Patents by Inventor Melinda K. Kovach

Melinda K. Kovach 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).

  • Normally latched MEMS engagement mechanism
    Publication number: 20040022479
    Abstract: A normally latched MEMS device and a method of making a normally latched MEMS device. The MEMS device includes a first discrete MEMS structure with an operational surface having an outer boundary. A second discrete MEMS structure in a neutral position includes an operational surface engaged with the first discrete MEMS structure. An actuator is provided to displace the second discrete MEMS structure from the engaged position to a disengaged position outside of the outer boundary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: Michael E. Hamerly, Melinda K. Kovach
  • Imaging unit container having shiftable walls
    Patent number: 5660384
    Abstract: A container and a method of using the container for storing sheets of material, such as photosensitive materials, enables individual sheets to be transported from the container to an imaging unit by a feed mechanism of the imaging unit. The container fits within the imaging unit to provide a light-tight environment for the photosensitive material. The container includes shiftable walls, including a front ramp which can have a serrated surface to separate sheets. The container also includes a clamping components to allow for the removal of a light-tight bag which encloses the sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Melinda K. Kovach, Gerald L. Metcalf, Stuart J. Wyman, Kenneth J. Hagen, Norman Herauf