Location History:
- Wichita Falls, TX (US) (1976)
- Cumberland, MD (US) (1976 - 1978)
- Wiley Ford, WV (US) (1978)
- Ridgeley,, WV (US) (1980)
- Ridgely, MD (US) (1989)
- Ridgeley, WV (US) (1981 - 1990)
- Ridgely, WV (US) (1991)
- Allison Park, PA (US) (2015)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1976-2015
Title: Innovations and Contributions of Ronald L. Schwenninger
Introduction: Ronald L. Schwenninger, based in Ridgeley, WV, is a prolific inventor with a remarkable portfolio of 23 patents. His work primarily focuses on advancements in glass technology, specifically in improving the properties of molten glass for solar applications. Schwenninger's innovative approaches have led to significant developments in the efficiency and performance of glass used in solar energy systems.
Latest Patents: Among Schwenninger's latest patents are techniques to reduce the redox ratio of molten glass, optimizing its spectral properties. One notable invention details a method for creating a soda-lime-silica glass that exhibits less than 0.010 weight percent total iron as FeO and a redox ratio of less than 0.350. This glass boasts impressive performance attributes, including greater than 90% visible transmission and total solar infrared transmittance at a thickness of 5.5 millimeters, while minimizing solarization effects. Another innovative patent involves a compressed, wedged float glass bottom structure designed to maintain integrity under high-temperature conditions, enhancing the structural stability of glass chambers.
Career Highlights: Throughout his career, Schwenninger has been associated with leading organizations, including PPG Industries, Inc., and PPG Industries Ohio, Inc. His contributions have been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of glass technology, particularly in applications aimed at improving solar energy capture and efficiency.
Collaborations: Schwenninger has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as Robert B. Heithoff and Wright M. Welton. These partnerships have enriched his innovations and have collectively contributed to advancements in the glass manufacturing industry.
Conclusion: Ronald L. Schwenninger's contributions to the field of glass technology exemplify the impact of innovative thinking in developing sustainable energy solutions. His extensive patent portfolio not only highlights his commitment to enhancing solar applications but also showcases the vital role that inventive minds play in addressing modern challenges.