US20050248243A1 - Modular sub-cabinet for motion furniture - Google Patents
Modular sub-cabinet for motion furniture Download PDFInfo
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- US20050248243A1 US20050248243A1 US11/178,016 US17801605A US2005248243A1 US 20050248243 A1 US20050248243 A1 US 20050248243A1 US 17801605 A US17801605 A US 17801605A US 2005248243 A1 US2005248243 A1 US 2005248243A1
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- cabinet
- lift
- control module
- box
- fastened
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Images
Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B81/00—Cabinets or racks specially adapted for other particular purposes, e.g. for storing guns or skis
- A47B81/06—Furniture aspects of radio, television, gramophone, or record cabinets
- A47B81/061—Furniture aspects of radio, television, gramophone, or record cabinets the device supports being adjustable
- A47B81/064—Furniture aspects of radio, television, gramophone, or record cabinets the device supports being adjustable vertically
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B51/00—Cabinets with means for moving compartments up and down
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B21/00—Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards
- A47B21/007—Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards with under-desk displays, e.g. displays being viewable through a transparent working surface of the table or desk
- A47B21/0073—Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards with under-desk displays, e.g. displays being viewable through a transparent working surface of the table or desk liftable above the desk top
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B2220/00—General furniture construction, e.g. fittings
- A47B2220/0002—Adjustable furniture construction
- A47B2220/0013—Table or cupboards with upwardly concealable compartments
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N5/00—Details of television systems
- H04N5/64—Constructional details of receivers, e.g. cabinets or dust covers
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49716—Converting
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
- Y10T29/4984—Retaining clearance for motion between assembled parts
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
- Y10T29/49904—Assembling a subassembly, then assembling with a second subassembly
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to a mechanically and electrically integrated sub-cabinet for use within a larger decorative cabinet.
- the invention is a box-like structure having a motorized lift, a control module and a safety strip mechanically integrated therein and electrically connected so as to control operation of the lift.
- Aesthetic and stability deficiencies of low-profile televisions are addressed by housing the television within a cabinet.
- the low-profile television is extended from and retracted into a cabinet via a lift.
- the application of a lift within a cabinet, desk, mirror, or picture frame is referred to herein as motion furniture.
- Lift devices increase the complexity and cost of furniture manufacture and thereby limit their application to the high-end market.
- Conventional furniture design for the mass market is generally limited to wood and plastic construction with a decorative finish and minimal moving parts.
- Electrically powered mechanisms are generally not offered in conventional furniture since most manufacturers are neither facilitized nor staffed for the installation of wiring, couplings, and electrical components.
- Lift devices also decrease the reliability of furniture via the introduction of electrically powered and mechanically movable components. As such, component repair and replacement increases the cost of ownership and reduces affordability.
- An object of the present invention is to provide a modular sub-cabinet that is both mechanically and electrically integrated so as to provide a slide-in solution for lift technology applicable to decorative furniture.
- a further object of the present invention is to provide a modular sub-cabinet that is both mechanically and electrically integrated so as to facilitate the rapid and low-cost repair and/or replacement of electrically powered and mechanically movable lift technology.
- the present invention is a sub-cabinet insertable and removable from a larger decorative cabinet.
- the invention is comprised of a box-like structure having at least three panels perpendicularly disposed with respect to a floor panel and attached thereto, a lift vertically disposed within the box-like structure and fastened to one panel, and a control module disposed within the box-like structure and fastened thereto.
- the control module receives commands from a limit switch so as to stop the motion of the lift when fully extended or retracted. Furthermore, the control module terminates electrical power to a television fastened to the lift when retracting into the box-like structure.
- the control module receives function commands from either a wireless remote or a manual switch.
- An alternate embodiment of the present invention further comprises a safety strip attached about an edge along one or more panels adjacent to a movable lid hinged to a decorative cabinet.
- the safety strip communicates with the control module so as to reverse the direction of the lift when contacted. While various types of safety strip devices are applicable to the present invention, preferred embodiments include a pressure sensitive device.
- one or more storage areas are provided within the box-like structure.
- the invention reduces the cost and complexity associated with the assembly of motion furniture by providing a single, fully functional slide-in component capable of extending and retracting a television from decorative furniture or a computer display from office furniture.
- the invention increases the affordability of motion furniture within the mass market via a modular design that allows for the rapid removal and replacement of a defective unit.
- the present invention is applicable to a variety of uses.
- the invention may be used to extend and retract a television, computer display or other electronic component from a decorative cabinet at the foot of a bed, a decorative cabinet against a wall, a decorative cabinet built into the foot of a bed, a picture frame, a mirror, a night stand, or a desk.
- FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of the present invention showing television, lift and control module within sub-cabinet.
- FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the present invention showing lift extended and television above sub-cabinet.
- FIG. 3 is a top elevation view of the present invention showing television, lift and control module within sub-cabinet structure.
- FIG. 4 is a rear elevation view of the present invention showing opening allowing access to lift and control module.
- FIGS. 5-6 are side elevation views of the present invention showing handle opening and mounting holes.
- FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of an exemplary decorative cabinet.
- FIG. 8 is a section view of the exemplary decorative cabinet with television retracted into sub-cabinet.
- FIG. 9 is a section view of the exemplary decorative cabinet with television extended from sub-cabinet.
- FIG. 10 is a top elevation view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention having a storage area adjacent to the television.
- FIG. 11 is a section view of the decorative cabinet with sub-cabinet having several shelves within the storage area.
- FIG. 12 is a top elevation view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention having a front panel and a safety strip disposed along the upper edge of the cabinet.
- FIG. 13 is a section view showing safety strip secured along the upper edge.
- FIG. 14 is a front elevation view of the alternate embodiment described in FIG. 12 .
- FIG. 15 is a front elevation view of an alternate embodiment having a shelf separating television from component storage areas.
- FIG. 16 is an interior view of decorative cabinet showing closer device attached between lid and cabinet wall.
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an exemplary lift device with support unit retracted.
- FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the exemplary lift device with support unit extended.
- FIG. 19 is an elevation view of the rear of the exemplary lift showing screw, motor, limit switch, and elevator element.
- FIG. 20 is an enlarged view showing motor attached to base plate and directly coupled to drive screw.
- FIG. 21 is a section view of elevator element showing coupling of elevator plate to rails via T-shaped guides.
- FIG. 22 is a section view showing drive screw coupled to elevator element via a nut.
- FIG. 23 is a partial section view of end plate showing attachment of screw and limit switch rod thereto.
- FIG. 24 is a section view showing attachment of horizontal support element to vertical support element.
- FIG. 25 is a section view showing T-shaped guide slidably disposed between rails and fastened to vertical support elements.
- FIG. 26 is a block diagram of motion control circuit for an exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 1 an embodiment of the present invention, herein a sub-cabinet 100 , is shown comprised of a box-like structure within which is secured a lift 1 and a control module 106 .
- FIG. 2 shows the embodiment described in FIG. 1 whereby the lift 1 is extended so that the television 105 attached to the lift 1 resides above the sub-cabinet 100 .
- the box-like structure is constructed of a left panel 101 , a right panel 102 , a back panel 103 , and a floor panel 104 .
- Panel elements are planar shaped and composed of wood, preferably plywood or particle board. Panels are fastened into the desired shape via assembly techniques understood in the art. For example, left panel 101 and right panel 102 are secured to opposite ends of back panel 103 and floor panel 104 via flat head screws or recessed bolts. Thereafter, back panel 103 is secured to floor panel 104 via the fasteners described. Overlapping joints between panel elements are further strengthened via a wood glue. In some applications, dowels are inserted into mutually opposed holes along the joint between two panels. In other applications, it may be desired to further strengthen joints via the inclusion of molding nailed or screwed to the panels along the joint.
- left panel 101 and right panel 102 each have a handle opening 109 a and 109 b , respectively.
- Handle openings 109 a , 109 b facilitate movement of the sub-cabinet 100 as well as provide a hand grip during insertion and removal of the sub-cabinet 100 from a cabinet.
- Left panel 101 , right panel 102 , and back panel 103 may also include one or more mounting holes 107 , see 107 a and 107 b in FIG. 4, 107 c and 107 d in FIG. 5 , and 107 e and 107 f in FIG. 6 .
- Mounting holes 107 a - 107 f should be of sufficient diameter for the passage of a screw or bolt for the attachment of the sub-cabinet 100 to a larger cabinet.
- the lift 1 is fastened to the back panel 103 via a pair of fasteners 127 a , 127 b , preferably flat head screws or bolts recessed within the back panel 103 .
- the lift 1 is vertically disposed within the sub-cabinet 100 and perpendicular to the floor panel 104 .
- An opening 108 is provided along one end of the back panel 103 adjacent to the floor panel 104 so as to allow access to motor 7 , drive screw 8 and control module 106 .
- the control module 106 is fastened to the floor panel 104 at a location so as to avoid interference with the operation of the lift 1 .
- FIG. 7 shows an exemplary decorative cabinet 110 having an interior cavity of sufficient physical dimensions so as to accommodate the insertion of a sub-cabinet 100 .
- FIG. 8 the interior of the decorative cabinet 110 is shown having a sub-cabinet 100 positioned along a wall 124 of the decorative cabinet 110 and fastened thereto via bolts or screws passing through the mounting holes 107 a and 107 b described above.
- the sub-cabinet 100 occupies a portion of the total interior volume of the decorative cabinet 110 .
- the lift 1 is shown extended so that the television 105 is visibly displayed.
- contact is achieved between lift 1 and a lid 111 hinged to the decorative cabinet 110 .
- the lid 111 is freely movable thereby allowing the unimpeded movement of the lift 1 .
- the weight of the lid 111 ensures movement to its original closed position shown in FIG. 8 .
- FIGS. 10 and 11 an alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown wherein the sub-cabinet 100 occupies the entire interior volume of the decorative cabinet 110 .
- a storage area 112 is provided in front of the television 105 . While a variety of configurations are possible for the storage area 112 , an exemplary embodiment may include one or more shelves 128 a - 128 c horizontally disposed between and fastened, via techniques described above, to left panel 101 and right panel 102 .
- a single horizontally hinged door 113 as shown in FIG. 11 , or a pair of vertically hinged elements are provided along the cabinet front 129 to provide access to the storage area 112 .
- the described door 113 should be of sufficient dimensional extent so as to allow insertion and removal of sub-cabinet 100 from decorative cabinet 110 .
- FIGS. 12 and 14 an additional embodiment of the present invention is shown having a front panel 114 parallel to the back panel 103 and fastened to left panel 101 and right panel 102 , via construction techniques described above.
- the front panel 114 may completely shield the interior of the sub-cabinet 100 or partially shield the interior as represented in FIG. 14 .
- the front panel 114 may function as a protective cover preventing damage to the television 105 when stored within the decorative cabinet 110 .
- the front panel 114 may be desired to further stiffen the structure of the sub-cabinet 100 .
- an optional safety strip 115 is shown attached along one end of the panels comprising the sub-cabinet 100 . It is equally possible for the safety strip 115 to be placed along a portion of the exposed edge 130 .
- FIG. 13 shows an exemplary safety strip 115 as it might appear along the edge 130 of the sub-cabinet 100 adjacent to the lid 111 . While a variety of attachment techniques are possible including but not limited to mechanical fasteners, it is preferred to adhesively bond the safety strip 115 to the edge 130 .
- FIG. 15 a further embodiment is shown having a shelf 1 16 horizontally disposed and below the television 105 .
- the shelf 116 may be attached to and moved by the lift 1 .
- the shelf 116 prevents the intrusion of wires and cables within the sub-cabinet 100 into component storage areas 117 and 118 to either side of the lift 1 .
- Component storage areas 117 and 118 should be sufficiently voluminous so as to accommodate a VCR, DVD, receiver unit or other device commonly found within an entertainment center.
- a spring or gas-filled closer 121 is shown rotatably disposed within the sub-cabinet 100 .
- the closer 121 is attached at one end via a pin 123 to a bracket 119 thereafter fastened to the lid 111 and at the other end via a pin 122 to a bracket 120 thereafter fastened to the back panel 103 .
- the closer 121 provides for a more controlled opening and closing of the hinged lid 111 during extension and retraction of the lift 1 .
- FIG. 17 a preferred lift 1 is shown in its retracted state wherein a support unit 3 is telescoped about a base unit 2 .
- FIG. 18 shows the same lift 1 having the support unit 3 extended above the base unit 2 .
- the base unit 2 is comprised of a base plate 11 , four rails l 0 a - 10 d , an end plate 12 , and a stiffener 13 .
- the base plate 11 is a U-shaped element fabricated from sheet metal, preferably steel.
- Rails 10 a - 10 d are either solid or hollow in construction, preferably having a square or rectangular cross section. Rails 10 a - 10 d are arranged in pairs, 10 a - 10 b and 10 c - 10 d , to either side of the U-shaped base plate so that one end of each rail 10 a - 10 d contacts the base plate 11 adjacent to the lower end 35 , as described in FIG. 19 .
- Rails l 0 a -l 0 d are welded or fastened to the base plate 11 , via techniques understood in the art, so as to be upwardly disposed and perpendicular to the base plate 11 .
- Rails 10 a - 10 b and 10 c - 10 d are arranged so as to be physically separated by a uniform gap. The spacing between pairs of rails 10 a - 10 b , 10 c - 10 d enables T-shape guides 23 a - 23 d to slide along the rails l 0 a - 10 d .
- An end plate 12 of sheet metal construction is welded or fastened to the end of rails 10 a - 10 d at the upper end 34 , as described in FIG. 19 .
- a stiffener 13 of sheet metal construction is welded to the frontmost rails 10 b - 10 c or backmost rails 10 a - 10 d so as to minimize flexure of the base unit 2 during operation.
- Optional brackets 32 are welded or fastened to the base plate 12 to further stiffen the base unit 2 , as shown in FIG. 20 .
- the support unit 3 is comprised of a pair of separately disposed and parallel vertical support elements 4 a - 4 b thereby fastened to a pair of likewise separately disposed and parallel horizontal support elements 5 a - 5 b .
- a pair of separately disposed and parallel horizontal rests 19 a - 19 b are secured by fasteners 24 a - 24 b to one end of the vertical support elements 4 a - 4 b , as shown in FIG. 18 .
- Horizontal support elements 5 a - 5 b , vertical support elements 4 a - 4 b , and horizontal rests 19 a - 19 b are fabricated from metal, preferably steel or aluminum, having a solid or hollow cross section.
- Mounting holes 31 a - 31 d are provided along horizontal support elements 5 a - 5 b so as to accommodate hardware to secure the low-profile television 105 to the support unit 3 .
- horizontal support elements 5 a - 5 b are secured to vertical support elements 4 a - 4 b via brackets 6 a - 6 d and fasteners 30 a - 30 d so to provide adjustability for various mounting requirements.
- Brackets 6 a - 6 d have a hollow cross section so as to facilitate sliding movement along the vertical support elements 4 a - 4 b .
- Brackets 6 a - 6 d are locked in place by tightening a fastener 30 a - 30 d into the vertical support element 4 a - 4 b .
- Brackets 6 a - 6 d are fixed to the horizontal support elements 5 a - 5 b via flanges 37 a - 37 b .
- Flanges 37 a - 37 d are welded, via techniques understood in the art, to horizontal support elements 5 a - 5 b and brackets 6 a - 6 d .
- Brackets 6 a - 6 d and flanges 37 a - 37 d are fabricated from metal, preferably steel or aluminum.
- motor 7 and drive screw 8 are shown parallel and equidistant from rails 10 a - 10 b and rails 10 c - 10 d .
- a representative drive screw 8 is a threaded rod of linear extent fabricated from a metal, preferably steel.
- a limit switch 15 having a rod 27 projecting from one end so as to span the distance between base plate 11 and end plate 12 . Stops 16 a - 16 b composed of a metal cylinder with set screw are secured to the rod 27 adjacent to base plate 11 and end plate 12 .
- the motor 7 is secured to the base plate 12 via fasteners 17 a - 17 c . While various motor 7 types are applicable to the present invention, preferred embodiments were reversible and DC powered. One specific example being a 24V motor, model number 403.979 manufactured by Valeo Auto-Electric Wischer und Motoren GmbH (Motors and Actuators Division) with an office at Stuttgarter Strasse 119 D-74321 Bietigheim, Germany.
- washers 18 a - 18 b is disposed about the base plate 11 for each fastener 17 a - 17 c so as to prevent direct contact between motor 7 and base plate 11 . It is preferred that washers 18 a - 18 b be composed of a vibration damping material, examples including but not limited to elastomers, polymers, and lead.
- a rotating shaft extending from the motor 7 is directly coupled to the drive screw 8 via a coupler 9 .
- the coupler 9 is a metal cylinder having a cavity conforming to the end of both rotating shaft and drive screw 8 .
- the drive screw 8 extends above the coupler 9 passing through the elevator element 14 , as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22 , and secured to the end plate 12 , as shown in FIG. 23 .
- the limit switch 15 is fastened to the base plate 12 via nuts 33 a - 33 b .
- the rod 27 extends above the base plate 12 passing through a hole in the elevator plate 22 , as shown in FIG. 21 , and secured to the end plate 12 , as shown in FIG. 23 .
- the rod 27 is freely movable along its length so that contact between elevator plate 22 and stops 16 a or 16 b move the rod 27 thereby communicating a STOP command to the motor 7 from the limit switch 15 .
- limit switches 15 are known within the art, preferred embodiments of the present invention were composed of a mechanically activated two position electrical device.
- the elevator element 14 is shown comprised of an elevator plate 22 , a pair of T-shaped guides 23 a , 23 c , and a nut 21 .
- the preferred elevator plate 22 is shaped as shown in FIG. 21 approximately 1-inch thick and composed of a metal having a cavity centrally located along its planar extent to accommodate the nut 21 .
- One T-shaped guide 23 c of comparable thickness to the elevator plate 22 is positioned so that it partially occupies the space between two rails l 0 c - 10 d .
- a second T-shaped guide 23 a is positioned so as to contact two rails 10 a - 10 b on the opposite side of the base unit 2 .
- a fastener 24 b passes through horizontal rest 19 b , vertical support element 4 b , and T-shaped guide 23 c and thereafter threaded into a cavity within the elevator plate 22 so as to secure components to each other and to the rails 10 c - 10 d .
- a likewise arrangement secures T-shaped guide 23 b , vertical support element 4 a , and horizontal rest 19 to the opposite end of the elevator plate 22 .
- the T-shaped guides 23 a , 23 c prevent contact between vertical support elements 4 a - 4 b and rails 10 a - 10 d , as well as between elevator plate 22 and rails 10 a - 10 d . Furthermore, the pair of T-shaped guides 23 a , 23 c constrain travel of the support unit 3 lengthwise along the paired rails 10 a - 10 b and 10 c - 10 d . As such, it is preferred that the T-shaped guides 23 a , 23 c be comprised of a low-friction material preferably a polymer, one example being polytetrafluorethylene, also known to as PTFE.
- the nut 21 extends through the elevator plate 22 .
- the profile of the nut 21 shown in FIG. 22 communicates loading exerted by the drive screw 8 onto the nut 21 into the elevator plate 22 and facilitates attachment of nut 21 to the elevator plate 22 via fasteners 20 a , 20 b .
- the nut 21 has a hole through its thickness with a thread pattern matching that of the drive screw 8 . It is preferred that the nut 21 be constructed of a material minimizing friction with the drive screw 8 . Therefore, preferred embodiments are comprised of a low-friction polymer, preferably PTFE.
- FIG. 23 the attachment of drive screw 8 and rod 27 to the end plate 12 is shown.
- the drive screw 8 passes through a hole in the end plate 12 so as to prevent lateral movement of the drive screw 8 but allowing rotational movement. Friction is minimized via a washer 38 composed of a low friction polymer, preferably PTFE, placed between end plate 12 and drive screw 8 .
- the rod 27 is secured within a cavity along a mounting cap 36 composed of a low-friction polymer and attached to the end plate 12 via a fastener 26 . It is desired that the rod 27 be freely movable lengthwise into and out of the mounting cap 36 so as to enable function of limit switch 15 .
- a second pair of T-shaped guides 23 b , 23 d are shown attached via fasteners 24 c , 24 d to the vertical support elements 4 a - 4 b .
- One T-shaped guide 23 b is slidably disposed between rails 10 a and 10 b .
- a second T-shaped guide 23 d is slidably disposed between rails 10 c and 10 d .
- the paired arrangement of T-shaped guides 23 a - 23 b and 23 c - 23 d along vertical support elements 4 a and 4 b respectively, prevents rotational movement of the support unit 3 transverse to the travel axis of the lift 1 .
- FIG. 26 a block diagram describes the control function of the motor 7 and hence the motion of the support unit 3 within the sub-cabinet 100 .
- a control module 106 is comprised of a controller/transformer 28 and an optional remote control receiver 29 electrically connected thereto.
- the controller/transformer 28 is further electrically connected to a safety strip 115 attached to the sub-cabinet 100 , a limit switch 15 and a motor 7 within the lift 1 , an optional switch 126 also attached to the exterior of the sub-cabinet 100 , and a socket 125 within the sub-cabinet 100 .
- Lift 1 function is initiated by a remote control receiver 29 and/or a switch 126 .
- the remote control receiver 29 is an electrical component understood in the art capable of receiving wireless commands, via either an RF or an IR signal, as to the transmission of power from the controller/transformer 28 to the motor 7 .
- a mechanical button or toggle type device is applicable to the switch 126 and provides for the ON and OFF transmission of power from the controller/transformer 28 to the motor 7 .
- the controller/transformed 28 also a component understood in the art, receives AC power via a power cord 25 thereafter converting it to DC before communicating it to the motor 7 in a controlled fashion.
- the safety strip 115 is a contact sensitive device understood in the art that communicates the occurrence of a physical contact between an object and the safety strip 115 to the controller/transformer 28 .
- An exemplary safety strip 115 includes the pressure sensitive device described and claimed by Burgess in U.S. Pat. No. 6,329,617.
- the controller/transformer 28 Upon receipt of a contact by the safety strip 115 , the controller/transformer 28 reverses the direction of the support unit 3 so as to open the lid 111 thereby preventing damage or injury to the object.
- the socket 125 is a device understood in the art that facilitates an electrical connection between the controller/transformer 28 and the television 105 .
- the controller/transformer 28 regulated power to the socket 125 so that the television 105 is ON when the support unit 3 is extended and OFF when the support unit 3 is retracted.
Abstract
The present invention is a sub-cabinet readily insertable and removable from a larger decorative cabinet. The invention is comprised of a box-like structure having at least three panels perpendicularly disposed with respect to a floor panel and attached thereto, a lift vertically disposed within the box-like structure and fastened thereto, and a control module disposed within the box-like structure and fastened thereto. The control module receives commands from a limit switch so as to stop the lift motion when fully retracted or extended. Furthermore, the control module regulates electrical power to a display device fastened to the lift based upon the direction of travel of the support unit. The control module receives function commands from either a wireless remote or a switch. An alternate embodiment of the present invention further comprises a safety strip attached about an edge along one or more panels adjacent to a movable lid hinged to a decorative cabinet. The safety strip communicates with the control module so as to reverse the direction of the lift when contacted. Another embodiment of the present invention further comprises one or more storage areas within the box-like structure.
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention generally relates to a mechanically and electrically integrated sub-cabinet for use within a larger decorative cabinet. Specifically, the invention is a box-like structure having a motorized lift, a control module and a safety strip mechanically integrated therein and electrically connected so as to control operation of the lift.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Television designs are focused on low-profile devices including but not limited to plasma screens and LCD panels. Low-profile televisions maximize viewing area and minimize unit depth. However, designs are inherently less decorative, less physically stable, and heavier than tube-based televisions.
- Aesthetic and stability deficiencies of low-profile televisions are addressed by housing the television within a cabinet. In such applications, the low-profile television is extended from and retracted into a cabinet via a lift. The application of a lift within a cabinet, desk, mirror, or picture frame is referred to herein as motion furniture.
- Lift devices increase the complexity and cost of furniture manufacture and thereby limit their application to the high-end market. Conventional furniture design for the mass market is generally limited to wood and plastic construction with a decorative finish and minimal moving parts. Electrically powered mechanisms are generally not offered in conventional furniture since most manufacturers are neither facilitized nor staffed for the installation of wiring, couplings, and electrical components.
- Lift devices also decrease the reliability of furniture via the introduction of electrically powered and mechanically movable components. As such, component repair and replacement increases the cost of ownership and reduces affordability.
- What is required is a modular unit both mechanically and electrically integrated so as to provide a slide-in solution for decorative furniture thereby reducing the manufacturing costs and complexities associated with the integration of lift technology into furniture for the mass market.
- What is required is a modular unit both mechanically and electrically integrated so as to facilitate the rapid and low-cost repair and/or replacement of electrically powered and mechanically movable components thereby improving the affordability of lift technology in furniture for the mass market.
- An object of the present invention is to provide a modular sub-cabinet that is both mechanically and electrically integrated so as to provide a slide-in solution for lift technology applicable to decorative furniture.
- A further object of the present invention is to provide a modular sub-cabinet that is both mechanically and electrically integrated so as to facilitate the rapid and low-cost repair and/or replacement of electrically powered and mechanically movable lift technology.
- The present invention is a sub-cabinet insertable and removable from a larger decorative cabinet. The invention is comprised of a box-like structure having at least three panels perpendicularly disposed with respect to a floor panel and attached thereto, a lift vertically disposed within the box-like structure and fastened to one panel, and a control module disposed within the box-like structure and fastened thereto. The control module receives commands from a limit switch so as to stop the motion of the lift when fully extended or retracted. Furthermore, the control module terminates electrical power to a television fastened to the lift when retracting into the box-like structure. The control module receives function commands from either a wireless remote or a manual switch.
- An alternate embodiment of the present invention further comprises a safety strip attached about an edge along one or more panels adjacent to a movable lid hinged to a decorative cabinet. The safety strip communicates with the control module so as to reverse the direction of the lift when contacted. While various types of safety strip devices are applicable to the present invention, preferred embodiments include a pressure sensitive device.
- In yet another embodiment of the present invention, one or more storage areas are provided within the box-like structure.
- Two advantages are offered by the present invention. The invention reduces the cost and complexity associated with the assembly of motion furniture by providing a single, fully functional slide-in component capable of extending and retracting a television from decorative furniture or a computer display from office furniture. The invention increases the affordability of motion furniture within the mass market via a modular design that allows for the rapid removal and replacement of a defective unit.
- The present invention is applicable to a variety of uses. For example, the invention may be used to extend and retract a television, computer display or other electronic component from a decorative cabinet at the foot of a bed, a decorative cabinet against a wall, a decorative cabinet built into the foot of a bed, a picture frame, a mirror, a night stand, or a desk.
- The invention will now be described in more detail, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of the present invention showing television, lift and control module within sub-cabinet. -
FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the present invention showing lift extended and television above sub-cabinet. -
FIG. 3 is a top elevation view of the present invention showing television, lift and control module within sub-cabinet structure. -
FIG. 4 is a rear elevation view of the present invention showing opening allowing access to lift and control module. -
FIGS. 5-6 are side elevation views of the present invention showing handle opening and mounting holes. -
FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of an exemplary decorative cabinet. -
FIG. 8 is a section view of the exemplary decorative cabinet with television retracted into sub-cabinet. -
FIG. 9 is a section view of the exemplary decorative cabinet with television extended from sub-cabinet. -
FIG. 10 is a top elevation view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention having a storage area adjacent to the television. -
FIG. 11 is a section view of the decorative cabinet with sub-cabinet having several shelves within the storage area. -
FIG. 12 is a top elevation view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention having a front panel and a safety strip disposed along the upper edge of the cabinet. -
FIG. 13 is a section view showing safety strip secured along the upper edge. -
FIG. 14 is a front elevation view of the alternate embodiment described inFIG. 12 . -
FIG. 15 is a front elevation view of an alternate embodiment having a shelf separating television from component storage areas. -
FIG. 16 is an interior view of decorative cabinet showing closer device attached between lid and cabinet wall. -
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an exemplary lift device with support unit retracted. -
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the exemplary lift device with support unit extended. -
FIG. 19 is an elevation view of the rear of the exemplary lift showing screw, motor, limit switch, and elevator element. -
FIG. 20 is an enlarged view showing motor attached to base plate and directly coupled to drive screw. -
FIG. 21 is a section view of elevator element showing coupling of elevator plate to rails via T-shaped guides. -
FIG. 22 is a section view showing drive screw coupled to elevator element via a nut. -
FIG. 23 is a partial section view of end plate showing attachment of screw and limit switch rod thereto. -
FIG. 24 is a section view showing attachment of horizontal support element to vertical support element. -
FIG. 25 is a section view showing T-shaped guide slidably disposed between rails and fastened to vertical support elements. -
FIG. 26 is a block diagram of motion control circuit for an exemplary embodiment. -
- 1 Lift
- 2 Base unit
- 3 Support unit
- 4 Vertical support element
- 5 Horizontal support element
- 6 Bracket
- 7 Motor
- 8 Drive screw
- 9 Coupler
- 10 Rail
- 11 Base plate
- 12 End plate
- 13 Stiffener
- 14 Elevator element
- 15 Limit switch
- 16 Stop
- 17 Fastener
- 18 Washer
- 19 Horizontal rest
- 20 Fastener
- 21 Nut
- 22 Elevator plate
- 23 T-shaped guide
- 24 Fastener
- 25 Power cord
- 26 Fastener
- 27 Rod
- 28 Controller/transformer
- 29 Remote control receiver
- 30 Fastener
- 31 Mounting hole
- 32 Bracket
- 33 Nut
- 34 Upper end
- 35 Lower end
- 36 Mounting cap
- 37 Flange
- 38 Washer
- 100 Sub-cabinet
- 101 Left panel
- 102 Right panel
- 103 Back panel
- 104 Floor panel
- 105 Television
- 106 Control module
- 107 Mounting hole
- 108 Opening
- 109 Handle opening
- 110 Decorative cabinet
- 111 Lid
- 112 Storage area
- 113 Door
- 114 Front panel
- 115 Safety strip
- 116 Shelf
- 117 Component storage area
- 118 Component storage area
- 119 Bracket
- 120 Bracket
- 121 Closer
- 122 Pin
- 123 Pin
- 124 Wall
- 125 Socket
- 126 Switch
- 127 Fastener
- 128 Shelf
- 129 Cabinet front
- 130 Edge
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , an embodiment of the present invention, herein a sub-cabinet 100, is shown comprised of a box-like structure within which is secured alift 1 and acontrol module 106.FIG. 2 shows the embodiment described inFIG. 1 whereby thelift 1 is extended so that thetelevision 105 attached to thelift 1 resides above the sub-cabinet 100. - The box-like structure is constructed of a
left panel 101, aright panel 102, aback panel 103, and afloor panel 104. Panel elements are planar shaped and composed of wood, preferably plywood or particle board. Panels are fastened into the desired shape via assembly techniques understood in the art. For example,left panel 101 andright panel 102 are secured to opposite ends ofback panel 103 andfloor panel 104 via flat head screws or recessed bolts. Thereafter,back panel 103 is secured tofloor panel 104 via the fasteners described. Overlapping joints between panel elements are further strengthened via a wood glue. In some applications, dowels are inserted into mutually opposed holes along the joint between two panels. In other applications, it may be desired to further strengthen joints via the inclusion of molding nailed or screwed to the panels along the joint. - Referring now to
FIGS. 5 and 6 ,left panel 101 andright panel 102 each have a handle opening 109 a and 109 b, respectively. Handle openings 109 a, 109 b facilitate movement of the sub-cabinet 100 as well as provide a hand grip during insertion and removal of the sub-cabinet 100 from a cabinet.Left panel 101,right panel 102, andback panel 103 may also include one or more mounting holes 107, see 107 a and 107 b inFIG. 4, 107 c and 107 d inFIG. 5 , and 107 e and 107 f inFIG. 6 . Mounting holes 107 a-107f should be of sufficient diameter for the passage of a screw or bolt for the attachment of the sub-cabinet 100 to a larger cabinet. - Referring now to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , thelift 1 is fastened to theback panel 103 via a pair of fasteners 127 a, 127 b, preferably flat head screws or bolts recessed within theback panel 103. Thelift 1 is vertically disposed within the sub-cabinet 100 and perpendicular to thefloor panel 104. Anopening 108 is provided along one end of theback panel 103 adjacent to thefloor panel 104 so as to allow access tomotor 7, drivescrew 8 andcontrol module 106. Thecontrol module 106 is fastened to thefloor panel 104 at a location so as to avoid interference with the operation of thelift 1. -
FIG. 7 shows an exemplarydecorative cabinet 110 having an interior cavity of sufficient physical dimensions so as to accommodate the insertion of a sub-cabinet 100. Referring now toFIG. 8 , the interior of thedecorative cabinet 110 is shown having a sub-cabinet 100 positioned along awall 124 of thedecorative cabinet 110 and fastened thereto via bolts or screws passing through the mounting holes 107 a and 107 b described above. In this embodiment, the sub-cabinet 100 occupies a portion of the total interior volume of thedecorative cabinet 110. - Referring now to
FIG. 9 , thelift 1 is shown extended so that thetelevision 105 is visibly displayed. During the extension of thelift 1, contact is achieved betweenlift 1 and a lid 111 hinged to thedecorative cabinet 110. The lid 111 is freely movable thereby allowing the unimpeded movement of thelift 1. During retraction of thelift 1 andtelevision 105 into the sub-cabinet 100, the weight of the lid 111 ensures movement to its original closed position shown inFIG. 8 . - Referring now to
FIGS. 10 and 11 , an alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown wherein the sub-cabinet 100 occupies the entire interior volume of thedecorative cabinet 110. Astorage area 112 is provided in front of thetelevision 105. While a variety of configurations are possible for thestorage area 112, an exemplary embodiment may include one or more shelves 128 a-128 c horizontally disposed between and fastened, via techniques described above, to leftpanel 101 andright panel 102. A single horizontally hingeddoor 113, as shown inFIG. 11 , or a pair of vertically hinged elements are provided along thecabinet front 129 to provide access to thestorage area 112. The describeddoor 113 should be of sufficient dimensional extent so as to allow insertion and removal of sub-cabinet 100 fromdecorative cabinet 110. - Referring now to
FIGS. 12 and 14 , an additional embodiment of the present invention is shown having afront panel 114 parallel to theback panel 103 and fastened toleft panel 101 andright panel 102, via construction techniques described above. Thefront panel 114 may completely shield the interior of the sub-cabinet 100 or partially shield the interior as represented inFIG. 14 . Thefront panel 114 may function as a protective cover preventing damage to thetelevision 105 when stored within thedecorative cabinet 110. Also, thefront panel 114 may be desired to further stiffen the structure of the sub-cabinet 100. - Referring to
FIG. 12 , anoptional safety strip 115 is shown attached along one end of the panels comprising the sub-cabinet 100. It is equally possible for thesafety strip 115 to be placed along a portion of the exposededge 130.FIG. 13 shows anexemplary safety strip 115 as it might appear along theedge 130 of the sub-cabinet 100 adjacent to the lid 111. While a variety of attachment techniques are possible including but not limited to mechanical fasteners, it is preferred to adhesively bond thesafety strip 115 to theedge 130. - Referring to
FIG. 15 , a further embodiment is shown having ashelf 1 16 horizontally disposed and below thetelevision 105. Theshelf 116 may be attached to and moved by thelift 1. Theshelf 116 prevents the intrusion of wires and cables within the sub-cabinet 100 intocomponent storage areas lift 1 .Component storage areas - Referring now to
FIG. 16 , a spring or gas-filled closer 121, commonly known within the art, is shown rotatably disposed within the sub-cabinet 100. The closer 121 is attached at one end via apin 123 to abracket 119 thereafter fastened to the lid 111 and at the other end via apin 122 to a bracket 120 thereafter fastened to theback panel 103. The closer 121 provides for a more controlled opening and closing of the hinged lid 111 during extension and retraction of thelift 1. - While a variety of mechanical lifts known within the art are applicable to the present invention, preferred embodiments are comprised of the device shown and described below. Referring now to
FIG. 17 , apreferred lift 1 is shown in its retracted state wherein asupport unit 3 is telescoped about abase unit 2. Whereas,FIG. 18 shows thesame lift 1 having thesupport unit 3 extended above thebase unit 2. - Referring again to
FIG. 18 , thebase unit 2 is comprised of abase plate 11, four rails l0 a-10 d, anend plate 12, and astiffener 13. Thebase plate 11 is a U-shaped element fabricated from sheet metal, preferably steel. Rails 10 a-10 d are either solid or hollow in construction, preferably having a square or rectangular cross section. Rails 10 a-10 d are arranged in pairs, 10 a-10 b and 10 c-10 d, to either side of the U-shaped base plate so that one end of each rail 10 a-10 d contacts thebase plate 11 adjacent to thelower end 35, as described inFIG. 19 . Rails l0 a-l0 d are welded or fastened to thebase plate 11, via techniques understood in the art, so as to be upwardly disposed and perpendicular to thebase plate 11. Rails 10 a-10 b and 10 c-10 d are arranged so as to be physically separated by a uniform gap. The spacing between pairs of rails 10 a-10 b, 10 c -10 d enables T-shape guides 23 a-23 d to slide along the rails l0 a-10 d. Anend plate 12 of sheet metal construction is welded or fastened to the end of rails 10 a-10 d at theupper end 34, as described inFIG. 19 . Astiffener 13 of sheet metal construction is welded to the frontmost rails 10 b-10 c or backmost rails 10 a-10 d so as to minimize flexure of thebase unit 2 during operation.Optional brackets 32 are welded or fastened to thebase plate 12 to further stiffen thebase unit 2, as shown inFIG. 20 . - Referring again to
FIG. 18 , thesupport unit 3 is comprised of a pair of separately disposed and parallelvertical support elements 4 a-4 b thereby fastened to a pair of likewise separately disposed and parallel horizontal support elements 5 a-5 b. A pair of separately disposed and parallel horizontal rests 19 a-19 b are secured byfasteners 24 a-24 b to one end of thevertical support elements 4 a-4 b, as shown inFIG. 18 . Horizontal support elements 5 a-5 b,vertical support elements 4 a-4 b, and horizontal rests 19 a-19 b are fabricated from metal, preferably steel or aluminum, having a solid or hollow cross section. Mounting holes 31 a-31 d are provided along horizontal support elements 5 a-5 b so as to accommodate hardware to secure the low-profile television 105 to thesupport unit 3. - Referring now to
FIG. 24 , horizontal support elements 5 a-5 b are secured tovertical support elements 4 a-4 b via brackets 6 a-6 d and fasteners 30 a-30 d so to provide adjustability for various mounting requirements. Brackets 6 a-6 d have a hollow cross section so as to facilitate sliding movement along thevertical support elements 4 a-4 b. Brackets 6 a-6 d are locked in place by tightening a fastener 30 a-30 d into thevertical support element 4 a-4 b. Brackets 6 a-6 d are fixed to the horizontal support elements 5 a-5 b via flanges 37 a-37 b. Flanges 37 a-37 d are welded, via techniques understood in the art, to horizontal support elements 5 a-5 b and brackets 6 a-6 d. Brackets 6 a-6 d and flanges 37 a-37 d are fabricated from metal, preferably steel or aluminum. - Referring again to
FIG. 19 ,motor 7 and drivescrew 8 are shown parallel and equidistant from rails 10 a-10 b and rails 10 c-10 d. Arepresentative drive screw 8 is a threaded rod of linear extent fabricated from a metal, preferably steel. Also shown inFIG. 19 is alimit switch 15 having arod 27 projecting from one end so as to span the distance betweenbase plate 11 andend plate 12.Stops 16 a- 16 b composed of a metal cylinder with set screw are secured to therod 27 adjacent tobase plate 11 andend plate 12. - Referring now to
FIG. 20 , themotor 7 is secured to thebase plate 12 via fasteners 17 a-17 c. Whilevarious motor 7 types are applicable to the present invention, preferred embodiments were reversible and DC powered. One specific example being a 24V motor, model number 403.979 manufactured by Valeo Auto-Electric Wischer und Motoren GmbH (Motors and Actuators Division) with an office at Stuttgarter Strasse 119 D-74321 Bietigheim, Germany. - An optional pair of washers 18 a-18 b is disposed about the
base plate 11 for each fastener 17 a-17 c so as to prevent direct contact betweenmotor 7 andbase plate 11. It is preferred that washers 18 a-18 b be composed of a vibration damping material, examples including but not limited to elastomers, polymers, and lead. A rotating shaft extending from themotor 7 is directly coupled to thedrive screw 8 via acoupler 9. Thecoupler 9 is a metal cylinder having a cavity conforming to the end of both rotating shaft and drivescrew 8. Thedrive screw 8 extends above thecoupler 9 passing through theelevator element 14, as shown inFIGS. 21 and 22 , and secured to theend plate 12, as shown inFIG. 23 . - Referring again to
FIG. 20 , thelimit switch 15 is fastened to thebase plate 12 via nuts 33 a-33 b. Therod 27 extends above thebase plate 12 passing through a hole in theelevator plate 22, as shown inFIG. 21 , and secured to theend plate 12, as shown inFIG. 23 . Therod 27 is freely movable along its length so that contact betweenelevator plate 22 and stops 16 a or 16 b move therod 27 thereby communicating a STOP command to themotor 7 from thelimit switch 15. While limit switches 15 are known within the art, preferred embodiments of the present invention were composed of a mechanically activated two position electrical device. - Referring now to
FIG. 21 , theelevator element 14 is shown comprised of anelevator plate 22, a pair of T-shapedguides nut 21. Thepreferred elevator plate 22 is shaped as shown inFIG. 21 approximately 1-inch thick and composed of a metal having a cavity centrally located along its planar extent to accommodate thenut 21. One T-shapedguide 23 c of comparable thickness to theelevator plate 22 is positioned so that it partially occupies the space between two rails l0 c-10 d. A second T-shapedguide 23 a is positioned so as to contact two rails 10 a-10 b on the opposite side of thebase unit 2. Afastener 24 b passes throughhorizontal rest 19 b,vertical support element 4 b, and T-shapedguide 23 c and thereafter threaded into a cavity within theelevator plate 22 so as to secure components to each other and to therails 10 c-10 d. A likewise arrangement secures T-shapedguide 23 b,vertical support element 4 a, and horizontal rest 19 to the opposite end of theelevator plate 22. - The T-shaped
guides vertical support elements 4 a-4 b and rails 10 a-10 d, as well as betweenelevator plate 22 and rails 10 a-10 d. Furthermore, the pair of T-shapedguides support unit 3 lengthwise along the paired rails 10 a-10 b and 10 c-10 d. As such, it is preferred that the T-shapedguides - Referring now to
FIG. 22 , thenut 21 extends through theelevator plate 22. The profile of thenut 21 shown inFIG. 22 communicates loading exerted by thedrive screw 8 onto thenut 21 into theelevator plate 22 and facilitates attachment ofnut 21 to theelevator plate 22 viafasteners 20 a, 20 b. Thenut 21 has a hole through its thickness with a thread pattern matching that of thedrive screw 8. It is preferred that thenut 21 be constructed of a material minimizing friction with thedrive screw 8. Therefore, preferred embodiments are comprised of a low-friction polymer, preferably PTFE. - Referring now to
FIG. 23 , the attachment ofdrive screw 8 androd 27 to theend plate 12 is shown. Thedrive screw 8 passes through a hole in theend plate 12 so as to prevent lateral movement of thedrive screw 8 but allowing rotational movement. Friction is minimized via awasher 38 composed of a low friction polymer, preferably PTFE, placed betweenend plate 12 and drivescrew 8. - Referring again to
FIG. 23 , therod 27 is secured within a cavity along a mountingcap 36 composed of a low-friction polymer and attached to theend plate 12 via afastener 26. It is desired that therod 27 be freely movable lengthwise into and out of the mountingcap 36 so as to enable function oflimit switch 15. - Referring now to
FIG. 25 , a second pair of T-shapedguides fasteners vertical support elements 4 a-4 b. One T-shapedguide 23 b is slidably disposed betweenrails guide 23 d is slidably disposed betweenrails vertical support elements support unit 3 transverse to the travel axis of thelift 1. - Referring now to
FIG. 26 , a block diagram describes the control function of themotor 7 and hence the motion of thesupport unit 3 within the sub-cabinet 100. - A
control module 106 is comprised of a controller/transformer 28 and an optionalremote control receiver 29 electrically connected thereto. The controller/transformer 28 is further electrically connected to asafety strip 115 attached to the sub-cabinet 100, alimit switch 15 and amotor 7 within thelift 1, anoptional switch 126 also attached to the exterior of the sub-cabinet 100, and asocket 125 within the sub-cabinet 100. -
Lift 1 function is initiated by aremote control receiver 29 and/or aswitch 126. Theremote control receiver 29 is an electrical component understood in the art capable of receiving wireless commands, via either an RF or an IR signal, as to the transmission of power from the controller/transformer 28 to themotor 7. A mechanical button or toggle type device, both understood in the art, is applicable to theswitch 126 and provides for the ON and OFF transmission of power from the controller/transformer 28 to themotor 7. The controller/transformed 28, also a component understood in the art, receives AC power via apower cord 25 thereafter converting it to DC before communicating it to themotor 7 in a controlled fashion. Contact betweenelevator plate 22 and stop 16 a moves therod 27 downward thereby mechanically tripping thelimit switch 15 and sending an electrical command to the controller/transformer 28 to terminate power to themotor 7. Likewise, contact betweenelevator plate 22 and stop 16 b moves therod 27 upward thereby mechanically tripping thelimit switch 15 and sending an electrical command to the controller/transformer 28 to terminate power to themotor 7. In either event, rotation of thedrive screw 8 ceases thereby stopping travel ofsupport unit 3. Additionally, the rotational direction of themotor 7 is reversed for a subsequent reactivation of themotor 7. - The
safety strip 115 is a contact sensitive device understood in the art that communicates the occurrence of a physical contact between an object and thesafety strip 115 to the controller/transformer 28. Anexemplary safety strip 115 includes the pressure sensitive device described and claimed by Burgess in U.S. Pat. No. 6,329,617. Upon receipt of a contact by thesafety strip 115, the controller/transformer 28 reverses the direction of thesupport unit 3 so as to open the lid 111 thereby preventing damage or injury to the object. - The
socket 125 is a device understood in the art that facilitates an electrical connection between the controller/transformer 28 and thetelevision 105. The controller/transformer 28 regulated power to thesocket 125 so that thetelevision 105 is ON when thesupport unit 3 is extended and OFF when thesupport unit 3 is retracted. - The description above indicates that a great degree of flexibility is offered in terms of the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in considerable detail with reference to certain preferred versions thereof, other versions are possible. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the description of the preferred versions contained herein.
Claims (5)
1-9. (canceled)
10. A method of large-scale and rapid conversion of an existing article of furniture to a furniture system having a lift comprising the steps of:
modifying said existing article of furniture to receive a pre-assembled modular cabinet comprising:
a box-like structure having at least three panels perpendicularly disposed about a floor panel and attached thereto,
a lift vertically disposed within said box-like structure and fastened to one of said panels; and
a control module disposed within said box-like structure and fastened thereto, said control module receiving commands so as to direct motion of said lift; and
inserting said pre-assembled modular sub-cabinet into said article of furniture.
11. The method of claim 10 , further comprising a step of cutting an opening in said pre-existing article of furniture.
12. The method of claim 10 , further comprising a step of installing a safety strip adapted to reverse the direction of said lift when contacted.
13. The method of claim 12 , further comprising a step of installing a safety strip about an edge along one or more said at least three panels adjacent to a movable lid.
Priority Applications (1)
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US11/178,016 US20050248243A1 (en) | 2003-02-25 | 2005-07-08 | Modular sub-cabinet for motion furniture |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10/373,997 US6902243B2 (en) | 2003-02-25 | 2003-02-25 | Modular sub-cabinet for motion furniture |
US10/977,789 US7043810B2 (en) | 2003-02-25 | 2004-10-29 | Modular sub-cabinet for motion furniture |
US11/178,016 US20050248243A1 (en) | 2003-02-25 | 2005-07-08 | Modular sub-cabinet for motion furniture |
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US10/977,789 Division US7043810B2 (en) | 2003-02-25 | 2004-10-29 | Modular sub-cabinet for motion furniture |
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US20050248243A1 true US20050248243A1 (en) | 2005-11-10 |
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US10/977,789 Expired - Fee Related US7043810B2 (en) | 2003-02-25 | 2004-10-29 | Modular sub-cabinet for motion furniture |
US11/178,016 Abandoned US20050248243A1 (en) | 2003-02-25 | 2005-07-08 | Modular sub-cabinet for motion furniture |
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US10/977,789 Expired - Fee Related US7043810B2 (en) | 2003-02-25 | 2004-10-29 | Modular sub-cabinet for motion furniture |
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EP (1) | EP1601266A4 (en) |
KR (1) | KR20050113197A (en) |
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US7043810B2 (en) * | 2003-02-25 | 2006-05-16 | Wieslaw Bober | Modular sub-cabinet for motion furniture |
US20050057129A1 (en) * | 2003-02-25 | 2005-03-17 | Wieslaw Bober | Modular sub-cabinet for motion furniture |
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US7327516B2 (en) * | 2004-12-16 | 2008-02-05 | LaNae Estelle Wheeler | Mobile screen storage compartment (MSSC) |
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US8485177B2 (en) | 2005-11-18 | 2013-07-16 | Bsh Bosch Und Siemens Hausgeraete Gmbh | Drive mechanism for a down draft vent system |
US20100096527A1 (en) * | 2008-10-21 | 2010-04-22 | Nancy Brown | Slidable elevated display and storage apparatus |
US20110089304A1 (en) * | 2009-10-09 | 2011-04-21 | Fenelon Paul J | Lift System |
US9271572B2 (en) | 2009-10-09 | 2016-03-01 | Paul J. Fenelon | Lift system |
GB2493775A (en) * | 2011-08-19 | 2013-02-20 | Tv Bed Ltd | Event alert apparatus integral to furniture item |
US20140319978A1 (en) * | 2013-04-26 | 2014-10-30 | Alain Lemieux | Sliding panels system for hiding a flat screen TV |
US8970795B2 (en) * | 2013-04-26 | 2015-03-03 | Alain Lemieux | Sliding panels system for hiding a flat screen TV |
USD966211S1 (en) * | 2020-06-29 | 2022-10-11 | Lg Display Co., Ltd. | Television set |
USD976224S1 (en) * | 2020-06-30 | 2023-01-24 | Lg Display Co., Ltd. | Television set |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1601266A2 (en) | 2005-12-07 |
US20050057129A1 (en) | 2005-03-17 |
US6902243B2 (en) | 2005-06-07 |
US20040164659A1 (en) | 2004-08-26 |
US7043810B2 (en) | 2006-05-16 |
CN1750774A (en) | 2006-03-22 |
KR20050113197A (en) | 2005-12-01 |
WO2004075684B1 (en) | 2005-09-29 |
WO2004075684A2 (en) | 2004-09-10 |
EP1601266A4 (en) | 2006-09-27 |
WO2004075684A3 (en) | 2005-08-11 |
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Legal Events
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
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