Location History:
- Oshkosh, WI (US) (2012)
- Neenah, WI (US) (1996 - 2014)
- Neehah, WI (US) (2017)
Company Filing History:
30 out of 5,276 
2 out of 1,279 
Years Active: 1996-2017
Title: Kathleen Irene Ratliff: Innovator in Absorbent Technologies
Introduction
Kathleen Irene Ratliff, based in Neenah, Wisconsin, is a prolific inventor with an impressive portfolio of 32 patents. Her work primarily focuses on innovative designs in absorbent articles and clothing, especially in the realm of boxer shorts and disposable absorbent products. Ratliff's contributions have significantly transformed product designs within the industry.
Latest Patents
Among her latest inventions, Kathleen has developed a unique process for making boxer shorts from a web that allows for various leg opening shapes. This boxer-style pant includes a contracted crotch region with hanging legs, which are created by cutting slits along the transversely opposed edges of the web. The design also features a contracting mechanism in a selected area between the leg openings, with front and back regions joined to form side seams. Furthermore, Kathleen has patented an absorbent article that includes a fastening system designed to create a refastenable pant. This disposable article consists of an absorbent chassis, elastomeric front and back side panels, and refastenable seams positioned strategically for enhanced usability.
Career Highlights
Kathleen has built her career through her involvement with significant companies in the field, particularly at Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. and Kimberly-Clark Corporation. Her role in these organizations has been instrumental in advancing the understanding and development of absorbent technologies.
Collaborations
Throughout her career, Kathleen has had the opportunity to collaborate with talented professionals, including Robert Lee Popp and Marcille Faye Ruman. These partnerships have played a crucial role in fostering innovative ideas and achieving successful outcomes in product development.
Conclusion
Kathleen Irene Ratliff's impressive list of patents and her significant contributions to the field of absorbent technologies illustrate her status as a leading inventor. As she continues to innovate, her work will likely have lasting impacts on the industry, shaping the way we think about design and functionality in everyday products.