Abstract: First and second joint members are connected to one another. A reinforcing member that has an outer surface that defines a plurality of cavities is located in at least one of the joint members. Foam is located in the joint members and engages the reinforcing member and is located in the cavities of the reinforcing member.

Abstract: A joint assembly that includes first and second joint members is provided. The joint assembly includes a reinforcing member that has an outer surface that defines a plurality of cavities. Foam is located in the joint members and engages the reinforcing member such that the foam is located in the cavities of the reinforcing member. Additionally or alternatively, the joint assembly may be constructed so that the inner surface of the first joint member defines a plurality of cavities. Foam is located in the joint members and engages the inner surface of the first joint member so that it is located in the cavities of the first joint member. Various methods of manufacturing and treating the joint assembly are also provided.

Abstract: A handrail assembly is provided which may be attached to a wall or stairwell using conventional mounting hardware. The handrail consists of a substantially flat panel having a series of grooves on opposite sides of an upper edge and a lower edge of the panel. Within the respective oppositely spaced grooves, a thermoplastic extruded slit tube is inserted into the grooves providing a curved gripping portion of a handrail. The substantially flat panel has exterior surfaces of a thermoplastic polymer, thereby providing a handrail assembly having outer surfaces of a damage resistant, easily repair, long wearing polymer.

Abstract: A printed film laminate is provided. The printed film laminate includes a top layer that is made of a thermoformable polymer. An ink layer and a film layer and also present. The ink layer is located between the top layer and the film layer. The ink is protected by the top layer and the film layer. The top layer, ink layer and film layer are attached to one another for subsequent application to a base layer.

Abstract: A process and resulting thermoplastic article is provided suitable for use in constructing furniture. The thermoplastic article contains hardened particulates such as powders of alumina oxide which brings about an improved cut and scratch resistance to the surface of the articles. The hardened particulates may be integrally mixed with the extruded product or applied post-molding to a surface of the shaped article.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for fabrication of foam laminates suitable for use in the construction of furniture and case goods are provided. The panel has an upper surface formed from a thermoplastic sheet of material such as PVC. A cavity formed by the interior surfaces of the sheet have suspended therein attachment or mounting hardware which is subsequently encapsulated by an in situ structural foaming step.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for fabrication of foam laminates suitable for use in the construction of furniture and case goods are provided. The panel has an upper surface formed from a thermoplastic sheet of material such as PVC. A cavity formed by the interior surfaces of the sheet have suspended therein attachment or mounting hardware which is subsequently encapsulated by an in situ structural foaming step. The resulting laminated panel is useful as a table top, shelving, and as a structural component in a variety of case goods and furniture.