US20060033368A1

US20060033368A1 - Modular furniture piece having interchangeable arms

Info

Publication number: US20060033368A1
Application number: US10/917,799
Authority: US
Inventors: Cabot Longnecker
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Berkline LLC
Priority date: 2004-08-13
Filing date: 2004-08-13
Publication date: 2006-02-16

Abstract

A modular furniture piece providing one or more seating surfaces comprises in one embodiment a first base member having a first side panel and a second side panel, a first back member releasably secured to the base member, and a first and second arm member releasably secured to the base member. The first and second arm members include an exterior finished panel and an interior engagement panel, wherein the interior engagement panel is capable of releasably engaging either the first side panel or the second side panel of the modular base member.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a modular furniture piece providing one or more seating surfaces. In particular, the invention relates to a modular furniture piece having a modular base member, a modular back member corresponding to the base member, and modular arm members that are capable of engaging either one of the opposing sides of the base member. The invention further relates to a modular furniture piece having two base members, two back members, and two arm members. Still further, the invention relates to a modular furniture piece providing three or more base members, three or more back members, and two arm members.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

As known to those skilled in the art, modular furniture pieces are typically formed from a seat or base member, a back member, and at least one arm member. The members are typically secured to one another using any number of fasteners to form, for example, a chair, a loveseat, or a sofa.
Today, the initial construction of modular furniture pieces is generally managed in the facilities of the furniture manufacturer. For example, the base member, back member and arm members are constructed and formed into a finished furniture piece (e.g., a sofa). Oftentimes, the finished furniture piece is shipped to the mass merchant. In other instances, the respective members forming the furniture piece are broken down and shipped to the mass merchant. The partially-constructed members are preferred for shipping purposes (i.e., space saving efficiencies for transportation). In this case, the subsequent construction of the members into the completed furniture piece is typically managed in the facilities of the merchant.
In particular, the furniture industry favors the use of modular furniture pieces which are readily incorporated into any number of combinations to form chairs, loveseats, or sofas. Known modular furniture pieces typically reflect any number of styles. For example, the back members may include tapered sides or crowned tops. Further, the arm members may include outward swept front faces or substantially rectangular sides. Mass merchants typically order a number of particular styles of modular furniture for sale. A majority of the styled furniture is stored, while several pieces are constructed and placed on a showroom display floor. Unfortunately, most modular members of a particular style are exclusive to that particular style. Stated differently, one particular style of arm member is capable of correspondingly engaging only that particular style of base member. Unfortunately, storage space available to furniture merchants is oftentimes limited. Thus, the number of styles of furniture pieces that a mass merchant may stock in its inventory is likewise limited. Thus, there is a need for providing modular furniture pieces having members that are capable of correspondingly engaging any number of other members irrespective of a particular style to thereby minimize inventory storage space and maximize storage efficiencies.
Further, known modular furniture pieces typically include arm members that are specifically designed to connect to one side of a base member. In other words, known arm members are constructed for attachment to either a left side or a right side of a base member. As a result merchants are required to order and store a sufficient inventory of both left arm members and right arm members. Accordingly, there is a need for providing modular furniture pieces having arm members that are capable of correspondingly engaging either side of a base member.
It will be further appreciated that the construction of known furniture pieces—and particularly the individual members—is not conducive to minimizing storage space. As a result, there is a need for providing modular furniture pieces having members that improve storage efficiencies (e.g., stackability). In a related aspect, there is a further need for providing modular furniture pieces having members that promote transportation efficiencies (i.e., less space required during transportation oftentimes leads to economic efficiencies).
Advantageously, the present invention provides a modular furniture piece having arm members that are capable of releasably engaging either side of a base member. The present invention further provides a modular furniture piece having one or more seating positions, wherein a variety of styles of back members and arm members are capable of correspondingly engaging a variety of styles of base members.

OBJECT AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide modular furniture pieces having members that are capable of correspondingly engaging any number of other members irrespective of a particular style.
Still another object of the invention is the provision of modular furniture pieces having arm members that are capable of correspondingly engaging either side of a base member.
A further object of the invention is to provide modular furniture pieces having individual members that are suitable for storage, thus improving storage efficiencies.
Another object of the invention is the provision of modular furniture pieces having individual members that promote transportation and economic efficiencies.
The invention meets these objectives with a modular furniture piece providing one or more seating surfaces. In particular, the invention is a modular furniture piece having a base member, a back member, and arm members that are capable of engaging either one of the opposing sides of the base member. Moreover, the invention is a modular furniture piece having members that are capable of correspondingly engaging one another irrespective of a particular style of which the members are designed.
The foregoing and other objects and advantages of the invention and the manner in which the same are accomplished will become clearer based on the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a furniture piece in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the first embodiment of the furniture piece.
FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of the top plan view of the first embodiment of the furniture piece.
FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of a preferred embodiment of the furniture piece taken along lines 4-4 in FIG. 3 illustrating a side of the base member and a side of the back member.
FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of a preferred embodiment of the furniture piece taken along lines 5-5 in FIG. 3 depicting a side of the arm member.
FIG. 6A is a fragmentary front elevation view of a preferred embodiment of the furniture piece taken along lines 6-6 of FIG. 4 illustrating the arm member engaging the base member.
FIG. 6B is a fragmentary front elevation view of a preferred embodiment of the furniture piece taken along lines 6-6 of FIG. 4 illustrating the arm member removed from the base member.
FIG. 7A is a fragmentary perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the furniture piece depicting the back member partially removed from the base member.
FIG. 7B is a fragmentary perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the furniture piece depicting the back member engaging the base member.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the furniture piece as disassembled, stacked, and prepared for shipment.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a furniture piece in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of the top plan view of the second embodiment of the furniture piece.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a furniture piece in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of the top plan view of the third embodiment of the furniture piece.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.
It will be understood that as used herein the term “modular” describes the property of an article (e.g., furniture piece) constructed with standardized units or dimensions for flexibility and variety in use. Further it will be understood that the term “furniture piece” may refer to any number of pieces of furniture to include a chair, a loveseat, a sofa, or a sectional piece comprising a combination of any number of base members, back members, and arm members. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the term “modular furniture piece” may refer to a series of standardized furniture pieces for use together. It will be further appreciated that the furniture pieces as described herein may be formed from any number of materials to include wood, plastics, metals, or any other type of rigid or semi-rigid material of sufficient strength to support weights comparable to any number of individuals.
The term “member” as used in conjunction with the furniture piece of the present invention refers to a major component part of the furniture piece. For example, the members of the furniture piece may include a base member, a back member, and arm members. It will be understood that the term “interchangeable” as used in connection with the arm members describes the characteristic wherein one arm member is capable of being mutually substituted for another arm member.
As used herein, the term “panel” as used in conjunction with the furniture piece of the present invention refers to a major component part of a member of the furniture piece and defines the major partition elements of the member. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that panels include edges defined as the line of intersection of two surfaces or a border.
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the term “fasteners” as used in conjunction with the furniture piece of the present invention refers to any number of structures used to connect, couple, or link one member to another member. For example, the fasteners may include brackets (e.g., male and female brackets), screws, struts, or a pin-and-hole arrangement.
Further, it will also be understood by those of skill in the art that as used herein, the concept of a member being “between” two other members does not necessarily imply that the three members are contiguous (i.e., in intimate contact). Rather, as used herein, the concept of one member being between two other members is meant to describe the relative positions of the members within the furniture piece structure, respectively.
Similarly, the concept of a first member being connected to a second member by a third member, “opposite” the second member, merely describes the relative positions of the first and second members within the furniture piece. It will further be understood that the term “finished” means upholstered or covered with a material (e.g., textile fabric) to produce an aesthetically appealing surface.
It will also be understood that the term “substantially rectangular”, “substantially trapezoidal”, and “substantially circular” is meant to succinctly describe a simple geometric shape approximating a rectangle, trapezoid, and circle, respectively. Similarly, the term “substantially parallel” is meant to describe the spatial relationship between, for example, one arm member and another arm member, wherein the relationship is approximately parallel. The term “substantially perpendicular” is meant to describe the spatial relationship between, for example, a back member and a base member, wherein the spatial relationship is approximately perpendicular.
Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that the term “adjacent” refers to two or more, for example, members that have a common border or are in close proximity to one another. Nevertheless, it will be understood that adjacent may or may not imply contact, but always implies the absence of anything of the same kind in between.
An overall view of a preferred embodiment of a modular furniture piece which incorporates features of the present invention is set forth in FIG. 1. As depicted in FIG. 1, the modular furniture piece 10 includes a first modular base member 11, a first modular back member 12, a first modular arm member 13, and a second modular arm member 14. The base member, back member, and arm members are preferably upholstered with suitable fabric.
With reference to FIG. 3 depicting the first embodiment of the modular furniture piece, the modular base member 11 includes a front panel 15, a rear panel 16, a first side panel 17, and a second side panel 18. In a preferred embodiment, the modular base member 11 is substantially rectangular. In an alternative embodiment, the modular base member 11 may be substantially trapezoidal. Nevertheless, it will be understood that the modular base member 11 may be any number of shapes suitable for forming a seating position.
The modular base member 11 may include a corresponding back member 12 that is releasably securable to the modular base member. Upon construction, the modular base member 11 and the corresponding back member 12 define substantially perpendicular planes as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. In a preferred embodiment, the corresponding back member 12 is substantially rectangular. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the back member 12 may be any number of shapes suitable for forming a back rest in a furniture piece (e.g., trapezoidal or circular). The back member 12 further includes an upper portion and a lower portion.
Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the first modular arm member 13 includes opposing side panels. Specifically, the opposing side panels define an exterior finished panel 19 and an interior engagement panel 20. In a preferred embodiment, the exterior finished panel 19 is not specifically configured to engage the first or second side panels 17, 18 of the base member 11. Advantageously, the interior engagement panel 20 of the first modular arm member 13 is capable of releasably engaging either the first side panel 17 or the second side panel 18 of the modular base member 11. Accordingly, the exterior finished panel 19 of the first modular arm member 13 defines a first exterior side surface 21 of the modular furniture piece 10 as depicted in FIG. 2.
Further referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the second modular arm member 14 also includes opposing side panels that define an exterior finished panel 25 and an interior engagement panel 26. As characterized in the first arm member 13, the interior engagement panel 26 of the second modular arm member 14 is also capable of releasably engaging either the first or second side panels 17, 18 of modular base member 11. As configured, the exterior finished panel 25 of the second modular arm member 14 defines a second exterior side surface 27 of the furniture piece 10, wherein the second exterior side surface 27 is positioned substantially opposite the first exterior side surface 21.
As a primary advantage of the present invention, the furniture merchant is only required to maintain and track three units for stock keeping purposes—i.e., base members, back members, and arm members. Thereafter, the merchant is able to identify and select multiples of the three members for construction, display, and sale.
As another advantage of the present invention, the construction of the first and second arm members 13, 14—particularly the interior engagement panels 20, 26—permits any number of styles of arm members to be releasably secured to any number of styles of base members. Stated differently, the furniture manufacturer may produce one style of base member and any number of styles of arm members, thereby multiplying the various embodiments (i.e., styles) of the furniture piece 10. For example, the arm members 13, 14, 53, 54, 90, 91 as depicted in FIGS. 1, 9, and 11 represent unique styles. Specifically, the arm members 13, 14 of FIG. 1 include a tapered lower portion, the arm members 53, 54 of FIG. 9 include a bulbous upper portion, and the arm members 90, 91 of FIG. 11 include a uniform width. As described herein, it will be understood that any number of styles of arm members may be releasably secured to any of the embodiments depicted in the figures (i.e., the chair, the loveseat, and the sofa). This aspect of the present invention permits the furniture merchant to meet the demands of consumers who wish to purchase furniture having arm members of a different style than arm members included with furniture displayed on the showroom floor. In accordance with characteristics of modular members, the manufacture is capable of rapidly constructing furniture pieces providing one, two, or three or more seating areas by using one style of base member and securing any style of arm member thereto.
Furthermore, the interchangeable styles of arm members permit a furniture merchant to stock and display the most popular base members and back members, while storing a wide variety of styles of arm members for use in connection with the more popular base and back members. This advantage minimizes floor space usage and maximizes storage efficiencies.
A preferred embodiment of the invention provides substantially rectangular first and second modular arm members 13, 14. Those skilled in the art, however, will appreciate that the arm members 13, 14 may be any number of shapes (e.g., trapezoidal or circular) suitable for forming an armrest.
As depicted in FIGS. 1-3, the first and second modular arm members 13, 14 define substantially parallel planes upon construction. Further, the modular base member 11 and the first modular arm member 13 of the constructed furniture piece 10 define substantially perpendicular planes. The second modular arm member 14 and the base member 11 likewise define substantially perpendicular planes as illustrated in FIG. 1.
As a further advantage afforded the present invention, the individual members forming the furniture piece are stackable as depicted in FIG. 8. More specifically, the back member 12 may be removed from the base member 11 and stacked upon an upper surface of the base member. In this stacked configuration, the base member 11 and back member 12 may be shrink-wrapped for transportation. This capability increases storage and transportation efficiencies beneficial to the furniture manufacturer as well as the furniture merchant. Moreover, the arm members 13, 14 may be stacked upon the base member 11 between the base member and back member 12. Alternatively, the arm members 13, 14 may be stacked upon the back surface (i.e., horizontal surface) of the back member 12 for transportation and storage, wherein the back member rests between the base member 11 and arm members 13, 14.
Referring to FIGS. 9-12 depicting the second and third embodiments 28, 29 of the present invention, the invention also provides a modular furniture piece having a plurality of adjacent modular base members 49, 50, 84, 85, 86, a plurality of modular back members 51, 52, 87, 88, 89, a first modular arm member 53, 90, and a second modular arm member 54, 91. The base member, back member, and arm members are preferably upholstered with suitable fabric for the benefit of individual users.
In a preferred embodiment, one or more of the modular base members are substantially rectangular. An alternative embodiment provides one or more of the modular base members that are substantially trapezoidal. Nevertheless, it will be appreciated that one or more of the modular base members may be any number of shapes (e.g., circular) suitable for forming one or more seating positions.
As depicted in the sofa of FIG. 11, the adjacent modular base members 84, 85, 86 are releasably secured to one another to form a seating bench 30. The seating bench 30 defines a first outer side panel 31 and a second outer side panel 32. The plurality of modular base members 84, 85, 86 preferably forms a substantially rectangular seating bench 30. Alternatively, the plurality of modular base members 84, 85, 86 may form an arcuate (i.e., bowed) seating bench 30 similar to a sectional sofa that extends adjacent to one or more walls of a room.
In preferred embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 11, at least one of the plurality of modular base members 49, 50, 84, 85, 86 include a corresponding back member 51, 52, 87, 88, 89, wherein the corresponding back member is releasably securable to at least one of the plurality of modular base members. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, each modular base member 49, 50, 84, 85, 86 includes a corresponding back member 51, 52, 87, 88, 89 that is likewise releasably securable to each modular base member. The corresponding back members 51, 52, 87, 88, 89 are preferably substantially rectangular, but may be any number of shapes (e.g., trapezoidal) suitable for forming a back rest. Referring to FIG. 11, the seating bench 30 and the corresponding back members 51, 52, 87, 88, 89 define substantially perpendicular planes.
Still referring to FIGS. 9 and 11, the first modular arm members 53, 90 include opposing side panels that consist essentially of exterior finished panels 67, 101 and interior engagement panels 68, 102. The exterior finished panels 67, 101 of these particular embodiments are not typically configured to engage the first or second side panels of the respective base member. In contrast, the interior engagement panels 68, 102 of the first modular arm members 53, 90 are capable of releasably engaging either the first or second outer side panels 31, 32 of the seating bench 30.
The second modular arm members 54, 91 likewise include opposing side panels that define exterior finished panels 82, 103 and interior engagement panels 83, 104. The interior engagement panels 83, 104 of the second modular arm member are capable of releasably engaging either the first or second outer side panels 31, 32 of the seating bench 30. Upon construction, the first and second modular arm members 53, 90, 54, 91 define substantially parallel planes respectively, as depicted in FIGS. 9 and 11.
Preferred embodiments of the first and second modular arm members 53, 54, 90, 91 are substantially rectangular. It will be appreciated, however, that the arm members may be any number of shapes (e.g., trapezoidal or circular) suitable for forming an armrest.
A more preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 provides at least one seating surface. In particular, this embodiment includes a first base member 11, a first back member 12, and a first and second arm member 13, 14. For the benefit of individuals using the present invention, the first base member 11, first back member 12, and first and second arm members 13, 14 are preferably upholstered with suitable fabric for covering furniture pieces. The first base member 11 includes a front panel 15, a rear panel 16, a first side panel 17, and a second side panel 18. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, the first base member 11 and first back member 12 include a plurality of fasteners 35, 40. Specifically, the first back member 12 includes a plurality of fasteners that are capable of correspondingly engaging the base member fasteners. In this configuration, the back member 12 is releasably securable to the base member 11.
With reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, the present invention provides a plurality of fasteners 35 secured to the first and second arm members 13, 14. The arm member 13, 14 fasteners 35 are capable of correspondingly engaging the base member 11 fasteners 35 such that the arm members are releasably securable to the base member. Advantageously, the first and second arm members 13, 14 are interchangeable with respect to one another. Stated differently, the first and second arm members 13, 14 are capable of correspondingly engaging the first or second side panels 17, 18 of the base member 11, respectively. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the first arm member 13 defines a front face 36 and a rear face 37 that are substantially identical in appearance. Similarly, the second arm member 14 includes a front face 38 and a rear face 39 that are substantially identical.
In a related aspect, the first and second arm members 13, 14 are reversible with respect to the orientation of the front faces 36, 38 and rear faces 37, 39 of each of the arm members. In other words, the first and second arm members 13, 14 are capable of correspondingly engaging the first or second side panels 17, 18 of the first base member 11, respectively.
Advantageously, the arm members 13, 14 are reversible (front to back) such that the manufacturer may incorporate a single style of arm member to form a left and right arm of the furniture piece 10. In other words, the furniture manufacture is not required to manufacture separate left and right arm members. Rather, it can manufacture one style of arm member that can be used on the left side of the furniture piece and the right side of the furniture piece. Thus, the present invention improves manufacturing efficiencies by reducing the amount of time and materials required to produce the various members for eventual construction into the furniture piece 10.
As specifically illustrated in FIG. 3, the plurality of base member 11 fasteners 35 include two fasteners secured to the first side panel 17, two fasteners secured to the second side panel 18, and two fasteners secured to the rear panel 16 of the base member 11. Referring to FIGS. 4, 5, 6A, 6B, 7A, and 7B, the plurality of back member 12 fasteners 40 include two fasteners secured to a lower portion of the back member 12 adjacent to the base member 11. In yet further detail, the plurality of first and second arm member 13, 14 fasteners 35 include two fasteners secured to a side of the first arm member 13 and two fasteners secured to a side of the second arm member 14.
For the purpose of releasably securing the back member 12 to the base member 11, the present invention permits the plurality of base member 11 fasteners 35 and back member 12 fasteners 40, 41 to form corresponding engaging pairs of fasteners. As illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the plurality of base member 11 fasteners 40 a and the plurality of back member 12 fasteners 40 b include a first pair 40 of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to one of the first or second side panels 17, 18 of the first base member 11 and to a lower portion of the back member 12 that is adjacent to the first base member. Alternatively, one of the first pair 40 of corresponding fasteners is secured to the rear panel 16 of the first base member 11 (as opposed to one of the side panels 17, 18 of the first base member 11). Stated differently, the plurality of base member 11 fasteners 40 a and the plurality of back member 12 fasteners 40 b may also include a pair 40 of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to the rear panel 16 of the first base member 11, and to a lower portion of the back member 12 adjacent to the base member.
Further, the present invention depicted in FIGS. 1-3 may also provide a second pair 41 of corresponding fasteners for releasably securing the back member 12 to the base member 11. More specifically, the plurality of base member 11 fasteners 41 a and the plurality of back member 12 fasteners 41 b include first and second pairs 40, 41 of corresponding fasteners as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3. The first pair 40 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 17 of the first base member 11, and to an edge the back member 12 adjacent to the first base member 11. The second pair 41 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 18 of the first base member 11, and to an edge of the first back member 12 opposite the edge to which one of the first pair 40 of corresponding fasteners is secured.
In an alternative embodiment, one of the first pair 40 and one of the second pair 41 of corresponding fasteners may be secured to opposing ends of the rear panel 16. Stated differently, the first pair 40 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to an end of the rear panel 16 of the base member 11, and to an edge of the back member 12 adjacent to the base member. The second pair 41 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to an end of the rear panel 16 opposite the end to which one of the first pair 40 of corresponding fasteners is secured, and to an edge of the back member 12 opposite the edge to which one of the first pair 40 of corresponding fasteners is secured.
For the purpose of releasably securing the arm members 13, 14 to the base member 11, the plurality of base member 11 fasteners 35 and the plurality of arm member 13, 14 fasteners 35 include first and second pairs 42, 43 of corresponding fasteners. The first pair 42 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 17 of the first base member 11 and to a side 20 of the first arm member 13. The second pair 43 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 18 of the first base member 11 and to a side 26 of the second arm member 14.
More specifically, the plurality of base member 11 fasteners 35 and plurality of arm member 13, 14 fasteners 35 include a first pair 42, second pair 43, third pair 44, and fourth pair 45 of corresponding fasteners. As depicted in FIG. 3, the first pair 42 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 17 of the first base member 11, and to a side of the first arm member 13. The second pair 43 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 18 of the first base member 11, and to a side of the second arm member 14. The third pair 44 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 17 of the first base member 11, and to a side of the first arm member 13. The fourth pair 45 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 18 of the first base member 11, and to a side of the second arm member 14. Referring to FIG. 3, the first and third pairs 42, 44 of fasteners are spaced apart from one another. Further, the second and fourth pairs 43, 45 of fasteners are spaced apart from one another.
In a preferred embodiment of the chair illustrated in FIG. 1, the first base member 11, first back member 12, and first and second arm members 13, 14 are substantially rectangular. Alternatively, the base member 11, back member 12, and arm members 13, 14 may be in any shape (e.g., trapezoidal or circular) suitable for forming furniture. Upon construction, the first base member 11 and first back member 12 define substantially perpendicular planes, and the first and second arm members 13, 14 define substantially parallel planes.
Another embodiment 28 of the present invention (commonly referred to as a loveseat) provides at least two seating surfaces. As depicted in FIGS. 9 and 10, this particular embodiment includes first and second adjacent base members 49, 50, first and second back members 51, 52, and first and second arm members 53, 54. The first and second base members 49, 50, first and second back members 51, 52, and first and second arm members 53, 54 are preferably upholstered with suitable fabric for covering furniture pieces. Each of the first and second base members 49, 50 include front panels 55, 56; rear panels 57, 58; first side panels 59, 60; and second side panels 61, 62, respectively. A plurality of fasteners 35 is provided on the first and second base members 49, 50 to facilitate construction of the members into a furniture piece.
A plurality of fasteners 40 is also provided on the first and second back members 51, 52 as illustrated in FIG. 4. The first and second back member 51, 52 fasteners 40 b are capable of correspondingly engaging the base member 49, 50 fasteners 40 a such that either one of the first or second back members 51, 52 is releasably securable to either one of the first or second base members 49, 50.
In construction similar to the first embodiment of the present invention, the first and second arm members 53, 54 include a plurality of fasteners 35 that are capable of correspondingly engaging the base member 49, 50 fasteners 35. Accordingly, the first and second arm members 53, 54 are releasably securable to the base members 49, 50. Of particular benefit, the first and second arm members 53, 54 are interchangeable with respect to one another such that each one of the first and second arm members 53, 54 is capable of correspondingly engaging either the first side panel 59 of the first base member 49 or the second side panel 62 of the second base member 50, respectively. The first and second arm members 53, 54 of the second embodiment define front faces 63, 65 and rear faces 64, 66, respectively, that are substantially identical in appearance.
In a related aspect of the second embodiment 28 of the present invention, the first and second arm members 53, 54 are reversible with respect to the orientation of the front faces 63, 65 and rear faces 64, 66 of each of the arm members such that each one of the first and second arm members 53, 54 is capable of correspondingly engaging either the first side panel 59 of the first base member 49 or the second side panel 62 of the second base member 50, respectively.
In the specific embodiment depicted in FIG. 10, the plurality of first and second base member 49, 50 fasteners 35 includes two fasteners secured to the first side panel 59 of the first base member 49, two fasteners secured to the second side panel 61 of the first base member 49, two fasteners secured to the first side panel 60 of the second base member 50, two fasteners secured to the second side panel 62 of the second base member 50, two fasteners secured to the rear panel 57 of the first base member 49, and two fasteners secured to the rear panel 58 of the second base member 50.
Further referring to FIG. 10, the plurality of first and second back member 51, 52 fasteners 40 b includes two fasteners secured to a lower portion of the first back member 51 adjacent to the first base member 49, and two fasteners secured to a lower portion of the second back member 52 adjacent to the second base member 50.
With reference to the placement of the first and second arm member 53, 54 fasteners 35, the plurality of first and second arm member fasteners includes two fasteners secured to a side of the first arm member 53, and two fasteners secured to a side of the second arm member 54.
In a more general sense, the second embodiment 28 of the present invention provides pairs of corresponding fasteners 35 secured to the various members to assist in the construction of the furniture piece. As illustrated in FIG. 10, the plurality of first and second base member 49, 50 fasteners 35 includes a first and second pair 70, 71 of corresponding fasteners. The first pair 70 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to one of the first or second side panels 59, 61 of the first base member 49, and to one of the first or second side panels 60, 62 of the second base member 50.
More specifically, the first pair 70 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 61 of the first base member 49, and to the first side panel 60 of the second base member 50. The second pair 71 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 61 of the first base member 49, and to the first side panel 60 of the second base member 50. In this particular embodiment, the first and second pairs 70, 71 of corresponding fasteners are spaced apart from one another.
To accomplish the engagement of the back members 51, 52 to the base members 49, 50, the plurality of first and second base member 49, 50 fasteners 40 a and the plurality of first and second back member 51, 52 fasteners 40 b include pairs of engaged fasteners 73, 74, 75, and 76 secured respectively to one of the first or second side panels 59, 60, 61, 62 of the first or second base members 49, 50, and to a lower portion of one of the first or second back members 51, 52 adjacent to the first or second base members in a fashion similar to that shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, 7A, and 7B. Alternatively, the plurality of first and second base member 49, 50 fasteners 40 a and the plurality of first and second back member 51, 52 fasteners 40 b include pairs of engaged fasteners 73, 74, 75, and 76 secured respectively to one of the rear panels 57, 58 (as opposed to the side panels 59, 60, 61, 62) of the first or second base members 49, 50, and to a lower portion of one of the first or second back members 51, 52 adjacent to the first or second base members 49, 50.
More specifically, the plurality of first and second base member 49, 50 fasteners 40 a and the plurality of first and second back member 51, 52 fasteners 40 b include a first pair 73, a second pair 74, a third pair 75, and fourth pair 76 of corresponding fasteners. The first pair 73 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 59 of the first base member 49, and to an edge of the first back member 51 adjacent to the first base member 49. The second pair 74 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 61 of the first base member 49, and to an edge of the first back member 51 opposite the edge to which one of the first pair 73 of corresponding fasteners is secured. The third pair 75 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 60 of the second base member 50, and to an edge of the second back member 52 adjacent to the second base member 50. The fourth pair 76 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 62 of the second base member 50, and to an edge of the second back member 52 opposite the edge to which one of the third pair 75 of corresponding fasteners is secured.
In an alternative embodiment, the plurality of first and second base member 49, 50 fasteners and the plurality of first and second back member 51, 52 fasteners likewise includes a first pair 73, a second pair 74, a third pair 75, and a fourth pair 76 of corresponding fasteners. The first pair 73 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to an end of the rear panel 57 of the first base member 49, and to an edge of the first back member 51 adjacent to the first base member 49. The second pair 74 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to an end of the rear panel 57 of the first base member 49 opposite the end to which one of the first pair 73 of corresponding fasteners is secured, and to an edge of the first back member 51 opposite the edge to which one of the first pair 73 of corresponding fasteners is secured. The third pair 75 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to an end of the rear panel 58 of the second base member 50, and to an edge of the second back member 52 adjacent to the second base member 50. Finally, the fourth pair 76 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to an end of the rear panel 58 of the second base member 50 opposite the end to which one of the third pair 75 of corresponding fasteners is secured, and to an edge of the second back member 52 opposite the edge to which one of the third pair 75 of corresponding fasteners is secured.
In a fashion similar to the first embodiment 10 of the present invention, the second embodiment 28 provides pairs of corresponding fasteners 35 for releasably securing the arm members 53, 54 to the base members 49, 50. The plurality of base member 49, 50 fasteners 35 and the plurality of arm member 53, 54 fasteners 35 include a first pair 78 of fasteners secured respectively to one of the first or second side panels 59, 60, 61, 62 of the first or second base members 49, 50, and to a side of the first or second arm members 53, 54.
As specifically disclosed in FIG. 10, the plurality of base member 49, 50 fasteners 35 and the plurality of arm member 53, 54 fasteners 35 include first and second pairs 78, 79 of corresponding fasteners. The first pair 78 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 59 of the first base member 49, and to a side of the first arm member 53. The second pair 79 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 62 of the second base member 50, and to a side of the second arm member 54.
In an alternative embodiment, the plurality of base member 49, 50 fasteners 35 and the plurality of arm member 53, 54 fasteners 35 include a first pair 78, second pair 79, third pair 80, and fourth pair 81 of corresponding fasteners. The first pair 78 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 59 of the first base member 49, and to a side of the first arm member 53. The second pair 79 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 62 of the second base member 50, and to a side of the second arm member 54. The third pair 80 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 59 of the first base member 49, and to a side of the first arm member 53. The fourth pair 81 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 62 of the second base member 50, and to a side of the second arm member 54. The first and third pairs 78, 80 of corresponding fasteners are spaced apart from one another. In like fashion, the second and fourth pairs 79, 81 of corresponding fasteners are spaced apart from one another.
It will be understood that preferred embodiments of the first and second base members 49, 50; first and second back members 51, 52; and first and second arm members 53, 54 are substantially rectangular, but may take the form of any number of shapes conducive to forming a furniture piece. With respect to the orientation of the second embodiment 28 depicted in FIG. 9, the first and second base members 49, 50 and first and second back members 51, 52 define substantially perpendicular planes, respectively. Further, the first and second arm members 53, 54 define substantially parallel planes.
Yet another embodiment 29 of the present invention (commonly referred to as a sofa) provides at least three seating surfaces. As depicted in FIGS. 11 and 12, this particular embodiment 29 includes first, second, and third engaged base members 84, 85, 86; first, second, and third back members 87, 88, 89; and first and second arm members 90, 91. Each of the first, second, and third base members 84, 85, 86 include a front panel 92, 93, 94; a rear panel 95, 96, 97; a first side panel 98, 99, 100; and a second side panel 105, 106, 107. Further, each of the base members 84, 85, 86 include a plurality of fasteners 35 that support the releasable engagement the base members, as well as the back members 87, 88, 84 and arm members 90, 91. Each of the base members, back members, and arm members are preferably upholstered.
This further embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11 also provides a plurality of fasteners 40 b on the first, second, and third back members 87, 88, 89 that correspondingly engage the plurality of fasteners 40 a on the first, second, and third base members 84, 85, 86, respectively. The first and second arm members 90, 91 also include a plurality of fasteners 35 capable of correspondingly engaging the base member 84, 85, 86 fasteners 35. In this configuration, the first and second arm members 90, 91 are interchangeable with respect to one another such each one of the first and second arm members 90, 91 is capable of correspondingly engaging either the first side panel 98 of the first base member 84 or the second side panel 107 of the third base member 86, respectively.
With respect to the base members 84, 85, 86 as depicted in FIG. 12, the plurality of first, second, and third base member fasteners 35 includes a first pair 110, second pair 111, third pair 112, and fourth pair 113 of corresponding fasteners. The first pair 110 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 105 of the first base member 84, and to the first side panel 99 of the second base member 85. The second pair 111 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 106 of the second base member 85, and to the first side panel 100 of the third base member 86. The third pair 112 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 105 of the first base member 84, and to the first side panel 99 of the second base member 85. The fourth pair 113 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 106 of the second base member 85, and to the first side panel 100 of the third base member 86. As depicted in FIG. 12, the first and third pairs 110, 112 of corresponding fasteners are spaced apart from one another, and the second and fourth pairs 111, 113 of corresponding fasteners are spaced apart from one another. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the embodiment 29 of the present invention depicted in FIG. 12 may include fewer fasteners 35 and therefore fewer corresponding pairs of fasteners in a fashion similar to the earlier embodiments described above.
Referring to the base members 84, 85, 86 and back members 87, 88, 89, the plurality of first, second, and third base member fasteners 40 a and the plurality of first, second, and third back member fasteners 40 b include a first pair 116, second pair 117, third pair 118, fourth pair 119, fifth pair 120, and sixth pair 121 of corresponding fasteners. The first pair 116 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 98 of the first base member 84, and to an edge of the first back member 87 adjacent to the first base member 84. The second pair 117 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 105 of the first base member 84, and to an edge of the first back member 87 opposite the edge to which one of the first pair 116 of corresponding fasteners is secured. The third pair 118 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 99 of the second base member 85, and to an edge of the second back member 88 adjacent to the second base member 85. The fourth pair 119 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 106 of the second base member 85, and to an edge of the second back member 88 opposite the edge to which one of the third pair 118 of corresponding fasteners is secured. The fifth pair 120 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 100 of the third base member 86, and to an edge of the third back member 89 adjacent to the third base member 86. The sixth pair 121 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 107 of the third base member 86, and to an edge of the third back member 89 opposite the edge to which one of the fifth pair 120 of corresponding fasteners is secured.
With respect to the base members 84, 85, 86 and arm members 90, 91, the plurality of the first, second, and third base member fasteners 35 and plurality of the first and second arm member fasteners 35 include a first pair 125, second pair 126, third pair 127, and fourth pair 128 of corresponding fasteners. The first pair 125 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 98 of the first base member 84, and to a side of the first arm member 90. The second pair 126 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 107 of the third base member 86, and to a side of the second arm member 91. The third pair 127 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the first side panel 98 of the first base member 84, and to a side of the first arm member 90. The fourth pair 128 of corresponding fasteners is secured respectively to the second side panel 107 of the third base member 86, and to a side of the second arm member 91. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the first and third pairs 125, 127 of corresponding fasteners are spaced apart from one another. The second and fourth 126, 128 pairs of corresponding fasteners are likewise spaced apart from one another.
In a preferred embodiment, the first, second, and third base members 84, 85, 86; the first, second, and third back members 87, 88, 89; and the first and second arm members 90, 91 are substantially rectangular. Nevertheless, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that each base member, back member, and arm member may be any number of shapes (e.g., trapezoidal or circular) suitable for forming a seating area, a seatback, or armrest, respectively.
Upon construction, the first, second, and third base members 84, 85, 86, and the first, second, and third back members 87, 88, 89 define substantially perpendicular planes, respectively, as depicted in FIG. 11. Further, the first and second arm members 90, 91 define substantially parallel planes.
In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed typical embodiments on the invention and, although specific terms have been employed, they have been used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation, the scope of the invention being set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A modular furniture piece, comprising:

a modular base member having a front panel, a rear panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel; and

a first modular arm member having opposing side panels, said opposing side panels consisting essentially of an exterior finished panel and an interior engagement panel;

wherein said interior engagement panel of said first modular arm member is capable of releasably engaging either said first side panel or said second side panel of said modular base member, whereby said exterior finished panel of said first modular arm member defines a first exterior side surface of said modular furniture piece.

2. A modular furniture piece according to claim 1, wherein said modular base member is substantially trapezoidal.

3. A modular furniture piece according to claim 1, wherein said modular base member is substantially rectangular.

4. A modular furniture piece according to claim 1, wherein said modular base member includes a corresponding back member, said corresponding back member releasably securable to said modular base member.

5. A modular furniture piece according to claim 4, wherein said corresponding back member is substantially rectangular.

6. A modular furniture piece according to claim 4, wherein said modular base member and said corresponding back member define substantially perpendicular planes.

7. A modular furniture piece according to claim 1, wherein said first modular arm member is substantially rectangular.

8. A modular furniture piece according to claim 1, wherein said modular base member and said first modular arm member define substantially perpendicular planes.

9. A modular furniture piece according to claim 1, further comprising a second modular arm member having opposing side panels, said opposing side panels consisting essentially of an exterior finished panel and an interior engagement panel;

wherein said interior engagement panel of said second modular arm member is capable of releasably engaging either said first side panel or said second side panel of said modular base member, whereby said exterior finished panel of said second modular arm member defines a second exterior side surface of said modular furniture piece.

10. A modular furniture piece according to claim 9, wherein said first and second modular arm members define substantially parallel planes.

11. A modular furniture piece, comprising:

a plurality of adjacent modular base members releasably secured to one another to form a seating bench, said seating bench defining a first outer side panel and a second outer side panel; and

wherein said interior engagement panel of said first modular arm member is capable of releasably engaging either said first outer side panel or said second outer side panel of said seating bench.

12. A modular furniture piece according to claim 11, wherein one or more of said modular base members are substantially trapezoidal.

13. A modular furniture piece according to claim 11, wherein one or more of said modular base members are substantially rectangular.

14. A modular furniture piece according to claim 11, wherein said plurality of modular base members form a substantially rectangular seating bench.

15. A modular furniture piece according to claim 11, wherein said plurality of modular base members form an arcuate seating bench.

16. A modular furniture piece according to claim 11, wherein at least one of said plurality of modular base members includes a corresponding back member, said corresponding back member releasably securable to at least one of said plurality of modular base members.

17. A modular furniture piece according to claim 16, wherein said corresponding back member is substantially rectangular.

18. A modular furniture piece according to claim 16, wherein said seating bench and said corresponding back member define substantially perpendicular planes.

19. A modular furniture piece according to claim 11, wherein each modular base member includes a corresponding back member, said corresponding back members releasably securable to each modular base member.

20. A modular furniture piece according to claim 11, further comprising a second modular arm member having opposing side panels, said opposing side panels consisting essentially of an exterior finished panel and an interior engagement panel;

wherein said interior engagement panel of said second modular arm member is capable of releasably engaging either said first outer side panel or said second outer side panel of said seating bench.

21. A modular furniture piece according to claim 20, wherein said first and second modular arm members define substantially parallel planes.

22. A modular furniture piece according to claim 20, wherein said first and second modular arm members are substantially rectangular.

23. A modular furniture piece providing at least one seating surface, said furniture piece comprising:

a first base member having a front panel, rear panel, first side panel, and second side panel, said base member having a plurality of fasteners;

a first back member having a plurality of fasteners, said back member fasteners capable of correspondingly engaging said base member fasteners such that said back member is releasably securable to said base member; and

a first and second arm member having a plurality of fasteners, said first and second arm member fasteners capable of correspondingly engaging said base member fasteners such that said arm members are releasably securable to said base member;

wherein said first and second arm members are interchangeable with respect to one another such that said first and second arm members are capable of correspondingly engaging said first side panel or said second side panel of said base member, respectively.

24. A modular furniture piece according to claim 23, wherein said first base member, said first back member, and said first and second arm members are upholstered.

25. A modular furniture piece according to claim 23, wherein said first and second arm members are reversible with respect to the orientation of a front face and a rear face of each of said arm members, such that said first and second arm members are capable of correspondingly engaging said first side panel or said second side panel of said first base member, respectively.

26. A modular furniture piece according to claim 23, wherein said plurality of base member fasteners and said plurality of back member fasteners include a first pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to one of said first or second side panels of said first base member and to a lower portion of said back member adjacent to said first base member.

27. A modular furniture piece according to claim 23, wherein said plurality of base member fasteners and said plurality of back member fasteners include:

a first pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said first side panel of said first base member, and to an edge said back member adjacent to said first base member; and

a second pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said first base member, and to an edge of said first back member opposite the edge to which one of said first pair of corresponding fasteners is secured.

28. A modular furniture piece according to claim 23, wherein said first base member, said first back member, and said first and second arm members are substantially rectangular.

29. A modular furniture piece according to claim 23, wherein said first base member and said first back member define substantially perpendicular planes.

30. A modular furniture piece according to claim 23, wherein said plurality of base member fasteners and said plurality of arm member fasteners include:

a first pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said first side panel of said first base member and to a side of said first arm member; and

a second pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said first base member and to a side of said second arm member.

31. A modular furniture piece according to claim 23, wherein said plurality of base member fasteners and said plurality of arm member fasteners include:

a first pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said first side panel of said first base member, and to a side of said first arm member;

a second pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said first base member, and to a side of said second arm member;

a third pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said first side panel of said first base member, and to a side of said first arm member; and

a fourth pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said first base member, and to a side of said second arm member;

wherein said first and third pairs of fasteners are spaced apart from one another; and

wherein said second and fourth pairs of fasteners are spaced apart from one another.

32. A modular furniture piece according to claim 23, wherein said first and second arm members define substantially parallel planes.

33. A modular furniture piece providing at least two seating surfaces, said furniture piece comprising:

first and second adjacent base members each having a front panel, rear panel, first side panel, and second side panel, each of said base members having a plurality of fasteners;

first and second back members each having a plurality of fasteners, said back member fasteners capable of correspondingly engaging said base member fasteners such that either one of said first or second back members is releasably securable to either one of said first or second base members; and

first and second arm members each having a plurality of fasteners, said arm member fasteners capable of correspondingly engaging said base member fasteners such that said arm members are releasably securable to said base members;

wherein said first and second arm members are interchangeable with respect to one another such that each one of said first and second arm members is capable of correspondingly engaging either said first side panel of said first base member or said second side panel of said second base member, respectively.

34. A modular furniture piece according to claim 33, wherein said first and second base members, said first and second back members, and said first and second arm members are upholstered.

35. A modular furniture piece according to claim 33, wherein said first and second arm members are reversible with respect to the orientation of a front face and a rear face of each of said arm members, such that each one of said first and second arm members is capable of correspondingly engaging either said first side panel of said first base member or said second side panel of said second base member, respectively.

36. A modular furniture piece according to claim 33, wherein said plurality of first and second base member fasteners includes a first pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to one of said first or second side panels of said first base member, and to one of said first or second side panels of said second base member.

37. A modular furniture piece according to claim 33, wherein said plurality of first and second base member fasteners includes:

a first pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said first base member, and to said first side panel of said second base member; and

a second pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said first base member, and to said first side panel of said second base member;

wherein said first and second pair of corresponding fasteners are spaced apart from one another.

38. A modular furniture piece according to claim 33, wherein said plurality of first and second base member fasteners and said plurality of first and second back member fasteners include a first pair of fasteners secured respectively to one of said first or second side panels of said first or second base members, and to a lower portion of one of said first or second back members adjacent to said first or second base members.

39. A modular furniture piece according to claim 33, wherein said plurality of first and second base member fasteners and said plurality of first and second back member fasteners include:

a first pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said first side panel of said first base member, and to an edge of said first back member adjacent to said first base member;

a second pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said first base member, and to an edge of said first back member opposite the edge to which one of said first pair of corresponding fasteners is secured;

a third pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said first side panel of said second base member, and to an edge of said second back member adjacent to said second base member; and

a fourth pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said second base member, and to an edge of said second back member opposite the edge to which one of said third pair of corresponding fasteners is secured.

40. A modular furniture piece according to claim 33, wherein said plurality of base member fasteners and said plurality of arm member fasteners include a first pair of fasteners secured respectively to one of said first or second side panels of said first or second base members, and to a side of said first or second arm members.

41. A modular furniture piece according to claim 33, wherein said plurality of base member fasteners and said plurality of arm member fasteners include:

a first pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said first side panel of said first base member, and to a side of said first arm member; and

a second pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said second base member, and to a side of said second arm member.

42. A modular furniture piece according to claim 33, wherein said plurality of base member fasteners and said plurality of arm member fasteners include:

a second pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said second base member, and to a side of said second arm member;

a fourth pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said second base member, and to a side of said second arm member;

wherein said first and third pair of corresponding fasteners are spaced apart from one another; and

wherein said second and fourth pair of corresponding fasteners are spaced apart from one another.

43. A modular furniture piece according to claim 33, wherein said first and second base members, said first and second back members, and said first and second arm members are substantially rectangular.

44. A modular furniture piece according to claim 33, wherein said first and second base members, and said first and second back members, define substantially perpendicular planes, respectively.

45. A modular furniture piece according to claim 33, wherein said first and second arm members define substantially parallel planes.

46. A modular furniture piece providing at least three seating surfaces, said furniture piece comprising:

first, second, and third engaged base members each having a front panel, rear panel, first side panel, and second side panel, each of said base members having a plurality of fasteners;

first, second, and third back members each having a plurality of fasteners correspondingly engaging said first, second, and third base members, respectively; and

first and second arm members each having a plurality of fasteners;

wherein said first and second arm members are interchangeable with respect to one another such each one of said first and second arm members is capable of correspondingly engaging either said first side panel of said first base member or said second side panel of said third base member, respectively.

47. A modular furniture piece according to claim 46, wherein each of said base members, each of said back members, and each of said arm members are upholstered.

48. A modular furniture piece according to claim 46, wherein said plurality of first, second, and third base member fasteners includes:

a first pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said first base member, and to said first side panel of said second base member;

a second pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said second base member, and to said first side panel of said third base member;

a third pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said first base member, and to said first side panel of said second base member; and

a fourth pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said second base member, and to said first side panel of said third base member;

49. A modular furniture piece according to claim 46, wherein said plurality of first, second, and third base member fasteners and said plurality of first, second, and third back member fasteners include:

a third pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said first side panel of said second base member, and to an edge of said second back member adjacent to said second base member;

a fourth pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said second base member, and to an edge of said second back member opposite the edge to which one of said third pair of corresponding fasteners is secured;

a fifth pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said first side panel of said third base member, and to an edge of said third back member adjacent to said third base member; and

a sixth pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said third base member, and to an edge of said third back member opposite the edge to which one of said fifth pair of corresponding fasteners is secured.

50. A modular furniture piece according to claim 46, wherein said plurality of said first, second, and third base member fasteners and said plurality of said first and second arm member fasteners include:

a second pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said third base member, and to a side of said second arm member;

a fourth pair of corresponding fasteners secured respectively to said second side panel of said third base member, and to a side of said second arm member;

51. A modular furniture piece according to claim 46, wherein said first, second, and third base members, said first, second, and third back members, and said first and second arm members are substantially rectangular.

52. A modular furniture piece according to claim 46, wherein said first, second, and third base members, and said first, second, and third back members define substantially perpendicular planes, respectively.

53. A modular furniture piece according to claim 46, wherein said first and second arm members define substantially parallel planes.