U.S. patent application number 15/407921 was filed with the patent office on 2018-07-19 for furniture unit.
The applicant listed for this patent is Sauder Woodworking Co.. Invention is credited to Marvin K. Burnett, Mark A. Strayer.
Application Number | 20180199708 15/407921 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 62838278 |
Filed Date | 2018-07-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180199708 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Burnett; Marvin K. ; et
al. |
July 19, 2018 |
Furniture Unit
Abstract
A furniture unit includes at least one shelf. The shelf includes
a substrate having an upper surface, a lower surface opposite the
upper surface, a proximal peripheral surface, a distal peripheral
surface, a first seam, and a second seam. The proximal peripheral
surface extends from the upper surface to the lower surface. The
distal peripheral surface is opposite the proximal peripheral
surface and extends from the upper surface to the lower surface.
The second seam is spaced apart from the first seam. The first and
second seams extend in a direction parallel to the proximal
peripheral surface. The proximal peripheral surface engages one of
the distal peripheral surface, the upper surface, and the lower
surface.
Inventors: |
Burnett; Marvin K.;
(Archbold, OH) ; Strayer; Mark A.; (Lamar,
MO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Sauder Woodworking Co. |
Archbold |
OH |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
62838278 |
Appl. No.: |
15/407921 |
Filed: |
January 17, 2017 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 156/1056 20150115;
A47B 87/0253 20130101; A47B 47/042 20130101; A47B 96/202 20130101;
A47B 96/206 20130101; A47B 2220/0083 20130101; F16B 12/40 20130101;
Y10T 156/1051 20150115; F16B 2012/145 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47B 47/06 20060101
A47B047/06 |
Claims
1. A furniture unit comprising at least one shelf including a
substrate having a base layer and a laminate layer, wherein the
base layer has an upper surface, a lower surface opposite the upper
surface, a proximal peripheral surface extending from the upper
surface to the lower surface, a distal peripheral surface opposite
the proximal peripheral surface and extending from the upper
surface to the lower surface, a first seam, and a second seam
spaced apart from the first seam, the first and second seams
extending in a direction parallel to the proximal peripheral
surface, wherein the laminate layer is disposed on one of the upper
surface or the lower surface and includes a channel exposing a
portion of the base layer, and wherein the proximal peripheral
surface is disposed within the channel and engages the portion of
the base layer.
2. The furniture unit of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first
seam and the second seam is defined by a first channel wall and a
second channel wall.
3. The furniture unit of claim 2, wherein the first channel wall
and the second channel wall define a common edge.
4. The furniture unit of claim 2, wherein the first channel wall
engages the second channel wall.
5. The furniture unit of claim 1, wherein the first and second
seams extend from the upper surface, and wherein the proximal
peripheral surface engages the upper surface.
6. The furniture unit of claim 1, wherein the substrate includes a
third seam and a fourth seam spaced apart from the third seam, the
third and fourth seams extending in a direction parallel to the
distal peripheral surface, wherein the distal peripheral surface
engages one of the upper surface and the lower surface.
7. The furniture unit of claim 6, wherein the first and second
seams extend from the upper surface, and the third and fourth seams
extend from the lower surface, and wherein the proximal peripheral
surface engages the upper surface and the distal peripheral surface
engages the lower surface.
8. The furniture unit of claim 6, wherein the first, second, third,
and fourth seams are defined by first, second, third, and fourth
channels, respectively, formed in the upper surface, and wherein
the proximal and distal peripheral surfaces engage the upper
surface.
9. The furniture unit of claim 6, wherein a forward portion of the
upper surface engages a rearward portion of the upper surface.
10. The furniture unit of claim 1, wherein the substrate includes a
proximal portion and a distal portion opposite the proximal
portion, the proximal portion forming a hollow support portion.
11. The furniture unit of claim 10, wherein the hollow support
portion defines a polygonal cross section.
12. The furniture unit of claim 11, wherein the polygonal cross
section defines a square.
13. The furniture unit of claim 10, wherein the distal portion
forms a hollow support portion.
14. The furniture unit of claim 1, wherein the upper surface
includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion
extending between the proximal peripheral surface and the first
seam, the second portion extending between the first seam and the
second seam, and wherein the first portion and the second portion
define an angle therebetween.
15. The furniture unit of claim 14, wherein the angle is between
about fifteen degrees and about sixty degrees.
16. The furniture unit of claim 14, wherein the angle is equal to
ninety degrees.
17. The furniture unit of claim 1, wherein the proximal peripheral
surface defines an angle between about fifteen degrees and about
sixty degrees relative to the one of the upper surface and the
lower surface.
18. The furniture unit of claim 17, wherein the proximal peripheral
surface defines an angle substantially equal to ninety degrees
relative to the one of the upper surface and the lower surface.
19. The furniture unit of claim 1, wherein the substrate includes a
lateral peripheral surface and a medial peripheral surface opposite
the lateral peripheral surface, the lateral and medial peripheral
surfaces each extending from the upper surface to the lower
surface, the first and second seam each extending from the lateral
peripheral surface to the medial peripheral surface.
20. The furniture unit of claim 1, wherein at least one of the
first seam and the second seam is defined by a primary channel
formed in the base layer.
21. The furniture unit of claim 20, wherein the laminate layer
includes a first fold and a second fold, the first fold aligned
with the first seam, the second fold aligned with the second
seam.
22. The furniture unit of claim 20, wherein the laminate layer is a
paper material or a polymer material.
23. The furniture unit of claim 22, wherein the base layer is one
of a medium-density fiberboard and a particle board.
24. The furniture unit of claim 1, further comprising a first
lateral leg, a first medial leg, a second lateral leg, and a second
medial leg, wherein the at least one shelf includes a first shelf
and a second shelf, the first lateral leg and the first medial leg
supporting the first shelf, the second lateral leg and the second
medial leg supporting the second shelf.
25. The furniture unit of claim 24, wherein the first lateral leg
is removably coupled to the second lateral leg, and the first
medial leg is removably coupled to the second medial leg.
26. The furniture unit of claim 24, further comprising a connector
removably coupled to the first lateral leg and to the second
lateral leg.
27. A method of manufacturing a furniture unit from a substrate
having a base layer and at least one laminate layer, wherein the
base layer has an upper surface, a lower surface, and a peripheral
surface extending from the upper surface to the lower surface, the
method comprising: forming a first primary channel and a second
primary channel in the base layer adjacent a proximal end of the
substrate; removing a portion of the at least one laminate layer to
form a secondary channel and to expose a portion of the base layer;
folding the substrate in a first direction at the first and second
primary channels to form a hollow proximal support; placing the
peripheral surface within the secondary channel; and engaging the
peripheral surface with the portion of the base layer.
28. The method of claim 27, further comprising: forming a third
primary channel and a fourth primary channel adjacent a distal end
of the substrate; and folding the substrate in the first direction
at the third and fourth primary channels to form a hollow distal
support.
29. The method of claim 28, wherein the first and second primary
channels are formed in the upper surface of the substrate, the
third and fourth primary channels are formed in the lower surface
of the substrate, the lower surface of the substrate being opposite
the upper surface of the substrate.
30. The method of claim 28, wherein the first, second, third, and
fourth primary channels are formed in the upper surface of the
substrate.
31. The method of claim 28, wherein the folding step results in a
first fold and a second fold formed in the at least one laminate
layer.
32. The method of claim 31, wherein the first fold is aligned with
the first primary channel, and the second fold is aligned with the
second primary channel.
33. The method of claim 28, wherein the at least one laminate layer
includes an upper laminate layer disposed on an upper surface of
the base layer, and a lower laminate layer disposed on a lower
surface of the base layer, the lower surface of the base layer
being opposite the upper surface of the base layer, and wherein the
first and second primary channels extend through the upper laminate
layer and the third and fourth primary channels extend through the
lower laminate layer.
34. (canceled)
35. The method of claim 27, wherein forming the first and second
primary channels includes miter cutting through a portion of the
substrate.
36. The method of claim 27, further comprising: forming a third
primary channel and a fourth primary channel in the substrate; and
folding the substrate in a second direction at the third and fourth
primary channels to form a hollow distal support, the second
direction being opposite to the first direction.
37. The method of claim 36, wherein the first direction is
counterclockwise and the second direction is clockwise.
38. The furniture unit of claim 1, further comprising an adhesive
between where the proximal peripheral surface engages the portion
of the base layer.
39. The furniture unit of claim 38, wherein the adhesive includes a
glue.
40. The furniture unit of claim 1, wherein the proximal peripheral
surface is coupled to the portion of the base layer.
41. The furniture unit of claim 40, wherein the proximal peripheral
surface is adhered to the portion of the base layer.
42. The method of claim 27, further comprising applying an adhesive
between where the peripheral surface engages the portion of the
base layer.
43. The method of claim 42, wherein the adhesive includes a
glue.
44. The method of claim 27, wherein engaging the peripheral surface
with the portion of the base layer includes coupling the peripheral
surface to the portion of the base layer.
45. The method of claim 44, wherein the coupling includes adhering
the peripheral surface to the portion of the base layer.
46. The furniture unit of claim 20, further comprising an adhesive
between where the proximal peripheral surface engages the portion
of the base layer.
47. The furniture unit of claim 20, wherein the proximal peripheral
surface is adhered to the portion of the base layer.
Description
FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a furniture unit having a
folded construct.
BACKGROUND
[0002] This section provides background information related to the
present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.
[0003] Laminated substrates are often used to manufacture various
types of furniture and fixtures for homes and offices. For example,
countertops, drawer boxes, speaker boxes, and other items are often
manufactured from wood, or a wood composite, having a polymer
laminate.
[0004] While known furniture and known furniture manufacturing
methods have proven useful for their intended purposes, a need for
continuous improvement in the pertinent art remains.
SUMMARY
[0005] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure,
and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of
its features.
[0006] One aspect of the disclosure provides a furniture unit. The
furniture unit may include at least one shelf. The shelf may
include a substrate having a proximal portion, a distal portion, an
upper surface, a lower surface opposite the upper surface, a
proximal peripheral surface, and a distal peripheral surface. The
proximal peripheral surface may be disposed in the proximal portion
and may extend from the upper surface to the lower surface. The
distal peripheral surface may be disposed in the distal portion
opposite the proximal peripheral surface and may extend from the
upper surface to the lower surface. The proximal portion may
include a first seam and a second seam spaced apart from the first
seam. The first and second seams may extend in a direction parallel
to the proximal peripheral surface. The proximal peripheral surface
may engage one of the upper surface and the lower surface.
[0007] Implementations of the disclosure may include one or more of
the following optional features. In some implementations, at least
one of the first seam and the second seam is defined by a first
channel wall and a second channel wall. The first channel wall and
the second channel wall may define a common edge. The first channel
wall may engage the second channel wall.
[0008] In some implementations, the first and second seams extend
from the upper surface, and the proximal peripheral surface engages
the upper surface.
[0009] In some implementations, the distal portion includes a third
seam and a fourth seam spaced apart from the third seam. The third
and fourth seams may extend in a direction parallel to the distal
peripheral surface. The distal peripheral surface may engage one of
the upper surface and the lower surface. The first and second seams
may extend from the upper surface, and the third and fourth seams
extend from the lower surface. The proximal peripheral surface may
engage the upper surface and the distal peripheral surface may
engage the lower surface.
[0010] In some implementations, the first, second, third, and
fourth seams are defined by first, second, third, and fourth
channels, respectively, formed in the upper surface. The proximal
and distal peripheral surfaces may engage the upper surface. In
some implementations, a forward portion of the upper surface
engages a rearward portion of the upper surface.
[0011] In some implementations, the proximal portion forms a hollow
support portion. The hollow support portion may define a polygonal
cross section. The polygonal cross section may define a square.
[0012] In some implementations, the upper surface includes a first
portion and a second portion. The first portion may extend between
the proximal peripheral surface and the first seam. The second
portion may extend between the first seam and the second seam. The
first portion and the second portion may define an angle
therebetween. The angle may be between about fifteen degrees and
about sixty degrees. In some implementations, the angle is equal to
ninety degrees.
[0013] In some implementations, the proximal peripheral surface
defines an angle between about fifteen degrees and about sixty
degrees relative to the one of the upper surface and the lower
surface.
[0014] In some implementations, the proximal peripheral surface
defines an angle substantially equal to ninety degrees relative to
the one of the upper surface and the lower surface.
[0015] In some implementations, the substrate includes a lateral
peripheral surface and a medial peripheral surface opposite the
lateral peripheral surface. The lateral and medial peripheral
surfaces may each extend from the upper surface to the lower
surface. The first and second seam may each extend from the lateral
peripheral surface to the medial peripheral surface.
[0016] In some implementations, the substrate includes a base
material and a laminate material. The base material may define one
of the upper surface and the lower surface. The laminate material
may define the other of the upper surface and the lower surface. At
least one of the first seam and the second seam may be define by a
channel formed in the base material.
[0017] In some implementations, the laminate material includes a
first fold and a second fold. The first fold may be aligned with
the first seam. The second fold may be aligned with the second
seam.
[0018] In some implementations, the laminate material is a paper
material. The base material may be one of a medium-density
fiberboard and a particle board.
[0019] In some implementations, the furniture unit includes a first
lateral leg, a first medial leg, a second lateral leg, and a second
medial leg. The at least one shelf may include a first shelf and a
second shelf. The first lateral leg and the first medial leg may
support the first shelf. The second lateral leg and the second
medial leg may support the second shelf.
[0020] In some implementations, the first lateral leg is removably
coupled to the second lateral leg, and the first medial leg is
removably coupled to the second medial leg.
[0021] In some implementations, the furniture unit includes a
connector removably coupled to the first lateral leg and to the
second lateral leg.
[0022] Another aspect of the disclosure provides a method of
manufacturing a furniture unit from a substrate. The method may
include forming a first channel and a second channel adjacent a
proximal end of the substrate. The method may also include folding
the substrate in a first direction at the first and second channels
to form a hollow proximal support portion.
[0023] In some implementations, the method includes forming a third
channel and a fourth channel adjacent a distal end of the
substrate, and folding the substrate in the first direction at the
third and fourth channels to form a hollow distal support
portion.
[0024] In some implementations, the substrate includes an upper
surface and a lower surface. The first and second channels may be
formed in the upper surface of the substrate. The third and fourth
channels may be formed in the lower surface of the substrate. The
lower surface of the substrate may be opposite the upper surface of
the substrate.
[0025] In some implementations, the substrate includes an upper
surface. The first, second, third, and fourth channels may be
formed in the upper surface of the substrate.
[0026] In some implementations, the substrate includes a base layer
and at least one laminate layer. The first and second channels may
be formed in the base layer. The folding step may result in a first
fold and a second fold formed in the at least one laminate layer.
In some implementations, the first fold is aligned with the first
channel, and the second fold is aligned with the second
channel.
[0027] In some implementations, the at least one laminate layer
includes an upper laminate layer disposed on an upper surface of
the base layer, and a lower laminate layer disposed on a lower
surface of the base layer. The lower surface of the base layer may
be opposite the upper surface of the base layer. The first and
second channels may extend through the upper laminate layer and the
third and fourth channels may extend through the lower laminate
layer.
[0028] In some implementations, the method includes removing a
portion of at least one of the at least one laminate layer to
expose a portion of the base layer. The method may also include
engaging the proximal end of the substrate with the exposed portion
of the base layer.
[0029] In some implementations, forming the first and second
channels includes miter cutting through a portion of the
substrate.
[0030] In some implementations, the method includes forming a third
channel and a fourth channel in the substrate. The method may also
include folding the substrate in a second direction at the third
and fourth channels to form a hollow distal support portion. The
second direction may be opposite to the first direction. In some
implementations, the first direction is counterclockwise and the
second direction is clockwise.
[0031] The details of one or more implementations of the disclosure
are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description
below. Other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent
from the description and drawings, and from the claims.
DRAWINGS
[0032] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes
only of selected configurations and are not intended to limit the
scope of the present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a furniture unit in
accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;
[0034] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the furniture unit of FIG.
1;
[0035] FIG. 3 is a top view of the furniture unit of FIG. 1;
[0036] FIG. 4A is an end view of a shelf for use with the furniture
unit of FIG. 1;
[0037] FIG. 4B is an exploded view of the shelf of FIG. 4A;
[0038] FIG. 5 is an end view of a shelf for use with the furniture
unit of FIG. 1;
[0039] FIG. 6 is an end view of a shelf for use with the furniture
unit of FIG. 1;
[0040] FIG. 7A is a top view of a substrate prior to forming a
shelf for use with the furniture unit of FIG. 1;
[0041] FIG. 7B is an end view of a shelf formed with the substrate
of FIG. 7A and for use with the furniture unit of FIG. 1;
[0042] FIG. 8 is an end view of a shelf for use with the furniture
unit of FIG. 1;
[0043] FIG. 9 is an end view of a shelf for use with the furniture
unit of FIG. 1;
[0044] FIG. 10A is cross-sectional view of a substrate during a
method of manufacturing the furniture unit of FIG. 1;
[0045] FIG. 10B is cross-sectional view of a substrate during a
method of manufacturing the furniture unit of FIG. 1;
[0046] FIG. 10C is cross-sectional view of a substrate during a
method of manufacturing the furniture unit of FIG. 1; and
[0047] FIG. 10D is cross-sectional view of a substrate during a
method of manufacturing the furniture unit of FIG. 1.
[0048] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding
parts throughout the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0049] Example configurations will now be described more fully with
reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are
provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully
convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in
the art. Specific details are set forth such as examples of
specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough
understanding of configurations of the present disclosure. It will
be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific
details need not be employed, that example configurations may be
embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and
the example configurations should not be construed to limit the
scope of the disclosure.
[0050] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing
particular exemplary configurations only and is not intended to be
limiting. As used herein, the singular articles "a," "an," and
"the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless
the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises,"
"comprising," "including," and "having," are inclusive and
therefore specify the presence of features, steps, operations,
elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or
addition of one or more other features, steps, operations,
elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps,
processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed
as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order
discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an
order of performance. Additional or alternative steps may be
employed.
[0051] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on,"
"engaged to," "connected to," "attached to," or "coupled to"
another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged,
connected, attached, or coupled to the other element or layer, or
intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an
element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged
to," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly
coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening
elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the
relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like
fashion (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent"
versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term
"and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the
associated listed items.
[0052] The terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to
describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or
sections. These elements, components, regions, layers and/or
sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be
only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or
section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as
"first," "second," and other numerical terms do not imply a
sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a
first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below
could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or
section without departing from the teachings of the example
configurations.
[0053] With reference to FIGS. 1-3, a furniture unit 10 is
provided. While the furniture unit 10 is generally shown and
described herein as being a bookcase, it will be appreciated that
the furniture unit 10 may include other types of home or office
furniture or fixtures (e.g., tables, bed frames, desks, etc.)
within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0054] The furniture unit 10 may include one or more shelf sections
12-1, 12-2, . . . 12-n, one or more connectors 14-1, 14-2, . . .
14-n, and one or more caps 16-1, 16-2, . . . 16-n. Each shelf
section 12-1, 12-2, . . . 12-n may include a shelf 18, a lateral
leg 20, a medial leg 22, and a backer 24. The shelf 18 may extend
from a lateral end 26 to a medial end 28 opposite the lateral end
26. The lateral leg 20 may be coupled to, or otherwise supported
by, the lateral end 26 of the shelf 18. The medial leg 22 may be
coupled to, or otherwise supported by, the medial end 28 of the
shelf 18. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the backer 24 may be coupled
to, or otherwise supported by, the shelf 18, the lateral leg 20,
and/or the medial leg 22.
[0055] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the lateral and medial legs 20, 22
may each define a substantially hollow construct having upper and
lower openings 30, 32. The upper and lower openings 30, 32 may
define any of a variety of shapes. For example, while the upper and
lower openings 30, 32 are generally illustrated as defining
rectangular (e.g., square) shapes, it will be appreciated that the
upper and lower openings may define another shape such as a
triangle, a circle, or another polygon within the scope of the
present disclosure. In some implementations, the lateral and/or
medial leg 20, 22 may include the shelf 18, or a construct
substantially similar thereto. For example, the lateral leg 20 may
define another shelf, substantially similar or identical to shelf
18, supported by the lateral end 26 of the shelf 18, and the medial
leg 22 may define another shelf, substantially similar or identical
to shelf 18, supported by the medial end 28 of the shelf 18.
[0056] With further reference to FIG. 2, the connectors 14-1, 14-2,
. . . 14-n may each include a first coupling portion 34, a second
coupling portion 36, and a stop portion 38. The first and second
coupling portions 34, 36 may define any of a variety of shapes. For
example, while the first and second coupling portions 34, 36 are
generally illustrated as defining rectangular (e.g., square)
shapes, it will be appreciated that the first and second coupling
portions 34, 36 may each define another shape such as a triangle, a
circle, or another polygon within the scope of the present
disclosure. In this regard, the size and shape of the first and
second coupling portions 34, 36 may correspond to the size and
shape of one or both of the upper or lower openings 30, 32 of the
lateral and medial legs 20, 22, such that the upper or lower
openings 30, 32 can receive the first or second coupling portions
34, 36 of the connectors 14-1, 14-2, . . . 14-n in an assembled
configuration, as described in more detail below.
[0057] The stop portion 38 may extend outwardly from, or otherwise
relative to, the first or second coupling portions 34, 36 of the
connectors 14-1, 14-2, . . . 14-n. In some implementations, the
stop portion 38 defines an outwardly extending flange relative to
the first and second coupling portions 34, 36. In this regard, the
stop portion 38 may define a shape that is substantially similar to
the shape defined by the first or second coupling portions 34,
36.
[0058] The caps 16-1, 16-2, . . . 16-n may each include a coupling
portion 40 and a stop portion 42. The coupling portion 40 may
define any of a variety of shapes. For example, while the coupling
portion 40 is generally illustrated as defining a rectangular
(e.g., square) shape, it will be appreciated that the coupling
portion 40 may define another shape such as a triangle, a circle,
or another polygon within the scope of the present disclosure. In
this regard, the size and shape of the coupling portion 40 may
correspond to the size and shape of one or both of the upper or
lower openings 30, 32 of the lateral and medial legs 20, 22, such
that the upper or lower openings 30, 32 can receive the coupling
portion 40 of the caps 16-1, 16-2, . . . 16-n in an assembled
configuration, as described in more detail below. The stop portion
42 may extend outwardly from, or otherwise relative to, the
coupling portion 40 of the caps 16-1, 16-2, . . . 16-n. In some
implementations, the stop portion 42 defines an outwardly extending
flange at, and relative to, an uppermost portion of the coupling
portion 40. In this regard, the stop portion 42 may define a shape
that is substantially similar to the shape defined by the coupling
portion 42.
[0059] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, in the assembled
configuration, the shelf sections 12-1, 12-2, . . . 12-n may be
arranged in a stacked configuration. In this regard, the lateral
leg 20 of the first shelf section 12-1 may be removably coupled to
the lateral leg 20 of the second shelf section 12-2, and the medial
leg 22 of the first shelf section 12-1 may be removably coupled to
the medial leg 22 of the second shelf section 12-2. For example,
one or more connectors 14-1, 14-2, . . . 14-n may be removably
coupled to the lateral leg 20 of the first shelf section 12-1 and
to the lateral leg 20 of the second shelf section 12-1, and another
one or more connectors 14-1, 14-2, . . . 14-n may be removably
coupled to the medial leg 22 of the first shelf section 12-1 and to
the medial leg 22 of the second shelf section 12-1. In particular,
the first coupling portion 34 of one or more of the connectors
14-1, 14-2, . . . 14-n may be disposed within one or more of the
upper openings 30 of the lateral leg 20 of the first shelf section
12-1, and the second coupling portion 36 may be disposed within one
or more of the lower openings 32 of the lateral leg 20 of the
second shelf section 12-2, such that the stop portion 38 engages
the lateral legs 20 of the first and second shelf sections 12-1,
12-2. Similarly, the first coupling portion 34 of one or more of
the connectors 14-1, 14-2, . . . 14-n may be disposed within one or
more of the upper openings 30 of the medial leg 22 of the first
shelf section 12-1, and the second coupling portion 36 may be
disposed within one or more of the lower openings 32 of the medial
leg 22 of the second shelf section 12-2, such that the stop portion
38 engages the medial legs 22 of the first and second shelf
sections 12-1, 12-2.
[0060] With reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the shelf 18 may include,
or otherwise be formed from, a substrate 46 having a layered
construct. In this regard, the substrate 46 may include a base
layer 48, an upper laminate layer 50, and a lower laminate layer
52. The base layer 48 and the upper and lower laminate layers 50,
52 may each be formed from one or more of a variety of materials.
In some implementations, the base layer 48 is formed from a
medium-density fiberboard material, a polymer material (e.g.,
polyvinyl chloride), or a particle board material, and the laminate
layers 50, 52 are formed from a paper material or a polymer
material (e.g., polypropylene).
[0061] The base layer 48 may include an upper surface 54, a lower
surface 56 opposite the upper surface 54, and a peripheral surface
58. The upper and lower surfaces 54, 56 may extend from a proximal
portion 60 of the substrate 46 to a distal portion 62 of the
substrate 46. The peripheral surface 58 may extend from the upper
surface 54 to the lower surface 56. In this regard, the peripheral
surface 58 may include a proximal peripheral surface 64, a distal
peripheral surface 66, a lateral peripheral surface 68, and a
medial peripheral surface 70. The proximal peripheral surface 64
may be disposed in the proximal portion 60 of the substrate 46. The
distal peripheral surface 66 may be disposed in the distal portion
62 of the substrate 46 opposite the proximal peripheral surface 64.
The lateral peripheral surface 68 may extend from the proximal
peripheral surface 64 to the distal peripheral surface 66. The
medial peripheral surface 70 may extend from the proximal
peripheral surface 64 to the distal peripheral surface 66 opposite
the lateral peripheral surface 68.
[0062] The upper laminate layer 50 may include an upper surface 74,
a lower surface 76 opposite the upper surface 74, and a peripheral
surface 78. The upper and lower surfaces 74, 76 may extend from the
proximal portion 60 of the substrate 46 to the distal portion 62 of
the substrate 46. The peripheral surface 78 may extend from the
upper surface 74 to the lower surface 76. In this regard, the
peripheral surface 78 may include a proximal peripheral surface 80,
a distal peripheral surface 82, a lateral peripheral surface 84,
and a medial peripheral surface 86. The proximal peripheral surface
80 may be disposed in the proximal portion 60 of the substrate 46.
The distal peripheral surface 82 may be disposed in the distal
portion 62 of the substrate 46 opposite the proximal peripheral
surface 80. The lateral peripheral surface 84 may extend from the
proximal peripheral surface 80 to the distal peripheral surface 82.
The medial peripheral surface 86 may extend from the proximal
peripheral surface 80 to the distal peripheral surface 82 opposite
the lateral peripheral surface 84.
[0063] The lower laminate layer 52 may include an upper surface 88,
a lower surface 90 opposite the upper surface 88, and a peripheral
surface 92. The upper and lower surfaces 88, 90 may extend from the
proximal portion 60 of the substrate 46 to the distal portion 62 of
the substrate 46. The peripheral surface 92 may extend from the
upper surface 88 to the lower surface 90. In this regard, the
peripheral surface 92 may include a proximal peripheral surface 94,
a distal peripheral surface 96, a lateral peripheral surface 98,
and a medial peripheral surface 100. The proximal peripheral
surface 94 may be disposed in the proximal portion 60 of the
substrate 46. The distal peripheral surface 96 may be disposed in
the distal portion 62 of the substrate 46 opposite the proximal
peripheral surface 94. The lateral peripheral surface 98 may extend
from the proximal peripheral surface 94 to the distal peripheral
surface 96. The medial peripheral surface 100 may extend from the
proximal peripheral surface 94 to the distal peripheral surface 96
opposite the lateral peripheral surface 98.
[0064] In the assembled configuration, the upper surface 54 of the
base layer 48 may engage the lower surface 76 of the upper laminate
layer 50, and the lower surface 56 of the base layer 48 may engage
the upper surface 88 of the lower laminate layer 52, such that the
upper surface 74 of the upper laminate layer 50, the lower surface
90 of the lower laminate layer 52, the peripheral surface 58 of
base layer 48, the peripheral surface 78 upper laminate layer 50,
and the peripheral surface 92 of lower laminate layer 52 define
outermost surfaces of the substrate 46. In some implementations,
the upper surface 54 of the base layer 48 may be bonded to the
lower surface 76 of the upper laminate layer 50 using an adhesive
or other suitable technique, and the lower surface 56 of the base
layer 48 may be bonded to the upper surface 88 of the lower
laminate layer 52 using an adhesive or other suitable technique.
While the substrate 46 is generally shown and described herein as
including the base layer 48, the upper laminate layer 50, and the
lower laminate layer 52, the substrate 46 may include the base
layer 48 and one of the upper and lower laminate layers 50, 52
within the scope of the present disclosure. In this regard, in some
implementations, the upper surface 54 or the lower surface 56 of
the base layer 48 may define an outermost surface of the substrate
46.
[0065] As illustrated in FIG. 4A, the shelf 18 may include, or
otherwise define, a first seam 104-1, a second seam 104-2 spaced
apart from the first seam 104-1, and a third seam 104-3 spaced
apart from the first and second seams 104-1, 104-2. It will be
appreciated that the shelf 18 may include more or less than three
seams within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, as
illustrated in FIG. 4A, in some implementations, the shelf 18 may
include first, second and third seams 104-1, 104-2, 104-3 in the
proximal portion 60 of the substrate 46, and fourth, fifth, and
sixth seams 104-4, 104-5, 104-6 in the distal portion 62 of the
substrate 46. The seams 104-1, 104-2, 104-3 may extend through the
base layer 48. Where the substrate 46 includes the base layer 48
and both of the upper and lower laminate layers 50, 52, the seams
104-1, 104-2, 104-3 may extend through the base layer 48 and
through one of the upper and lower laminate layers 50, 52. Where
the substrate 46 includes the base layer 48 and one of the upper
and lower laminate layers 50, 52, the seams 104-1, 104-2, 104-3 may
extend through only the base layer 48. The seams 104-1, 104-2, . .
. 104-n may extend from the lateral peripheral surfaces 68, 84, 98
to the medial peripheral surfaces 70, 86, 100. In this regard, the
seams 104-1, 104-2, 104-3 may extend in a direction substantially
parallel (+/-5 degrees) to the proximal peripheral surfaces 64, 80,
94 or the distal peripheral surfaces 66, 82, 96.
[0066] With continued reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the shelf 18
may further include, or otherwise define, a first fold 106-1, a
second fold 106-2 spaced apart from the first fold 106-1, and a
third fold 106-3 spaced apart from the first and second folds
106-1, 106-2. It will be appreciated that the shelf 18 may include
more or less than three folds within the scope of the present
disclosure. In this regard, the number "n" of folds 106-1, 106-2, .
. . 106-n may equal the number of seams 104-1, 104-2, . . . 104-n.
Where the substrate 46 includes the base layer 48 and both of the
upper and lower laminate layers 50, 52, the folds 106-1, 106-2,
106-3 may be formed in the one of the upper and lower laminate
layers 50, 52 which does not include the seams 104-1, 104-2, 104-3.
Where the substrate 46 includes the base layer 48 and one of the
upper and lower laminate layers 50, 52, the folds 106-1, 106-2,
106-3 may be formed in that one of the upper and lower laminate
layers 50, 52. The folds 106-1, 106-2, 106-3 may extend from the
lateral peripheral surfaces 68, 84, 98 to the medial peripheral
surfaces 70, 86, 100. In some implementations, the folds 106-1,
106-2, 106-3 extend in a direction substantially parallel (+/-5
degrees) to the proximal peripheral surfaces 64, 80, 94 or the
distal peripheral surfaces 66, 82, 96. In this regard, each fold
106-1, 106-2, . . . 106-n may be aligned with one of the seams
104-1, 104-2, . . . 104-n.
[0067] With reference to FIGS. 4 and 10A-10D, a method of
manufacturing any component of shelf section 12-1, 12-2, . . . 12-n
(i.e, shelf 18, lateral leg 20, medial leg 22, and backer 24) of
the furniture unit 10 will now be described. The component of shelf
section 12-1, 12-2, . . . 12-n may be manufactured from the
substrate 46 having a thickness T extending between an upper
surface (e.g., upper surface 74) and a lower surface (e.g., lower
surface 90). The thickness T may be between two millimeters and ten
millimeters. In some implementations, the thickness T may be
substantially equal to five millimeters.
[0068] With particular reference to FIG. 10A, the method may
include providing a tool 200 (e.g., a router, a blade, a bit, etc.)
and using the tool to form a plurality of primary channels 202 in
the substrate 46, e.g, by miter cutting the plurality of primary
channels 202 in the substrate 46. In this regard, the number and
location of the primary channels 202 may correspond to the number
and location of the seams 104-1, 104-2, . . . 104-n or the number
and location of the folds 106-1, 106-2, . . . 106-n. The tool 200
may include a male portion 203 and a female portion 205 opposite
the male portion 203. As illustrated, in some configurations, the
male portion 203 defines a convex profile and the female portion
205 defines a concave profile. It will be appreciated, however,
that the male and female portions 203, 205 may define other
profiles (e.g., triangular, rectangular, etc.) within the scope of
the present disclosure. In this regard, the size and shape of the
male portion 203 may correspond to, or otherwise be the same as,
the size and shape of the female portion 205. Accordingly, as
illustrated in FIG. 10A, the primary channels 202 may be defined by
a first channel wall 204 having a male portion 207 formed by the
female portion 205 of the tool 200, and a second channel wall 206
having a female portion 209 formed by the male portion 203 of the
tool 200.
[0069] The first and second channel walls 204, 206 may extend
through a majority of the thickness T of the substrate 46. For
example, the first and second channel walls 204, 206 may extend
through between approximately seventy percent of the thickness T of
the substrate 46 and ninety-nine percent of the thickness T of the
substrate 46. In some implementations, the first and second channel
walls 204, 206 may extend through an entirety of the base layer 48
and through an entirety of the lower laminate layer 52. In this
regard, the first and second channels walls 204, 206 may define a
common edge 208 adjacent the lower surface 76 of upper laminate
layer 50, and have an angle .alpha. therebetween. The angle .alpha.
may be between about fifteen degrees and about one hundred
sixty-five degrees. As illustrated in FIG. 10A, in some
implementations, the angle .alpha. is substantially equal to ninety
degrees.
[0070] With continued reference to FIG. 10A, the method may further
include providing a tool 210 and forming one or more secondary
channels 212 in the substrate 46. As illustrated in FIG. 10A, the
secondary channels 212 may extend through the lower laminate layer
52 to expose the lower surface 56 of the base layer 48. In this
regard, forming the secondary channels 212 may include removing a
portion of the lower laminate layer 52. The secondary channels 212
may extend from the lateral peripheral surfaces 68, 84, 98 to the
medial peripheral surfaces 70, 86, 100.
[0071] With reference to FIG. 10B, the method may also include
folding the substrate 46 such that each first channel wall 204 of
primary channel 202 engages the second channel wall 206 of the same
of primary channel 202 to define a corresponding seam 104-n and
fold 106-n. In this regard, the female portion 209 of each primary
channel 202 may receive the male portion 207 of such primary
channel 202. For example, the method may include performing a
plurality of folding operations to define the plurality of seams
104-1, 104-2, . . . 104-n and the plurality of folds 106-1, 106-2,
. . . 106-n. In this regard, each fold 106-1, 106-2, . . . 106-n
may define, or otherwise act as, a hinge for folding the substrate
46. Accordingly each fold 106-1, 106-2, . . . 106-n may be referred
to herein as a hinge 106-1, 106-2, . . . 106-n. As illustrated in
FIGS. 4A and 4B, in some implementations, the folding operations,
and the plurality of seams 104-1, 104-2, . . . 104-n and the
plurality of folds 106-1, 106-2, . . . 106-n defined thereby, forms
a hollow proximal support 214 at the proximal portion 60 of the
substrate 46 and a hollow distal support 216 at the distal portion
62 of the substrate 46. The hollow proximal support 214 and/or the
hollow distal support 216 may define a polygonal cross section
extending from the lateral peripheral surfaces 68, 84, 98 to the
medial peripheral surfaces 70, 86, 100. For example, the hollow
proximal support 214 and the hollow distal support 216 may define a
rectangular (e.g., square) cross section extending from the lateral
peripheral surfaces 68, 84, 98 to the medial peripheral surfaces
70, 86, 100. In this regard, the upper surface 74 of the upper
laminate layer 50 may include a first portion 218 and a second
portion 219. The first portion 218 may extend from the proximal
peripheral surface 80 to a first seam 104-1, and the second portion
219 may extend from the first seam 104-1 to a second seam 104-2.
The first portion 218 and the second portion 219 may define an
angle .theta. therebetween. The angle .theta. may be between about
fifteen degrees and about one hundred sixty-five degrees. As
illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 10B, in some implementations, the angle
.theta. is substantially equal to ninety degrees.
[0072] With reference to FIG. 10C, folding the substrate 46 may
also include engaging the proximal peripheral surfaces 64, 80, or
94 or the distal peripheral surfaces 66, 82, or 96 with the upper
surface 54 of the base layer 48 or with the lower surface 56 of the
base layer 48. In particular, folding the substrate 46 may include
positioning the proximal peripheral surfaces 64, 80, 94 or the
distal peripheral surfaces 66, 82, 96 within one of the secondary
channels 212 such that the proximal peripheral surfaces 64, 80, 94
or the distal peripheral surfaces 66, 82, 96 engage the upper
surface 54 or the lower surface 56 of the base layer 48. In this
regard, the proximal peripheral surfaces 64, 80, 94 or the distal
peripheral surfaces 66, 82, 96 may define an angle .beta. relative
to one or more of the upper surfaces 54, 74, 88 or the lower
surfaces 56, 76, 90. For example, the proximal peripheral surfaces
64, 80, 94 or the distal peripheral surfaces 66, 82, 96 may define
an angle .beta. relative to the lower surface 90. The angle .beta.
may be between about ninety degrees and about one hundred eighty
degrees. For example, if the hollow support portion 214 defines a
rectangle the angle .beta. may be substantially equal to ninety
degrees. If the hollow support portion 214 defines a triangle the
angle .theta. may be greater than ninety degrees. In some
implementations, if the hollow support portion 214 defines a
triangle, the angle .beta. may be substantially equal to one
hundred twenty degrees.
[0073] In some implementations, engaging the proximal peripheral
surfaces 64, 80, or 94 or the distal peripheral surfaces 66, 82, or
96 with the upper surface 54 of the base layer 48 or with the lower
surface 56 of the base layer 48 may also include coupling the
proximal peripheral surfaces 64, 80, or 94 or the distal peripheral
surfaces 66, 82, or 96 with the upper surface 54 of the base layer
48 or with the lower surface 56 of the base layer 48 using an
adhesive or other suitable technique.
[0074] As illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, in some implementations,
folding the substrate 46 to form the hollow proximal support 214
and/or the hollow distal support 216 includes folding the proximal
portion 60 in a counterclockwise direction and folding the distal
portion 62 in a clockwise direction.
[0075] With continued reference to FIG. 10C, the method may also
include forming one or more apertures 220 through the substrate 46
and placing a primary connector 222 in each of the one or more
apertures 220. For example, the method may include forming the one
or more apertures 220 through the hollow proximal support 214 or
the hollow distal support 216. The primary connector 222 may
include a cross-dowel having an aperture 224 formed therein.
[0076] With reference to FIG. 10D, the method may further include
coupling the shelf 18 to the lateral leg 20 or the medial leg 22.
In some implementations, the method may include coupling a
secondary connector 226 to each of the primary connectors 222 to
couple the shelf 18 to the lateral leg 20 and the medial leg 22.
For example, the method may include extending the secondary
connectors 226 through the lateral leg 20 or the medial leg 22 and
into the aperture 224 of the primary connector 222. In some
implementations, extending the secondary connector 226 into the
aperture 224 of the primary connector 222 includes threadably
engaging the secondary connector 226 with the primary connector 222
within the aperture 224.
[0077] With reference to FIG. 5, another shelf 18a for use with the
furniture unit 10 is shown. The structure, function, and method of
manufacturing the shelf 18a may be substantially similar to that of
the shelf 18, apart from any exceptions described below and/or
shown in the Figures. Accordingly, the structure and/or function of
similar features will not be described again in detail. In
addition, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the
drawings to identify like features, while like reference numerals
containing letter extensions (i.e., "a") are used to identify those
features that have been modified.
[0078] The shelf 18a may include the hollow proximal support 214
and a hollow distal support 216a. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the
hollow proximal support 214 and the hollow distal support 216a may
be disposed on opposite sides of the shelf 18a. In this regard,
folding the substrate 46 to form the hollow proximal support 214
may include folding the proximal portion 60 in a counterclockwise
direction, and folding the substrate 46 to form the hollow distal
support 216a may include folding the distal portion 62 in a
counterclockwise direction.
[0079] With reference to FIG. 6, another shelf 18b for use with the
furniture unit 10 is shown. The structure, function, and method of
manufacturing the shelf 18b may be substantially similar to that of
the shelf 18, apart from any exceptions described below and/or
shown in the Figures. Accordingly, the structure and/or function of
similar features will not be described again in detail. In
addition, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the
drawings to identify like features, while like reference numerals
containing letter extensions (i.e., "b") are used to identify those
features that have been modified.
[0080] The shelf 18b may include a hollow support 216b extending
from the proximal portion 60 to the distal portion 62 of the
substrate 46. In this regard, folding the substrate 46 to form the
hollow support 216b may include folding the proximal portion 60 in
a counterclockwise direction, or folding the distal portion 62 in a
clockwise direction, such that the proximal peripheral surfaces 64,
80, or 94 are disposed adjacent the distal peripheral surfaces 66,
82, or 96.
[0081] With reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B, another shelf 18c (FIG.
7A) formed from the substrate 46, and for use with the assembly 10,
is shown. The structure, function, and method of manufacturing the
shelf 18c may be substantially similar to that of the shelf 18b,
apart from any exceptions described below and/or shown in the
Figures. Accordingly, the structure and/or function of similar
features will not be described again in detail. In addition, like
reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to
identify like features, while like reference numerals containing
letter extensions (i.e., "c") are used to identify those features
that have been modified.
[0082] The substrate 46 of the shelf 18c may include the hollow
support 216b extending from the proximal portion 60 to the distal
portion 62 of the substrate 46, and a cover 227. The cover 227 may
engage a portion 228 of the lateral peripheral surfaces 68, 84, or
98 or a portion 228 of the medial peripheral surfaces 70, 86, or
100. In some implementations, the shelf 18c may have two covers
227; one cover 227 may engage a portion 228 of the lateral
peripheral surfaces 68, 84, or 98 and the other cover 227 may
engage a portion 228 of the medial peripheral surfaces 70, 86, or
100. In this regard, in these implementations, the shelf 18c may
have the appearance of a solid piece (e.g., a solid piece of wood)
without any openings. With regard to shelf 18c, the substrate 46
may further include a fold 230 that may be formed in one of the
upper and lower laminate layers 50,52 such that one of the upper
surfaces 54, 74, 88 or one of the lower surfaces 56, 76, 90 engages
the portion 228 of the lateral peripheral surfaces 68, 84, or 98 or
the medial peripheral surfaces 70, 86, or 100.
[0083] With reference to FIG. 8, another shelf 18d for use with the
furniture unit 10 is shown. The structure, function, and method of
manufacturing the shelf 18d may be substantially similar to that of
the shelf 18, apart from any exceptions described below and/or
shown in the Figures. Accordingly, the structure and/or function of
similar features will not be described again in detail. In
addition, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the
drawings to identify like features, while like reference numerals
containing letter extensions (i.e., "d") are used to identify those
features that have been modified.
[0084] The shelf 18d may include a support 216d defining a
corrugated construct extending from the proximal portion 60 to the
distal portion 62 of the substrate 46. In this regard, folding the
substrate 46 to form the support 216d may include folding one or
more portions of the substrate in a clockwise direction and a
counterclockwise direction, such that one of the upper surfaces 54,
74, 88 or one of the lower surfaces 56, 76, 90 engages another one
of the upper surfaces 54, 74, 88 or one of the lower surfaces 56,
76, 90. As illustrated in FIG. 8, folding the substrate 46 may
include directly engaging various portions of the lower surface 56
of the base layer 48 with various other portions of the lower
surface 56 of the base layer 48. In other implementations, folding
the substrate 46 may include directly engaging various portions of
the upper surface 54 of the base layer 48 with various other
portions of the upper surface 54 of the base layer 48
[0085] With reference to FIG. 9, another shelf 18e for use with the
furniture unit 10 is shown. The structure, function, and method of
manufacturing the shelf 18e may be substantially similar to that of
the shelves 18 and 18b, apart from any exceptions described below
and/or shown in the Figures. Accordingly, the structure and/or
function of similar features will not be described again in detail.
In addition, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in
the drawings to identify like features, while like reference
numerals containing letter extensions (i.e., "e") are used to
identify those features that have been modified.
[0086] The shelf 18e is a variation of the shelves 18 and 18b shown
in FIGS. 4 and 6, including a hollow proximal support 214e and the
hollow distal support 216b, and excluding lower laminate layer 52.
In particular, the shelf 18e may include the hollow support 216b
extending from the proximal portion 60 to the distal portion 62 of
the substrate 46. Folding the substrate 46 may include forming the
hollow proximal support 214e by folding the proximal portion 60 in
a counterclockwise direction, and forming the hollow distal support
216b by folding the substrate 46 in a clockwise direction from the
proximal portion 60 to the distal portion 62 such that the proximal
peripheral surfaces 64, 80 are disposed adjacent the distal
peripheral surfaces 66, 82. In some implementations, the proximal
peripheral surfaces 64, 80 and the distal peripheral surfaces 66,
82 engage the lower surface 56 of the base layer 48. In this
regard, the upper surface 74 of the upper laminate layer 50 may
include a first portion 232 (e.g., a forward portion) extending
from a first seam 104-1 to the proximal peripheral surfaces 64, 80,
and a second portion 234 (e.g., a rearward portion) extending from
a second seam 104-2 to the distal peripheral surfaces 66, 82. The
first portion 232 of the upper surface 74 may engage the second
portion 234 of the upper surface 74. The substrate 46 of shelf 18e
also may include lower laminate layer 52 such that the proximal
peripheral surfaces 64, 80, or 94 are disposed adjacent the distal
peripheral surfaces 66, 82, or 96; and in some implementations, the
proximal peripheral surfaces 64, 80, or 94 and the distal
peripheral surfaces 66, 82, or 96 engage the lower surface 90 of
the lower laminate layer 52.
[0087] The configuration of, and related methods of manufacturing,
the furniture unit 10 described herein, including, for example, the
various channels 202, and the seams 104-n and folds 106-n formed
thereby, can allow a user to easily and efficiently manufacture the
shelves 18, 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 18e and the furniture unit 10 to
have superior strength and durability.
[0088] The foregoing description has been provided for purposes of
illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive
or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a
particular configuration are generally not limited to that
particular configuration, but, where applicable, are
interchangeable and can be used in a selected configuration, even
if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied
in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure
from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be
included within the scope of the disclosure.
* * * * *