Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001]This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/734,530, entitled MODULAR SEATING ASSEMBLY, filed on Dec. 16, 2024, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
1. Technical Field
[0002]The present disclosure relates to modular seating assemblies, particularly to modular seating bases that provide an internal through cavity configured to receive a removable floor or storage module. The disclosure further relates to furniture bases designed for ease of reconfiguration and adaptable functionality, such as converting between standard seating and storage seating configurations without requiring permanent structural modifications.
2. Background and Relevant Art
[0003]Modular seating systems have become increasingly popular due to their ability to adapt to different spaces, applications, and user preferences. Many such systems allow users to rearrange or reconfigure individual seating elements to create new layouts or accommodate changing needs. However, these systems are often limited to surface-level modularity, with bases or frames that remain fixed once assembled and that offer little functional flexibility beyond arrangement.
[0004]At the same time, users increasingly seek ways to incorporate discreet and convenient storage within their living or working spaces. Furniture that conceals storage while maintaining an uncluttered appearance is particularly desirable for organizing everyday items such as blankets, pillows, or household accessories, as well as less frequently used objects that benefit from being kept nearby yet out of sight.
[0005]The subject matter described herein is not limited to embodiments that operate only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this background is only provided to illustrate one example technology area where some embodiments described herein can be practiced.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0006]The present disclosure can comprise systems, methods, and apparatus for storage within a furniture base assembly or seat base. For example, a furniture base assembly can include a seat base that defines a through cavity. The furniture base assembly can also include a seat pan that can provide a seating surface at a top end of the through cavity. The furniture base assembly can also include a storage device configured to define a storage space within the through cavity of the seat base. The storage device can be removably engaged with the seat base, and the storage space is below the top end of the through cavity.
[0007]In another embodiment, a furniture base assembly includes a seat base. The seat base can include four edges defined by a first side panel, a second side panel, a third side panel, and a fourth side panel. The seat base can also include a through cavity. The through cavity has an open first end and an open second end, and the open first end and the open second end have substantially the same dimensions. The furniture base assembly can also include a seat pan configured to provide a seating surface at a top end of the through cavity and a rigid storage device configured to define a false floor within the through cavity.
[0008]In another embodiment, a furniture base assembly includes a seat base comprising a central frame that defines a through cavity. The furniture base assembly also includes a pitchable seat pan that can provide a seating surface at a top end of the through cavity. The furniture base assembly can also include a storage device that defines a storage space within the through cavity of the seat base. The storage device can also engage with the seat base.
[0009]Additional features and advantages of exemplary implementations of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or can be learned by the practice of such exemplary implementations. The features and advantages of such implementations can be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or can be learned by the practice of such exemplary implementations as set forth hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010]In order to describe the manner in which the above recited and other advantages and features of the invention can be obtained, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
[0011]FIG. 1 illustrates a side perspective view of a furniture system, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.
[0012]FIG. 2A illustrates a base having a removable storage device installed, according to an implementation of the present disclosure;
[0013]FIG. 2B illustrates a top-down view of the base having a removable storage device installed, according to an implementation of the present disclosure;
[0014]FIG. 2C illustrates an exploded view of the base and a removable storage device, according to an implementation of the present disclosure;
[0015]FIG. 2D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the base having a removable storage device installed, according to an implementation of the present disclosure;
[0016]FIG. 3A illustrates a top perspective view of a storage device, according to an implementation of the present disclosure;
[0017]FIG. 3B illustrates a bottom perspective view of a storage device, according to an implementation of the present disclosure;
[0018]FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a seat pan, according to an implementation of the present disclosure;
[0019]FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a seat base and a pitched seat pan, according to an implementation of the present disclosure;
[0020]FIG. 6A illustrates an embodiment of a false floor installed within a base, according to an implementation of the present disclosure;
[0021]FIG. 6B illustrates another embodiment of a storage device installed within a base, according to an implementation of the present disclosure;
[0022]FIG. 7A illustrates an embodiment of a false floor installed within a base, according to an implementation of the present disclosure; and
[0023]FIG. 7B illustrates a false floor adjacent to a base, according to an implementation of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024]The present disclosure relates to seat bases that provide a through cavity capable of receiving removable components, such as a storage device or a false floor. The described configurations allow a single base structure to serve multiple purposes, enabling both standard seating and storage-integrated versions to be produced from the same modular foundation. The disclosed systems can provide functional versatility within a modular furniture assembly by offering a base construction that accepts interchangeable modules without requiring tools, adhesives, or permanent fasteners. A user, manufacturer, or service provider can therefore install, remove, or replace the removable floor or storage device as desired. This approach provides maintainability and allows furniture to be adapted to different environments (e.g., residential, commercial, or hospitality settings) without redesigning or replacing the entire seat base.
[0025]The through-cavity configuration of the seat base also offers improved cleanability and access. Because both the upper and lower surfaces of the cavity remain open until a removable component is installed, internal areas of the seat base can be more easily inspected, vacuumed, or wiped during manufacturing or use. This feature can be particularly advantageous in public or high-traffic environments where hygiene and maintenance efficiency are important.
[0026]The removable storage device of the present disclosure can provide discrete, enclosed storage that utilizes the otherwise unoccupied space within the seat base. Depending on the implementation, the storage device may be a rigid or semi-rigid molded bin, a flexible liner, or another structural insert that defines a storage volume with an open top. The storage devices can be shaped and configured to securely fit with the seat base, allowing it to securely fit while also allowing the storage device to be quickly lifted out for access, cleaning, or replacement. In certain embodiments, the same through-cavity base may also be fitted with a false floor or planar insert to close the cavity in a similar manner to a storage device. This allows the furniture manufacturer or end-user to still have storage and to also prevent passage through the through cavity of the seat base, depending on the desired function. Such interchangeability supports manufacturing efficiency and modular system compatibility across multiple product lines.
[0027]Further, the disclosed seat bases can further accommodate a variety of seat pan geometries, including flat or pitched seating surfaces. The pitchable seat pan can operate independently of the storage module, allowing ergonomic adjustment without interfering with the storage component or its installation. Thus, the described furniture systems offer modularity, reduced manufacturing complexity, and access to hidden or functional storage space.
[0028]Turning now to the Figures, FIG. 1 illustrates a side profile view of a modular seating assembly 100. Modular seating assembly 100 includes a seat base 102a, a back member 104, and a cushion 106. Cushion 106 provides an end user with a seating surface 127 that can be oriented in various directions to provide an ergonomic or desired level of pitch. As illustrated, the modular seating assembly 100 is configured in a pitched configuration (e.g., where the seating surface is pitched backward toward the back member 104), as indicated by the sloping of the cushion 106 relative to the seat base 102a. Though not shown, this pitched configuration is a byproduct of a user positioning a seat pan at an angle A relative to the seat base. Angle A can represent a range of angles from 0 degrees relative to the seat base (a level seating configuration) and up to about 15 degrees relative to the seat base. For example, angle A can range from about 1 degree to about 10 degrees, or about 2 degrees to about 5 degrees, or about 2.5 degrees. To provide a pitched orientation, a user may remove the cushion from the seat base and set it to the side. The user can then lift or move the seat pan away from the seat base 102a and re-engage it with the seat base 102a in a pitch seat orientation.
[0029]FIG. 1 also illustrates a blanket positioned within storage space 108. Storage space 108 is defined by a storage device (see FIG. 2A), which is engaged inside the seat base 102a. The view in FIG. 1 provides a slight cutaway of the seat base 102a, revealing the storage space 108 and showing how the storage space 108 is still present even when the cushion provides a seating surface 127 that is pitched. While a blanket is depicted for illustrative purposes, the storage space 108 is not limited to any particular contents. The volume may be used to store any item that fits within the interior dimensions of the storage device, including but not limited to pillows, throws, books, electronic accessories, tools, or small household goods. In shared or commercial environments, the space may also be used to hold service items, replacement materials, or other utilities that benefit from being discreetly stowed yet easily accessible.
[0030]As shown in FIG. 1, a gap 101 is defined between the lower edge of the seat base 102a and the surface on which the modular seating assembly 100 rests. The gap 101 represents a space below the seat base where the storage space 108 and any associated storage device or false floor do not extend. In this configuration, the entirety of the storage volume is retained within the structural footprint of the seat base 102a. This arrangement ensures that the base maintains a clean external appearance and stable contact surface while allowing for air circulation, floor clearance, and ease of movement or cleaning around the lower portion of the furniture assembly.
[0031]Accordingly, FIG. 1 illustrates that the modular seating assemblies of the present disclosure provide an optional ergonomic adjustment with internal and discrete storage without complex mechanical systems or powered components. This allows the user to easily modify the seating orientation and utilize their modular seating assembly 100 to act as additional storage within their living or work space.
[0032]FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a seat base 102b having a removable storage device 110 installed within a through cavity 120. The seat base 102b includes a central frame 112, a plurality of corner pillars 116, a removable storage device 110 (that defines storage space 108), and a set of side panels 118 (that together form the perimeter of the base). The seat base 102b also includes one or more connectors 114 configured to couple the seat base 102b to adjacent bases or to other modular components, such as a side member or back member (e.g., see back member 104 in FIG. 1). The central frame 112 provides a structural foundation for the seat base 102b and defines the outer dimension or perimeter of an internal through cavity 120 that extends from the top edge 122 to the bottom edge 124 of the seat base 102b. The top edge 122 and bottom edge 124 can be adjacent to an open top end and an open bottom end of the through cavity. The top and bottom ends can have similar or the same dimensions as both are defined by the side panels or covers affixed thereto. The central frame 112 interconnects the corner pillars 116 and the side panels 118 to establish the overall geometry and load-bearing capability of the furniture base. In some embodiments, the central frame 112 can be formed from a rigid material such as metal, wood, or composite, and can include one or more ledges, surfaces, or flanges that provide engagement points for the removable storage device 110 (see FIG. 2D). The central frame 112 is engaged or coupled to each corner pillar 116.
[0033]Similarly, the central frame 112 and the corner pillars 116 each can engage with or couple to the side panels 118. For example, protrusions, fasteners, or other engagement mechanisms secure the side panels to the corner pillars 116 and/or the central frame 112. Side panels 118 extend between adjacent corner pillars 116 and define the visible outer perimeter of the seat base 102b. Each side panel 118 can be constructed from wood, composite, or other structural materials and may be covered with upholstery or other finishing materials to provide an aesthetic exterior surface.
[0034]FIG. 2A illustrates that the removable storage device 110 is positioned within the through cavity 120 of the central frame 112. The removable storage device 110 defines the storage space 108. The storage device 110 may be a bin, tray, or container configured to rest upon, hang from, or otherwise engage the upper surfaces of the central frame 112 (see FIG. 2D). As used herein, a bin or container refers to a storage device having one or more walls extending from a bottom surface. As used herein, a tray refers to a substantially flat or planar storage device. When installed, the storage device 110 occupies the internal volume of the seat base 102b, remaining fully contained within the base's footprint. The open-top configuration of the storage device 110 allows the user to access the storage space 108 from above when the seat pan and/or cushion are removed. The storage device 110 is removable in a direction D1, which extends upward and away from the seat base 102b. This allows a user or manufacturer to lift the storage device 110 vertically out of the through cavity of the central frame 112 without requiring tools or disassembly of surrounding components. The upward removal direction enables quick access to the storage space 108 for cleaning, reorganization, or replacement of the storage device 110 while maintaining the integrity and alignment of the seat base 102b. Thus, installation of the storage device 110 includes removal of a seat cushion, removal of a seat pan, and then lowering the storage device 110 into the through cavity of the seat base 102b until a perimeter flange, tab, or ledge of the storage device 110 engages with an upper surface or support feature of the central frame 112. Once seated, the storage device 110 is retained securely within the cavity by gravity and frictional engagement, remaining flush with or slightly recessed below the upper edges of the side panels 118.
[0035]FIG. 2A also illustrates that connectors 114 are positioned along one or more of the side panels 118 and are configured to allow a plurality of seat bases 102b to be coupled together, or to attach a seat base 102b to a side member or back member (e.g., back member 104). In certain embodiments, the connectors 114 may include clamps, keys, or other alignment elements. The modular coupling capability provided by connectors 114 allows the seat base 102b to integrate seamlessly into multi-seat or sectional arrangements. For example, the seat bases of the present disclosure can be integrated into existing modular furniture assemblies that an end-user may already own.
[0036]FIG. 2B illustrates a top-down view of the seat base 102b, showing the relative positioning of the central frame 112, corner pillars 116, side panels 118, and removable storage device 110. The storage device 110 defines the storage space 108 and is positioned within the through cavity 120 of the central frame 112. As shown, a tab 130 extends around the perimeter of the open end of the storage device 110. The tab 130 is configured to engage with the upper surface 126 of the central frame 112 when the storage device 110 is installed. This engagement allows the storage device 110 to rest securely within the cavity while remaining removable in the upward direction (see FIG. 2A). The upper surface 126 of the central frame 112 provides a continuous ledge or support platform around the inner perimeter of the base. When the storage device 110 is installed, the underside of the tab 130 contacts the upper surface 126 to define a stable and level interface. This configuration allows the storage device 110 to remain fully supported while ensuring that the lower portion of the device does not extend past the lower edge of the seat base 102b.
[0037]FIG. 2B also illustrates that the tab 130 can also define rounded corners 132 at each intersection between the side edges of the storage device 110. These rounded corners 132 can assist in preventing the storage device 110 from catching or binding against the corner pillars 116 during installation or removal. This facilitates smooth insertion and removal of the storage device 110, even in close-tolerance assemblies where the interior spacing of the seat base 102b is tight. FIG. 2B also shows that each edge of the tab 130 further includes a recess 128 configured to function as a handhold or lift point for the user. The recesses 128 allow a user to easily grasp opposing edges of the tab 130 and lift the storage device 110 upward and out of the through cavity 120. Although FIG. 2B illustrates four recesses 128, another embodiment may only include two recesses 128 positioned on opposing edges of the tab 130.
[0038]FIG. 2B also shows that a pad 134 is positioned at or near the bottom of the storage device 110. The pad 134 can serve as a cushioning or protective layer for items placed within the storage space 108, reducing noise and preventing damage to the stored contents or to the bottom surface of the device. The pad 134 can be formed from a wide range of materials depending on the desired tactile, acoustic, or protective properties. Non-limiting example materials include foam rubber, silicone, felt, textile fabric, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), neoprene, vinyl, leather, synthetic leather, cork, or recycled fiber composites. These materials can provide cushioning, slip resistance, noise reduction, or aesthetic enhancement to the interior of the storage device 110. In certain embodiments, the pad 134 may include an adhesive backing, friction-fit edge, or hook-and-loop interface, allowing the pad 134 to be selectively removed, replaced, or cleaned by a user. In further embodiments, the pad 134 can extend upwards and along the inner faces of each wall 136 of the storage device 110.
[0039]FIG. 2C illustrates an exploded view of the seat base 102b and the removable storage device 110. The exploded configuration shows the relationship between the central frame 112, the corner pillars 116, the side panels 118, and the removable storage device 110. As illustrated, each side panel 118 can engage with a portion of the central frame 112. Here, each panel may be fastened directly to a portion of the central frame 112. In at least one embodiment, a protrusion that extends from the side panel 118 can engage with a channel defined by the central frame to form a rigid interlock that aligns and secures the panels with the central frame 112. Each side panel 118 may also be secured to the corner pillars 116. This coupling provides both lateral and torsional stability to the seat base 102b while maintaining the open-through cavity 120 that defines the base's interior volume.
[0040]As shown in FIG. 2C, the removable storage device 110 is positioned above the central frame 112 and is positioned in an upward direction D1, as would occur during normal use when a user lifts the device out of the seat base 102b. The exploded arrangement illustrates how the storage device 110 can be freely installed or removed without disturbing the side panels 118 or the structural components of the seat base 102b. When lowered into position, the storage device 110 aligns with the upper surface 126 of the central frame 112 and seats securely on the ledge formed thereby. When lifted in direction D1, the storage device 110 clears the upper edges of the side panels 118 and the corner pillars 116, allowing complete removal for access, cleaning, or replacement.
[0041]FIG. 2D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the seat base 102b having the removable storage device 110 installed within the through cavity 120, according to an implementation of the present disclosure. The cross-sectional view shows the interaction between the tab 130 of the storage device 110 and the upper surface 126 of the central frame 112. The underside of the tab 130 engages directly with the upper surface 126, forming the primary load-bearing interface for the storage device 110. In the illustrated embodiment, no other portion of the storage device 110 comes into contact with or engages with the central frame 112, corner pillars 116, or side panels 118. Accordingly, the storage device 110 effectively hangs or rests solely upon the upper surface 126 of the central frame 112 via the tab 130. This configuration allows the storage device 110 to be fully supported while remaining removable in the upward direction D1 without using tools or secondary unfastening additional components. As illustrated, this removability and installation are also assisted by the fact that the bottom 142 is tapered relative to the tab 130.
[0042]The upper surface 126 thereby serves a dual function in that it (i) supports the storage device 110 when installed and (ii) serves as a seating interface for a seat pan when the seat is in a pitch configuration (see FIG. 5). As shown in FIG. 5, in some embodiments, the seat pan may also rest upon the upper surface 126 or directly upon the top surface of the tab 130 when the storage device 110 is installed. This allows the same central frame 112 geometry to support both seating and storage. Furthermore, when configured for pitched seating, the seat pan may selectively engage elevated edges or corner surfaces of the corner pillars 116 to establish a desired seating angle relative to the base. Additionally, the storage device 110 is usable in a level seating configuration, in which the seat pan is substantially level with the surface on which the seat base is mounted (e.g., the floor). This arrangement enables ergonomic flexibility and ensures compatibility between the removable storage device 110, the seat pan, and the modular base architecture.
[0043]Further, as shown, the bottom 142 of the storage device 110 is positioned above the lower edge 124 of the seat base 102b. This spacing ensures that the storage device 110 and any pad 134 positioned therein remain fully contained within the footprint of the base and do not extend past the bottom edge 124. Maintaining this clearance prevents contact with the supporting floor surface, preserving the intended visual profile of the furniture and ensuring that the gap 101 (see FIG. 1) remains unobstructed for air circulation, cleaning, or movement across flooring surfaces.
[0044]FIG. 2D also illustrates that each side panel 118 includes a protrusion 138 that extends inwardly and is received within a corresponding channel 140 formed along an outer surface of the central frame 112. This interlocking arrangement between the protrusion 138 and the channel 140 secures the side panels 118 to the central frame 112, maintaining the structural rigidity of the seat base 102b while preserving the open internal volume of the through cavity 120.
[0045]FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate perspective views of an exemplary removable storage device 110 according to an implementation of the present disclosure. FIG. 3A provides a top perspective view of the storage device 110, while FIG. 3B provides a bottom perspective view. Together, these figures show the general geometry and construction of the removable storage device 110 as configured for installation within the through cavity of the seat base 102b (see FIGS. 2A-2D). The storage device 110 defines the internal storage space 108 and can be formed as a single molded or fabricated component that can be easily inserted or removed from the seat base 102b. Though not shown, a plurality of storage devices 110 can also be stacked within one another for efficient shipping, handling, or storage. Because each storage device 110 shares a common geometry and includes a slight taper along the walls 136, multiple units can nest together vertically without binding. This nesting capability minimizes packaging volume and simplifies logistics during manufacturing and distribution.
[0046]As shown in FIG. 3A, the storage device 110 comprises a plurality of walls 136 that extend upward from the bottom 142 to define the perimeter of the storage space 108. The upper edge of the walls 136 transitions into a continuous tab 130 extending outward around the perimeter of the open top. The tab 130 provides a flange-like feature that engages with the upper surface 126 of the central frame 112 when the storage device 110 is installed within the seat base 102b. The underside of the tab 130 thus serves as a support interface for the storage device 110, allowing the device to rest securely while remaining fully removable. The corners 132 of the storage device 110 are rounded or radiused where adjacent walls 136 meet. These rounded corners 132 are configured to prevent interference between the storage device 110 and the corner pillars 116 of the seat base 102b during installation or removal. This geometry allows for smooth vertical motion and reduces the likelihood of the storage device catching or binding within the through cavity 120 of the central frame 112.
[0047]As shown in FIG. 3A, each tab 130 also includes a recess 128 positioned adjacent to the upper edge of the storage device 110, which corresponds to recess 165 within each wall 136. The recesses 128 function as ergonomic handholds that allow a user to easily grasp and lift the storage device 110 upward and away from the seat base 102b. A recess 128 may be disposed along each side of the tab 130 to allow two-handed removal. The recesses 128 may also be shaped with curved or tapered inner surfaces to improve grip comfort and to guide the user's fingers underneath the tab 130 during lifting. Each wall may include a corresponding recess 154, which protrudes a portion of the wall 136 into the storage space 108.
[0048]As further illustrated in FIG. 3A, one or more apertures 150a are defined through walls 136 of the storage device 110. The aperture 150a can serve as a vent, drain, or cable pass-through, depending on the intended application of the furniture system. For example, in embodiments where the storage device 110 is used to house electronics or accessories, the aperture 150a can allow for the routing of cables or airflow. In other embodiments, the aperture 150a may provide a drainage or clean-out port to simplify maintenance of the interior of the storage space 108.
[0049]FIG. 3B illustrates a bottom perspective view of the storage device 110. In this view, the bottom 142 of the storage device 110 and its relationship to the surrounding walls 136 are visible. The bottom 142 defines the lower boundary of the storage space 108 and includes one or more apertures 150b extending therethrough. The aperture 150b can function as a vent, drainage opening, or cable passage depending on the intended use of the storage device 110. For example, in embodiments where the storage device 110 houses electronic components, the aperture 150b can enable air movement or cord routing, while in other embodiments, it may serve as a drain to facilitate cleaning or drying of the interior volume.
[0050]As further shown in FIG. 3B, a curved edge 152 transitions between the bottom 142 and the side walls 136. The curved edge 152 provides a smooth interface that strengthens the joint between the bottom and walls while preventing sharp transitions that could trap debris or cause binding during insertion or removal. This curvature also assists in guiding the storage device 110 into alignment with the through cavity 120 of the central frame 112 during installation. As the storage device 110 is lowered, the curved edges 152 help center the storage device 110 within the seat base 102b, reducing friction and ensuring consistent seating engagement along the upper surface 126 of the central frame.
[0051]FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a seat pan 160 according to an implementation of the present disclosure. The seat pan 160 provides a seating surface that can be positioned above the seat base 102b and configured in either a level (i.e., level with the surface on which the seat base is mounted) or pitched orientation (i.e., at some angle A, see FIG. 1). The seat pan 160 can be fabricated from a variety of materials, including but not limited to wood, metal, composite, or reinforced polymer structures, and can incorporate one or more suspension means 162a and 162b to provide a flexible and resilient seating surface. As shown, the first suspension means 162a can include fabric or woven straps configured to flex and provide a soft, elastic support for a cushion or occupant. The second suspension means 162b may include metal or composite S-springs, wire elements, or tension members configured to provide structural reinforcement and controlled rebound. Together, suspension means 162a and 162b form a bi-directional suspension network that distributes weight uniformly across the seat pan 160, improving user comfort and durability while reducing the need for heavy or rigid structural under-supports.
[0052]As shown, the seat pan 160 includes a plurality of edges 164 that define its perimeter and connect at a series of corner structures 166. Each corner can include a corner structure (reinforced joint or bracket) that provides stability and distributes load evenly across the seat pan 160. These corner structures 166 also serve as engagement points for the seat base 102b, allowing the seat pan 160 to rest on or interlock with the upper surface 126 of the central frame 112, the tab 130 of the storage device 110 (when installed), or the uppermost edges of the corner pillars 116 for pitched seating configurations.
[0053]FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a seat base 102b having a seat pan 160 positioned in a pitched orientation. In the illustrated example, the seat pan 160 includes a right side 170 and a left side 172. The right side of the seat pan 160 is elevated, resting upon the upper edges of the corner pillars 116, while the left side of the seat pan 160 is positioned lower, resting upon the upper surface 126 of the central frame 112 or on the top surface of the tab 130 of the installed storage device 110. This arrangement creates a lateral pitch angle across the seating surface, which can provide ergonomic variation or accommodate user preferences. Although a single-pitched orientation is shown, the modular configuration of the seat base 102b allows for multiple pitch directions to be achieved without the use of mechanical or powered components. For example, the seat pan 160 may be positioned to pitch from right to left (as shown), from left to right, from front to back, or from back to front. Each orientation is established by selectively engaging different edges or corners of the seat pan 160 with either the upper surface 126, the tab 130, or the upper edges of the corner pillars 116. It should be noted that the removable storage device 110 and its associated storage space 108 remain unaffected by these seat pan adjustments. The storage device 110 remains positioned within the through cavity 120 of the central frame 112, maintaining the same internal volume and accessibility regardless of the selected pitch orientation. This configuration enables ergonomic adjustability while preserving the integrated storage functionality of the modular seating assembly.
[0054]FIG. 6A illustrates an embodiment of a seat base 102c incorporating a false floor 180 according to an implementation of the present disclosure. The seat base 102c comprises a central frame 112, a plurality of side panels 118, and a lower mounting surface 182, positioned near the bottom edge of the seat base 102c. In this embodiment, the false floor 180 is a planar member configured to be secured within the through cavity 120 of the central frame 112. Unlike the removable storage device 110 of previous embodiments, which rests or hangs from an upper surface of the central frame, the false floor 180 mounts to the lower mounting surface 182. This configuration positions the false floor 180 proximate to the lower edge of the seat base 102c, defining an enclosed storage space 184 above it.
[0055]FIG. 6A thus shows that the storage space 184 is therefore bounded by the upper surface of the false floor 180 and the interior faces of the side panels 118, effectively forming a contained compartment within the seat base 102c. The false floor 180 can be constructed as a rigid panel, a molded bin, or a framed platform, depending on the desired weight capacity and material selection. In some embodiments, the false floor 180 can include fasteners, clips, or alignment pins configured to engage with the lower mounting surface 182 for secure attachment.
[0056]Positioning the false floor 180 near the bottom edge of the seat base 102c provides structural support and stability while allowing the upper portion of the through cavity to remain open for a seat pan or cushion assembly. This arrangement contrasts with the hanging storage device 110 of previous embodiments, as the false floor 180 derives its support from the lower region of the base rather than the upper frame surfaces. In certain implementations, the false floor 180 can also be removed or replaced to adjust the volume of the storage space 184.
[0057]FIG. 6B illustrates another embodiment of a seat base 102d incorporating a storage device 186 according to an implementation of the present disclosure. The seat base 102d includes a central frame 112, a plurality of side panels 118, and a lower mounting surface 182 (not visible) positioned near a bottom edge 192 of the seat base 102d. In this embodiment, the storage device 186 is a bin-style component that defines storage space 188 within the interior of the seat base 102d. Unlike the hanging storage device 110 of previous embodiments, which rests on the upper surface 126 of the central frame 112, the storage device 186 is supported from below, i.e., its bottom 190 sits directly upon or is secured to the lower mounting surface 182. The storage device 186 includes upwardly extending sidewalls 194 that define the perimeter of the storage space 188. These sidewalls may be rigid or semi-rigid depending on the desired load capacity and material selection. In some embodiments, storage device 186 may include handles attached to or defined by the sidewalls 194. The bottom 190 provides structural stability, allowing the storage device 186 to bear heavy contents. Because the bottom 190 rests on the lower mounting surface 182, the storage device 186 can be easily installed or replaced without affecting the upper geometry of the seat base 102c or the compatibility with a seat pan positioned above.
[0058]FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate an embodiment of a seat base 102e incorporating a false floor 200 positioned proximate a bottom end of a through cavity 120. In FIG. 7A, the false floor 200 is shown engaged within the seat base 102e. In the illustrated embodiment, the false floor 200 is a stand-alone insert that fits within the through cavity 120 without requiring permanent fasteners. In some embodiments, the false floor 200 is supported by the surfaces 208 of the seat base, i.e., inner corner members. A top face 212 of the false floor 200 defines a lower boundary of a storage space that is enclosed by the interior faces of the side panels of the seat base 102e. FIG. 7A also illustrates that an aperture 210 extends through the false floor 200. In certain embodiments, the aperture 210 is sized or located to receive accessories, drains, or pass-throughs. In at least one embodiment, no aperture 210 is present. In another embodiment, the aperture 210 is configured to be removable from the seat base and can be used in both indoor and outdoor games (e.g., cornhole).
[0059]FIG. 7B illustrates the bottom face 202 of the false floor 200 as it has been removed from its engaged position within the seat base 102e. The bottom face 202 includes one or more struts 204 that raise the false floor 200 off of a surface whereon the seat base 102e is mounted. The struts 204 vertically register the false floor 200 with a bottom edge of the seat base 102e and can support loads placed within the storage space on the top face 212. In some embodiments, the false floor 200 further includes wheels 206 that allow the false floor 200 to roll together with the seat base 102e during reconfiguration of a modular furniture arrangement. Thus, the wheels 206 facilitate movement of the seat base 102e across a floor while maintaining the relative position of the false floor 200 within the through cavity 120.
[0060]It will also be appreciated that embodiments described herein can also include properties and/or features (e.g., ingredients, components, members, elements, parts, and/or portions) described in one or more separate embodiments and are not necessarily limited strictly to the features expressly described for that particular embodiment. Accordingly, the various features of a given embodiment can be combined with and/or incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, disclosure of certain features relative to a specific embodiment of the present disclosure should not be construed as limiting the application or inclusion of said features to the specific embodiment. Rather, it will be appreciated that other embodiments can also include such features.
[0061]A user having ordinary skill in the art should realize, in view of the present disclosure, that equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made to embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Equivalent constructions, including functional “means-plus-function” clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function, including both structural equivalents that operate in the same manner, and equivalent structures that provide the same function. It is the express intention of the applicant not to invoke means-plus-function or other functional claiming for any claim except for those in which the words ‘means for’ appear together with an associated function. Each addition, deletion, and modification to the embodiments that falls within the meaning and scope of the claims is to be embraced by the claims.