Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1993
Title: Innovations in Orthopedic Casting: The Contributions of Ralph A. Wilkens
Introduction: Ralph A. Wilkens is a notable inventor based in Saint Paul, Minnesota, recognized for his innovative work in orthopedic casting materials. With a focus on enhancing the lamination properties of these materials, Wilkens has made significant strides in improving their functionality and effectiveness in medical applications.
Latest Patents: Wilkens holds a patent for "Orthopedic casting materials having superior lamination characteristics." This novel invention relates to unique orthopedic casting materials that provide superior layer-to-layer lamination. The orthopedic casting materials developed by Wilkens comprise a resin-coated scrim featuring a plurality of projections along at least one surface. Each projection is designed to consist of a bundle of at least about eight filaments, with the scrim containing approximately 75 to 1500 projections per gram. These projections interact mechanically with adjacent layers, enhancing the lamination properties of the resultant material and resisting delamination after curing.
Career Highlights: Ralph A. Wilkens has contributed his expertise while working at the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company, an organization known for its commitment to innovation across various industries.
Collaborations: Throughout his career, Wilkens has collaborated with other talented individuals, including his coworkers Matthew T. Scholz and Robert L. Assell. These collaborations reflect a collective effort towards advancing medical technologies and ensuring better patient care through innovative materials.
Conclusion: Ralph A. Wilkens' dedication to innovation in orthopedic casting materials has the potential to impact the medical field significantly. His patent showcases an important advancement, emphasizing the importance of effective lamination to improve the durability and reliability of orthopedic casts. As a key figure in this area of expertise, Wilkens continues to inspire future innovations in medical materials.