Patents by Inventor Thomas C. Keenan

Thomas C. Keenan 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: 5378096
    Abstract: A collapsible and expandable void filler for separating cargo during transit in trucks, railroad cars, airplanes and the like includes an outer tubular housing having a diamond-shaped tubular core. The housing and core are collapsible into a generally flat configuration along score indentations. In one embodiment, the void filler is held in an expanded configuration by a plurality of collapsible wall portions along the outer housing that collapse inwardly from the periphery of the housing and engage the core. In other embodiments, the void filler is held in an expanded configuration by a cord or elastomeric bands which are tightly stretched around the periphery of the housing and is held in a series of aligned notches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Assignee: Shippers Paper Products Company
    Inventors: Thomas C. Keenan, Philip B. Lo Presti, Donald L. Van Erden
  • Patent number: 5263801
    Abstract: An airbag for use in a cargo bay of a transport vehicle for buffering and stabilizing a load, usually large paper rolls or drums, is provided with two inflatable, gas-tight bladders surrounded by a multi-ply paper container. The bladders are situated in an overlapping relationship with respect to each other. This enables the load to be buffered and stabilized while minimizing the need for additional materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas C. Keenan, Douglas A. Goshorn