Abstract: An apparatus for mitigating seismic load imposing an overturning bending moment upon a multi-level structure comprises a tensioned tendon having a first end fixedly connected to one of the levels proximate one side of the structure and a second end fixedly secured to another of the levels proximate an opposite side of the structure, wherein the tendon is oriented in space between its first and second ends along a predetermined curve selected to provide optimum reaction to said load by running the tendon through intermediate story levels at calculated locations. The apparatus further comprises a supplemental system for connecting the second end of the tendon to the structure. The supplemental system preferably includes a mechanical energy dissipating device and a sacrificially yielding fuse element arranged in parallel with the mechanical energy dissipating device.

Abstract: A keyboard support mechanism employs a mounting member adapted to be fixed to a base, such as a desk or table top; a support adapted to support a keyboard; upper link having its front and rear ends connected to the support and mounting member by first and second pivot pins; a lower link having its front end connected to the support by a third pivot pin and its rear end formed with a bearing surface slidiably and pivotally enagaging the second pivot pin; and a locking device for selectively maintaining the support at a desired vertical position relative to the mounting member, wherein such locking device includes a downwardly facing planar locking surface on the mounting member and an upwardly facing curved locking surface on the rear end of the lower link.

Abstract: A futon frame includes a pair of linear actuators mounted at opposing sides thereof for driving a folding seat and back of the frame to automatically and continuously adjust the seat and back between a sofa position and a bed position. The back is connected to opposing sides of the frame by upper and lower follower bearings arranged for travel within corresponding upper and lower guide channels in each opposing side of the frame. A motor controller is mounted to the underside of the seat for connecting a user interface to the linear actuator motors.

Abstract: A keyboard supporting mechanism employs a parallelogram linkage secured to a mounting member by a single pivot connection for supporting the whole of the linkage and a keyboard support for vertical swinging movement relative to a base, and a locking mechanism for retaining the keyboard support in a desired vertical position, which includes cooperating locking surfaces carried by the linkage and mounting member.