Patents by Inventor Brian C. Fredricks

Brian C. Fredricks has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Wall proximity reclining chair with in-line linkage mechanism
    Patent number: 7585018
    Abstract: A furniture member actuation mechanism includes first and second side plates with polymeric inserts each having an elongated slot each receiving a first or second pin. First and second seat back support elements are provided, the first element rotatably coupled to the first side plate and rotatably linked to the first pin and the second element rotatably coupled to the second side plate and rotatably linked to the second pin. First and second leg rest support arms are each connected by a pantograph linkage set to a drive rod disposed through the side plates. A rearward force applied by an occupant to the support elements rotates them rearward with the first and second pins sliding within the elongated slots. An occupant's weight when the rearward force is removed returns the support elements to a pre-rotation position. A cam adjusts a weight a leg rest can hold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: La-Z-Boy Incorporated
    Inventors: Larry P. LaPointe, Richard E. Marshall, Brian C. Fredricks, David Collins, Richard D. Hartford, Gerald G. Stotz, Michael Gaines