Michael William Protheroe

Title: The Innovative Journey of Michael William Protheroe

Introduction

Michael William Protheroe is a notable inventor based in Neenah, Wisconsin, recognized for his innovative contributions to the field of garment technology. With a total of three patents to his name, Protheroe has made significant strides in developing methods and apparatuses that enhance the assembly and inspection of pre-fastened garments.

Latest Patents

Protheroe's latest innovations include two key patents, each focusing on different aspects of garment assembly. The first patent, titled "Apparatus and method for securing engagement between fastening components of pre-fastened garments," outlines a method where fastening components are organized in a partially opposed relationship during initial assembly. This design ensures that once engaged, the components form a robust engagement seam, which is subjected to shear stress through mechanical handling to promote a strong bond.

The second patent, "Apparatus and method for inspecting pre-fastened articles," addresses the inspection process for items such as disposable training pants. This invention involves overlapping flexible elements that, when connected, create an engagement seam. An innovative feature includes the use of radiation sources to capture images of the engagement seam from within the article’s interior, allowing for efficient quality checks.

Career Highlights

Michael Protheroe is currently employed at Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc., a leading company in consumer goods, particularly known for its hygiene and personal care products. His work at Kimberly-Clark showcases a blend of creativity and practical engineering, enhancing the efficacy of garment manufacturing processes.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Protheroe has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Brian Robert Vogt and Kurt Garrett Krupka. These partnerships have likely fostered a rich environment for innovation and knowledge sharing, contributing to the success of their projects within the company.

Conclusion

Michael William Protheroe exemplifies the spirit of innovation through his contributions to fastening technology in garments. His patents reflect a commitment to improving the functionality and quality of pre-fastened articles, making a lasting impact in the industry. As a part of Kimberly-Clark, Protheroe continues to influence the future of garment technology with his inventive ideas and collaborative efforts.