Location History:
- Hannawa Falls, NY (US) (1995)
- Canton, NY (US) (1998)
- Summerville, SC (US) (2007)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1995-2007
Title: The Innovative Contributions of David R. Fladd
Introduction
David R. Fladd is a notable inventor based in Summerville, SC, who has made significant contributions to the field of materials inspection. With a total of three patents to his name, Fladd’s work focuses on enhancing the detection of internal defects in materials, which is crucial for various applications in manufacturing and quality assurance.
Latest Patents
Fladd's latest patents exemplify his innovative approach to solving complex problems in material inspection. One of his key inventions is an apparatus and process for detecting inclusions. This invention involves applying a black coating to one major surface of an internally transmissive substrate, submerging the substrate in a refractive index-matching fluid, and scanning it with a collimated light beam to detect scattered light signals produced by inclusions. This method significantly improves the signal-to-noise ratio, enabling effective inspection even in the presence of considerable surface defects.
Another noteworthy patent addresses methods for detecting inhomogeneities, particularly striae, in fused silica glass. By preparing a digitized phase plot using an interferometer and applying various filtering techniques, Fladd’s method allows for the detection of striae that may compromise the quality of glass products.
Career Highlights
David R. Fladd is currently affiliated with Corning Incorporated, a global leader in material science and manufacturing innovations. His work at Corning has been instrumental in advancing technologies related to substrate inspection, contributing to the company's reputation for quality and precision in the industry.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Fladd has collaborated with other innovators, notably Stephen J. Rieks and David G. Cyr. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that has propelled advancements in material inspection techniques and technologies.
Conclusion
David R. Fladd’s innovative contributions in the field of material inspection reflect his dedication to advancing technologies that improve product quality. Through his patents and collaborative efforts at Corning Incorporated, Fladd continues to influence the future of material science and engineering. His work not only enhances the manufacturing process but also ensures that products meet rigorous quality standards.