IPC分类号：
A47B47/00 | A47B47/04
国民经济行业分类号：
C2190 | C2110 | C2120 | C2130 | C2140
当前申请(专利权)人：
MORPH BRICKS LTD
原始申请(专利权)人：
MORPH BRICKS LTD
摘要：
A modular furnishing block 100, in which the modular furnishing block 100 is engageable with another such modular furnishing block 100 to provide a modular furnishing block assembly 700. The modular furnishing block 100 comprises, a perimeter wall 101, a first formation 103 raised from a first surface 108 of the perimeter wall 101, and a second formation 103 recessed from a second surface 109 of the perimeter wall 101. When the modular furnishing block 100 engages with the other such modular furnishing block 100 to provide the modular furnishing block assembly 700, the first end of the perimeter wall 101 of the modular furnishing block 100 abuts the second end of the perimeter wall 101 of the other such modular furnishing block 100. A width of the first formation 103 in a dimension along the perimeter wall 101 at a location of the first formation 103 reduces with a distance by which the first formation 103 is raised away from the first surface 108 and a width of the second formation 103 in a dimension along the perimeter wall 101 at a location of the second formation 103 reduces with a distance by which the second formation 103 is recessed from the second surface 109 such that, as the modular furnishing block 100 is moved towards engagement with the other such modular furnishing block 100 to provide the modular furnishing block assembly 700, the first formation 103 fits within the second formation 103 progressively more closely in the dimension along the perimeter wall 101.
技术问题语段：
Therefore, there is little or no flexibility in the size and shape of the assembled item of furniture.
技术功效语段：
[0020]Optionally, the first formation is located inwardly from an inner edge of the first surface and the second formation is located inwardly from an inner edge of the second surface. That is, the first formation may be inward of the first surface (with respect to the perimeter wall), and the second formation may be inward of the second surface (with respect to the perimeter wall). This may serve to conceal the engaging formations and so reduce the likelihood that these formations are damaged in use.
权利要求：
1. A modular furnishing block, the modular furnishing block being engageable with another such modular furnishing block to provide a modular furnishing block assembly, the modular furnishing block comprising:
a perimeter wall;
a first formation raised from a first surface of the perimeter wall;
a second formation recessed from a second surface of the perimeter wall;
wherein, when the modular furnishing block engages with the other such modular furnishing block to provide the modular furnishing block assembly, the first surface of the perimeter wall of the modular furnishing block abuts the second surface of the perimeter wall of the other such modular furnishing block,
and wherein a width of the first formation in a dimension along the perimeter wall reduces with a distance by which the first formation is raised away from the first surface and a width of the second formation in the dimension along the perimeter wall reduces with a distance by which the second formation is recessed from the second surface such that, as the modular furnishing block is moved towards engagement with the other such modular furnishing block to provide the modular furnishing block assembly, the first formation fits within the second formation progressively more closely in the dimension along the perimeter wall.
2. The modular furnishing block of claim 1, wherein the first formation comprises a first mating surface and the second formation comprises a second mating surface, and wherein, when the modular furnishing block engages with the other such modular furnishing block to provide the modular furnishing block assembly, the first mating surface of the modular furnishing block abuts and/or rests on the second mating surface of the other such modular furnishing block.
3. The modular furnishing block of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first formation is located inwardly from an outer edge of the first surface and the second formation is located inwardly from an outer edge of the second surface.
4. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first formation is located inwardly from an inner edge of the first surface and the second formation is located inwardly from an inner edge of the second surface.
5. The modular furnishing block of claim 4, wherein the inner edge of the first surface is aligned with the inner side of the perimeter wall.
6. The modular furnishing block of claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the inner edge of the second surface is aligned with the inner side of the perimeter wall.
7. The modular furnishing block of any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the outer edge of the first surface is aligned with the outer edge of the second surface.
8. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the area of the first surface is smaller than the total area of the first end of the perimeter wall.
9. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the area of the second surface is smaller than the total area of the second end of the perimeter wall.
10. The modular furnishing block of any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the area of the first mating surface is smaller than the area of the first surface.
11. The modular furnishing block of any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the area of the first mating surface is the same as the area of the first surface.
12. The modular furnishing block of any one of claims 2 to 11, wherein the area of the first mating surface is smaller than the area of the second mating surface.
13. The modular furnishing block of any one of claims 2 to 11, wherein the area of the first mating surface is the same as the area of the second mating surface.
14. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first formation further comprises a third mating surface raised from a third surface on the first mating surface; and a fourth mating surface recessed from a fourth surface on the second mating surface.
15. The modular furnishing block of claim 14, wherein, when the modular furnishing block engages with the other such modular furnishing block to provide the modular furnishing block assembly, the third mating surface of the modular furnishing block abuts and/or rests on the fourth mating surface of the other such modular furnishing block.
16. The modular furnishing block of claim 14 or 15, wherein the area of the third surface is smaller than the total area of the first mating surface.
17. The modular furnishing block of any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the area of the third surface is the same as the total area of the first mating surface.
18. The modular furnishing block of any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the area of the third mating surface is smaller than the area of the fourth mating surface.
19. The modular furnishing block of any one of claims 14 to 18, wherein the area of the third mating surface is the same as the area of the fourth mating surface.
20. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first formation further comprises at least one ridge extending in a direction towards the outer side of the perimeter wall.
21. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second formation further comprises at least one groove extending in a direction towards the outer side of the perimeter wall.
22. The modular furnishing block of claim 21, wherein the at least one groove is arranged to accept the at least one ridge.
23. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first formation further comprises a first locking hole.
24. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second formation further comprises a second locking hole.
25. The modular furnishing block of claim 24, wherein the first locking hole of the block and the second locking hole of the other such block are arranged to align.
26. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the perimeter wall further comprises an access hole.
27. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the modular furnishing block further comprises a lid coupled to the first end of the perimeter wall.
28. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the modular furnishing block further comprises a base coupled to the second end of the perimeter wall.
29. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the modular furnishing block further comprises a filler disposed inside the perimeter wall.
30. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the perimeter wall forms a square or rectangle.
31. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the perimeter wall is formed of first, second, third, and fourth separable members.
32. The modular furnishing block of claim 31, wherein the first member and the third member further comprise at least one lug.
33. The modular furnishing block of claim 32, wherein the second member and the fourth member comprise at least one cavity; wherein the at least one cavity is arranged to accept at least one lug.
34. The modular furnishing block of any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein the modular furnishing block is integrally formed as a single unit.
35. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the perimeter wall has a shape which is capable of being tesselated.
36. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the modular furnishing block is formed of plastic, preferably wherein the modular furnishing block is formed of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, ABS, and more preferably wherein the modular furnishing block is formed of recycled ABS.
37. The modular furnishing block of any one of claims 1 to 35, wherein the modular furnishing block is formed of wood, preferably wherein the modular furnishing block is formed of reclaimed wood.
38. The modular furnishing block of any one of claims 1 to 35, wherein the modular furnishing block is formed of metal, preferably wherein the modular furnishing block is formed of recycled metal.
39. The modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the modular furnishing block further comprises a covering, wherein the covering is applied to the outside of the perimeter wall; preferably wherein the covering is a cladding; more preferably wherein the wherein the cladding is formed of one of: plastic, preferably Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, ABS, and more preferably recycled ABS; wood, preferably reclaimed wood; and metal, preferably recycled metal.
40. A modular furnishing block assembly, comprising the modular furnishing block of any one of the preceding claims engaged to at least one other such modular furnishing block.
41. A modular furnishing block kit of parts, comprising the modular furnishing block of any one of claims 1 to 39 and at least one other such modular furnishing block.
42. A modular furniture product, comprising the modular furniture block assembly of claim 40.
43. A modular wall partition, comprising the modular furniture block assembly of claim 40.
技术领域：
[0001]The present disclosure relates to a modular furnishing block. The disclosure relates particularly, but not exclusively, to a modular furnishing block from which indoor or outdoor furnishings, e.g. fixtures and fittings such as furniture, freestanding pods, or partitions, may be assembled.
背景技术：
[0002]Furniture may typically comprise items such as chairs, desks, tables, shelves and such like. Most furniture is assembled from a number of parts using fixing means, often in a factory but increasingly in the building in which the furniture will be used. ‘Flat-pack’ furniture is a common example, in which the furniture arrives as parts in a flat box, and a user assembles the parts into furniture themselves. The parts of such furniture are generally different from each other and provide different functions, such as a base, a leg, an arm and top surface. This results in a predetermined assembly process in which each part must be used for its predetermined purpose. Therefore, there is little or no flexibility in the size and shape of the assembled item of furniture.
[0003]Partitions may be used to divide an area within a room or building. A wall partition is generally not load bearing, but if suitable strength is achieved a wall partition can be load bearing, either as part of the structure of the room or building itself, or to support other fixtures or fittings. In general, a wall partition comprises a single part, or a small number of large parts that fit together. Again, the size and shape of the completed assembly is generally predetermined, meaning that bespoke parts, or at least a wide range of parts, are required in order to meet the needs of different users.
[0004]The present disclosure seeks to overcome these problems.
发明内容：
[0005]According to a first aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a modular furnishing block, the modular furnishing block being engageable with another such modular furnishing block to provide a modular furnishing block assembly, the modular furnishing block comprising:[0006]a perimeter wall;[0007]a first formation raised from a first surface (optionally on the first end) of the perimeter wall, optionally which surface faces towards a first end of the modular furnishing block;[0008]a second formation recessed from a second face (optionally on the second end) of the perimeter wall, optionally which surface faces towards a second end of the modular furnishing block;[0009]wherein, when the modular furnishing block engages with the other such modular furnishing block to provide the modular furnishing block assembly, the first surface (or, optionally, end) of the perimeter wall of the modular furnishing block abuts (or rests on) the second surface (or, optionally, end) of the perimeter wall of the other such modular furnishing block,[0010]and optionally wherein a width of the first formation in a dimension along the perimeter wall at a location of the first formation reduces with a distance by which the first formation is raised away from the first surface and a width of the second formation in a dimension along the perimeter wall at a location of the second formation reduces with a distance by which the second formation is recessed from the second surface such that, as the modular furnishing block is moved towards engagement with the other such modular furnishing block to provide the modular furnishing block assembly, the first formation fits within the second formation progressively more closely in the dimension along the perimeter wall.
[0011]Optionally, when the modular furnishing block engages with the other such modular furnishing block to provide the modular furnishing block assembly, the first formation abuts the second formation of the other such modular furnishing block. Optionally, when the modular furnishing block engages with the other such modular furnishing block to provide the modular furnishing block assembly, the second formation abuts the second formation of the other such modular furnishing block.
[0012]Optionally, when the modular furnishing block engages with the other such modular furnishing block to provide the modular furnishing block assembly, the first and second formations are concealed by the perimeter wall. That is, the first and second formations may be concealed in the interior of the modular furnishing block assembly.
[0013]The first surface is preferably an edge of the perimeter wall. The second surface is preferably an edge of the perimeter wall. As used herein, the term “edge of the perimeter wall” preferably connotes the upper or lower edge of the perimeter wall, i.e. the thinnest edges of the perimeter wall.
[0014]The modular furnishing block preferably has open top and bottom ends.
[0015]The first formation preferably comprises a tongue. The second formation preferably comprises a groove.
[0016]Preferably only a portion of the first surface is used to provide the first formation.
[0017]Preferably only a portion of the second surface is used to provide the second formation.
[0018]Optionally, the first formation comprises a first mating surface and the second formation comprises a second mating surface, and wherein, when the modular furnishing block engages with the other such modular furnishing block to provide the modular furnishing block assembly, the first (or second) mating surface of the modular furnishing block abuts (and/or rests on) the second (or first) mating surface of the other such modular furnishing block. Preferably, when the modular furnishing block engages with the other such modular furnishing block to provide the modular furnishing block assembly, the second mating surface of the modular furnishing block rests on the first mating surface of the other such modular furnishing block. Preferably, the first mating surface is (part of) the edge of the first formation. Preferably, the second mating surface is (part of) the edge of the second formation. As used herein, the term “edge of the first/second formation” preferably connotes the upper or lower edge of the first/second formation, i.e. the thinnest edges of the first/second formation.
[0019]Optionally, first formation is located inwardly from an outer edge of the first surface and the second formation is located inwardly from an outer edge of the second surface.
[0020]Optionally, the first formation is located inwardly from an inner edge of the first surface and the second formation is located inwardly from an inner edge of the second surface. That is, the first formation may be inward of the first surface (with respect to the perimeter wall), and the second formation may be inward of the second surface (with respect to the perimeter wall). This may serve to conceal the engaging formations and so reduce the likelihood that these formations are damaged in use.
[0021]Optionally, the inner edge of the first surface is aligned with the inner side of the perimeter wall.
[0022]Optionally, the inner edge of the second surface is aligned with the inner side of the perimeter wall.
[0023]Optionally, the outer edge of the first surface is aligned with the outer edge of the second surface.
[0024]Optionally, the area of the first surface is smaller than the total area of the first end of the perimeter wall.
[0025]Optionally, the area of the second surface is smaller than the total area of the second end of the perimeter wall.
[0026]Optionally, the area of the first mating surface is smaller than the area of the first surface.
[0027]Optionally, the area of the first mating surface is the same as the area of the first surface.
[0028]Optionally, the area of the first mating surface is smaller than the area of the second mating surface.
[0029]Optionally, the area of the first mating surface is the same as the area of the second mating surface.
[0030]Optionally, the first formation further comprises a third mating surface raised from a third surface on the first mating surface.
[0031]Optionally, the second formation further comprises a fourth mating surface recessed from a fourth surface on the second mating surface.
[0032]Optionally, when the modular furnishing block engages with the other such modular furnishing block to provide the modular furnishing block assembly, the third mating surface of the modular furnishing block abuts and/or rests on the fourth mating surface of the other such modular furnishing block.
[0033]Optionally, the area of the third surface is smaller than the total area of the first mating surface.
[0034]Optionally, the area of the third surface is the same as the total area of the first mating surface.
[0035]Optionally, the area of the third mating surface is smaller than the area of the fourth mating surface.
[0036]Optionally, the area of the third mating surface is the same as the area of the fourth mating surface.
[0037]Optionally, the first formation further comprises at least one ridge extending in a direction towards the outer side of the perimeter wall.
[0038]Optionally, the second formation further comprises at least one groove extending in a direction towards the outer side of the perimeter wall.
[0039]Optionally, the at least one groove is arranged to accept the at least one ridge.
[0040]Optionally, the first formation further comprises a first locking hole.
[0041]Optionally, the second formation further comprises a second locking hole.
[0042]Optionally, the first locking hole of the block and the second locking hole of the other such block are arranged to align.
[0043]Optionally, the perimeter wall further comprises an access hole.
[0044]Optionally, the modular furnishing block further comprises a lid coupled to the first end of the perimeter wall.
[0045]Optionally, the modular furnishing block further comprises a base coupled to the second end of the perimeter wall.
[0046]Optionally, the modular furnishing block further comprises a filler disposed inside the perimeter wall.
[0047]Optionally, the perimeter wall forms a square or rectangle.
[0048]Optionally, if the perimeter wall forms a square, then the first formation of the block is arranged to engage with the second formation of one other such block.
[0049]Optionally, if the perimeter wall forms a rectangle, then the first formation of the block is arranged to engage with the second formation of at least one other such block(s).
[0050]Optionally, the perimeter wall is formed of first, second, third, and fourth separable members. Preferably, the members are panels, more preferably wherein each member forms a side of the perimeter wall.
[0051]Optionally, the first member and the third member further comprise at least one lug. Preferably the lug is on an edge of the panel provided by the member.
[0052]Optionally, the second member and the fourth member comprise at least one cavity. The cavities and lugs may cooperate to enable the members to be joined, which may thereby form the perimeter wall.
[0053]Optionally, the cavities are arranged to accept one lug.
[0054]Optionally, the modular furnishing block is integrally formed as a single unit/component.
[0055]Optionally, the perimeter wall has a shape which is capable of being tessellated, preferably such that a plurality of modular furnishing blocks can tessellate when placed side by side, more preferably wherein said tessellation leaves no gaps between the blocks.
[0056]Optionally, the modular furnishing block is formed of plastic, preferably wherein the modular furnishing block is formed of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, ABS, and more preferably wherein the modular furnishing block is formed of recycled ABS.
[0057]Optionally, the modular furnishing block is formed of wood, preferably wherein the modular furnishing block is formed of reclaimed wood.
[0058]Optionally, the modular furnishing block is formed of metal, preferably wherein the modular furnishing block is formed of recycled metal.
[0059]Optionally, the modular furnishing block further comprises a covering, wherein the covering is applied to the outside of the perimeter wall.
[0060]Optionally, the covering is a cladding or paint.
[0061]Optionally, the cladding is plastic, preferably wherein the cladding is formed of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, ABS, and more preferably wherein the cladding is formed of recycled ABS.
[0062]Optionally, the cladding is formed of wood, preferably wherein the cladding is formed of reclaimed wood.
[0063]Optionally, the cladding is formed of metal, preferably wherein the cladding is formed of recycled metal.
[0064]Optionally, the modular furnishing block is for internal construction and/or furniture.
[0065]According to a further aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a modular furnishing block assembly, comprising the modular furnishing block described above engaged to at least one other such modular furnishing block. The assembly may further comprise a lid, preferably having a first formation for fitting within the second formation of the modular furnishing block. The assembly may further comprise a base, preferably having a second formation in which the first formation of the modular furnishing block fits. Optionally, the modular furnishing block assembly requires no additional locking or in-fill for use—that is, the assembly is self-locking.
[0066]According to a further aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a modular furnishing block kit of parts, comprising the modular furnishing block described above and at least one other such modular furnishing block.
[0067]According to a further aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a modular furniture product, comprising the modular furniture block assembly described above.
[0068]According to a further aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a modular wall partition, comprising the modular furniture block assembly described above.
[0069]As used herein, the term “surface” preferably connotes a plane, which may not be a surface on an outside part of an object (e.g. the surface may be covered by a projection, or the surface may be a plane in space). The term “mating surface”, as used herein, preferably connotes a surface on an outside part of an object.
[0070]Embodiments of the disclosure are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.
具体实施方式：
[0085]Referring to FIG. 1A, according to a first embodiment of the disclosure, a modular furnishing block 100 is provided that, along with other such modular furnishing blocks 100, is used to provide modular furnishings, such as furniture in the form of chairs, desks, tables, shelves and such like or structures such as partitions and such like. Specifically, the modular furnishing block 100 is engageable with one or more other such modular furnishing blocks 100 to provide a modular furnishing block assembly 700, e.g. as shown in FIG. 7. The modular furnishing block 100 can be used with any number of other modular furnishing blocks 100 to provide the modular furnishing block assembly 700, which can then have a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The modular furnishing block assembly 700 may be used inside or outside of a building.
[0086]The modular furnishing block 100 comprises a perimeter wall 101. The perimeter wall 101 provides the sides of the modular furnishing block 100, e.g. it provides the side wall or walls of the modular furnishing block 100. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the perimeter wall 101 defines a rectangular, specifically a square, perimeter to the modular furnishing block 100. In other embodiments the perimeter wall 101 may define perimeters having other shapes including, but not limited to, a rectangle, a triangle or a circle. However, there is an advantage to choosing a shape that allows the modular furnishing blocks 100 to tessellate when placed side by side, as this allows the modular furnishing assembly 700 to include modular furnishing blocks 100 that are arranged side by side, as well as on top of one another, without necessarily having gaps between the modular furnishing blocks 100. The modular furnishing block includes open upper and lower ends. That is, the modular furnishing block consists of four sides (formed by the perimeter wall), and the two remaining sides are left open.
[0087]At a first (open) end of the modular furnishing block 100, which is the lower or bottom end of the modular furnishing block 100 in the orientation shown in FIG. 1, the modular furnishing block 100 has a first formation 102. At a second (open) end 103 of the modular furnishing block 100, which is the upper or top end of the modular furnishing block 100 in the orientation shown in FIG. 1, the modular furnishing block 100 has a second formation 103. The first formation 102 of the modular furnishing block 100 cooperates with the second formation 103 of the other modular furnishing block 100 to allow the modular furnishing blocks 100 to fit together. The formations are adjacent the openings defined by the open ends. When two modular furnishing blocks 100 are fitted together (by way of the formations), two open ends meet such that the blocks form a larger structure that still has two open ends.
[0088]The first formation 102 is shown in more detail in FIG. 1B. As can be seen from the drawing, the first formation 102 is raised from a first surface 108 of the perimeter wall 101, which first surface 108 faces towards (and is located at) the first end of the modular furnishing block 100. The first surface 108 is in effect (part of) the bottom edge of the perimeter wall. In this embodiment, the first formation 102 effectively comprises a tongue extending from the first surface 108. The second formation 103 is recessed from a second surface 109 of the perimeter wall 101, which second surface 109 faces towards (and is located at) the second end 103 of the modular furnishing block 100. The second surface 109 is in effect (part of) the top edge of the perimeter wall. In this embodiment, the first formation 102 effectively comprises a recess in the perimeter wall, extending from the second surface 109.
[0089]The first formation 102 has a width that extends along the perimeter wall 101, specifically along the bottom edge of the perimeter wall. Indeed, in the first embodiment, the width is parallel to the perimeter wall 101 (at the location of the first formation 102). The width of the first formation 102 reduces with distance from the first surface 108. In other words, the width of the first formation 102 tapers away from the first surface 108. Similarly, the second formation 103 also has a width that extends along the perimeter wall 101. Again, in the first embodiment, the width of the second formation 103 is parallel to the perimeter wall 101 (at the location of the second formation 103). The width of the second formation 103 reduces with distance from the second surface 109. In other words, the width of the second formation 103 tapers away from the second surface 109. However, it should be noted that the width of the first formation 102 tapers in a direction away from the modular furnishing block 100, or outwardly, as the first formation 102 protrudes from the modular furnishing block 100, and that the width of the second formation 103 tapers in a direction towards the modular furnishing block 100, or inwardly, as the second formation 103 is recessed into the modular furnishing block 100. In this way, the first formation 102 and the second formation 103 are arranged such that, as the modular furnishing block 100 is moved towards engagement with the other modular furnishing block 100 to provide the modular furnishing block assembly 700, the first formation 102 fits within the second formation 103 progressively more closely in the dimension along the perimeter wall 101.
[0090]As will be appreciated, in use, the first formation 102 and second formation 103‘slot’ together such that the first formation 102 is received within the second formation 103. The respective tapering shapes of the first formation 102 and second formation 103 allow the first formation 102 to be guided into the second formation 103. In other words, the first formation 102 and second formation 103 self-locate.
[0091]The tapering shapes of the formations may be provided by use of a variety of different shapes and mating surfaces on the formations, as will be described. The first formation 102 further comprises a first mating surface 104 and the second formation 103 further comprises a second mating surface 105. The first and second mating surfaces are effectively (part of) the edges of each formation. When the modular furnishing block 100 engages with the other such modular furnishing block 100 to provide the modular furnishing block assembly 700 (referred to as the blocks being in an engaged position), the first mating surface 104 of the modular furnishing block 100 abuts, or rests on, the second mating surface 105 of the other such modular furnishing block 100. In such an engaged position, the first end of the perimeter wall 101 of the modular furnishing block 100 also abuts the second end of the perimeter wall 101 of the other such modular furnishing block 100. That is, the first surface 108 of the modular furnishing block abuts the second surface 109 of the other such modular furnishing block 100. It will be appreciated that the distance between the first mating surface 104 and the first surface 108 at all points along the perimeter wall corresponds to the distance between the second mating surface 105 and the second surface 109 at all points along the perimeter wall, such that both the first and second mating surfaces abut and the first and second surfaces 107, 109 abut in the engaged position.
[0092]The first and second formations 102, 103 are located inwardly relative to the outer surfaces of the perimeter wall. The first formation 102 is accordingly spaced from an outer edge of the first surface 108 by the (thickness of the) first surface 108, and the second formation 103 is spaced from an outer edge of the second surface 109 by the (thickness of the) second surface 109. The first formation 102 is therefore located inwardly from an inner edge of the first surface 108 and the second formation 103 is located inwardly from an inner edge of the second surface 109. This means that, when the modular furnishing block 100 engages with the other such modular furnishing block 100 to provide the modular furnishing block assembly 700, both the first and second mating surfaces 104, 105 abut and the first and second surfaces 107, 109 abut (with the first and second surfaces being outward relative to the first and second mating surfaces). Additionally, an inner side of the perimeter wall 101 generally abuts an outer side of the first formation 102 when two blocks are in engagement. As such, the inner edge of the first surface 108 is aligned with the inner side of the perimeter wall 101, and the inner edge of the second surface 109 is aligned with the inner side of the perimeter wall 101. The inner side of the perimeter wall has a substantially smooth surface, which may reduce the likelihood of sharp edges and damage to other modular furnishing blocks 100 or components. The outer edge of the first surface 108 is aligned with the outer edge of the second surface 109.
[0093]The fit between the first and second formations 102, 103 may be an interference fit, a tight fit, a loose fit or a fit which leaves a small gap between the edges of the first surface 108 and the second surface 109, as long as the first formation 102 and the second formation 103 overlap such that they abut each other. An interference fit may assist in holding the modular furnishing blocks together. If the interaction is an interference or tight fit, it is preferable that this interaction is not the principle load path—in other words, the modular furnishing block 100 is configured such that load is directed via the perimeter wall 101 when the fit between the first and second formations 102, 103 is a tight or interference fit. As will be appreciated, the load path is generally split between the first end of the perimeter wall 101 of the modular furnishing block 100 (which rests on the second end of the perimeter wall 101 of the other such modular furnishing block 100), and the first mating surface 104 of the modular furnishing block 100 (which rests on the second mating surface 105 of the other such modular furnishing block 100).
[0094]The area of the first surface 108 is smaller than the total area at the first end of the perimeter wall 101 and the area of the second surface 109 is smaller than the total area at the second end of the perimeter wall 101. In other words, only part of the perimeter wall may be used to provide the formation (there is also an outer part which engages the perimeter wall of another block, when in use). This allows the first formation 102 and the second formation 103 to overlap and engage.
[0095]The first mating surface 104 is raised from the first end of the perimeter wall 101, forming a projection (referred to as a ‘first projection’). The first projection extends beyond the end of the perimeter wall and acts as the body of the first formation 102. This first projection may be solid, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, but it may also be hollow or cut away. The size and shape of the first projection, and so the amount of material required and the material positioning, may be dependent on the structural requirements of the modular furnishing block 100 (where a larger projection may provide a firmer connection between blocks, for example).
[0096]The area of the first mating surface 104 may be the same as the first surface 108, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. In other words, the first mating surface 104 may overlie the first surface 108, and may be substantially flat—this results in a straight first projection from the first surface 108 to the first mating surface 104 and the two surfaces being aligned. The formation as a whole, however, reduces in width (or is tapered), as previously described. In an alternative, the first mating surface 104 may not align with the first surface 108.
[0097]It is also possible for the area of the first mating surface 104 to be smaller than the area of the first surface 108, in an alternative not shown in the drawings. In such a case, the first mating surface 104 may be e.g. thinner or narrower than the first surface 108. If the first mating surface 104 is positioned inside the first surface 108, with respect to the axis of the first projection, then the first projection would provide a taper (i.e. the surface between the first mating surface 104 and the first surface 108 would be sloped or would otherwise have a gradient). This taper could comprise a linear or non-linear gradient. A linear gradient may provide a self-locating mechanism for engaging the modular furnishing block 100 with another such modular furnishing block 100. A non-linear gradient may also provide a self-locating mechanism; however, it could instead create interference depending on the type of gradient chosen. For example, if the side section of the first projection was a single curve, then interference is unlikely, however if the side section of the first projection was more than one curve then interference may be likely.
[0098]The second mating surface 105 is recessed from the first end of the perimeter wall 101, forming a void (referred to as a ‘first void’). The first void corresponds to the first projection. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 the area of second mating surface 105 is the same as the area of the second surface 109 and the two surfaces are aligned. Therefore, the first void can be considered to be generally rectangular in shape, being formed of the void extending from the second surface 109 to the second mating surface 105. It is also possible for the area of the second mating surface 105 to be smaller than the area of the second surface 109, which may result in the first void having a tapered shape.
[0099]The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 include first and second mating surfaces that are the same area and correspond in position, so that all of the first mating surface 104 rests on all of the second mating surface 105 in the engaged position. It is also possible for the area of the first mating surface 104 to be smaller than the area of the second mating surface 105. This may result in the sides of the first projection and the second void not touching, which may allow for tolerances in the fit of one modular furnishing block 100 to another such modular furnishing block 100.
[0100]The mating surfaces illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 1 are surfaces that face generally towards the upper and lower ends of the furnishing blocks. In other words, the first mating surface 104 is the surface of the first formation 102 that is parallel to the first surface 108, and the second mating surface 105 is the surface of the second formation 103 having that is parallel to the second surface 109. The first and second mating formations accordingly do not contribute to the overall tapering/reduction in width of the formations. Accordingly, further mating surfaces are provided.
[0101]The first formation 102 further comprises a third mating surface 106 raised from a third surface 110 on the first mating surface 104, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. It will be appreciated that the first mating surface 104 is therefore discontinuous, in that the third surface 110 (which is part of the first mating surface) is at least partially covered by the third mating surface 106. The third mating surface 106 is raised from the first mating surface 104, thereby providing a second projection. As shown in FIG. 1b in particular, the second projection (and so the third mating surface 106) is located generally in the middle of the first mating surface 104, preferably exactly in the middle. The second projection shown in FIG. 1B has the shape of an isosceles trapezoid, where the sloped sides of this trapezoid provide the tapering of the first formation 102. The second projection may be solid, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, but it may also be hollow or cut away. The amount of material required, and the material positioning, may be dependent on the structural requirements on the modular furnishing block 100.
[0102]The second formation 103 similarly further comprises a fourth mating surface 107 recessed from a fourth surface 111 on the second mating surface 105, as shown in FIG. 1. The fourth mating surface 107 is recessed from the second mating surface 105, which provides a further void (referred to as the second void). The second void has a corresponding shape to the second projection. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 the area of fourth mating surface 107 is smaller than the area of the fourth surface 111 and the fourth mating surface 107 is inside the fourth surface 111. That is, the fourth mating surface 107 is recessed from and is below the fourth surface 111. Therefore, the second void is tapered from the fourth surface 111 to the fourth mating surface 107. In an alternative, it is also possible for the area of the fourth mating surface 107 to be the same as the area of the fourth surface 111, which may result in the second void having square sides.
[0103]When the modular furnishing block 100 engages with the other such modular furnishing block 100 to provide the modular furnishing block assembly 700, the third mating surface 106 of the modular furnishing block 100 rests on the further mating surface 107 of the other such modular furnishing block 100. This interaction between the raised nature of third mating surface 106 and the recessed nature of the fourth mating surface 107 may provide an overlap between the first formation 102 of the modular furnishing block 100 and the second formation 103 of the other such modular furnishing block 100.
[0104]The outer edge of the third mating surface 106 is aligned with the outer edge of the fourth mating surface 107. The outer edge of the third mating surface 106 and the outer edge of the fourth mating surface 107 are provided between the inner side and the outer side of the perimeter wall 101. The fit between the first and second formations 102, 103 in the engaged position may be an interference fit, a tight fit, a loose fit or a fit which leaves a small gap between the edges of the third mating surface 106 and the fourth mating surface 107, as long as the first formation 102 and the second formation 103 overlap such that their mating surfaces abut each other. If the interaction is an interference or tight fit, it is preferable that this interaction is not the principle load path, as previously described—in other words, the modular furnishing block 100 is configured such that load is directed via the perimeter wall 101 when the fit between the third and fourth formations is a tight or interference fit.
[0105]The area of the third mating surface 106 may be the same as the area of the third surface 110, in an alternative not shown in the figures. This scenario would result in a straight third projection from the third surface 110 to the third mating surface 106, if the two surfaces were aligned. It is also possible for the third mating surface 106 to not align with the third surface 110.
[0106]It is also possible for the area of the third mating surface 106 to be smaller than the area of the third surface 110. If the third mating surface 106 was positioned inside the third surface 110, with respect to the axis of the third projection, then the third projection provides a taper, as illustrated in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2. That is, there is a sloped surface, or a surface otherwise having a gradient, connecting the first mating surface 104 and third mating surface 106. This taper could comprise a linear or non-linear gradient. A linear gradient may provide a self-locating mechanism for engaging the modular furnishing block 100 with another such modular furnishing block 100. A non-linear gradient may also provide a self-locating mechanism; however, it could also create interference depending on the type of gradient chosen. For example, if the side section of the third projection was a single curve, then interference is unlikely, however if the side section of the third projection was more than one curve then interference may be likely.
[0107]The embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 shows the area of the third mating surface 106 to be the same size and position as the area of the fourth mating surface 107 so that all of the third mating surface 106 rests on all of the fourth mating surface 107 in the engaged position. That is, the second protrusion fits into the second void in the engaged position (as the first protrusion fits into the first void). It is also possible for the area of the third mating surface 106 to be smaller than the area of the fourth mating surface 107. This may result in the sides of the third projection and the fourth void not touching, which may allow for tolerances in the fit of one modular furnishing block 100 to another such modular furnishing block 100.
[0108]The above-mentioned variations in the area of the first mating surface 104, second mating surface 105, third mating surface 106, fourth mating surface 107, first surface 108, second surface 109, third surface 110 and fourth surface 111 are possible provided that the area of the farthest surface from the perimeter wall 101, in this embodiment the third mating surface 106, is smaller than the area of the first surface 108 (which essentially provides the reduction in width of the first formation 102). It is also possible, in other embodiments, for the modular furnishing block 100 to comprise further mating surfaces such that further projections and voids are provided.
[0109]It is preferable that the farthest surface (of the first formation 102) from the perimeter wall 101 is provided at a distance from the perimeter wall 101 which is at least a quarter the height of the perimeter wall 101. This distance may provide a significant overlap between the first formation 102 and the second formation 103 so that the modular furnishing block 100 is stable when engaged with the other such modular furnishing block 100.
[0110]The first formation 102 further comprises a first locking hole 112. The first locking hole 112 passes through the side of the first and/or third projection. The first locking hole is arranged generally centrally in the first formation 102. The second formation 103 further comprises a second locking hole 113. The second locking hole 113 passes through the side of the perimeter wall 101 adjacent to the second and/or fourth void. The first locking hole 112 of the modular furnishing block 100 and the second locking hole 113 of the other such modular furnishing block 100 are arranged to align. This alignment of the first locking hole 112 and the second locking hole 113 occurs when the modular furnishing block 100 is engaged with the other such modular furnishing block 100. The alignment of the first locking hole 112 and the second locking hole 113 enables the modular furnishing blocks 100 to be locked to one another with the use of a further locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may be a bar, a pin, a key, a padlock, a clip or any other suitable locking mechanism. Other locking mechanisms, which do not require locking holes, are also possible. The locking holes are circular in shape, and have the same size.
[0111]The locking mechanism may provide further stability when modular furnishing block 100 is engaged with another such modular furnishing block 100. However, it is possible for the modular furnishing block 100 engagement stability to be sufficient without the locking mechanism, depending of the extend of the overlap between the first formation 102 and the second formation 103 and the tightness of the fit between the formations.
[0112]The perimeter wall 101 may have a square or rectangular shape. A square or rectangular shape is preferable for the perimeter wall 101 as it provides an efficient assembly system whereby the modular furnishing blocks 100 can easily line up with one another, for example like bricks. Other perimeter wall 101 shapes are possible, such as circular, triangular or ovular.
[0113]If the perimeter wall 101 comprises a square, then the first formation 102 of the modular furnishing block 100 is arranged to engage with the second formation 103 of one other such modular furnishing block 100. The modular furnishing block 100 comprising a square perimeter wall 101 may engage with another such modular furnishing block 100 comprising a square perimeter wall 101 or may engage with part of another such modular furnishing block 100 comprising a rectangular perimeter wall 101. As will be appreciated, various different modular furnishing blocks 100 (having differently shaped perimeter walls) may be used together.
[0114]If the perimeter wall 101 comprises a rectangle, then the first formation 102 of the modular furnishing block 100 is arranged to engage with the second formation 103 of at least one other such modular furnishing block(s) 100. The modular furnishing block 100 comprising a rectangular perimeter wall 101 may engage with a plurality of other such modular furnishing blocks 100 comprising a square or rectangular perimeter wall 101. The number of engaged modular furnishing blocks 100 may depend on the size of the modular furnishing block 100 comprising a rectangular perimeter wall 101.
[0115]Examples of engagements between modular furnishing blocks 100 can be found in FIG. 7. In one example, a modular furnishing block 100 comprising a rectangular perimeter wall 101 engages with another such modular furnishing block 100 comprising a rectangular perimeter wall 101 and another such modular furnishing block 100 comprising a square perimeter wall 101.
[0116]As shown in the figures, the perimeter wall 101 may include a cut-out portion on each side of its exterior that may, in part, generally correspond to the shape of the second formation 103 on the interior side of the perimeter wall. Specifically, the cut-out portion may be generally square-shaped, but at its top portion generally correspond to the (underlying) shape of the second formation 103. The use of the cut-out portion may reduce the material used in the block.
[0117]Referring to FIG. 2, the perimeter wall 101 may be formed of separable members. Specifically, the perimeter wall may be formed of four members (a first member 201, a second member 202, a third member 203 and a fourth member 204). If the perimeter wall 101 shape is square or rectangular then the four members will form the four sides of the square or rectangle. It is also possible for the perimeter wall 101 to comprise one continuous member. Using one continuous member may be preferable for assembly as there are less parts, however, using four members may allow the modular furnishing block 100 to be ‘flat-packed’ for transportation.
[0118]As will be appreciated, the modular furnishing block may comprise a plurality of third mating surfaces 106 (i.e. a plurality of ‘second projections’). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, each of the members of the perimeter wall 101 comprise a third mating surface 106. Therefore, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the modular furnishing block 100 comprises a total of four third mating surfaces 106. The modular furnishing block 100 further comprises four corresponding fourth mating surfaces 107. It is also possible for there to be a different number of third mating surfaces 106 and fourth mating surfaces 107 to the number of members. It may be suitable for every other member to comprise a third mating surface 106 and a fourth mating surface 107, or each member may comprise two third mating surfaces 106 and two fourth mating surfaces 107, for example. The upper limit of the number of third mating surfaces 106 and fourth mating surfaces 107 may be defined by the size of the perimeter wall 101. It also may be more efficient, in terms of manufacturing, for each of the members to be identical (at least in terms of the formations used).
[0119]In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the first member 201 and the third member 203 further comprise at least one lug 205. The second member 202 and the third member 204 may further comprise at least one cavity 206. The at least one cavity 206 is arranged to accept one lug 205 per cavity 206. It is also possible for the cavity 206 to accept more than one lug 205. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 shows the lug 205 comprising a mortice and tenon style joint with an additional downward projection. The first and third members 201 include two lugs on each edge, which are configured to engage with corresponding cavities in the second and fourth members. The first member 201 and the third member 203 may be engaged to the second member 202 and the fourth member 204 by inserting the lugs 205 into the cavities 206. The first member 201 and third member 203 may also be slid relative to the second member 202 and the fourth member 204 in order to engage the downward projection of the lugs 205 with the corresponding arrangement in the cavities 206. This downward projection of the lug 205 may allow the members to fit together and lock. It is also possible for the lug 205 not to comprise a downward projection and the locking between the lug 205 and the cavity 206 may be provided by an interference fit, adhesive or fastening means. As will be appreciated, any alternative arrangement of lugs and cavities may also be used to allow the four members to be formed into the perimeter wall.
[0120]The second and fourth members further comprise wall sections at their edges (i.e. the edges that contact the first and third members). The wall sections extend perpendicularly to the body of the second and fourth members, such that, when the members are engaged to form a perimeter wall, the wall sections overlie the first and third members. When the members are engaged, the wall sections extend a short distance over the first and third members and preferably abut the first and third members. This may improve the strength of the perimeter wall.
[0121]Referring to FIG. 3, the modular furnishing block 100 may further comprise an access hole 301, which is provided in the perimeter wall 101. The access hole 301 could be provided in other parts of the modular furnishing block 100, however, this may cause assembly to be less efficient. The access hole 301 shown in FIG. 3 comprises a hexagonal shape (which may be beneficial in terms of strength), however, other shapes could be used, such as square, triangle or circle shapes. In FIG. 3 one access hole 301 is provided in one of the members, however, it is possible for a plurality of access holes 301 to be provided in a plurality of members depending on the design requirements. The access hole 301 may provide access to electrical cables or other items held within the modular furnishing block. Preferably the access hole 301 is large enough for items to be inserted inside the modular furnishing block 100, however, the specific size is dependent on the design requirements.
[0122]Referring to FIG. 4, the perimeter wall 101 in this embodiment comprises a rectangular shape. In this embodiment, the perimeter wall 101 comprises four members, the same as FIG. 2, however, the second member 202 and the fourth member 204 are longer than in FIG. 2. It is also possible for the perimeter wall 101 to further comprise a fifth member and a sixth member in order to lengthen the sides of the perimeter wall 101 instead of lengthening the second member 202 and the fourth member 204. In this case, it may be required that the second member 202 is locked to the fifth member and the fourth member 204 is locked to the sixth member using one of the locking mechanisms disclosed above. In other embodiments, it may be possible to for perimeter wall 101 to comprise more than six members depending on the design requirements for the modular furnishing block 100. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the second and fourth member each comprises two third and fourth mating surfaces, that is, two second protrusions and second recesses. Two first and second mating surfaces are also provided on the second and fourth member. The two first mating surfaces 104 are arranged side-by-side, with a gap between them. This allows the rectangular modular furnishing block of FIG. 4 to be engaged with two square modular furnishing blocks on its underside, and optionally two further square modular furnishing blocks on top.
[0123]Referring to FIG. 5, the modular furnishing block 100 may further comprise a separable lid 501 having a section of perimeter wall 101 corresponding to that of the modular furnishing block 100 itself. The perimeter wall 101 of the lid 501 comprises a first mating surface 104 and a third mating surface 106, having the same shape as the first and third mating