Patents by Inventor Shaun T. Broering
Shaun T. Broering 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: 11970310Abstract: One or more implementations of a multi-film thermoplastic bag with a grab zone of contact areas positioned in a high-touch area of the bag. For example, the multi-film thermoplastic bag includes one or more regions of a first film in contact with a second film at one or more contact areas. The grab zone regions of one or more contact areas are located in visible and high-touch areas to provide visual and tactile cues of strength and durability. Moreover, the grab zone regions of one or more contact areas serve to distribute pull and lift forces across a wider area in order to avoid common failures in high-touch areas such as over stretching, punctures, tears, and rips.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2021Date of Patent: April 30, 2024Assignee: THE GLAD PRODUCTS COMPANYInventors: Sarah J. Steenblock, Matthew W. Waldron, Shaun T. Broering, Deborah K. Fix, Justin Zickus, David A. Bailey, Jason R. Maxwell, Michael G. Borchardt, Edward B. Tucker
-
Publication number: 20240124196Abstract: A thermoplastic bag includes duplicative seals. In particular, in one or more implementations, a thermoplastic bag includes a first seal and at least a second seal reinforcing the same area of the thermoplastic bag. For instance, in one or more implementations, the thermoplastic bag includes multiple seals along each side edge or along the hem. If one seal fails, the other seal(s) can remain in place to prevent leaks. Thus, the duplicative seals of the thermoplastic bag can provide reinforced strength and desired aesthetics.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2023Publication date: April 18, 2024Inventors: Jason R. MAXWELL, Robert T. DORSEY, Michael G. BORCHARDT, Edward B. TUCKER, Jack F. MELVAN, Shaun T. BROERING, Matthew W. WALDRON, Richard D. PALMER, Deborah K. FIX, Zeljko VIDOVIC
-
Patent number: 11958660Abstract: Thermoplastic bags with phased deformation patterns are described. In particular, one or more implementations comprise thermoplastic bags with ring rolling, SELFing, or other deformation patterns phased or aligned relative to the sides of the bags. The phased deformation patterns can allow for reducing or eliminating deformation patterns in areas of the thermoplastic bag in which side seals or other seals are formed. Additionally or alternatively, the phased deformation patterns can provide for zones that provide differing properties (e.g., functional or aesthetic). Such zones can vary aligned along a width of the thermoplastic bag and optionally also vary along a height of the thermoplastic bag. The differing zones can provide the thermoplastic bags with phased deformations that provide leak prevention, liquid containment, and other benefits.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2020Date of Patent: April 16, 2024Assignee: THE GLAD PRODUCTS COMPANYInventors: Shaun T. Broering, Matthew W. Waldron, Jason R. Maxwell, Robert T. Dorsey, Michael G. Borchardt, Edward B. Tucker, Jack F. Melvan, Richard D. Palmer, Deborah K. Fix
-
Publication number: 20240092054Abstract: A thermoplastic film which exhibits elastic-like behavior along at least one axis when stretched or elongated and then released. The thermoplastic film comprises a plurality of raised rib-like elements extending in a direction perpendicular to a main surface of the thermoplastic film. The thermoplastic film further includes a plurality of web areas positioned about the plurality of raised rib-like elements. The plurality of raised rib-like elements and plurality of web areas are arranged in a complex pattern. The complex pattern provides visual and tactile cues as the films are stretched or elongated. The complex pattern can cause the thermoplastic film to have a complex stretch profile.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2023Publication date: March 21, 2024Inventors: Shaun T. Broering, Michael G. Borchardt, Ranyi Zhu, Jason R. Maxwell, Daniel Charles Peck, Hugh Joseph O’Donnell, Robert T. Dorsey, Lehai Minh Pham Vu, Karen Denise McAffry
-
Publication number: 20240042727Abstract: A thermoplastic film which exhibits elastic-like behavior along at least one axis when stretched or elongated and then released. The thermoplastic film comprises a plurality of raised rib-like elements extending in a direction perpendicular to a main surface of the thermoplastic film. The thermoplastic film further includes a plurality of web areas positioned about the plurality of raised rib-like elements. The plurality of raised rib-like elements and plurality of web areas are arranged in a complex pattern. The complex pattern provides visual and tactile cues as the films are stretched or elongated. The complex pattern can cause the thermoplastic film to have a complex stretch profile.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2023Publication date: February 8, 2024Inventors: Shaun T. Broering, Michael G. Borchardt, Ranyi Zhu, Jason R. Maxwell, Daniel Charles Peck, Hugh Joseph O’Donnell, Robert T. Dorsey, Lehai Minh Pham Vu, Karen Denise McAffry
-
Publication number: 20240043190Abstract: One or more implementations of a multi-film thermoplastic structure include a first film having a first appearance in contact with a second film having a second appearance at one or more visually-distinct contact areas arranged into a text. Wherein the one or more visually-distinct contact areas, cause the first film to take on the second appearance of the second film. In one or more implementations the multi-film thermoplastic structure comprises a thermoplastic bag and text comprises a suffocation warning.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2023Publication date: February 8, 2024Inventors: Matthew W. Waldron, Sarah J. Steenblock, Shaun T. Broering, Deborah K. Fix, Edward B. Tucker, Jeffrey S. Stiglic
-
Patent number: 11891213Abstract: A thermoplastic bag includes duplicative seals. In particular, in one or more implementations, a thermoplastic bag includes a first seal and at least a second seal reinforcing the same area of the thermoplastic bag. For instance, in one or more implementations, the thermoplastic bag includes multiple seals along each side edge or along the hem. If one seal fails, the other seal(s) can remain in place to prevent leaks. Thus, the duplicative seals of the thermoplastic bag can provide reinforced strength and desired aesthetics.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2020Date of Patent: February 6, 2024Assignee: The Glad Products CompanyInventors: Jason R. Maxwell, Robert T. Dorsey, Michael G. Borchardt, Edward B. Tucker, Jack F. Melvan, Shaun T. Broering, Matthew W. Waldron, Richard D. Palmer, Deborah K. Fix, Zeljko Vidovic
-
Patent number: 11891214Abstract: Thermoplastic films and bags include gradient patterns of post-formation deformations. The gradient patterns of post-formation deformations can provide a connotation of strength. Additionally, the gradient pattern of post-formation deformations can provide different areas of the films or bags with different physical characteristics such as tear resistance, puncture resistance, elasticity, etc.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2020Date of Patent: February 6, 2024Assignee: The Glad Products CompanyInventors: Edward B Tucker, Robert T Dorsey, Ranyi Zhu, Theodore Cory Fites, Zeljko Vidovic, Michael G Borchardt, Jason R Maxwell, Shaun T Broering, Daniel C Peck
-
Patent number: 11826996Abstract: A thermoplastic film which exhibits elastic-like behavior along at least one axis when stretched or elongated and then released. The thermoplastic film comprises a plurality of raised rib-like elements extending in a direction perpendicular to a main surface of the thermoplastic film. The thermoplastic film further includes a plurality of web areas positioned about the plurality of raised rib-like elements. The plurality of raised rib-like elements and plurality of web areas are arranged in a complex pattern. The complex pattern provides visual and tactile cues as the films are stretched or elongated. The complex pattern can cause the thermoplastic film to have a complex stretch profile.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2022Date of Patent: November 28, 2023Assignee: The Glad Products CompanyInventors: Shaun T. Broering, Michael G. Borchardt, Ranyi Zhu, Jason R. Maxwell, Daniel Charles Peck, Hugh Joseph O'Donnell, Robert T. Dorsey, Lehai Minh Pham Vu, Karen Denise McAffry
-
Patent number: 11814225Abstract: One or more implementations of a multi-film thermoplastic structure include a first film having a first appearance in contact with a second film having a second appearance at one or more visually-distinct contact areas arranged into a text. Wherein the one or more visually-distinct contact areas, cause the first film to take on the second appearance of the second film. In one or more implementations the multi-film thermoplastic structure comprises a thermoplastic bag and text comprises a suffocation warning.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2022Date of Patent: November 14, 2023Assignee: The Glad Products CompanyInventors: Matthew W Waldron, Sarah J Steenblock, Shaun T Broering, Deborah K Fix, Edward B Tucker, Jeffrey S Stiglic
-
Publication number: 20230356887Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a fiber reinforced thermoplastic bag (e.g., comprising a bag-in-bag). In one or more embodiments, the reinforced thermoplastic bag includes a plurality of fibers reinforcing a top-of-bag area where users often apply an external force to lift or carry the reinforced thermoplastic bag. In certain embodiments, the plurality of fibers is positioned across at least a portion of a grab-zone. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of fibers reinforces a hem channel region. In particular embodiments, the plurality of fibers is positioned in between bag layers. For example, the plurality of fibers is sandwiched between an inner layer and an outer layer. In certain implementations, the plurality of fibers between layers is bonded to a particular layer, but not necessarily both layers. Additionally, the plurality of fibers can impart a variety of mechanical benefits. Further, the plurality of fibers is visually identifiable through one or both layers.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2023Publication date: November 9, 2023Inventors: David A. Bailey, Shaun T. Broering, Edward B. Tucker
-
Patent number: 11807422Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a reinforced thermoplastic bag (e.g., comprising a bag-in-bag). In one or more embodiments, the reinforced thermoplastic bag includes a reinforced portion at a top-of-bag area where users often apply an external force to lift or carry the reinforced thermoplastic bag. In these or other embodiments, a grab-zone reinforcement insert is positioned across one or both of a hem channel region and a grab-zone along an outer surface, an inner surface, or between layers of the reinforced thermoplastic bag. In one or more embodiments, the grab-zone reinforcement insert comprises multiple layers (e.g., of a non-woven material). For example, the grab-zone reinforcement insert includes a first and second layer formed by a fold. In other implementations, the grab-zone reinforcement insert includes separate, discrete layers. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the grab-zone reinforcement insert is positionally affixed via a hem seal.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2021Date of Patent: November 7, 2023Assignee: The Glad Products CompanyInventors: Edward B. Tucker, Mark D. Pszczolkowski, Abhishek Dutta, Sarah J. Steenblock, Matthew W. Waldron, Shaun T. Broering, Deborah K. Fix, David A. Bailey, Jason R. Maxwell, Michael G. Borchardt, Nancy M. Mack-Roble, Rebecca S. Reuhs, Robert T. Dorsey, Kyle T. Diehl
-
Publication number: 20230312201Abstract: One or more implementations of a multi-film thermoplastic structure include a first film having a first appearance in contact with a second film having a second appearance at one or more visually distinct contact areas, including a continuous contact area spanning a width of the structure. In one or more implementations the multi-film thermoplastic structure comprises a thermoplastic bag and the continuous contact area forms a hem seal near a top opening of the thermoplastic bag.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2023Publication date: October 5, 2023Inventors: Sarah J. Steenblock, Matthew W. Waldron, Karen McAffry, Edward B. Tucker, Shaun T. Broering
-
Patent number: 11731390Abstract: A thermoplastic film which exhibits elastic-like behavior along at least one axis when stretched or elongated and then released. The thermoplastic film comprises a plurality of raised rib-like elements extending in a direction perpendicular to a main surface of the thermoplastic film. The thermoplastic film further includes a plurality of web areas positioned about the plurality of raised rib-like elements. The plurality of raised rib-like elements and plurality of web areas are arranged in a complex pattern. The complex pattern provides visual and tactile cues as the films are stretched or elongated. The complex pattern can cause the thermoplastic film to have a complex stretch profile.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2022Date of Patent: August 22, 2023Assignee: The Glad Products CompanyInventors: Shaun T. Broering, Michael G. Borchardt, Ranyi Zhu, Jason R. Maxwell, Daniel Charles Peck, Hugh Joseph O'Donnell, Robert T. Dorsey, Lehai Minh Pham Vu, Karen Denise McAffry
-
Publication number: 20230011512Abstract: A thermoplastic film which exhibits elastic-like behavior along at least one axis when stretched or elongated and then released. The thermoplastic film comprises a plurality of raised rib-like elements extending in a direction perpendicular to a main surface of the thermoplastic film. The thermoplastic film further includes a plurality of web areas positioned about the plurality of raised rib-like elements. The plurality of raised rib-like elements and plurality of web areas are arranged in a complex pattern. The complex pattern provides visual and tactile cues as the films are stretched or elongated. The complex pattern can cause the thermoplastic film to have a complex stretch profile.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2022Publication date: January 12, 2023Inventors: Shaun T. Broering, Michael G. Borchardt, Ranyi Zhu, Jason R. Maxwell, Daniel Charles Peck, Hugh Joseph O'Donnell, Robert T. Dorsey, Lehai Minh Pham Vu, Karen Denise McAffry
-
Publication number: 20230008520Abstract: A thermoplastic film which exhibits elastic-like behavior along at least one axis when stretched or elongated and then released. The thermoplastic film comprises a plurality of raised rib-like elements extending in a direction perpendicular to a main surface of the thermoplastic film. The thermoplastic film further includes a plurality of web areas positioned about the plurality of raised rib-like elements. The plurality of raised rib-like elements and plurality of web areas are arranged in a complex pattern. The complex pattern provides visual and tactile cues as the films are stretched or elongated. The complex pattern can cause the thermoplastic film to have a complex stretch profile.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2022Publication date: January 12, 2023Inventors: Shaun T. Broering, Michael G. Borchardt, Ranyi Zhu, Jason R. Maxwell, Daniel Charles Peck, Hugh Joseph O'Donnell, Robert T. Dorsey, Lehai Minh Pham Vu, Karen Denise McAffry
-
Patent number: 11485108Abstract: A thermoplastic film which exhibits elastic-like behavior along at least one axis when stretched or elongated and then released. The thermoplastic film comprises a plurality of raised rib-like elements extending in a direction perpendicular to a main surface of the thermoplastic film. The thermoplastic film further includes a plurality of web areas positioned about the plurality of raised rib-like elements. The plurality of raised rib-like elements and plurality of web areas are arranged in a complex pattern. The complex pattern provides visual and tactile cues as the films are stretched or elongated. The complex pattern can cause the thermoplastic film to have a complex stretch profile.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2018Date of Patent: November 1, 2022Assignee: The Glad Products CompanyInventors: Shaun T. Broering, Michael G. Borchardt, Ranyi Zhu, Jason R. Maxwell, Daniel Charles Peck, Hugh Joseph O'Donnell, Robert T. Dorsey, Lehai Minh Pham Vu, Karen Denise McAffry
-
Publication number: 20220324616Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a reinforced thermoplastic bag (e.g., comprising a bag-in-bag). In one or more embodiments, the reinforced thermoplastic bag includes a reinforced portion at a top-of-bag area where users often apply an external force to lift or carry the reinforced thermoplastic bag. In these or other embodiments, a grab-zone reinforcement insert is positioned across one or both of a hem channel region and a grab-zone along an outer surface, an inner surface, or between layers of the reinforced thermoplastic bag. In one or more embodiments, the grab-zone reinforcement insert comprises multiple layers (e.g., of a non-woven material). For example, the grab-zone reinforcement insert includes a first and second layer formed by a fold. In other implementations, the grab-zone reinforcement insert includes separate, discrete layers. In one or more embodiments, at least a portion of the grab-zone reinforcement insert is positionally affixed via a hem seal.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2021Publication date: October 13, 2022Inventors: Edward B. Tucker, Mark D. Pszczolkowski, Abhishek Dutta, Sarah J. Steenblock, Matthew W. Waldron, Shaun T. Broering, Deborah K. Fix, David A. Bailey, Jason R. Maxwell, Michael G. Borchardt, Nancy M. Mack-Roble, Rebecca S. Reuhs, Robert T. Dorsey, Kyle T. Diehl
-
Publication number: 20220219864Abstract: One or more implementations of a multi-film thermoplastic bag with a conjoined hem channel. For example, the multi-film thermoplastic bag includes a multi-film hem channel. Bonds secure the layers of the hem channel together so as to prevent a drawtape from inverting or bunching an inner layer of the hem channel during cinching. The bonds are thus located in a hem channel of a multi-film thermoplastic bag so as to reduce an amount of mechanical engagement between the films of the multi-film thermoplastic bag and another thermoplastic film such as a drawtape. In one or more implementations, a grab zone of the multi-film thermoplastic bag also includes bonds in the form of contact areas to provide tactile and visual cues of strength in the grab zone.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 6, 2022Publication date: July 14, 2022Inventors: Sarah J. Steenblock, Edward B. Tucker, Matthew W. Waldron, Lehai Minh Pham Vu, John Prusinski, Shaun T. Broering, Deborah K. Fix, Justin Zickus, David A. Bailey, Jason R. Maxwell, Michael G. Borchardt
-
Patent number: D957257Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2021Date of Patent: July 12, 2022Assignee: The Glad Products CompanyInventors: Ranyi Zhu, Edward B. Tucker, Robert T. Dorsey, Jason R. Maxwell, Shaun T. Broering, Kyle T. Diehl, Sean Chang, Michael G. Borchardt