Ken Wiklund

Title: Ken Wiklund - Innovator in Drawer Mechanisms

Introduction

Ken Wiklund is a notable inventor based in Kelowna, CA. He has made significant contributions to the field of furniture design, particularly with his innovative drawer closing mechanism. His work exemplifies the intersection of functionality and design in everyday objects.

Latest Patents

Ken Wiklund holds a patent for a unique drawer closing mechanism. This mechanism includes a toothed rack fixed in position with respect to a furniture frame member, a toothed drive gear mounted to a drawer for engaging the teeth on the rack, and a spring with two ends. One end of the spring is fixedly attached to the drive gear and rotatable therewith, while the opposite end is fixed. As the drawer is pulled open, the teeth on the drive gear engage the teeth on the rack, causing the drive gear to rotate. This rotation winds the spring, storing potential energy in the tension therein. The spring can be a flat wire spring wound circumferentially about a central point in a spiral. This innovative design enhances the user experience by ensuring smooth and efficient drawer operation.

Career Highlights

Ken Wiklund is currently employed at Grass America Inc., where he continues to develop and refine his inventions. His work at the company has allowed him to focus on creating practical solutions that improve everyday furniture functionality.

Collaborations

Ken has collaborated with talented coworkers such as Todd Booker and Georg Domenig. Their combined expertise fosters a creative environment that encourages innovation and the development of new ideas.

Conclusion

Ken Wiklund's contributions to the field of furniture design, particularly through his patented drawer closing mechanism, showcase his dedication to innovation. His work not only enhances functionality but also improves the overall user experience in everyday furniture.