Patents Examined by Jean M. LaKemper
  • Patent number: 4558553
    Abstract: The exposed edge of a planar surface of an article of furniture, such as a desk or tabletop, is trimmed with an elastomeric edge molding. Two projections or flanges extend longitudinally along the inner surface of the molding. One projection, a centrally located mounting flange, is inserted into a longitudinal groove cut into the furniture top edge. The molding is securely attached to the furniture top by inserting the mounting flange into the longitudinal groove. The other projection, a locator rib, is located near the edge of the molding which must be flush with the furniture top surface, between that edge and the mounting flange. The locator rib is inserted into a longitudinal groove cut into the furniture top edge. Positioning the locator rib near the molding edge reduces the dimensional tolerances which are inherent in extruded elastomeric moldings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1985
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen B. Kolk
  • Patent number: 4527364
    Abstract: Corner assembly of a first and a second structural member disposed at an angle. Each member has an inner open ended chamber formed by spaced inner and outer webs of the members. A corner connector member has a first and a second leg snugly fitting into one of the chambers. The inner web of the first structural member has a pair of openings and the first leg has likewise a pair of openings which are in registry with the first openings transversely of the first leg. A pair of securing projections, solid with the inner web of the second structural member is formed with a pair of third openings. The securing projections extend through the first and second openings. The first leg has a fourth opening which extends lengthwise and in registry with the third opening. Locking bolts pass successively through the third openings and through the fourth openings, the latter being tapped so that the locking bolt threads therewith to secure the structural members and the connector member together to form the corner assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1985
    Inventor: Heinz G. Baus
  • Patent number: 4517778
    Abstract: An earthquake-proof structure is supported on a foundation comprising a plurality of spaced supports, each including a holder having spherical support members mounted thereon to support the structure. The members are preferably mounted in a cage and guide means are provided for reciprocally mounting the holder to guide vertical movements thereof. In addition, a cushioning system is preferably provided on the holder to resiliently cushion and restrain horizontal movements of the rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1985
    Inventor: Charles M. Nicolai