Abstract: A monocoque furniture assembly and method of manufacture is provided that utilizes modular wood segments connected by interlocking mating joints that are self-registering for ease of assembly and elimination of the need for special assembly tools. The monocoque structure achieves structural integrity with much thinner sheet material. The system can further include a series of reinforcing struts, trusses, ribs and doublers where required that distribute loads as well as a labeling protocol identifying mating assembly points and orientation thereby eliminating the need for lengthy assembly instructions, special skill or training.

Abstract: A method for the manufacture of shaped frictional elements is provided. The method comprises mixing a first portion of a frictional filler with from 5% to 30% of certain liquid, alkaline, phenol-formaldehyde resins; mixing a second portion of the same or a different frictional filler with a liquid ester curing catalyst for the phenyl-formaldehyde resin; intimately mixing the first and second portions; and allowing the resultant mixture to cure in a mould. A composition comprising a frictional filler, the above resin, and a curing catalyst is also provided. The disclosed method is quick and economical and is carried out at room temperature without the hazards and inconveniences associated with heated moulds.