3M reached an innovation milestone today with the issuance of 52
patents, moving the company’s total number of patents past the 100,000
mark.
“We celebrate this important milestone, and honor all of the scientists
whose inventions have contributed to the success of 3M and the products
it brings to companies, homes, and people,” said Fred Palensky, 3M
executive vice president and chief technology officer. “Our unwavering
commitment to research and development allows us to deliver technology,
products and innovation to our customers worldwide.”
One of the 3M inventors on the patents that issued today is Audrey
Sherman, who works in 3M’s Electronics & Energy Business Lab. She
currently holds 50 patents. Her recent patent is for a material with
fascinating versatility, including the potential to improve cosmetics,
insulation wrapping and electronics.
Each year, about 3,000 patents are issued to 3M worldwide, more than 500
of which are granted in the U.S. These patents have applications in a
wide range of industries as diverse as the company itself – ranging from
health care adhesives and sterilization products to consumer electronics
to reflective traffic signs. 3M’s first patent was granted in 1924. The
following year, former 3M Chairman of the Board William McKnight earned
3M’s second patent, which was issued for a handle for sandpaper.
“Patents are critical to protecting our innovation and significant
investments in R&D,” said Palensky. 3M invests nearly six percent of
sales annually in R&D including funding for multiple technology
platforms that will be introduced to the market in the coming years.
About 3M
3M captures the spark of new ideas and transforms them into thousands of
ingenious products. Our culture of creative collaboration inspires a
never-ending stream of powerful technologies that make life better. 3M
is the innovation company that never stops inventing. With $31 billion
in sales, 3M employs 89,000 people worldwide and has operations in more
than 70 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com
or follow @3MNews
on Twitter.
Copyright Business Wire 2014