Agency:

Forest Service

Technology Description:

This invention is an open cell grid made from wood or non-wood fibers, and the apparatus for its fabrication.  The importance of this invention is that the grids can be fabricated from lower-quality and recycled fibers, while meeting or exceeding the strength of conventional cardboard in many applications.  Further, these grids can also incorporate non-wood fibers, such as plastics, and they can be contoured around curved objects.  Applications include structural components, as well as packaging, marine, and aerospace uses.

Reference:

Patent Number 5,277,854, issued January 11, 1994.  Also see the following related U.S. patent numbers 4,702,870; 4,753,713; 5,198,236; 5,314,654; and 6,190,159.

Inventors:

Jerrold Winandy USDA, Forest Service Forest Products Laboratory Madison, WI  53705-2398 (608) 231-9316

John F. Hunt (Same as first inventor)