Patents by Inventor Ellen O. Aeling
Ellen O. Aeling 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).
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Publication number: 20230063749Abstract: This disclosure describes a composition that includes a bulk diffuser that includes a film having a major surface; the film includes a polymer, and a scattering element. The scattering element includes a silicone bead having a mean particle diameter in a range of 2 micrometers (?m) to 9 ?m. The linear density of the film is at least 5.1 Wi*?m, wherein the linear density equals the product of the mass fraction of the silicone bead (Wi) and film thickness in micrometers (?m). This disclosure further describes methods of making the film and the bulk diffuser and methods of using the film including, for example, as a bulk diffuser in a sign box.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2020Publication date: March 2, 2023Inventors: Michael J. Sykora, Kui Chen-Ho, Guy M. Kallman, Ellen O. Aeling, Kaitlin R. Mohs, Patrick J. Yeshe
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Patent number: 10766223Abstract: A fabric with a laminated adhesive-backed protective layer. The adhesive-backed protective layer has a matte finish that is low gloss and may approximate the fabric itself.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2016Date of Patent: September 8, 2020Assignee: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANYInventors: Richard C. Allen, Ellen O. Aeling, William J. Bryan, Robert R. Condon, David J. Koch, John C. Schultz
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Publication number: 20190084269Abstract: A fabric with a laminated adhesive-backed protective layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 28, 2016Publication date: March 21, 2019Applicant: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANYInventors: Richard C. Allen, Ellen O. Aeling, William J. Bryan, Robert R. Condon, David J. Koch, John C. Schultz
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Patent number: 10228507Abstract: Disclosed herein is an optical device having a light source and a viscoelastic lightguide. Light from the light source enters the viscoelastic lightguide and is transported within the lightguide by total internal reflection. The viscoelastic lightguide may comprise a pressure sensitive adhesive. The optical device may be used in a variety of constructions wherein the device emits light being transported within the viscoelastic lightguide. Constructions include those used for signs, markings, illumination devices, display devices, keypad assemblies and tail light assemblies for vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2017Date of Patent: March 12, 2019Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Audrey A. Sherman, Michael A. Meis, Kevin R. Schaffer, Marie A. Boulos, Soemantri Widagdo, Thu-Van T. Tran, Ellen O. Aeling, Patrick J. Yeshe, Wendi J. Winkler
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Publication number: 20170254488Abstract: The present application is directed to an illumination device comprising a recycling cavity defined by recycling surfaces and a light emission surface; a light source within the cavity. A spectrum modifying layer is on a portion of the recycling surface, the spectrum modifying layer producing a spectral response different from the spectral response of the recycling surface. In some embodiments, the spectrum modifying layer shifts the spectral properties of the light being emitted from the light emission area from the spectral properties of the light source. In some embodiments, the spectrum modifying layer selectively absorbs a portion of light along the light source spectrum.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2016Publication date: September 7, 2017Inventors: Ellen O. Aeling, Michael A. Meis, John T. Simpson, Joseph A. Hoffman, Paul E. Humpal
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Publication number: 20170227702Abstract: Disclosed herein is an optical device having a light source and a viscoelastic lightguide. Light from the light source enters the viscoelastic lightguide and is transported within the lightguide by total internal reflection. The viscoelastic lightguide may comprise a pressure sensitive adhesive. The optical device may be used in a variety of constructions wherein the device emits light being transported within the viscoelastic lightguide. Constructions include those used for signs, markings, illumination devices, display devices, keypad assemblies and tail light assemblies for vehicles.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 21, 2017Publication date: August 10, 2017Inventors: Audrey A. Sherman, Michael A. Meis, Kevin R. Schaffer, Marie A. Boulos, Soemantri Widagdo, Thu-Van T. Tran, Ellen O. Aeling, Patrick J. Yeshe, Wendi J. Winkler
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Patent number: 9658391Abstract: Illumination device having a viscoelastic lightguide and a flexible light source is described. The flexible light source includes a plurality of electrically interconnected light emitting diodes disposed on a flexible mat and optically coupled to the viscoelastic lightguide.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2015Date of Patent: May 23, 2017Assignee: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANYInventors: Audrey A. Sherman, Ellen O. Aeling, Michael A. Meis, Kevin R. Schaffer
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Patent number: 9551475Abstract: Disclosed herein is an optical device having a light source, a viscoelastic lightguide and a retroreflective film suitable for retroreflecting light. Light from the light source enters the viscoelastic lightguide and is transported within the lightguide by total internal reflection. The transported light is extracted from the lightguide and retroreflected at a structured surface of the retroreflective film. The optical device may have a “front lit” or a “back lit” configuration depending on the relative positioning of the lightguide and the retroreflective film. The retroreflective film may include prismatic retroreflective sheeting, holographic film or film structured with diffraction gratings. The optical device may be used, for example, as a sign or marking, a license plate assembly, a tail light assembly for vehicles, a security laminate for protection of documents against tampering, or an illumination device.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2014Date of Patent: January 24, 2017Assignee: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANYInventors: Audrey A. Sherman, Marie A. Boulos, Kevin R. Schaffer, Michael A. Meis, Thu-Van T. Tran, Ellen O. Aeling, Soemantri Widagdo
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Patent number: 9404637Abstract: The present application is directed to an illumination device comprising a recycling cavity defined by recycling surfaces and a light emission surface; a light source within the cavity. A spectrum modifying layer is on a portion of the recycling surface, the spectrum modifying layer producing a spectral response different from the spectral response of the recycling surface. In some embodiments, the spectrum modifying layer shifts the spectral properties of the light being emitted from the light emission area from the spectral properties of the light source. In some embodiments, the spectrum modifying layer selectively absorbs a portion of light along the light source spectrum. In some embodiments, the spectrum modifying layer re-emits light at a wavelength longer than the wavelength it absorbed.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2012Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANYInventors: Ellen O. Aeling, Michael A. Meis, John T. Simpson, Joseph A. Hoffman, Paul E. Humpal
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Patent number: 9310551Abstract: Illumination device having a viscoelastic lightguide and a flexible light source is described. The flexible light source includes a plurality of electrically inter-connected light emitting diodes disposed on a flexible mat and optically coupled to the viscoelastic lightguide.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2011Date of Patent: April 12, 2016Assignee: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANYInventors: Audrey A. Sherman, Ellen O. Aeling, Michael A. Meis, Kevin R. Schaffer
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Patent number: 9303827Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to illumination devices, and methods for making the same. The device, in particular, includes a first conductor layer, a first insulator layer disposed on the first conductor layer and having at least one first aperture defined therein through the first insulator layer, a second conductor layer disposed on the first insulator layer and having at least one second aperture defined therein through the second conductor layer and positioned to align with the at least one first aperture, and a light manipulation layer disposed on the second conductor layer and having at least one pair of apertures defined therein through the light manipulation layer including a third aperture and a fourth aperture, where the third aperture is positioned to align with the at least one second and first apertures.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2014Date of Patent: April 5, 2016Assignee: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANYInventors: Ellen O. Aeling, John R. David, Michael A. Meis, Ronald S. Steelman
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Patent number: 9303829Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to illumination devices, and methods for making the same. The device, in particular, includes a first conductor layer, a first insulator layer disposed on the first conductor layer and having at least one first aperture defined therein through the first insulator layer, a second conductor layer disposed on the first insulator layer and having at least one second aperture defined therein through the second conductor layer and positioned to align with the at least one first aperture, and a light manipulation layer disposed on the second conductor layer and having at least one pair of apertures defined therein through the light manipulation layer including a third aperture and a fourth aperture, where the third aperture is positioned to align with the at least one second and first apertures.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2014Date of Patent: April 5, 2016Assignee: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANYInventors: Ellen O. Aeling, John R. David, Michael A. Meis, Ronald S. Steelman
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Publication number: 20150301274Abstract: Illumination device having a viscoelastic lightguide and a flexible light source is described. The flexible light source includes a plurality of electrically interconnected light emitting diodes disposed on a flexible mat and optically coupled to the viscoelastic lightguide.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2015Publication date: October 22, 2015Inventors: Audrey A. Sherman, Ellen O. Aeling, Michael A. Meis, Kevin R. Schaffer
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Publication number: 20140376224Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to illumination devices, and methods for making the same. The device, in particular, includes a first conductor layer, a first insulator layer disposed on the first conductor layer and having at least one first aperture defined therein through the first insulator layer, a second conductor layer disposed on the first insulator layer and having at least one second aperture defined therein through the second conductor layer and positioned to align with the at least one first aperture, and a light manipulation layer disposed on the second conductor layer and having at least one pair of apertures defined therein through the light manipulation layer including a third aperture and a fourth aperture, where the third aperture is positioned to align with the at least one second and first apertures.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2014Publication date: December 25, 2014Inventors: Ellen O. Aeling, John R. David, Michael A. Meis, Ronald S. Steelman
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Publication number: 20140334127Abstract: The present application is directed to an illumination device comprising a recycling cavity defined by recycling surfaces and a light emission surface; a light source within the cavity. A spectrum modifying layer is on a portion of the recycling surface, the spectrum modifying layer producing a spectral response different from the spectral response of the recycling surface. In some embodiments, the spectrum modifying layer shifts the spectral properties of the light being emitted from the light emission area from the spectral properties of the light source. In some embodiments, the spectrum modifying layer selectively absorbs a portion of light along the light source spectrum. In some embodiments, the spectrum modifying layer re-emits light at a wavelength longer than the wavelength it absorbed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2012Publication date: November 13, 2014Inventors: Ellen O. Aeling, Michael A. Meis, John T. Simpson, Joseph A. Hoffman, Paul E. Humpal
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Patent number: 8860296Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to illumination devices, and methods for making the same. The device, in particular, includes a first conductor layer, a first insulator layer disposed on the first conductor layer and having at least one first aperture defined therein through the first insulator layer, a second conductor layer disposed on the first insulator layer and having at least one second aperture defined therein through the second conductor layer and positioned to align with the at least one first aperture, and a light manipulation layer disposed on the second conductor layer and having at least one pair of apertures defined therein through the light manipulation layer including a third aperture and a fourth aperture, where the third aperture is positioned to align with the at least one second and first apertures.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2013Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Ellen O. Aeling, John R. David, Michael A. Meis, Ronald S. Steelman
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Publication number: 20140293602Abstract: The present disclosure is generally directed to illumination devices, and methods for making the same. The device, in particular, includes a first conductor layer, a first insulator layer disposed on the first conductor layer and having at least one first aperture defined therein through the first insulator layer, a second conductor layer disposed on the first insulator layer and having at least one second aperture defined therein through the second conductor layer and positioned to align with the at least one first aperture, and a light manipulation layer disposed on the second conductor layer and having at least one pair of apertures defined therein through the light manipulation layer including a third aperture and a fourth aperture, where the third aperture is positioned to align with the at least one second and first apertures.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2014Publication date: October 2, 2014Inventors: Ellen O. Aeling, John R. David, Michael A. Meis, Ronald S. Steelman
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Patent number: 8789299Abstract: An internally illuminated sign includes a case at least partially lined with highly reflective layer and a display surface. The sign also includes light sources that emit light in directions approximately parallel to the display surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2006Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Joseph A. Hoffman, Ellen O. Aeling, Michael A. Meis
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Publication number: 20140160764Abstract: Disclosed herein is an optical device having a light source, a viscoelastic lightguide and a retroreflective film suitable for retroreflecting light. Light from the light source enters the viscoelastic lightguide and is transported within the lightguide by total internal reflection. The transported light is extracted from the lightguide and retroreflected at a structured surface of the retroreflective film. The optical device may have a “front lit” or a “back lit” configuration depending on the relative positioning of the lightguide and the retroreflective film. The retroreflective film may include prismatic retroreflective sheeting, holographic film or film structured with diffraction gratings. The optical device may be used, for example, as a sign or marking, a license plate assembly, a tail light assembly for vehicles, a security laminate for protection of documents against tampering, or an illumination device.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2014Publication date: June 12, 2014Applicant: 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANYInventors: Audrey A. Sherman, Marie A. Boulos, Kevin R. Schaffer, Michael A. Meis, Thu-Van T. Tran, Ellen O. Aeling, Soemantri Widagdo
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Patent number: 8651720Abstract: Disclosed herein is an optical device having a light source, a viscoelastic lightguide and a retroreflective film suitable for retroreflecting light. Light from the light source enters the viscoelastic lightguide and is transported within the lightguide by total internal reflection. The transported light is extracted from the lightguide and retroreflected at a structured surface of the retroreflective film. The optical device may have a “front lit” or a “back lit” configuration depending on the relative positioning of the lightguide and the retroreflective film. The retroreflective film may include prismatic retroreflective sheeting, holographic film or film structured with diffraction gratings. The optical device may be used, for example, as a sign or marking, a license plate assembly, a tail light assembly for vehicles, a security laminate for protection of documents against tampering, or an illumination device.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2009Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Audrey A. Sherman, Marie A. Boulos, Kevin R. Schaffer, Michael A. Meis, Thu-Van T. Tran, Ellen O. Aeling, Soemantri Widagdo