Patents by Inventor Darnell C. Worley

Darnell C. Worley 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).

  • Patent number: 11608590
    Abstract: Compositions especially suitable for forming fibers and films having good elasticity and relatively high modulus are disclosed. Surprisingly, compositions including a styrenic block copolymer having a relatively high melt flow rate, and a detackifier, and optionally, but preferably in some embodiments a polyolefin (co)polymer, and/or polystyrene polymer, and/or a softener have good draw down performance and are processable into fibers having low tack, relatively high modulus and tensile strength. The fibers produced from the composition can be processed easily and are useful to manufacture articles such as fabrics, both woven and non-woven, webs, threads, and yarns. In various embodiments, unique fiber structures are produced having low tack and desirable elasticity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Assignee: TEKNOR APEX COMPANY
    Inventors: Kushal Bahl, Darnell C. Worley, II, Chris LaTulippe
  • Patent number: 9863565
    Abstract: An expandable hose assembly that is able to expand one or more of longitudinally along the length-wise axis of the hose between hose ends and radially, to an expanded state in response to application of at least a minimum fluid pressure to an inner tube of the hose. Once the fluid pressure falls below the minimum fluid pressure, the hose will contract. The hose includes a thermoplastic elastomer inner layer and a slip coating layer thereon having lubricating properties that increases the life of the hose assembly. The hose assembly can include an outer sheath or covering that covers the inner tube and slip coating layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: TEKNOR APEX COMPANY
    Inventors: Chris LaTulippe, Kevin Cai, Ron Eilertson, Timothy L. Chapman, Steve Correa, Michael Melo, Paul Burke, Darnell C. Worley, II
  • Publication number: 20170241072
    Abstract: Compositions especially suitable for forming fibers and films having good elasticity and relatively high modulus are disclosed. Surprisingly, compositions including a styrenic block copolymer having a relatively high melt flow rate, and a detackifier, and optionally, but preferably in some embodiments a polyolefin (co)polymer, and/or polystyrene polymer, and/or a softener have good draw down performance and are processable into fibers having low tack, relatively high modulus and tensile strength. The fibers produced from the composition can be processed easily and are useful to manufacture articles such as fabrics, both woven and non-woven, webs, threads, and yarns. In various embodiments, unique fiber structures are produced having low tack and desirable elasticity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2017
    Publication date: August 24, 2017
    Inventors: Kushal Bahl, Darnell C. Worley, II, Chris LaTulippe
  • Patent number: 9573347
    Abstract: Thermoplastic elastomer compositions having a desirable soft touch feel to skin, and in particular grip, especially during wet, soapy and humid conditions. In one embodiment, the composition is part of a composite system, wherein the composition is connected, for example molded, overmolded or co-extruded to a substrate, such as a thermoplastic, glass or metal. The compositions and composites are suitable for use wherever desirable feel and grip are needed, such as handles or grips of household or industrial items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: TEKNOR APEX COMPANY
    Inventors: Kevin G. Cai, Darnell C. Worley, II, Gregory J. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20160146379
    Abstract: An expandable hose assembly that is able to expand one or more of longitudinally along the length-wise axis of the hose between hose ends and radially, to an expanded state in response to application of at least a minimum fluid pressure to an inner tube of the hose. Once the fluid pressure falls below the minimum fluid pressure, the hose will contract. The hose includes a thermoplastic elastomer inner layer and a slip coating layer thereon having lubricating properties that increases the life of the hose assembly. The hose assembly can include an outer sheath or covering that covers the inner tube and slip coating layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2015
    Publication date: May 26, 2016
    Inventors: Chris LaTulippe, Kevin Cai, Ron Eilertson, Timothy L. Chapman, Steve Correa, Michael Melo, Paul Burke, Darnell C. Worley, II
  • Patent number: 9345853
    Abstract: A tube assembly including a flexible tube joined to a connector with the tube having an insert liner located therein at least in an area of a distal end of the connector that provides improved retention force between the tube and connector. Methods for preparing the tube assembly are disclosed and include the use of adhesives or solvent for bonding the tube to the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: TEKNOR APEX COMPANY
    Inventors: Kevin G. Cai, Darnell C. Worley, II
  • Patent number: 8871864
    Abstract: An adhesive system including a cyanoacrylate adhesive composition having a polymerization retarder that slows the polymerization rate of the cyanoacrylate, increases the lubricity to achieve proper assembly and aids in achieving desirable bonding properties of the adhesive; and a phosphorous-based primer that assists in preparing the components to be bonded. Methods of connecting dissimilar materials, preferably those used in medical applications, utilizing the adhesive system and the resulting adhered assemblies are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Teknor Apex Company
    Inventors: Kevin G. Cai, Darnell C. Worley, II
  • Patent number: 8871317
    Abstract: An adhesive system including a synergistic combination of a light curable silicone-containing adhesive composition and an amine-containing primer composition that provides desirable bond strength between two articles preferably one of the articles including a polyolefin or polyolefin-based thermoplastic elastomer. Methods of connecting articles, preferably those utilized in fluid transfer applications, utilizing the adhesive system and the resulting adhered assemblies are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Teknor Apex Company
    Inventors: Kevin G. Cai, Darnell C. Worley, II
  • Publication number: 20120150150
    Abstract: A tube assembly including a flexible tube joined to a connector with the tube having an insert liner located therein at least in an area of a distal end of the connector that provides improved retention force between the tube and connector. Methods for preparing the tube assembly are disclosed and include the use of adhesives or solvent for bonding the tube to the connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: Teknor Apex Company
    Inventors: Kevin G. Cai, Darnell C. Worley, II
  • Publication number: 20120064274
    Abstract: An adhesive system including a synergistic combination of a light curable silicone-containing adhesive composition and an amine-containing primer composition that provides desirable bond strength between two articles preferably one of the articles including a polyolefin or polyolefin-based thermoplastic elastomer. Methods of connecting articles, preferably those utilized in fluid transfer applications, utilizing the adhesive system and the resulting adhered assemblies are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: Teknor Apex Company
    Inventors: Kevin G. Cai, Darnell C. Worley, II
  • Publication number: 20120064356
    Abstract: An adhesive system including a cyanoacrylate adhesive composition having a polymerization retarder that slows the polymerization rate of the cyanoacrylate, increases the lubricity to achieve proper assembly and aids in achieving desirable bonding properties of the adhesive; and a phosphorous-based primer that assists in preparing the components to be bonded. Methods of connecting dissimilar materials, preferably those used in medical applications, utilizing the adhesive system and the resulting adhered assemblies are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: Teknor Apex Company
    Inventors: Kevin G. Cai, Darnell C. Worley, II
  • Patent number: 8034875
    Abstract: Compositions including a thermoplastic elastomer or thermoplastic vulcanizate derived from a styrenic block copolymer having a reactive or crosslinkable hard block including aromatic vinyl repeat units and also preferably a crosslinkable soft block, and a non-olefin thermoplastic polymer or copolymer and preferably a compatibilizer such as the reaction product of a non-olefin thermoplastic polymer and a functionalized polymer such as a maleic anhydride functionalized styrenic block copolymer that is compatible with the styrenic block copolymer having a reactive or crosslinkable hard block, and optionally a linking compound. The vulcanizates are prepared by crosslinking the styrenic block copolymer in the presence of the non-olefin thermoplastic polymer and a suitable crosslinking agent, and optionally the compatibilizer, preferably utilizing dynamic vulcanization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Teknor Apex Company
    Inventors: Darnell C. Worley, II, Elliot ByungHwa Lee, Raman Patel, Jushik Yun
  • Publication number: 20110143112
    Abstract: Thermoplastic elastomer compositions having a desirable soft touch feel to skin, and in particular grip, especially during wet, soapy and humid conditions. In one embodiment, the composition is part of a composite system, wherein the composition is connected, for example molded, overmolded or co-extruded to a substrate, such as a thermoplastic, glass or metal. The compositions and composites are suitable for use wherever desirable feel and grip are needed, such as handles or grips of household or industrial items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: Teknor Apex Company
    Inventors: Kevin G. Cai, Darnell C. Worley, II, Gregory J. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20110040047
    Abstract: Compositions including a thermoplastic elastomer or thermoplastic vulcanizate derived from a styrenic block copolymer having a reactive or crosslinkable hard block including aromatic vinyl repeat units and also preferably a crosslinkable soft block, and a non-olefin thermoplastic polymer or copolymer and preferably a compatibilizer such as the reaction product of a non-olefin thermoplastic polymer and a functionalized polymer such as a maleic anhydride functionalized styrenic block copolymer that is compatible with the styrenic block copolymer having a reactive or crosslinkable hard block, and optionally a linking compound. The vulcanizates are prepared by crosslinking the styrenic block copolymer in the presence of the non-olefin thermoplastic polymer and a suitable crosslinking agent, and optionally the compatibilizer, preferably utilizing dynamic vulcanization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicant: Teknor Apex Company
    Inventors: Darnell C. Worley, II, Elliot ByungHwa Lee, Raman Patel, Jushik Yun
  • Patent number: 7884150
    Abstract: Flame retardant polymeric blend compositions including a synergistic combination of flame retardants, including a halogenated flame retardant and a nanoparticulate, such as an organically modified clay or a natural nanoclay. The compositions are thermoplastic elastomers, include a polyolefin and a styrenic block copolymer, and exhibit high char formation upon burning as well as desirable vertical burn characteristics. In a preferred embodiment, the flame retardants include at least a halogenated flame retardant and a metal oxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Teknor Apex Company
    Inventors: Biing-Lin Lee, Darnell C. Worley, II
  • Patent number: 7847024
    Abstract: Compositions including a thermoplastic elastomer or thermoplastic vulcanizate derived from a styrenic block copolymer having a reactive or crosslinkable hard block including aromatic vinyl repeat units and also preferably a crosslinkable soft block, and a non-olefin thermoplastic polymer or copolymer and preferably a compatibilizer such as the reaction product of a non-olefin thermoplastic polymer and a functionalized polymer such as a maleic anhydride functionalized styrenic block copolymer that is compatible with the styrenic block copolymer having a reactive or crosslinkable hard block, and optionally a linking compound. The vulcanizates are prepared by crosslinking the styrenic block copolymer in the presence of the non-olefin thermoplastic polymer and a suitable crosslinking agent, and optionally the compatibilizer, preferably utilizing dynamic vulcanization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Teknor Apex Company
    Inventors: Darnell C. Worley, II, Elliot ByungHwa Lee, Raman Patel, Jushik Yun
  • Publication number: 20090048382
    Abstract: Flame retardant polymeric blend compositions including a synergistic combination of flame retardants, including a halogenated flame retardant and a nanoparticulate, such as an organically modified clay or a natural nanoclay. The compositions are thermoplastic elastomers, include a polyolefin and a styrenic block copolymer, and exhibit high char formation upon burning as well as desirable vertical burn characteristics. In a preferred embodiment, the flame retardants include at least a halogenated flame retardant and a metal oxide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventors: Biing-Lin Lee, Darnell C. Worley, II
  • Publication number: 20080207832
    Abstract: Compositions including a thermoplastic elastomer or thermoplastic vulcanizate derived from a styrenic block copolymer having a reactive or crosslinkable hard block including aromatic vinyl repeat units and also preferably a crosslinkable soft block, and a non-olefin thermoplastic polymer or copolymer and preferably a compatibilizer such as the reaction product of a non-olefin thermoplastic polymer and a functionalized polymer such as a maleic anhydride functionalized styrenic block copolymer that is compatible with the styrenic block copolymer having a reactive or crosslinkable hard block, and optionally a linking compound. The vulcanizates are prepared by crosslinking the styrenic block copolymer in the presence of the non-olefin thermoplastic polymer and a suitable crosslinking agent, and optionally the compatibilizer, preferably utilizing dynamic vulcanization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventors: Darnell C. Worley, Elliot ByungHwa Lee, Raman Patel, Jushik Yun
  • Patent number: 6723443
    Abstract: This invention relates to blends of nylon homopolymers and copolymers with poly(hydroxyamino ether) polymers. More particularly, there are provided blends of nylon 6 and its copolymers with poly(hydroxyamino ether) which form films having high miscibility, high clarity and good processability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Mingliang L. Tsai, Murali K. Akkapeddi, Clark V. Brown, Darnell C. Worley, II
  • Patent number: 6656993
    Abstract: Oxygen scavenging barrier polyamide compositions exhibiting high oxygen scavenging capability as well as good coinjection stretch blow moldability characteristics suitable for making multilayer PET bottles with good clarity and delamination resistance are claimed in this invention. The polyamide compositions of this invention comprise a slow crystallizing polyamide blend comprising (i) an amorphous, semiaromatic polyamide homopolymer, copolymer or mixture thereof and (ii) a semicrystalline, aliphatic polyamide homopolymer, copolymer or mixture thereof wherein in the weight ratio of (i):(ii) ranges from about 99:1 to about 30:70; at least one polyamide-compatible, oxidizable polydiene; and at least one oxidation promoting metal salt catalyst. The multilayer PET bottles, made with the polyamide compositions of this invention as the barrier layer, are suitable for extended shelf-life packaging of oxygen-sensitive food and beverage products such as beer and juices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Murali K. Akkapeddi, Edward P. Socci, Timothy J. Kraft, Darnell C. Worley, II, Jeffrey D. Pratt, Clark V. Brown