Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1989
Title: Mary B Heffernan: Innovator in Ink-Jet Printing Technology
Introduction
Mary B Heffernan is a notable inventor based in Encinitas, California. She has made significant contributions to the field of ink-jet printing technology. With a total of 2 patents, her work focuses on improving the cleanliness and efficiency of foam reservoirs used in ink delivery systems.
Latest Patents
Heffernan's latest patents include innovative methods for determining the cleanliness level of foam reservoirs. The first method involves measuring the amount of non-volatile residues (NVRs) in the foam. An NVR level of less than about 0.2 wt/wt % is deemed sufficient for maintaining adequate ink fluid properties. The second method assesses the surface tension of the ink vehicle before and after exposure to the foam. For specially-coated paper printing, a surface tension of at least about 40 dyne/cm is required. In contrast, for plain paper printing, the drop in surface tension must be less than about 7 dyne/cm compared to the unexposed ink vehicle. Additionally, she has developed a process and apparatus for cleaning polyurethane foam reservoirs used in ink-jet cartridges. This innovative cleaning method allows for the batch cleaning of thousands of foam parts, ensuring that only solvent is distilled over, while non-volatile residues are kept at bay.
Career Highlights
Mary B Heffernan is currently associated with Hewlett-Packard Company, where she continues to advance her research and development efforts. Her work has been instrumental in enhancing the performance and reliability of ink-jet printing systems.
Collaborations
Heffernan has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Kenneth A Norton and Bruce Cowger, to further her research initiatives and drive innovation in the industry.
Conclusion
Mary B Heffernan's contributions to ink-jet printing technology exemplify her dedication to innovation and excellence. Her patents reflect her commitment to improving the functionality and cleanliness of ink delivery systems.