Floyd T Hagedorn

Title: **Floyd T. Hagedorn: Innovator in Glass Bending Technology**

Introduction

Floyd T. Hagedorn is a notable inventor based in Oregon, OH, who has made significant contributions to the field of glass bending technology. With a remarkable portfolio consisting of 14 patents, Hagedorn has developed innovative methods and apparatuses that enhance the process of bending glass sheets for various applications.

Latest Patents

Hagedorn's latest patents include a “Method and apparatus for bending glass sheets,” which focuses on the press bending of individual heated glass sheets to be laminated in pairs to a plastic interlayer. This invention features a unique press bending technique utilizing a female ring-type shaping rail paired with a continuous male mold surface. The male mold is designed with outer shaping rails that are spaced apart on a base plate, allowing for different pressure patterns to be applied during the bending process of the sheets.

Additionally, he developed the “Glass sheet press bending mold,” which introduces an improved covering for continuous surface press bending molds. This mold is characterized by a resilient body with flexible metallic bands encapsulated within, offering selectively variable rigidity tailored to meet the specific requirements for bending different parts. The encapsulated resilient body is further enhanced by layers of fibrous, heat-resistant materials, including fiberglass cloth, with certain layers treated to achieve desired rigidity levels.

Career Highlights

Hagedorn’s career has been marked by his tenure at Libbey-Owens-Ford Co., where he has demonstrated exemplary skills in the engineering and design of glass bending techniques. His innovative contributions have significantly influenced the industry, paving the way for advancements in glass manufacturing.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Hagedorn has collaborated with notable coworkers such as Robert G. Revells and Donald D. Rahrig. These collaborations have further driven innovation and enriched his inventions, contributing to the successful implementation of complex glass bending technologies.

Conclusion

Floyd T. Hagedorn stands out as a prominent inventor whose work in glass bending technology continues to impact the industry significantly. His innovative methods and ongoing contributions exemplify the spirit of invention, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in glass manipulation and manufacturing.