Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1989-1996
Title: The Innovative Contributions of Howard Graves
Introduction
Howard Graves is a notable inventor based in Berlin, Ohio, who has made significant contributions to the field of painting tools. With a total of five patents to his name, Graves has demonstrated a commitment to innovation and practicality in his designs.
Latest Patents
One of his latest inventions is the paint roller frame and cage assembly. This assembly is designed to be mounted for rotation on a shaft portion of the roller frame. The cage assembly features a plurality of circumferentially spaced, axially extending support bars that are joined together by ribs, providing an annular support for uniformly holding a roller cover. At the inboard end of the support bars, there is an annular flange with an outer diameter that is less than that of the annular support. A retaining spring, which includes a Belleville type spring washer, is mounted on the annular flange. This spring washer has circumferentially spaced spring fingers that extend radially and axially outwardly, allowing for the frictional retention of the roller cover on the cage assembly. The design also includes an end cap that retains the Belleville type spring washer and acts as a stop for the roller cover when fully inserted.
Career Highlights
Graves has spent a significant portion of his career working with The Wooster Brush Company, where he has been able to apply his inventive skills to develop practical solutions for painting tools. His work has not only enhanced the efficiency of painting but has also contributed to the overall quality of the products offered by the company.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Howard Graves has collaborated with talented individuals such as Richard L. Barker and Frank Marino. These collaborations have allowed for the exchange of ideas and have fostered an environment of creativity and innovation.
Conclusion
Howard Graves is a distinguished inventor whose contributions to the field of painting tools have made a lasting impact. His innovative designs, particularly the paint roller frame and cage assembly, showcase his dedication to improving everyday tools. His work continues to inspire future innovations in the industry.