College Park, Maryland Patent of the Year – 2024/2025
InventWood Inc. has been awarded the 2024/2025 Patent of the Year for advancing wood material science. Their invention, detailed in U.S. Patent No. 12122065, titled ‘Truncating the distribution of modulus properties in natural populations of wood’, introduces a novel method to selectively improve the strength and consistency of wood products by managing the natural variation in wood stiffness.
The innovation tackles a longstanding challenge in the wood industry: natural wood varies widely in mechanical properties. This variability can reduce the reliability and performance of wood in construction and manufacturing. Inventwood’s method applies a precise approach to “truncate” or limit the range of stiffness values within batches of wood. This ensures the final product maintains uniform strength without costly or wasteful processing.
By focusing on the natural distribution of modulus of elasticity, the technology enhances wood’s predictability for builders and manufacturers. This means safer structures, fewer material failures, and less need for overengineering. The process also supports sustainable forestry practices by optimizing the use of harvested timber, reducing waste and environmental impact.
This patent signals a shift in how natural materials like wood are engineered for modern demands. By combining scientific insight with practical application, Inventwood offers a breakthrough that could influence construction standards worldwide. Their method promises stronger, more reliable wood products that meet the needs of a growing, eco-conscious market.