Patents by Inventor Terrie J. LaPalm

Terrie J. LaPalm 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).

  • Locator strip and method for positioning fabric covers on a foam cushion
    Patent number: 5669129
    Abstract: A locator strip (10) accurately positions upholstering trim covers (12,14) upon a seat cushion (16) in the manufacture of seats. The locator strip (10) includes a positioning portion (28) which extends longitudinally along substantially the entire length of the strip (10). In one embodiment, the positioning portion comprises a pair of beads (40) running longitudinally along substantially the entire length of the strip (10). The positioning portion (28) is adapted to locate a sewing thread (36) in a detachment zone (38) of the strip (10). The detachment zone (38) has a strength less than the remainder of the strip (10). When a pulling force is applied in a direction away from the insert portion (24), the strip (10) tears along the detachment zone (38). A method of covering a cushion member (16) with trim covers (12,14) is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: James M. Smith, Terrie J. LaPalm