Patents Assigned to 3-Form
  • Patent number: 8262383
    Abstract: A twisted resin panel of typically several feet in length can be twisted after being subject to heat, pressure, and a rotation assembly. In one implementation, a manufacturer can clamp opposing ends of a heated resin panel, such as a panel comprising a one or more layers (e.g., tie/EVA layer, image layer(s), etc.) thermoformed within opposing resin sheet layers. The manufacturer can then elevate the resin panel, and then twist at least one end of the resin panel to a specified degree to achieve a desired aesthetic. Upper securing means (e.g., vertical clamps, rig hardware) at the upper end of the resin panel can be configured to move up or down during the twist of the resin panel in order to accommodate length variations thereof. Upon twisting, the resin panel will then cool into the desired position, and thus be used for any number of decorative architectural purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan Harris, Kevin Fisher, Jeremy Porter, Venugopal R. Ghatikar, Guillaume Martin
  • Publication number: 20120225265
    Abstract: Implementations of the present invention relate to a translucent and/or transparent polymer-based panel system that incorporates multi-colored insert layers that enable manipulation of color, transparency or light transmission of the finished panel system. Implementations of the present invention also relate to the construction of such panels to avoid the capture and retention of air within the panels through the use of textured surfaces at the lamination interfaces. In addition, implementations of the present invention provide a method of quantifying the optical response achieved in a given panel system and describes types of construction that enable the multiplicity of color and optic manipulation. Furthermore, implementations of the present invention provide methods for applying texture in an efficient, uniform manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: 3FORM, INC.
    Inventor: John E.C. Willham
  • Patent number: 8256488
    Abstract: A semi-private partition or covering includes a collapsible structure having a plurality of uniform perforations formed therein. The plurality of uniform perforations can be configured in size, shape, and dimension to provide not only aesthetic but functional differences from one partition to the next. A manufacturer can make a partition by forming a collapsible structure, such as by bonding a plurality of elongate cells along a plurality of different horizontal seams. The manufacturer can then position a plurality of cutout apparatus about the structure and apply the cutout apparatus to create hollow perforations passing through the entire depth of the collapsible structure (e.g., when expanded). The partition can be mounted to a top or side support structure for any combination of vertical or horizontal expansion/contraction of the partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventors: Kay Ruggles, Kirby V. Rea
  • Patent number: 8241714
    Abstract: A decorative architectural glass panel comprises a two or more glass sheets separated by a resin in which one or more decorative objects are suspended. A method of making the glass panel comprises positioning one or more spacers and one or more decorative objects on a first glass sheet, placing a second glass sheet about the first glass sheet, sealing the edges of the first glass sheet and second glass sheet, and filling the space between the first and second glass sheets with a curable liquid resin. The resin can be poured using a substantially horizontal pour in order to keep the decorative objects from substantially shifting when pouring the liquid resin. The resin can also be poured in combination with a vacuum force. In some implementations, the glass panel may also be substituted with a resin panel using polymeric resin sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric M. Adickes
  • Publication number: 20120193502
    Abstract: A variable angle panel mounting system can include at least one variable-angle panel mounting member, which in turn includes an elongate support member and an angularly-adjustable mounting plate adapted to secure an end of the elongate support member to a plurality of mounting surface angles. In some embodiments, the variable angle panel mounting system may also include a pressure-fit mounting system. These components can provide the ability to angularly and vertically adjust the variable-angle panel mounting member between opposing support surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: 3FORM, INC.
    Inventors: William Gatti, Michael Damen, Venugopal R. Ghatikar, Guillaume Martin
  • Publication number: 20120196085
    Abstract: Implementations of the present invention relate generally to methods, systems, and apparatus for manufacturing aesthetically pleasing, resin-based sheets including color and/or multi-decorated images. In particular, at least one implementation includes subjecting at least one surface of a polymer sheet to uniform heat and pressure in order to sublimate a dye into the surface, and ensure that that polymer sheet is not warped or otherwise damaged during processing. Additional implementations include decorative architectural resin panels including a resin sheet having a dye sublimated into one or more surfaces in order to create an effect of depth or other aesthetic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: 3FORM, INC.
    Inventors: Wendy E.K. Langan, John E.C. Willham, Brent M. Burningham
  • Publication number: 20120193028
    Abstract: Implementations of the present invention relate to a translucent and/or transparent polymer-based panel system that incorporates multi-colored insert layers that enable manipulation of color, transparency or light transmission of the finished panel system. Implementations of the present invention also relate to the construction of such panels to avoid the capture and retention of air within the panels through the use of textured surfaces at the lamination interfaces. In addition, implementations of the present invention provide a method of quantifying the optical response achieved in a given panel system and describes types of construction that enable the multiplicity of color and optic manipulation. Furthermore, implementations of the present invention provide methods for applying texture in an efficient, uniform manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: 3FORM, INC.
    Inventor: John E. C. Willham
  • Publication number: 20120181402
    Abstract: Adjustable bushing assemblies for mounting panels to a support surface include an upper bushing and a lower bushing. The upper bushing is configured to be secured to the lower bushing and prevent over tightening of a fastener secured through the upper and lower bushings. In addition, systems of at least one implementation of the present invention include a plurality of panels mounted to one or more support surfaces using one or more adjustable bushing assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: 3FORM, INC.
    Inventors: Danielle M. Putz, William Gatti, Brian Hillstrom, Bryan K. Harris
  • Patent number: 8220215
    Abstract: Systems, apparatuses, and methods configured for installing a decorative feature having a wave-like appearance. For example, a system for installing the decorative feature can include one or more mounts configured to attach to a support structure and support one or more decorative panels. The system can also include a plurality of decorative panels configured to be disposed within or supported by the mounts. Each decorative panel can have a concave or convex configuration to produce a wave-like appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventors: Allan R. Ismay, Richard C. Perrior
  • Patent number: 8182903
    Abstract: Implementations of the present invention relate to a translucent and/or transparent polymer-based panel system that incorporates multi-colored insert layers that enable manipulation of color, transparency or light transmission of the finished panel system. Implementations of the present invention also relate to the construction of such panels to avoid the capture and retention of air within the panels through the use of textured surfaces at the lamination interfaces. In addition, implementations of the present invention provide a method of quantifying the optical response achieved in a given panel system and describes types of construction that enable the multiplicity of color and optic manipulation. Furthermore, implementations of the present invention provide methods for applying texture in an efficient, uniform manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventor: John E. C. Willham
  • Publication number: 20120117896
    Abstract: A method of making a photovoltaic panel includes previously preparing one or more pre-formed substrates with a first temperature and pressure to be non-planar, textured, embossed, colored, or combinations thereof. A manufacturer can then prepare a laminate assembly comprising one or more organic photovoltaic components one or more pre-formed substrates, and a barrier layer with one or more thermally-activated thermoplastic tie layers there between. The manufacturer can then finish the photovoltaic panel lamination by subjecting the assembly to a second set of temperatures and pressures sufficient to activate and bond the pre-formed substrate, barrier layer, and photovoltaic components without significantly softening the pre-formed substrates or otherwise degrading/damaging the organic photovoltaic components. A non-planar panel made by this method can be used in both exterior and interior decorative and/or structural applications where electrical generation is desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicant: 3FORM, INC.
    Inventors: John E.C. Willham, M. Hoyt Brewster
  • Publication number: 20120112034
    Abstract: In general, implementations of the present invention include devices, systems, and components for mounting and/or displaying panels and panel structures with one or more post modules. The post modules, according to the present invention, can include a post, which can secure one or more panels, and covers that can conceal the post from view. Additionally, the post modules can have hollow channels between the covers and the post, which can house wires, cords, lighting elements, and other components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2012
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: 3FORM, INC.
    Inventors: Bryan K. Harris, Brian Hillstrom, Guillaume Martin, Michael Damen
  • Publication number: 20120110788
    Abstract: A front-loadable track mounting system can include a track and mounting nut. The mounting nut and track can include corresponding features that allow a user to insert the mounting nut into a front opening in the track, and selectively lock the mounting nut in a desired position along the track. For example, the track can include opposing rails extending into the front opening of the track. The mounting nut can include that one or more ribs configured to rotate against the opposing rails of the track, and thereby, rotatably lock the mounting nut relative to the track.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2010
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: 3FORM, INC.
    Inventor: Su-Wen Chen
  • Patent number: D659885
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventor: Ahna C. Holder
  • Patent number: D659887
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventor: Ahna C. Holder
  • Patent number: D665120
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: 3Form, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Damen, Guillaume Martin
  • Patent number: D665121
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventor: Ryan Grey Smith
  • Patent number: D665523
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventor: Ahna C. Holder
  • Patent number: D665525
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: 3Form, Inc.
    Inventor: Caleb L. Patterson
  • Patent number: D666757
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: 3form, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin L. Fisher, Jill A. Canales