This inventor holds 22 USPTO granted patents, primarily in Functional Fabrics. Top assignees: Columbia Sportswear North America, Inc., Columbia Sportswear Company. Active years: 2011-2020.
Data source: USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) public patent records. Weekly synchronization. How IDiyas builds this profile
Company Filing History:
20 out of 197 
2 out of 4 Years Active: 2011-2020
Areas of Expertise:
Title: Michael E “Woody” Blackford: Innovator in Cooling Technologies
Introduction
Michael E “Woody” Blackford is a notable inventor based in Portland, Oregon, recognized for his significant contributions to the field of cooling materials. With an impressive portfolio of 22 patents, Woody has made substantial advancements in innovative clothing technologies that enhance comfort and performance.
Latest Patents
Among Woody's latest inventions are two groundbreaking patents focused on cooling materials. The first, titled "Cooling Material," reveals innovative cooling solutions for clothing and body gear. This technology incorporates a design featuring highly absorbent polymers that are strategically placed in a discontinuous pattern on a base fabric. The base fabric exhibits low resistance to moisture spread, allowing for effective management of sweat and body heat. Notably, the absorbance of the polymers is at least two times greater than that of the base fabric, ultimately ensuring superior moisture control.
The second patent, known as "Multispectral Cooling Fabric," explores the integration of multispectral cooling elements with base fabrics used in technical gear and garments. This invention aims to enhance performance characteristics in wearables, providing better thermal management through engineered materials.
Career Highlights
Woody has built a successful career working with prominent companies in the outdoor apparel industry. He has been associated with Columbia Sportswear North America, Inc. and Columbia Sportswear Company, where he contributed to the development and innovation of various apparel technologies. His work has consistently focused on improving user experience through advanced material designs.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Woody has collaborated with fellow innovators including Jeffrey Thomas Mergy and Douglas Allan Maguire. These collaborations have played a significant role in enhancing the functional capabilities of outdoor gear, driving innovations that benefit consumers and the industry alike.
Conclusion
Michael E “Woody” Blackford’s advancements in cooling materials mark a significant contribution to the field of wearable technology. His inventive approach and dedication to improving comfort in clothing continue to pave the way for better solutions in the industry. With a growing number of patents and collaborative efforts, Woody remains a prominent figure in the world of innovations within the apparel sector.
Data source: USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) public patent records. Weekly synchronization. How IDiyas builds this profile