symmetry between multiple elements.
[0035] FIG. 1B illustrates a configurable table without a top
according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, configurable table
150 may comprise a first element link frame 160, a second element
link frame 165, and a pair of connection nodes 170 175. In an
embodiment, a first connection node 175 is placed on a surface or
is at rest on a surface (such as a floor). In an embodiment, first
element link frame 160 and second element link frame 165 may be
placed into grooves (not pictured) in the first connection node
175. In an embodiment, grooves may also be referred to as channels.
In an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1B, a top surface of first
connection node 175 may include channels in which a first element
link frame 160 and a second element link frame 165 reside. In an
embodiment, a first element link frame 160 and a second element
link frame 165 are placed in a symmetrical relationship with
respect to each other. In this embodiment, this results in a first
element link frame 160 and a second element link frame 165 forming
a configurable table with four vertical elements 117 118 (FIG. 1)
being spaced approximately 90 degrees apart with respect to each
other. In an embodiment, a second connection node 170 is connected
to a surface of horizontal sections and rounded pieces of a first
element link frame 160 and a second element link frame 165. In an
embodiment, a first element link frame 160 and a second element
link frame 165 may be placed into grooves of a second connection
node 170. The first element link frame 160 and a second element
link frame 165 may be placed into a channel on a top surface of a
second connection node 170. In an embodiment, a second connection
node 170 may be held in place by a magnetic connection or coupling.
In an embodiment, a second connection node may be held in place by
glue.
[0036] FIG. 1C illustrates a connection node according to an
embodiment. In the illustrative embodiment, the connection node 170
may include a first channel 181 and a second channel 182. In an
embodiment, a first channel 181 and a second channel 182 may have a
curved shape, although other shapes may be utilized depending on
shapes of link element frames that are placed into and/or reside in
channels 181 182. In an embodiment, the curved shape may
accommodate the corners of the horizontal sections of the element
link frame such as, for example, element link frame 120 121 (see
FIG. 1A).
[0037] In an embodiment, a first channel 181 may include a
plurality of recessed placeholders 185. In an embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 1C, for example, connection node 170 may have
three recessed placeholders 185. In this embodiment, one or more
placeholders 185 may be recessed into a first channel 181 and a
second channel 182. In other words, there may be one or more holes
cut into first channel 181 and/or second channel 182. In an
embodiment, recessed placeholders 185 may be circular in shape. In
alternative embodiments, recessed placeholders 185 but may have a
shape of a rectangle, a polygon, a square, or other shapes that
accommodate magnetic elements. In an embodiment, embedded magnetic
elements 188 may be placed into the placeholders 185. Recessed
placeholders 185 may have a depth and/or height that is
approximately the same size or greater than a height and/or
thickness of embedded magnetic elements 188. In an embodiment,
embedded magnetic elements 188 may rest in recessed placeholder 185
and be flush with a surface level of channels 181 182. In an
embodiment, embedded magnet 188 may not rest above the surface
level of channels 181 182 because this may cause a link element to
be uneven and not provide a level surface for a table top to rest
and/or to reside on a surface. In an embodiment, embedded magnetic
elements 188 may hold metal of the element link frame 110 in place
in a first channel 181 and/or a second channel 182 to provide
support for a configurable chair. In an embodiment, recessed
placeholders 185 may have a bottom surface which is magnetic to
hold embedded magnetic elements 188 in place so that embedded
magnetic elements may not fall out of channels 181 182. In an
alternative embodiment, a fastener may hold the embedded magnetic
elements 188 in place in recessed placeholders 185. In an
embodiment, a fastener may be a screw, a nail, a nut/bolt
combination, or an adhesive. In an embodiment, embedded magnetic
elements 188 may be comprised of iron or other magnetic material.
In an embodiment, embedded magnetic elements 188 may be pressed
into placeholders 185 during a manufacture or assembly. In an
embodiment, embedded magnetic elements 188 may be adhered or glued
into placeholders 185. As is illustrated in FIG. 1C, each channel
181 and 182 may have three embedded magnetic elements 188 resting
in three recessed placeholders 185. In an embodiment, connection
node 170 may be comprised of a wood, metal, plastic, ceramic, or a
composite material, or any combination thereof. In an embodiment,
connection node 170 may be made of a non-conductive material.
[0038] FIG. 1D is illustrative of a connection node including four
channels according to an embodiment. In an example embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 1D, connection node 190 may comprise four
channels 191 192 193 194. In this embodiment, four channels 191 192
193 194 may include three recessed placeholders 195 and three
embedded magnetic elements 196. The scope of the invention
described herein is not limited to three magnetic elements and more
or less embedded magnetic elements may be utilized in other
embodiments depending on the overall dimensions of a connection
node, one or more channels, and/or one or more recessed
placeholders.
[0039] FIG. 1E illustrates a configurable table without a top
utilizing a connection node comprising four channels. In this
embodiment, a configurable table 197 may comprise two connection
nodes 190 and four element link frames 198 199 200 201. In this
embodiment, an element link frame is at a right angle to an
adjoining element link frames. For example, element link frame 199
is placed at approximately a right angle to element link frame 198
and element link frame 200. In an embodiment element link frame may
be constructed to be placed at other angle combinations with
respect to other element link frames. Horizontal sections of
element link frames may be positioned parallel to each other in a
horizontal plane (e.g., in FIG. 1E, horizontal sections of element
link frames 198 199 200 201 may be placed in positions parallel
with respect to other link frames). In an embodiment, pairs of link
frame elements e.g., link elements 198 199, may be symmetrical with
respect to other pairs of link frame elements. As an example, in
FIG. 1E, link elements 200 201 are symmetrical with respect to link
element frames 198 199 across a vertical plane.
[0040] FIG. 1F illustrates a multi-piece connection node according
to an embodiment. In an embodiment, a multi-piece connection node
215 may not be made of a unitary piece of material. Instead,
multi-piece connection node 215 may be comprised and/or made of a
plurality of pieces and/or plates. In the illustrative embodiment
of FIG. 1F, connection node 215 may comprise a plurality of pieces
and/or plates. For example, plate 230 may rest against a surface
(such as a floor) and, in an embodiment, plate 230 may be a smaller
size (e.g., have a smaller diameter) than the plate 225 or may have
approximately the same diameter as plate 230. Plate 225 may be
connected to plate 230 by fasteners such as screws, nails, nuts and
bolts or an adhesive. In an embodiment, plate pieces 215 220 and
221 may be fastened to second level plate 225 by fasteners 223 such
as screws, nails, nuts and bolts or an adhesive. In an embodiment,
a piece 220 may be positioned on a top surface of central plate 225
and together with pieces 222 and 221 (which also may be fastened to
central plate 225) and may form two channels 240 and 241. In an
embodiment, two channels 240 and 241 have recessed placeholders
(not shown). In an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1F, channels 240
and 241 may have three recessed placeholders. In an embodiment, a
plate 225 may have holes or areas created as the recessed
placeholder for embedded magnetic elements 250. In an embodiment, a
bottom plate 230 may be solid and not have holes or areas bore into
and the bottom of embedded magnetic elements 250 may rest on a top
surface of the bottom plate 230. In an embodiment, embedded
magnetic elements 250 of the connection node 215 may hold element
link frames in place in the configurable table.
[0041] FIG. 2A illustrates an embodiment of a configurable table
including an oval node connection. Configurable table 255 may
comprise element link frames 270 271 and connection nodes 260 and
262. In an embodiment, a connection node 260 may include channels
273 and 274 having three recessed placeholders (not shown) and
three embedded magnetic elements 275. In an embodiment illustrated
in FIG. 2A, a top surface of connection node 260 may include
channels 273 and 274. Similarly, a connection node 262 may have two
channels (not shown) having three recessed placeholders (not shown)
and three embedded magnetic elements (not shown). In an embodiment,
a bottom surface of connection node 262 may include more than one
channels, e.g., two channels. In an example embodiment illustrated
in FIG. 2A, two channels 273 274 may be at ends of the connection
nodes 260 262 in order for configurable table 255 to have a longer
length dimension. In an embodiment, a floor placeholder 288 may be
magnetically coupled or connected to a bottom surface of horizontal
sections of element link frames 270 271 to keep a configurable
table 290 from sliding or moving on a surface on which it rests. In
an embodiment, one or more magnetic elements 275 in channels 273
and 274 may magnetically couple bottom surfaces of horizontal
sections of element link frames 270 and 271 to a connection node
260. In an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2A, magnetic elements in
channels of connection node 262 (which reside on a bottom surface
of connection node 262) may magnetically couple top surfaces of
horizontal sections of element link frames 270 and 271 to
connection node 262.
[0042] FIG. 2B illustrates an embodiment of a configurable table
including a rectangular node connection. Configurable table 280 may
comprise element link frames 291 292 and connection nodes 293 294.
In an embodiment, connection nodes 293 294 may each have two
channels (not shown) having three recessed placeholders (not shown)
and three embedded magnetic elements (not shown). In AN example
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2B, channels may be disposed at ends
of the connection nodes 293 294 so that configurable table 280 may
have a longer length dimension. In an embodiment, a floor
placeholder 295 may be utilized on a bottom surface of the element
link frames 291 292 to keep configurable table 280 from sliding or
moving on a surface on which it rests. In an embodiment, for
example, as illustrated in FIG. 2B, a bottom surface of top
horizontal sections of the link element frames 291 292 may reside
in the channels on a top surface of the top connection node 293. In
an embodiment, a bottom surface of bottom horizontal sections of
the link element frames 291 292 may reside in the channels on a top
surface of the bottom connection node 294.
[0043] FIG. 3A illustrates a connection node frame according to an
embodiment. In embodiments of the invention, connection node frame
300 may be utilized to connect link element frames. In an
embodiment, connection node frame 300 may comprise a connection
node body 319. In an embodiment, connection node body 319 may
comprise two sides 315 and 317, a top section 316 and a bottom
section 318. In an embodiment, connection node body 319 may also
comprise a wall or vertical surface 320 disposed between top
section 316, bottom section 318, and two sides 315 and 317. In an
embodiment, portions of connection node body 319 may be comprised
of a plastic, wood, metal or composite material. Connection node
body 319 may comprise one or a plurality of magnetic elements 310.
In an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3A, four magnetic elements 310
may be located or resident in connection node body 319. In an
embodiment, a plurality of magnetic elements 310 may be disposed
vertically, in other words, in a column vertically. In an
embodiment, a plurality of magnetic elements 310 may be connected
to a connection node body via fasteners or by utilizing epoxy
and/or another adhesive. In an embodiment, a plurality of magnetic
elements 310 may be connected to wall or vertical surface 320 or
disposed in a recessed placeholder in wall or vertical surface
320.
[0044] FIG. 3B illustrates a cross section of connection node frame
according to an embodiment. In FIG. 3B, connection node frame 300
may comprise a center plate or vertical wall 320. In an embodiment,
center plate or vertical wall 320 may be comprised of a wood,
plastic, metal or composite material. In an illustrated embodiment,
one or more magnetic elements 310 may be connected to center plate
or vertical wall 320 via connectors 325. In an embodiment,
connector or fastener 325 may be a screw, a nut and bolt, or a
magnetic material. In an embodiment, one or more magnetic elements
310 may be disposed vertically on center plate or wall 320. In an
embodiment, one or more magnetic elements 310 may be disposed on
both sides of center plate or vertical wall 320 and connection node
frame 300 (which may be a front and a back of connection node frame
300). In an embodiment, center plate or vertical wall 320 may be
comprised of one piece of material or may be comprised of a
plurality of material sections. In an embodiment, for example,
center plate or vertical wall 320 may be comprised of a first side
331, a second side 333, and a center section 335 to which first
side 331 and second side 333 are connected. In this embodiment,
first side 331 and second side 333 of center plate or vertical wall
320 may be connected or adhered to a top section 316 and/or a
bottom section 318.
[0045] FIG. 4A illustrates a top perspective view of configurable
table including connection node frames according to an embodiment.
In an embodiment, a configurable table 400 may comprise a plurality
of element link frames 410 415 420 and 425. A configurable table
400 may comprise a plurality of connection node frames 405. In an
embodiment, connection node frames may be disposed vertically, as
is illustrated in FIG. 4A. In an embodiment, connection node frames
405 may be disposed horizontally. In an embodiment, connection node
frames 405 may be disposed on vertical sections of element link
frames 410 415 420 and 425. In an embodiment, connection node
frames 405 may magnetically couple or connect adjoining element
link frames. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4A, connection
node frame 405 magnetically couples element link frame 425 and
element link frame 420. In an embodiment, magnetic elements on each
side of connection node frame 405 couple to a vertical leg or
section of an element link frame. For example, as illustrated in
FIG. 4A, at least one magnetic elements on sides of connection node
frame 405 magnetically couple to vertical legs of the element link
frames 410 415 420 and 425.
[0046] FIG. 4B illustrates a bottom perspective view of
configurable table including connection node frames according to an
embodiment. In an embodiment, configurable table 400 may comprise a
table top 450, a plurality of element link frames 430 415 420 and
425, a plurality of connection node frames 405, and a plurality of
floor place holders 440. In an embodiment, plurality of floor place
holders 440 may be placed on a bottom side of a horizontal element
of the element link frames 415 420 425 and 430. In an embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 4B, element line frame comprise two floor place
holders 440 placed on bottom surfaces of different horizontal
elements of the four element link frames 415 420 425 and 430. In an
embodiment, different horizontal elements may refer to link
elements that may be perpendicular with respect to one another. In
an embodiment, four element link frames 415 420 425 and 430 may be
connected by four connection node frames 405. In an embodiment,
four connection frames 405 may be magnetically coupled on vertical
elements or sections of element link frames 415 420 425 and
430.
[0047] FIG. 5A illustrates a top perspective view of a configurable
table according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, a configurable
table 500 may comprise a top surface 510, a plurality of element
link frames 515 and 520 and a connection node frame 505. In an
embodiment, a plurality of element link frames 510 and 520 may be
placed in a manner so that element link frames 515 and 520 are
mirror images of each other, and/or symmetrical with respect to
another link frame (e.g., element link frame 515 may be symmetrical
with respect to element link frame 520). In an embodiment, magnetic
elements in connection node frame 505 may magnetically couple
vertical sections of element link frames 510 520 to a connection
node frame 505. FIG. 5B illustrates an exploded view of the
configurable table of FIG. 5A. In an embodiment, a plurality of
floor placeholders 530 may be fastened, coupled or connected to a
bottom surface of horizontal elements of the element link frames
515 and 520. In an embodiment, two placeholders 530 may be included
with each element link frame 515 or 520.
[0048] FIG. 6A illustrates a top perspective view of a configurable
table with a top according to an embodiment. FIG. 6B illustrates a
top perspective view of a configurable table without a table top
according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, configurable table
600 may comprise a top surface or a table top 610, a plurality of
element link frames 620 625 and 630, and a plurality of connection
node frames 605. In an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6B,
configurable table 600 may three element link frames 620 625 and
630 and two connection node frames 605. In an embodiment,
connection node frames 605 may connect vertical elements or
sections of, for example, adjoining element link frames 625 and
630. In an embodiment, another connection node frame (not shown)
may connect vertical elements or sections of adjoining element link
frames 620 and 625. FIG. 6C illustrates a bottom perspective view
of a configurable table with a top according to an embodiment. The
configurable table 600 may comprise a top surface or table top 610,
a plurality of element link frames 620 625 and 630, a plurality of
connection node frames 605, and a plurality of floor place holders
640. In an embodiment, an element link frame (e.g., 620 or 625
(e.g., see FIG. 6B)) may include two or more floor placeholders
640. In an embodiment, horizontal sections of element link frames
620 625 and 630 may include floor placeholders. In illustrative
embodiment of FIG. 6C, configurable table 600 may include six floor
placeholders 640 for the three element link frames 620 625 and 630
(e.g. two floor placeholders may be coupled to an element link
frame). In an embodiment, placeholders 640 may be connected,
fastened, and/or adhered to a bottom surface of the element link
frames 620 625 and 630.
[0049] FIG. 7A illustrates a configurable table base according to
an embodiment. In an embodiment, a configurable table 700 may
comprise a plurality of link element frames 710 and 720 and a
plurality of connection nodes 730 and 740. In an illustrated
embodiment of FIG. 7A, one leg of the link element frame 720 may be
connected or coupled to a channel (not shown) of connection node
730. Channel of connection node 730 may include magnetic elements
in recessed placeholders. Illustratively, in an embodiment, a
channel may be present or disposed on an outside surface of
connection node 730. In an illustrated embodiment, for example such
as FIG. 7A, another leg of the link element frame 720 may be
connected or coupled to a channel comprising magnetic elements of a
connection node 740. Illustratively, a channel may be on an inside
surface of a connection node 740. Thus, in an embodiment, a section
of element link frame 720 may be connected, fastened, press-fit, or
adhered to an outside surface of one connection node 730 and
another section of element link frame 720 may be connected,
fastened, press-fit, or adhered to an inside surface of another
connection node 740. Similarly, in an embodiment, a leg of link
element frame 710 may be connected to an inside surface of
connection node 730 utilizing a channel comprising magnetic
elements. In an embodiment, a leg or section of link element frame
710 may be connected, coupled, fastened, press-fit, or adhered to
an outside surface of connection node 740 and another leg or
section of link element frame 710 may be connected, coupled,
fastened, press-fit, or adhered to an inside surface of another
connection node 730. In an embodiment, a channel may be on an
outside surface of connection node 740.
[0050] FIG. 7B illustrates a bottom perspective view of a
configurable table according to an embodiment. In an embodiment,
configurable table 700 may comprise a plurality of link element
frames 710 and 720, a plurality of connection nodes 730 and 740,
and a table top 705. The table top 705 may be comprised of a glass,
a cloth, a metal, a wood material, a composite material, or any
combination thereof. In an embodiment, as is illustrated in FIG.
7B, a table top 705 may rest on ends of an element link frame 710.
In an embodiment, as is illustrated in FIG. 7B, another element
link frame may rest on a ground (or a surface) and may be connected
to element link frame 720 by connection nodes 730 and 740 This is
different than other embodiments of a configurable table where the
table top 705 may be magnetically coupled or connected to a
plurality of element link frames and not only one element frame. In
an embodiment, connection nodes 730 and 740 may be disposed
vertically with respect to a resting surface.
[0051] FIG. 8A illustrates a vertically disposed connection node
according to an embodiment of the invention. In an embodiment, a
vertically disposed connection node 800 may comprise a first plate
810 and a second plate 820. In an embodiment, a first plate 810 and
a second plate 820 may be connected via a fastener. In an
embodiment, a first plate 810 and a second plate 820 may be adhered
together via an adhesive, for example, an epoxy. In an embodiment,
a first plate 810 and a second plate 820 may be comprised of a
wood, plastic, metal or composite material, or any combination
thereof. In an embodiment, a first plate 810 and/or a second plate
820 may comprise a channel 840 or a plurality of channels (not
shown). In an embodiment, a first plate 810 and/or a second plate
may comprise channels on one side and not on the other side. In an
embodiment, a channel 840 may be disposed or present on an outer
surface of first plate 810 or a second plate 820. In an embodiment,
a channel 840 or a plurality of channels may include recessed
placeholders into which one or more magnetic elements 850 may be
placed or disposed. In an embodiment, one or more magnetic elements
850 may be pressed into a recessed placeholder during manufacturing
(by a press). In an embodiment, one or more magnetic elements 850
may be glued or adhered to a surface in a recessed placeholder by
glue and/or an epoxy.
[0052] FIG. 9 illustrates a floor placeholder according to an
embodiment. In an embodiment, floor placeholder 900 may include a
container 905 and an embedded magnetic element 910. In an
embodiment, container 905 may include an edge and/or lip and a
hollowed out center section into which embedded magnetic element
910 may be placed or may reside. In an embodiment, an embedded
magnetic element 910 may be made of iron or another magnetic metal.
In an embodiment, container 905 may be comprised of a plastic,
rubber, wood, or composite non-conductive material, or any
combination thereof. In an embodiment, floor placeholder 900 may
have a circular, rectangular, square or other shape. In an
embodiment, shape may depend on a construction and shape of the
element link frame. In an embodiment, embedded magnetic element 910
may be pressed into container 905 during manufacture or
alternatively, may be glued or epoxied into container 905.
[0053] What has been described and illustrated herein is a
preferred embodiment of the invention along with some of its
variations. The terms, descriptions and figures used herein are set
forth by way of illustration only and are not meant as limitations.
Those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations are
possible within the spirit and scope of the invention in which all
terms are meant in their broadest, reasonable sense unless
otherwise indicated. Any headings utilized within the description
are for convenience only and have no legal or limiting effect.
[0054] The foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of the
invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and
description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the
invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and
variations are possible in light of the above teaching. It is
intended that the scope of the invention not be limited by this
detailed description, but by the claims and the equivalents to the
claims appended hereto.
[0055] It will thus be seen that the objects of the present
invention have been fully and effectively accomplished. It
embodiments have been shown and described for the purposes of
illustrating the functional and structural principles of the
present invention and is subject to change without departure from
such principles. Therefore, this invention includes all
modifications encompassed within the spirit and scope of the
following claims.
[0056] While certain exemplary techniques have been described and
shown herein using various methods and systems, it should be
understood by those skilled in the art that various other
modifications may be made, and equivalents may be substituted,
without departing from claimed subject matter. Additionally, many
modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation to the
teachings of claimed subject matter without departing from the
central concept described herein. Therefore, it is intended that
claimed subject matter not be limited to the particular examples
disclosed, but that such claimed subject matter may also include
all implementations falling within the scope of the appended
claims, and equivalents thereof.
* * * * *