Randall D Helms

Title: Innovations by Randall D Helms

Introduction

Randall D Helms is a notable inventor based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, with a significant contribution to the field of printing technology. He holds a total of 8 patents, showcasing his innovative approach to solving complex problems in the industry.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is an apparatus for preventing ink resoftening on a printed web. This invention involves an offset printing apparatus that features a fluid-cooled nip roll. In operation, this nip roll presses a hot, rapidly moving, endless printed and dried web into close contact with the first downstream chill roll. This design avoids damage to the web, nip roll, or chill roll, while also preventing ink picking by the web surface. The nip roll's inclusion in the system allows for a shorter dryer and fewer chill rolls compared to conventional systems operating at the same web speed. Additionally, the coolant circuit for the nip roll includes a warmup loop that circulates warm fluid when the system is taken offline, preventing condensate or frost formation.

Another significant patent is an apparatus and method for preventing ink resoftening on a printed web. This invention also utilizes a nip roll that presses a hot, rapidly moving, endless printed and dried paper web into contact with the exterior surface of a first downstream chill roll. This design improves the cooling efficiency of the chill roll, allows for fewer chill rolls, and prevents condensate streaking. The nip roll is specially designed to maintain an equilibrium temperature below the ink softening point, thus eliminating concerns of condensate streaking and enabling dryer operation at lower temperatures, which significantly reduces operating costs.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Randall has worked with several companies, including Advance Systems, Inc. and W. R. Grace & Co. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise and innovative capabilities in the printing technology sector.

Collaborations

Randall has collaborated with notable coworkers such as Daniel J Hansen and Robert A Daane, further enhancing his contributions to the field.

Conclusion

Randall D Helms is a distinguished inventor whose work in printing technology has led to significant advancements in the industry. His innovative patents reflect his commitment to improving efficiency and reducing costs in printing processes.