Patents by Inventor Rebecca J. Kuepper

Rebecca J. Kuepper 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: 6921570
    Abstract: The present invention provides a pattern-unbonded material that has at least two distinct regions. One region has different bond pattern than another region. The different bond pattern provides different, specific functionality or characteristics to the material. In an embodiment, the one region provides an optimal mechanical fastener, hook engagement. The different characteristics include, but are not limited to, opacity, tensile strength or stiffness. The different characteristics are provided by a bond pattern specific to the particular region. The outer regions, in an embodiment, are stronger and appear more substantial by being more opaque than or color-shifted relative to an inner region. The outer regions, in an embodiment, are not directly backed or supported by the garment to which the material is attached. Accordingly, it is important for the outer regions to provide adequate strength, stiffness, color, and opacity absent the garment backing the outer regions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Tom R. Belau, Timothy J. Blenke, Richard T. Wehrle, Rebecca J. Kuepper, Thomas D. Ehlert, Alan F. Schleinz
  • Publication number: 20030119404
    Abstract: The present invention provides a pattern-unbonded material that has at least two distinct regions. One region has different bond pattern than another region. The different bond pattern provides different, specific functionality or characteristics to the material. In an embodiment, the one region provides an optimal mechanical fastener, hook engagement. The different characteristics include, but are not limited to, opacity, tensile strength or stiffness. The different characteristics are provided by a bond pattern specific to the particular region. The outer regions, in an embodiment, are stronger and appear more substantial by being more opaque than or color-shifted relative to an inner region. The outer regions, in an embodiment, are not directly backed or supported by the garment to which the material is attached. Accordingly, it is important for the outer regions to provide adequate strength, stiffness, color, and opacity absent the garment backing the outer regions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Inventors: Tom R. Belau, Timothy J. Blenke, Richard T. Wehrle, Rebecca J. Kuepper, Thomas D. Ehlert, Alan F. Schleinz
  • Patent number: 5496298
    Abstract: Disclosed is an elastomeric ear suitable for use on a disposable absorbent article. The elastomeric ear is formed from an elastomeric material which defines a proximal edge, a distal edge, a first connecting edge and a second connecting edge. The first and second connecting edges connect the proximal and distal edges. The second connecting edge is non-parallel to the first connecting edge, and the proximal edge is longer than the distal edge. A fastener is joined to the elastomeric ear. Also described is a disposable absorbent article including such an elastomeric ear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Corporation
    Inventors: Rebecca J. Kuepper, Christine A. Rasmussen