WO2008011491A2 - Artificial turf-covered outdoor furniture and enclosures for outdoor accessories - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure concerns a novel design and approach to construction of furnishings for the outdoor environment, specifically outdoor furniture and accessories comprise of artificial turf (12), specifically a particular type of artificial turf which gains only six degrees of heat about the outdoor ambient temperature. This is advantageous, especially in hot environments such as the Arizona desert, where the ambient temperature reaches 100-120 degrees regularly during the summer months. In addition to stools (10), lawn fiirniture, benches, bleachers and cushions, this disclosure envisions coolers (98) and grills (110) encased in enclosures covered with the artificial turf, and specifically including, for example, a lightweight durable galvanized steel tube (22) with a removable top comprised of the foam and turf cushion. Thus, the tube can also double as a stool when not being used for grilling or removing beverages from the cooler. Finally, the disclosed furniture, accessories and turf tubes also provide key branding and advertising space and opportunities.

Description

ARTIFICIAL TURF-COVERED OUTDOOR FURNITURE AND ENCLOSURES FOR OUTDOOR ACCESSORIES

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This Application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/831,891 filed on July 18, 2006.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates generally to the field of outdoor furniture and branding, and more specifically to artificial turf-covered outdoor furniture, such as stadium chairs and stools, including stools that can also double as enclosures for outdoor recreational accessories such as grills and coolers. Further, to the extent that it is desired for indoor decor to provide an outdoor look or feel, the disclosed furniture is capable of being placed indoors.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Several precedents have been seen that successfully blend architecture with furniture design. The list of architects and interior designers who have also designed furniture is long, including such masters as Starck, Breuer, Mackintosh, Saarinen and the Eames'. In some cases, their furniture is even more celebrated than their buildings. Frank Lloyd Wright was known for designing everything contained within his buildings, from the furniture right down to the place settings. The Frank Gehry Easy Chair was designed to mirror the forms and ideals used in his Guggenheim Museum in Bilboa, Spain and is an award-winning suite of outdoor furniture, sold by elite design retailers, including Design Within Reach. Although the world of outdoor furniture is only just beginning to realize this trend, the recent penchant for outdoor living is sure to put Landscape Architects at the leading edge of this next wave.

[0004] Outdoor furniture known in the art is constructed of some combination of steel, wood, plastic, rubber, concrete or other polymers that when exposed to hot environments such as the Arizona desert, where the ambient temperature reaches 100-120 degrees Fahrenheit regularly during the summer months, easily heat to temperatures of 130 degrees Fahrenheit and above. Steel and concrete heat to between 35-45 degrees above ambient temperature while even wood, plastic, rubber and cool deck reach at least 10-20 degrees above ambient temperature. [0005] When outdoor furniture reaches such temperatures, it becomes virtually unusable and requires some type of cooling mechanism in order to make the pieces practical to use. Such cooling mechanisms are expensive, often require electricity or another power source and are impractical in public areas, such as parks. Otherwise, the outdoor furniture would need to be cooled with water, which then renders the pieces unusable until the water dries, at which point the furniture is hot again. [0006] Further, users of outdoor furniture also often have outdoor accessories such as coolers, grills, sports equipment, swimming accessories and other items in the vicinity. When these items are left out and exposed to the sun and heat, these items also become extremely hot and virtually unusable. Outdoor furniture that provides for storage or enclosure of such items would reduce the amount of space taken up by such items as well as keep these items cooler than they would be if exposed to direct sunlight. Finally, most outdoor furniture constructed of steel, metal, plastic, and other polymers lacks the aesthetic look and feel that is often desired for furniture placed in an outdoor setting such as backyards and parks.

[0007] Thus, a need exists for outdoor furniture that is capable of remaining relatively cool when compared to the ambient temperature, is capable of storing items and/or serving as an enclosure for recreational accessories and that is still aesthetically pleasing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0008] FIG. 1 is a front view of an artifical turf stool or bollard accordingly to the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the artificial turf stool of FIG. 1. [0010] FIG. 3 is a front view of an child's artifical turf stool according to the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a front view of an artificial turf bar stool according to the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 5A is a front view of an artificial turf bench according to the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 5B is a top view of the artificial turf bench of FIG. 5A. [0014] FIGs. 6 and 7 shows alternate embodiments of the artificial turf stool using recycled plastic pipe instead of galvanized steel pipe.

[0015] FIGs. 8 A and 8B show the grill and cooler combination insert for various artificial turf structures. [0016] FIGs. 8C, 8D and 8E illustrate various aspects of the cooler and grill insert.

[0017] FIGs. 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E and 9F illustrate various aspects of an artifical turf equipment storage container according to the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 10 illustrates various sizes of an artificial turf throw pillow according to the present disclosure.

[0019] FIGs. HA and HB illustrates an artificial turf stadium seat according to the present disclosure.

[0020] FIGs. 12A and 12B illustrate an alternate embodiment of the stadium seat including a tripod stand and vaiable shape.

[0021] FIGs. 13A, 13B and 13C illustrate an artificial turf bench swing according to the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 14 is a top view of an artitifical turf bean bag according to the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 15 is a top and side view of an artifical turf lounge chair according to the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 16A nad 16B are top and side views of an aritifical turf hammock according to the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 17 is an artificial turf swing according to the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 18 is an artifical turf umbrella according to the present disclosure.

[0027] FIGs. 19 A, 19B and 19C illustrate different embodiments of an artifical turf trash can according to the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 19D and 19E are the top view and view of the hinge mechanism of the artifical turf trash can.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS

[0029] The present invention provides for outdoor furniture and accessories comprised of artificial turf. This is advantageous, especially in hot environments such as Arizona, where the ambient temperature reaches 100-120 degrees regularly during the summer months. Steel and concrete heat to between 35-45 degrees above ambient temperature while even wood, plastic, rubber and cool deck reach at least 10-20 degrees above ambient temperature. According to the present disclosure, artificial turf includes any synthetic, non-living or artificial material resembling grass or other plant material in any color or texture, and is referred to herein generally as artificial turf. It is envisioned that the turf can also be made from renewable resources and recycled materials. [0030] The basic construction of the furniture may include lightweight, durable galvanized steel skeleton or bases that will not rust, but the skeleton or other base material may be other suitable material and may be covered with porous outdoor foam that will dry quickly. The novelty of the disclosure is then covering with the above-described turf those portions of the furniture that will contact the users in order to prevent burning of skin, excess heating of the body, and to create an aesthetically pleasing look with an environmentally friendly feel.

[0031] The following is a non-limiting list of the types of outdoor furniture and structures envisioned by the present disclosure: stools, benches, chairs, tables, bleachers, cushions, lounge chairs, trash cans, ash cans, picnic benches, foot stools, lights, bollards bar stools, counter stools, children's stools, swings and pillows

[0032] In one embodiment of the disclosure, as shown in FIG. 1, the structure comprises a stool 10. In an alternate embodiment, the outdoor accessory is a bollard and appears similar to the stool shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. The base of the stool is a lightweight, durable, 26 gauge galvanized steel which will not rust. The steel is considered a G90 product that meets industry standards. A galvanized steel spiral pipe 22 of 14"-36" in diameter will bear 2,400 lbs. and 68 pounds per square inch of hydrostatic pressure to seam failure. As shown in FIGs. 6 and 7, stool 70 and stool are alternate embodiments using recycled plastic pipe 72 rather than galvanized steel. These specifications are more than ample to guarantee the structural integrity of the seat for the purposes for which it has been designed.

[0033] In one embodiment of the stool, the seat height is preferably 18", which has been widely accepted as the ideal height for outdoor and indoor seating for adult users. William H. Whyte was a scientist who studies human behavior and has addressed the issue of seat height in his book and documentary. See William H. Whyte, Streetlife Project and the Social Life of Small Urban Spaces (1980) (available in Project for Public Spaces 2001).

[0034] As shown in FIG. 3 illustrating a child's stool 40, the seats preferably come in several heights and diameters, including 16" and 18", which is the appropriate scale for one person to sit on yet fits into the trunk of a standard car; 18" which affords a bit more comfort for one person; and 24" and 26" which fits two or three people back to back, or one person sitting cross-legged. Also, as shown in FIG. 4, illustrating a bar stool 50, a taller stool with a 20" diameter is also envisioned, particularly for counter or bar stool applications. However, it is envisioned that the seat height and size can be customized and conform to the envisioned use of the furniture. In many cases, the seat height and size would be commensurate with corresponding non-turf covered pieces that are similar in style. Also, as shown in FIGs. 5A and 5B, bench 60 is an alternate embodiment comprising a galvanized steel cow trough 62 as the base instead of a pipe. [0035] Again, Mr. Whyte has also studied the psychological desire to move a seat before sitting on it. Successful public spaces have moveable seating, where people will move a seat a very negligible distance, often just a few inches, before sitting on it. The disclosed outdoor furniture can, however, be made permanent for spaces where theft is a concern. The furniture has been designed to allow for bolts, in place of foot assembly 32, to attach the base of the seat to a hardscape surface, such as concrete. [0036] Further, in the stool example, the ergonomics fall into the use-it-as-you-see-fit kind of chair. One embodiment of the stool has no defined front or back. It can seat more than one person comfortably. Psychologically, people prefer to give themselves space from another person and have the capability to sit in opposite directions of one another. One embodiment of the disclosed stool provides that option. [0037] The assembly of the tube involves rolling spiral pipe 22 to a length of 18" or the final height of the stool, and then spot welding a duraflange to either end of the pipe to prevent sharp edges of the unfinished spiral pipe. The duraflange is a circular and angled hollow ring that attaches to the ends of spiral pipe and creates an attachment traditionally used in HVAC systems that allows for other materials to be attached as well as providing flexibility in required joint designs. The duraflange also has pre-drilled holes sited approximately 5" on center around the circumference of the ring. This allows for an easy application by which the above-mentioned artificial turf can be permanently riveted to the base with pop rivet 18.

[0038] Cylindrical rubber or plastic spacers are attached to the base to provide for drainage of water on the surface of where the seat is located as well as to provide a quieter and scratch proof application when moving the seat around. All variations of the outdoor furniture with base enclosures are built with drain holes drilled into the sheet of metal comprising the bottom of the tray to provide for adequate drainage. [0039] Plastic or metal glides will be provided on the bottom of the bottom flange 28. This will provide a gap which allows water to drain from inside the tube to the outside. They will also make the unit less noisy and less likely to scratch the surface beneath when being moved. It is also envisioned that casters 30 affixed with nut 26 could be used to make the unit more easily portable. Plastic end caps 24 will be affixed to the ends of these screws to guard against tripping or scratching. This screw mounted caster assembly is hereafter referred to as footer assembly 32.

[0040] The method of construction may involve welding, the use of pop rivets, nutserts, or other types of rivets, or a combination of these methods. The rivet methods avoid the hazardous conditions that are present with welding, and therefore promote the environmental sensitivity aspect of the furniture. Additionally, the rivets being visible construction elements add to the industrial aesthetic. The rivet method also eliminates the need for the application of galvanized paint to touch up the areas where the galvanization is compromised due to welding. Any metal component of the furniture may be powder coated to any desired color. This may include one or both flanges, the tube itself, or a combination. In order to attach the artificial or synthetic turf 12, the turf is affixed to a plastic lumber disk 14 with plastic coated steel edge trim 16. Lumber disk 14 is of the same diameter as flange 28.

[0041] For outdoor environments, such as near or in stadiums, the use of the traditionally industrial material, spiral galvanized steel, coupled with the pseudo-natural material of green artificial turf makes an interesting visual and tactile contrast, while conjuring up a vivid image of the sports venue. Elegantly simple yet visually jarring, the use of these materials out of context makes the disclosed furniture easily recognizable and highly imageable. It is envisioned that the furniture can be made more flexible and user friendly by providing an optional backrest. The backrest may be removable and may reside within an integrated storage compartment when not in use.

[0042] In addition to these types of outdoor furniture and accessories, this disclosure envisions coolers and grills encased in a lightweight durable galvanized steel tube with a removable top. FIGs. 8A and 8B illustrate a cooler/grill insert. As shown from each side, the cooler/grill insert comprises a cooler area 100 and a grill area 106. Each area has a zipper (cooler area zipper 94 and grill area zipper 96). Cooler bag 98 is a PVS-lined inset cooler bag. The entire insert is removable and portable using a nylon shoulder strap 92 with adjustment buckle 90 that is attachable at strap attachment 102. The entire insert has a reinforced polyester bottom 108. FIG. 8C is a top view of the cooler bag 98 removable with handle 120. FIGs. 8D and 8E are top and side views of collapsible grill 110 with removable chrome metal grate handle 112, enamel coated metal grill 114, metal grate support 116 and removable chrome metal grill grate 118. Thus, the structure containing the cooler/grill insert can also double as a stool when not being used for grilling or removing beverages from the cooler. [0043] FIGs. 9 A through 9F illustrate an alternate embodiment of the artifical turf structure used as a lockable equipment or other storage container. In one embodiment the storage container comprises a locking mechanism with a chain mounted locking pin 132, a sleeve 134 through the edge trim for the locking pin and an eye 136 for option pad lock. Also, one embodiment comprises a handle 138 which can either be a screw mounted metal handle 140 or a screw mounted nylon strap handle 150. The metal handle 140 is affixed to steel spiral pipe 22 with screw 142 and nut 144, while the nylon strap 150 is affixed with screw 152.

[0044] The disclosed furniture and accessories may also have removable and interchangeable cushions and tops in order to facilitate easy replacement and the ability to change colors and designs of the cushions and tops. In applications including a foam cushion, the cushion is comprised of porous density outdoor foam with an open cell structure that allows water to pass through easily and, therefore, the cushion dries quickly. The cushion is topped with artificial turf. Because of the outdoor materials used in the construction of the seat, it is very easy to clean and resistant to most chemicals and stains. [0045] The outdoor foam is also resistant to mildew and fungus, which is also important for retarding stain and odor. Because the outdoor foam consists of an open cell structure that allows water to pass through easily, the drainable property of these cushions is perfect for areas in which cushions may get wet. The cushions dry almost immediately after exposure to rain, salt spray, morning dew, washing, or other forms of moisture and humidity. Using foam cushions such as this provides an expected life cycle of 5-15 years before they begin to break down and sag.

[0046] In applications with a foam cushion, the tray that forms the space for the foam cushion may be modified from a basic circle in order to make riveting possible as an alternative to welding. This may involve cutting the disk to include tabs that may be bent at a ninety degree angle which would then be riveted to the tube from the outside. In addition, because of the drain holes in the cushion tray and the plastic or rubber spacers at the bottom of the pipe, water can run freely through from top to bottom. Water drains through the turf, the foam, and then the tray. The tray will have a draining capacity provided by either holes drilled through surface of the metal disk, or by cutouts at the perimeter. The tray can also be made of a perforated metal product to achieve this function.

[0047] In applications with a foam cushion, a steel edging product is then attached to the circumference of the duraflange to give the finished condition of the permanent cushion application. This trim also provides an aesthetically pleasing finish to which to mount the artificial turf to the steel duraflange. In applications with a plastic lumber top, the edge trim product rests flush with the duraflange, immediately below the turf. The base of the seat also has a duraflange attached to it which serves a similar purpose as the top, however can also provide the option to permanently mount the seat to any hardscape surface, such as concrete.

[0048] According to the present disclosure, pieces of outdoor furniture which are comprised of tops that cover a base may be constructed to have removable tops. Types of outdoor furniture with removable tops include, but are not limited to stools, chairs, tables, benches, lounge chairs and the like. In each of these, the base doubles as an enclosure and is capable of storing items or serving as an enclosure to house recreational accessories such as coolers and grills. The storage portion of the furniture may also be lined in order to keep items cooler that are stored therein.

[0049] The removable top option is one whereby three duraflanges are required. In applications with a foam cushion, the cushion is held in a tray-type design whereby a solid sheet of steel is welded or otherwise mounted to the bottom side of the duraflange, which sits approximately IV2" below the top. This space allows for a 2" thick circle of outdoor foam to rest easily inside the tray and also allows for a V2" relief on the top so that when a person sits on the seat it will not compress to any dimension shy of the actual metal. The tray top sits on top of another duraflange with a slightly smaller diameter to allow for easy maneuverability of removing and replacing the top. This slight variation in diameters is most convenient for a person to easily lift off the tray using their fingers. In applications with a plastic lumber top, the turf is adhered directly to the lumber disk, which is adhered to the flange on the opposite side. A locking mechanism will keep the lid on securely for mobility as well as allow storage for items that is secure from theft or vandalism.

[0050] In the removable top option, the base of the seat has another sheet of metal welded or otherwise fastened to the bottom. The intent of this design is to allow for storage space utilizing the hollow cavity of the spiral pipe. A 1" thick molded polystyrene insulating foam cylinder can be inserted into the cavity and is designed to be removable by the user. Alternatively, a freestanding cooler may be provided which could then be used with or without the turf tube. In addition to being completely removable, one embodiment also envisions a hinged top option so that the top and the base do not become permanently separated from one another. This could also be accomplished with the use of a pin which could be secured with a padlock if desired. On units with a removable top, graphics may be included on the fabric, in a manner that suits the particular fabric. [0051] In another embodiment, the furniture has a storage compartment to store the top when removed from atop of the base. In yet another embodiment, the furniture comes with an alternate base that is capable of receiving the top, which can still be used as a stool or table. In this example, the alternate base would comprise, for example, a folding leg mechanism that receives the top when removed from the base and then is capable of serving as a table or chair while the base is being used. This option is particularly advantageous when the enclosure contains a grill that may be in use for a substantial period of time.

[0052] If the base also doubles as a cooler, the storage capacity of the cooler, in one embodiment, can easily fit up to 18 cans of beverages in addition to ice. In this embodiment, the preferable size of the cooler option is 18" in diameter. These sizes may change based on availability of the cooler insert. This particular size allows it to fit inside the trunk space of a standard car. However, any size base can also double as a cooler. [0053] Another alternative is the addition of a removable grill insert. The grill is envisioned as a separate, freestanding element that can be used with or without the turf tube, and could also be designed to hold a throw-away tray of heavy duty aluminum for the placement of coals. This disclosure is advantageous in that it provides the user with a no-mess, easy cleaning alternative to normal grilling, especially when on the go. [0054] Another variation of the disclosed outdoor furniture is a removable cushion. The intent of the removable cushion is to allow users the ability to purchase a customized cushion with varying colors or designs are imprinted onto the turf. As shown in FIG. HA and HB, the present disclosure also envisions stadium cushions or other turf tube seat cushions, and stadium chairs as shown in FIG. 12A and 12B. The stadium cushion 170 has a nylon handle strap 172, synthetic turf outer material 174, weatherproof liner 176 and weatherproof foam insert 178. The stadium chair or folding tripode seat 180 has nylon leg pouch 184 covered with synthetic turf outer material 182 atop tubular steel legs 186 connected with plastic leg toggle 188. Plastic end caps 190 provide the feet of the tripod seat. Further, the present disclosure envisions turf seat cushions or other turf covers that can be placed over existing furniture, such as turf replacement cushions or covers for lawn furniture and chaise lounges. The cushions would be sold apart from the furniture and would be placed on the existing furniture similar to the removable cushion shown in FIG. 2. [0055] As shown in FIG. 15, lounge chair 230 has a molded plastic frame 234 covered with synthetic turf 232. Also, as shown in FIG. 16, a turf hammock 240 is shown with synthetic turf on nylon backing (248) attached to wooden connector bar 244 which is then affixed with 8mm rope cord 246 to an aluminum base 250. Further, as shown in FIG. 17, swing 260 comprises a synthetic turf swing seat 268 attached to a wooden support bar 264 with 8mm rope cord 266. Swing 260 is attachable to a tree or other object with 8mm hanging rope 262. Finally, turning to FIG. 13, a porch swing is also envisioned. Porch swing 200 comprises a wood A-frame support 202 with a chain 204 holding wooden bench swing 210. The swing is covered with a cushion comprised of a weatherproof foam insert 208 covered by a synthetic turf cover 206. [0056] Turf accessories that may accent, be used with or replace existing furniture accessories may also include turf throw covers, turf pillows, as shown in FIG. 10, foot stools, turf bean bags, as shown in FIG. 14, turf papa san cushions, and the like. Turf pillow 160 comprises synthetic turf 162 attached to a weatherproof liner 164 encasing synthetic batting 166. Turf bean bag 220 also comprises a synthetic turf cover 222 attached to a weatherproof vinyl liner 224 encasing recycled plastic bead fill or outdoor foam cushion 226.

[0057] Additionally, a decorative or sun umbrella as shown in FIG. 18 is envisioned. Umbrella 270 comprises synthetic turf with nylon backing 274 having mesh ventilation 272. The umbrella is positioned using aluminum pole 276 and option cast iron stand 278. [0058] These types of turf cushions also enable the option of placing a logo on the seat face. Designs may include logos, trademarks, graphics and other art. Coloring of artificial turf and/or imprinting color designs on artificial turf is known in the art, as discussed in more detail below.

[0059] Cushions are upholstered with a heavy duty fabric that attaches the artificial turf to the fabric and holds the outdoor foam within. There is an adjustable elastic band around the perimeter of the cushion which allows users the ability to fit the cushion snugly around the duraflange. Cushions can be easily removed by the user. In addition to having a removable cushion, this disclosure envisions having interchangeable cushions. [0060] In addition to interchangeable cushions, the disclosed outdoor furniture and accessories may, in one embodiment, have interchangeable tops or turf covers. In the disclosed disclosure, it is possible to rivet the top — flange, foam and turf included — to the frame or tube, which can be easily removed by drilling out the rivet. This facilitates changing out the turf cover if it is need of replacement, and further allows the variation of turf colors and alternating of graphics on the turf covers.

[0061] While the removable cushion version of the disclosed outdoor furniture is most likely the version to be customized, any embodiment of the disclosed outdoor furniture can be customized. The ability to customize the seats is very advantageous in that it provides companies as well as customers a way in which to advertise or individualize respectively their own turf tubes. Designs could range from sports team logos, company names and logos, jersey numbers of athletes, photographs, custom art, text, etc.

[0062] The application of the logo onto the seat can be implemented in several ways. One way is by actually painting onto the turf. This process is already a standard process patented by Astroturf, LLC. The process involves a computerized method of applying paint to white synthetic turf, or any other means necessary or available. Colors can be matched to the exact Pantone Matching System (PMS) color specified and designs are transferred electronically through computer graphic software. Another option to customizing the turf tube, as shown in FIG. 1, is to have the logo 20 applied to the side of the spiral pipe via a more traditional application of applying an exterior spray paint to the outside of the pipe using a stencil. Additionally, customization can be applied to the base, frame, skeleton or other aspects of the outdoor furniture. For example, in the turf tube version where the base is comprised of galvanized steel or other metal, the application of magnets may be made to the sides of the turf tube, hence offering a very easy way to vary the number of designs that any one turf tube may possess. Further, a graphic may be adhered to the side of the tube, either with a vinyl graphic, a magnetic graphic (as noted above), or a separate sheet of metal with a painted on or vinyl graphic that would be riveted to the tube, and be interchangeable. The bottom flange may also include a vinyl or embossed graphic.

[0063] These graphics may corporate logos, sports logos, or logos for special events, custom art, text, photographs, etc. Graphics may be branding of the product itself, or those of a corporation or organization. In some cases they will cover the entire tube in a graphic, such as a flag, or smaller logos may occur on both sides of the tube. However, it is preferable that the applications of imagery to the turf tube, whether to the turf cushion or to the tube base, are cost effective and user friendly.

[0064] For example, customization may provide high visibility in an outdoor setting, such as a stadium. Further, it provides an ideal branding platform for the corporate sponsors of events, parks and recreational facilities to extend their visibility. Third party branding on a piece of high design furniture is novel and unconventional. Further, according to the present disclosure, customization for different sponsors is easy and practical. Finally, customization provides for a revenue-generating source that is capable of more than paying for itself.

[0065] In addition to seating, grilling, storage, and cooling benefits, the turf tube and its affiliated products are capable of being produced and sold as a family or suite of furniture. For example, while the turf tube is a seat, a trash or ash container, as shown in FIG. 19A through 19E, may compliment it in an outdoor/indoor setting. The turf trash can would have a trash receptical 280 with trash bag 286 and a removable plastic lid 282. FIG. 19C shows an alternate embodiment of a removable lid 292. The trash can would have a plastic liner 288 attached to flange 284 with plastic liner clip 286. In addition, as shown in a turf tube light fixture may also compliment the furniture in either an outdoor or indoor setting.

[0066] A variation on the height of the seat may be accommodated so that it is of an adequate height to function as a bar stool. It may also serve as a bollard which will separate uses between those that are pedestrian oriented and those that are vehicular oriented. All these options may be interwoven with one or two or five of the aforementioned attributes. For example, the bollard may also be a seat and may also contain a mechanism by which it is lighted. Other furniture variations may encompass lounge chairs, outdoor bean bags, bar stools, door mats, vertical blinds, custom upholstered turf coverings for furniture, and portable cushions for event seating. [0067] With particular reference to the turf tube stool, the present disclosure draws on the idea that the chair is the oldest and most basic form of furniture, once being a found object that worked well for sitting, then as a crudely fashioned thing meant for sitting, and in modern times, when technology and materials are continually becoming more available, the focus has shifted to functionality (or lack thereof) blended with an artistic statement. In fact, every chair says something about its makers, its user, its society, even when it sets out to specifically say nothing at all. Because the chair is so widely relatable, it is often a chair that becomes iconic of a trend or movement in the humanities. Remarkably, it is the simplest expression of these complex ideas that survives as the residual — an artifact of the era.

[0068] The use of the traditional industrial material, spiral galvanized steel, coupled with the pseudo-natural material of green artificial turf makes an interesting visual and tactile contrast. The thing these materials have in common is that they are renewable or recycled materials, and being parts of an assembled piece of furniture, they are both being used out of context. The products recognize that the intrinsic qualities of these materials lend themselves to outdoor seating despite their popular connotations. [0069] Thus, this line of furniture is an icon of the current trends seen in design. It also elevates "common" materials to high art. The fact that it can be used indoors and out elevates it beyond the definition of indoor or outdoor. The same seat can serve many purposes, resulting in a possible conservation of materials and space. After all, you can only sit on one seat at a time. People are looking for flexibility and multiplicity of use. [0070] The disclosed furniture makes a statement about the irrelevance of "categories" in environment design, conservation of materials and space, responsible use of materials, the importance of multiplicity of use, use of materials out of context — not for the sake of novelty alone, but in recognition of key characteristics that meet functional demands, about the implication of use with friends and family in a recreational setting and about elevating common materials to high art. Overall, the disclosed furniture and accessories are an innovative new concept, not just furniture, but an opportunity to maximize the owner's revenue and the user's experience.

[0071] For ease of reference, particular variations and alternate embodiments described herein are often made with particular reference to the particular "turf tube" or stool embodiment. However, it is envisioned that all described variations and alternate embodiments are applicable to all types of outdoor furniture falling within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0072] Various embodiments of the invention are described above in the Detailed Description. While these descriptions directly describe the above embodiments, it is understood that those skilled in the art may conceive modifications and/or variations to the specific embodiments shown and described herein. Any such modifications or variations that fall within the purview of this description are intended to be included therein as well. Unless specifically noted, it is the intention of the inventors that the words and phrases in the specification and claims be given the ordinary and accustomed meanings to those of ordinary skill in the applicable art(s).

[0073] The foregoing description of a preferred embodiment and best mode of the invention known to the applicant at this time of filing the application has been presented and is intended for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive nor limit the invention to the precise form disclosed and many modifications and variations are possible in the light of the above teachings. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application and to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed for carrying out the invention.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A structure for outdoor use, comprising: a frame having a top portion, a bottom portion, a left portion and a right portion; and artificial turf substantially covering the top portion of the frame, wherein the artificial turf is capable of maintaining a surface temperature that is less than ten degrees Fahrenheit above ambient temperature.

2. The structure of claim 1, wherein the frame is comprised of galvanized steel.

3. The structure of claim 1, wherein the frame is comprised of a rust-resistant material.

4. The structure of claim 1, further including foam disposed between the frame and the artificial turf.

5. The structure of claim 4, wherein the foam is comprised of porous outdoor foam.

6. The structure of claim 5, wherein the foam is coupled to the artificial turf forming a cushion top.

7. The structure of claim 6, wherein the cushion top is removable.

8. The structure of claim 6, further including drain holes in the cushion top.

9. The structure of claim 1, further including a design affixed to the artificial turf.

10. The structure of claim 9, wherein the design is a trademark.

11. The structure of claim 1, further including a design affixed to the frame.

12. The structure of claim 11, wherein the design is a trademark.

13. A structure for outdoor use, comprising: a cylindrical frame, including two circular ends forming the top portion and the bottom portion of the cylindrical frame; and artificial turf substantially covering the top portion of the frame, wherein the artificial turf is capable of maintaining a surface temperature that is less than ten degrees Fahrenheit above ambient temperature.

14. The structure of claim 13, wherein the cylindrical frame is comprised of galvanized steel.

15. The structure of claim 13, wherein the cylindrical frame is comprised of a rust- resistant material.

16. The structure of claim 13, further including foam disposed between the cylindrical frame and the artificial turf.

17. The structure of claim 16, wherein the foam is comprised of porous outdoor foam.

18. The structure of claim 16, wherein the foam is coupled to the artificial turf forming a cushion top.

19. The structure of claim 18, wherein the cushion top is removable.

20. The structure of claim 18, further including a tray for the cushion top coupled to the top portion of the cylindrical frame.

21. The structure of claim 18, further including drain holes in the tray.

22. The structure of claim 13, further including a grill disposed inside the cylindrical frame.

23. The structure of claim 13, further including a cooler disposed inside the cylindrical frame.

24. The structure of claim 13, further including a design affixed to the artificial turf.

25. The structure of claim 24, wherein the design is a trademark.

26. The structure of claim 13, further including a design affixed to the cylindrical frame.

27. The structure of claim 26, wherein the design is a trademark.

28. The structure of claim 13, wherein the structure is capable of being used indoors.

29. The structure of claim 16, wherein the foam is waterproof.

30. The structure of claim 16, wherein the foam is closed cell foam.

31. A seat cushion, comprising: a foam core; and artificial turf substantially covering the foam core, wherein the artificial turf is capable of maintaining a surface temperature that is less than ten degrees Fahrenheit above ambient temperature