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Blanchard Horton PLLC

Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Blanchard Horton PLLC, Intellectual Property Lawyer, P. O. Box 5657, Oak Ridge, TN.

Blanchard Horton PLLC provides the highest quality of intellectual property representation to our clients throughout the United States and internationally, including within the Oak Ridge technology corridor and throughout the greater East Tennessee area.

03/28/2025

Patent of the Week: Liquid Metal Recorder 🖨️✨

Long before 3D printing became a reality, inventors were experimenting with ways to build objects layer by layer. One of the earliest steps toward this technology came in 1971 with US Patent 3,596,285: Liquid Metal Recorder, invented by Johannes F. Gottwald.

Gottwald’s device modified inkjet printing technology by swapping ink for liquid metal. The machine first heated metals with a low melting point until they became liquid. It then precisely deposited the molten metal onto a carrier, forming a solid shape as it cooled. While primarily designed for creating raised metal patterns for labeling or embossing, the concept closely mirrors modern 3D printing methods.⚙️

This patent may not have been a full-fledged 3D printer, but it was an important step toward the technology we now use to build everything from aerospace components to custom medical implants. 🚀🔬 Just another example of how past innovations pave the way for today’s breakthroughs!

What other early inventions do you think helped shape modern technology? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 💡

03/21/2025

Patent of the Week: The Automatic Bed Maker 🛏️✨

Ever wish your bed could make itself? That’s exactly what US Patent 4,441,222, the Automatic Bed Maker, set out to do. Granted in 1984, this device used a system of rollers, clamps, and guides to pull sheets tight and smooth out wrinkles—all with the push of a button.

No more tugging at corners or adjusting blankets; this invention promised a perfectly made bed every time. While it never became a household essential, it remains a fascinating attempt to automate one of life’s everyday tasks.

Would you want one in your home? Let us know in the comments!

02/21/2025

🎉Patent of the Week: The Yo-Yo!🎉

This week, we’re spinning back in time to 1866 with US Patent 59,745, the Whirligig! You probably know this classic toy by its more common name—the yo-yo! 🪀Invented by James L. Haven and Charles Hettrick, this design was inspired by the bandelore, a traditional toy that dates back centuries.

While yo-yos have been around in some form for generations, this patent marked an important step in the toy’s evolution, refining the mechanics of the spool-and-string design that makes the yo-yo a staple of skill and play.

From simple up-and-down tricks to walking the dog to gravity-defying stunts, the yo-yo continues to entertain and challenge people of all ages. Do you have a favorite yo-yo trick? Let us know in the comments! 🥳

02/14/2025

❤️Patent of the Week: Love Tester Machine! ❤️

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, we’re taking a look at US Design Patent 85,341, titled Display Plate! 🎰💘 Patented in 1931 by John F. Meyer, this design was for the display sign of a love testing machine—a popular carnival and arcade attraction that claimed to measure a person’s romantic potential!

Drop in a coin, grip the handle, and let the machine determine if you’re a Cold Fish 🧊 or a Burning Lover 🔥! While not exactly scientific, these machines added a fun, flirty twist to date nights and friendly competitions.

Have you ever tried a love tester? Let us know in the comments! 💘

01/17/2025

Patent of the Week: US Patent No. 176,175 - Mustache Guard

In 1876, Virgil A. Gates patented a simple yet brilliant invention to solve a rather hairy problem—keeping mustaches out of the way while eating or drinking.

The Mustache Guard is a crescent-shaped shield designed to fit snugly over a drinking glass or cup. Its purpose? To keep your impressive facial hair clean and free of food or drink. A Victorian-era solution for maintaining both etiquette and style, it catered to the booming popularity of mustaches at the time.

While it may seem quaint today, this patent is a delightful example of how inventors have always found creative ways to address everyday challenges. It also reminds us how much fashion can influence innovation!

Do you think it’s time for this invention to make a comeback? Let us know in the comments!

01/09/2025

🧥 Patent of the Week: Electrothermal Garment ❄️

As Winter Storm Cora approaches, 🌨️ we’re spotlighting a fascinating invention to help keep you warm this weekend! 🥶 Titled “Electrothermal Garment” by Joel E. Craddick, US Patent 1,394,810 was designed to combat the chill in style and comfort.

This innovative garment consisted of a coat and boots fitted with wiring throughout, conducting heat directly to the wearer’s body.🔥While electric clothing might feel commonplace today, this early example of heated apparel highlights a time when inventors were exploring new ways to merge technology and fashion.

Whether you're braving the outdoors this weekend or curling up inside by the fire, we hope you stay warm and stay safe! ☕🛋️

01/03/2025

📺Patent of the Week: TV Control Device 📺

Tired of losing your remote control in the couch?🛋️ In 1976, Chris T. Michaels patented a creative solution with US Patent 3,962,748: the TV Control Device, a long, adjustable rod with grasping pinchers at the end.

This tool allowed users to change the channel or adjust the volume on their televisions without ever having to leave the comfort of their seats. While remote controls were already in use during this time, they were often misplaced, just as they are now. Michaels' invention provided a fail-safe for TV enthusiasts to maintain their convenience and comfort.

Though this invention never achieved the popularity of the remote control, it stands as a clever reminder of how innovation thrives on solving everyday problems. 💡Next time you dig through the couch cushions looking for your remote, imagine how handy this invention could be!

Would you trade your modern remote for this old-school contraption? Let us know in the comments! ✨

12/19/2024

🎄 Patent of the Week: Imitation Christmas Tree 🎄

This week, we’re unwrapping a holiday classic: the artificial Christmas tree! Patent No. 255,902, invented by August Wengenroth, introduced an innovative take on holiday cheer, allowing families to enjoy the beauty of a Christmas tree without relying on the real thing.

While the first artificial trees were crafted in Germany using dyed goose feathers, Wengenroth’s design featured chenille-covered wire branches that were both detachable and adjustable. This made it easier for people to assemble, store, and customize their tree—perfect for families looking for a reusable alternative to real trees.

So, what’s your holiday style? Do you love the fresh scent and tradition of a real tree, or do you prefer the convenience and reusability of an artificial one? Share your thoughts below! 🎁

12/13/2024

🎄 Patent of the Week: Santa Claus Detector 🎅

As the holiday season fills the air with magic, let's dive into a festive invention guaranteed to delight (and convince!) children that Santa is real! Patent No. 5,523,741, titled “Santa Claus Detector,” was patented in 1996 by Thomas Cane.

This whimsical device is a stocking equipped with a light that activates when Santa is near—or rather, when parents discreetly pull a hidden cord after the kids have gone to bed. It’s a clever tool for bringing the story of Santa to life and ensuring little ones fall asleep quickly, so Santa can make his rounds.

While it may not be powered by North Pole magic, this inventive stocking helps parents spread holiday cheer and keep the mystery alive for another year. Imagine the wide-eyed wonder of waking up to a glowing stocking, proof that Santa has made his visit!

✨ Stay tuned for more fascinating patents in our series, and happy holidays! 🎁

11/21/2024

✨ Patent of the Week: Legos! ✨

This week, we’re spotlighting not one but two timeless additions to the toy industry: US Design Patent 253,711, titled Toy Figure, and US Patent 3,005,282, titled Toy Building Brick.

These patents represent designs that revolutionized playtime—the iconic Lego Man figure and the classic Lego Brick! 🧱

The inventor, Godtfred Kirk Christiansen, was the third son of The Lego Group’s founder. Godtfred played a pivotal role in transforming Lego into a household name, creating toys that unlocked endless creativity and imagination. 🌟

The interlocking brick system, patented in 1958, became a cornerstone of Lego's success. Meanwhile, the simple yet versatile Lego Man figure, patented in 1979, brought personality and life to countless adventures in miniature worlds. 🏙

Lego has grown from these foundational patents into a global phenomenon, proving that the simplest ideas can often be the most impactful.

Did you grow up with Legos? Share your favorite builds or memories in the comments!

11/14/2024

🦈 Patent of the Week: US Patent 4,833,729 - Shark Protector Suit 🦈

This week, we're diving into an innovative design to help divers stay a bit safer in shark-infested waters! The Shark Protector Suit, patented by Rosetta and Nelson Fox, isn’t your average diving suit. This unique gear is made of rubber and has a partial lining of flotation material for added buoyancy, but what really sets it apart? Spikes. Lots and lots of spikes!

This suit features a "plurality of spikes" extending from its surface, making it intimidating not only to sharks but to anything that might get too close. The spikes aim to discourage curious or aggressive sharks from approaching, giving divers an extra layer of protection while they explore the deep blue.

Would you be brave enough to suit up in this spiky gear? Let us know what you think of this protective approach!

11/08/2024

Patent of the Week: Portable Receptacle Support

This week, we recognize the remarkable contributions of inventor and physical therapist Bessie Blount, whose determination and vision brought greater independence to individuals with disabilities.

After World War II, Blount worked with veterans who had lost the use of their hands and feet. She saw that for these individuals, feeding themselves was not only a physical challenge but also deeply connected to self-esteem and independence. Blount designed a device that allowed users to control their food intake through a tube, where a simple bite would deliver the next morsel directly to their mouths. Later, she refined this concept with her “Portable Receptacle Support”—a neck brace that held bowls, cups, or dishes—earning her US Patent No. 2,550,554.

Blount’s work was groundbreaking, but it was not without challenges. Despite the potential benefits to thousands of people, Blount found it difficult to gain support from the American Veterans Association. In the end, it was the French government that recognized the value of her work, and Blount generously donated the patent rights to France. Reflecting on her journey, Blount reportedly remarked that she had proven “that a black woman can invent something for the benefit of humankind.”

With her Portable Receptacle Support, Bessie Blount not only contributed to assistive technology but also made an inspiring statement of resilience, creativity, and the power of invention to transform lives.

Stay tuned for more Patent of the Week!

Address

P. O. Box 5657
Oak Ridge, TN
37831

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm
Friday	9am - 5pm

Telephone

+18652692673

Website

https://blanchardhorton.com/

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