Kenneth L Smith

Title: Kenneth L Smith: Pioneering Continuous Additive Manufacturing Innovations

Introduction:

Kenneth L Smith, a prominent inventor hailing from White Bear Lake, Minnesota, has made significant contributions to the field of continuous additive manufacturing. With a remarkable portfolio of 128 patents and a history of groundbreaking advancements, Smith has revolutionized the way we approach manufacturing processes. This article will delve into his latest patents, career highlights, collaborations, and shed light on his influential journey as a visionary in the field.

Latest Patents:

Smith's recent patents encompass the development of continuous additive manufacturing apparatuses and methods. One of his notable inventions is the Continuous Additive Manufacturing Apparatus, which involves utilizing an actinic radiation-transparent substrate to direct actinic radiation to specific locations with predetermined dosages. The apparatus includes mechanisms for depositing a composition onto the substrate while selectively conveying the substrate or the irradiation source.

Additionally, Smith has introduced Continuous Additive Manufacturing Methods for manufacturing adhesives. This method involves applying an actinic radiation-polymerizable adhesive precursor composition onto the substrate's surface and irradiating it at different dosages. By varying the irradiation dosage, an adhesive with a variable thickness in the axis perpendicular to the transparent substrate is formed.

Career Highlights:

Throughout his illustrious career, Smith has collaborated with prestigious companies known for their innovations. He has worked with 3M Innovative Properties Company, a renowned multinational conglomerate focused on science and technology. Smith's contribution to the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company (3M) has further propelled advancements in continuous additive manufacturing technologies.

Collaborations:

Smith's accomplishments have been complemented by collaborating with skilled professionals, including Gerald M Benson and Michael Benton Free. These collaborations have fostered an environment conducive to groundbreaking research and propelled the development of innovative manufacturing techniques. Benson and Free proved to be instrumental in the realization of Smith's vision and played pivotal roles in the success of his patented inventions.

Conclusion:

Kenneth L Smith's remarkable journey as an inventor and his numerous patents in the domain of continuous additive manufacturing showcase his immense contributions to this dynamic field. His inventions have not only transformed manufacturing processes but also paved the way for future advancements in the industry. As we move forward, Smith's innovations will continue to inspire and shape the landscape of additive manufacturing, leaving an indelible mark on the future of innovation and patents.