Abstract: A fastener element (7, 24, 30, 41, 50, 60) is adapted to be secured in a blind hole (12) formed in a first component (13) to be connected to a second component (14) generally provided with an aligned blind hole. The element is of generally cylindrical shape with an outer surface provided with a series of anchoring formations (10, 32, 43) following a generally helical path along at least a part of its length. The formations are configured to enable the element to be forcibly introduced, at least partially, without rotation thereof axially into a blind hole in said first component to anchor the element therein. The fastener element either has a shank permanently associated therewith (7) or one or more formations (34, 43, 45) for the operative retention of a cooperant end of a separate shank (36, 43). The shank has an engagement zone (9, 22, 23, 37, 42, 71) whereby rotation of the element can be effected about its axis to result in axial movement of the element relative to the hole to tighten a joint.

Abstract: A composite leg assembly for an article of furniture, in particular a desk or other work table, consists of a plurality, typically three, elongate, laterally spaced, structural members, conveniently of run-of-the-mill metal tubing, interconnected at each of the upper and lower ends by a terminal member. At least one, and usually a plurality of non-structural extrusions are supported by the structural members to define a facade which substantially envelopes and obscures the structural members to form an apparently robust and substantial leg assembly. Various additional features and furniture applications are also described.

Abstract: A cluster desk assembly is provided in which a desk top which is symmetrical about a center point is provided with a plurality of extension tops radiating outwardly to provide a plurality of work stations. The work stations are separated from each other by screen panels which also radiate outwardly from the center point to provide work stations, each of which includes a part of the desk top itself and at least part of one or more extension tops. The desk top may be either circular in peripheral shape or polygonal.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided in which a support table and clamp arrangement serve to hold a panel in position while a surfacing sheet already applied to the major face of such panel, is applied around radiused edges of the panel. The apparatus includes a turntable to support a panel in raised position relative to the support table when the turntable is being rotated to enable successive edges of the panel to be presented to the apparatus without removing a panel from the turntable. The turntable can be located on a carrier movable laterally towards and away from the clamping arrangement.

Abstract: Apparatus for applying a surfacing sheet such as a plastic sheet, veneer or the like to an optionally radiused edge of a panel, or to a column or the like, in which an applicator bar which is, optionally heated and is preferably flat, is urged against the surfacing sheet to press it onto the surface of the panel column or the like. Means are provided for ensuring that lateral movement of the applicator bar takes place relative to the panel or column to stretch and smooth the surfacing sheet onto the surface of the panel or column. The applicator bar is preferably carried on an arm arrangement held between two spaced rotatable end supports and the biasing is carried out by a number of spaced pneumatic or hydraulic piston and cylinder assemblies acting transverse to the arm arrangement. The biasing means is preferably carried on a frame member carried by the rotatable end supports.

Abstract: Apparatus for applying a surfacing sheet such as a plastic sheet, veneer or the like to an optionally radiused edge of a panel, or to a column or the like held by a support arrangement, and, in which an applicator bar which is, optionally heated and is preferably flat, is urged against the surfacing sheet to press it onto the surface of the panel column or the like. Means are provided for ensuring that lateral movement of the applicator bar takes place relative to the panel or column to stretch and smooth the surfacing sheet onto the surface of the panel or column. The applicator bar is preferably carried on an arm arrangement held between two spaced rotatable end supports and the biasing is carried out by a number of spaced pneumatic or hydraulic piston and cylinder assemblies acting transverse to the arm arrangement. The biasing means is preferably carried on a frame member carried by the rotatable end supports.