Patents by Inventor Larry D. Hjelter

Larry D. Hjelter 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: 5476617
    Abstract: A molding process and apparatus produces molded parts from cellulosic fibers. A dry process molds cellulosic fibers including the steps of mixing the cellulosic fibers and a binder to form a substantially homogeneous mixture; distributing the mixture to a desired pre-form, preferably having a non-uniform cross-section; and molding the pre-form, under a predetermined pressure and heat, to form a molded part having a substantially uniform density. A distribution assembly distributes the mixture to a desired pre-form by rotational and/or vibrational motion. The rotor on the upper surface of the telescoping portion of the distribution assembly cylindrically rotates to mechanically move the mixture in a desired pre-form shape. The rotor may be unevenly weighted such that as it rotates, the distribution assembly vibrates thereby mechanically distributing the mixture by causing it to settle in the cartridge in the desired pre-form shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Assignee: The Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin
    Inventors: Brent English, Charles G. Brey, Larry D. Hjelter, Ulo H. Vaher, Charles E. Yost