James Boardman

Title: Innovations in Glass Bending: The Contributions of James Boardman

Introduction

James Boardman is a notable inventor based in Birmingham, GB, recognized for his significant contributions to the field of glass bending technology. With a total of two patents to his name, Boardman has developed innovative methods and apparatuses that enhance the precision and efficiency of bending glass sheets for various applications.

Latest Patents

Boardman's latest patents include an "Apparatus for and method of heating and bending glass sheet." This invention features a furnace designed to heat glass sheets, allowing for precise control of the temperature profile across the sheet. This control results in improved shaping of the glass during the bending process. The furnace incorporates differential heating zones with multiple heating elements and shields to direct heat effectively. Additionally, transport means, such as wheeled boxes, facilitate the movement of the glass sheet through the furnace, while bending means, like gravity bending ring molds, can bend the sheet during or after heating.

Another significant patent is focused on the method of bending glass sheets. This method involves heating the glass to its bending temperature, followed by an initial gravity bending step. The process includes providing support to a portion of the glass sheet on a movable end of the mold, lowering the movable end, and then applying a press bending step before cooling the bent glass. This innovative approach can be utilized for architectural or automotive purposes, such as creating laminated windscreens with complex shapes.

Career Highlights

James Boardman is currently employed at Pilkington Glass Limited, a company renowned for its advancements in glass manufacturing. His work at Pilkington has allowed him to apply his inventive ideas in a practical setting, contributing to the company's reputation for innovation in the glass industry.

Collaborations

Boardman has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Neil W Jacques and Brian J Thomas. These partnerships have likely fostered a creative environment that encourages the development of cutting-edge technologies in glass bending.

Conclusion

James Boardman's contributions to glass bending technology through his patents and work at Pilkington Glass Limited highlight his role as an influential inventor in the field. His innovative methods and apparatuses continue to shape the future of glass manufacturing.