Abstract: A method of fabricating a decorative wood article includes the steps of applying a decorative overlay onto at least one surface of a wood article, applying a radiation curable powder coating onto the outer surface of the overlay, heating the applied radiation curable powder coating at a temperature sufficient to melt and flow the powder coating, and exposing the applied powder coating to radiation energy to cure the powder coating and form a film on the outer surface of the decorative overlay.

Abstract: A media storage system and method for use in a cabinet in which a rail member is mounted to at least one of the walls of the cabinet. A side panel is pivotally connected to the rail member for pivotal movement relative thereto, and one or more additional panels are connected to the side panel one to form a storage area. The side panel can be pivoted relative to the rail member between a first position in which the storage area is closed and a second position in which the storage area is open.

Abstract: A vacuum pod system for supporting a workpiece. A work table is provided with a shouldered opening formed therein in communication with a vacuum source. A pod is provided having a first longitudinal portion of a first outside diameter which seats on the shoulder in the opening, and a second longitudinal portion for supporting the workpiece, the second portion having a second outside diameter unequal to the first diameter. A passageway extends through the pod for providing communication between the first and second portions so that when the workpiece is supported on the second portion, a vacuum generated by the vacuum source creates a suction force which secures the workpiece to the pod.

Abstract: A system and method for measuring the mar resistance of a material test specimen includes a frame, a platform positioned on the frame, and a bar slidably mounted on the frame for vertical movement above the platform. The bar defines a lower end configured for holding a contact block at a predetermined angle relative to the platform, and an upper end configured for receiving and holding a mass of material. The test specimen is positioned on the platform, and the bar is moved downwardly toward the surface of the test specimen until the contact block comes to rest on the surface of the specimen. The specimen is then moved across the platform, the surface of the specimen is examined for mars, and the mar resistance is determined for the predetermined angle as the maximum amount of force, or pressure, which may be applied through the contact block to the surface of the specimen without marring the surface thereof.

Abstract: A system and method for attaching upholstery to an article of furniture. The article of furniture includes a shell, such as a seat shell or a back shell, having an inner and outer surface. A molded lip extends longitudinally around the outer perimeter of the shell and a tongue extends laterally from the inner surface of the shell, just inside the molded lip. A first fastener strip, such as a hook fastener, is applied to the tongue so that it is facing the outer perimeter of the shell. A second fastener strip, such as a loop fastener, is attached to an outer hem of the upholstery. As a result, the first and second fastener strips can engage, thereby attaching the upholstery to the article of furniture. In addition, a cushion may be secured between the shell and the upholstery when the first and second fastener strips are engaged.

Abstract: A system that allows for easy assembly of ready-to-assemble ("RTA") furniture without using any tools or other supplemental hardware is disclosed. A drawer slide support is provided with substantially cylindrically shaped, ribbed bushings connected to the support. The support includes a sliding portion mounted to a first member of a piece of furniture, such as a drawer or shelf. A second member of furniture, such as an upright panel, is provided with openings into which the bushings may be easily press-fitted, but not easily removed. The support may thus be attached with the bushings to the second member of furniture so that the first and second members of furniture are assembled together without using tools, supplemental hardware, or excessive force.