Patents by Inventor Theodore J. Watson

Theodore J. Watson 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: 5960977
    Abstract: A polymeric, multiple-layer tube suitable for use as a filler neck is disclosed. The tube is comprised of a generally cylindrical wall having an outer surface and an inner surface. The inner surface is approximately parallel to the outer surface and defines a generally cylindrical interior having a diameter D. The cylindrical interior, which provides a flow path for fuel, extends throughout the length of the tube. The tube is divided into one or more contiguous first and second longitudinal segments. In the first longitudinal segment, D is approximately constant along the length of the segment; in the second longitudinal segment, D varies with axial position. This variation defines a convolution, which allows the filler tube to be bent without crimping. The cylindrical wall of the multiple-layer tube further comprises an outer layer composed of a thermoplastic elastomer, and an inner layer composed of an extrudable melt-processible thermoplastic having an elongation of at least 150%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Ostrander, David A. Bensko, Ricki Kelley, Theodore J. Watson, Gary O. Klinger