Patents by Inventor Michael Braungart

Michael Braungart 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).

  • Publication number: 20090212552
    Abstract: A method of processing a communication apparatus includes putting the communication apparatus into a distribution channel for distribution via one or more intermediaries to a user of the communication apparatus, the user of which can forward the communication apparatus to a desired recipient. The communication apparatus includes a substrate and a communication element coupled to the substrate and is constructed of one or more materials that are a bio-technical nutrient. The communication apparatus is received from a recipient directly or via one or more intermediaries. The communication apparatus is processed to prepare a second communication apparatus for distribution to another user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: William A. McDonough, Michael Braungart, Bernard J. David, Susan R. Lyons, Peter Walts
  • Publication number: 20060152341
    Abstract: A method of processing a communication apparatus includes putting the communication apparatus into a distribution channel for distribution via one or more intermediaries to a user of the communication apparatus, the user of which can forward the communication apparatus to a desired recipient. The communication apparatus includes a substrate and a communication element coupled to the substrate and is constructed of one or more materials that are a bio-technical nutrient. The communication apparatus is received from a recipient directly or via one or more intermediaries. The communication apparatus is processed to prepare a second communication apparatus for distribution to another user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2005
    Publication date: July 13, 2006
    Inventors: William McDonough, Michael Braungart, Bernard David, Susan Lyons, Peter Walts
  • Patent number: 6606823
    Abstract: The present invention is a modular roof covering made up of a plurality of interlocking modular trays having moisture or water absorbing component or medium in the tray to absorb moisture and allow it to evaporate or otherwise dissipate over time. The trays interlock with each other and are held down by weights or other ballast to secure the trays to the roof without having to create a physical connection between the trays and the roof structure. The modular roof covering can be made up of different types of tray assemblies, where some have vegetation growing in the tray, others have merely water absorption and dissipation capability, while others have photovoltaic cells for the collection and use of solar energy. The present invention provides a light weight, low cost roof covering system for extending the life of current roof structures, and to restore and protect the environment, moderate and aid in controlling building temperature, manage stormwater runoff and collect and utilize solar energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignees: Ford Motor Land Development Corporation, McDonough, Braungart Design Chemistry
    Inventors: William McDonough, Michael Braungart, Paul J. Clark
  • Patent number: 5958540
    Abstract: Mechanical fasteners having parallel barbs extending vertically from a horizontal planar member to secure layers of a floor covering. When interposed between floor covering layers the barbs penetrate and anchor into a floor covering material. When a consumer desires to separate the layers, and to replace or recycle one or all the layers of the floor covering, he can do so readily by pulling the layers apart, and then securing new layers together with the mechanical fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: Interface, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond A. Berard, Claude Edward Terry, Harold F. Adams, William A. McDonough, Michael Braungart
  • Patent number: 5822828
    Abstract: Mechanical fasteners having parallel barbs extending vertically from a horizontal planar member to secure layers of a floor covering. When interposed between floor covering layers the barbs penetrate and anchor into a floor covering material. When a consumer desires to separate the layers, and to replace or recycle one or all the layers of the floor covering, he can do so readily by pulling the layers apart, and then securing new layers together with the mechanical fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignees: Interface, Inc., McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Raymond A. Berard, Claude Edward Terry, Harold F. Adams, William A. McDonough, Michael Braungart