You can freely build on How Richard Drew Invented Modern Transparent Adhesive Tape
This patent expired in 1948. Every claim — 0 independent, 0 dependent — is now unenforceable. Anyone can use, reproduce, manufacture, sell, or offer for sale this technology without a license.
Original assignee
Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Co
Patent granted
1930
Expired
1948
Forward citations
20
What this patent covers
This patent describes a strip of flexible material, such as cellophane, coated with a pressure-sensitive adhesive. Unlike previous tapes that required heat or water to activate, this invention relies on a tacky substance that sticks immediately upon contact with a surface. The design includes a backing that is strong enough to hold items together but thin enough to remain flexible and transparent. It allows users to join materials like paper or fabric without leaving thick, unsightly residues or requiring complex application tools.
What is now free to use
All 0 claims of US 1760820 are in the public domain. Specifically:
The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.
What is NOT covered
Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.
Does not cover tapes that require heat to activate the adhesive.
Does not cover water-activated tapes like traditional gummed paper.
Does not cover non-flexible backing materials like metal sheets.
Does not cover adhesives that are not pressure-sensitive.
Who is building on this today
3M remains the primary entity building on this legacy, having expanded the technology into thousands of industrial and consumer adhesive products. Many other manufacturers of stationery and industrial tapes utilize the same fundamental principles of pressure-sensitive polymers established in this patent.
Products built on expired version of this technology
Scotch Brand transparent tape
Office supply adhesive tapes
Cellophane gift wrapping tapes
How to cite this patent in your documentation
Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Co. US Patent 1760820. Adhesive tape. Granted 1930, expired 1948. Now in the public domain.
Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.
PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.