Andrew W Osburn

Title: Andrew W. Osburn: Inventor of an Adjustable Rod Holder

Introduction

Andrew W. Osburn is an inventor associated with South Beloit, Illinois, and Beloit Technologies, Inc. His patent work addresses equipment used in coating processes, with a focus on supporting a rotating rod while controlling fluid leakage and coating thickness. He is credited with 1 patent.

Latest Patents

Osburn’s patent, “Rod Holder with Separate Positionable Contact Elements for Rod Metering,” describes a rigid metal housing positioned downstream of a coating applicator. The housing holds multiple adjustable contact elements made from low-friction, wear-resistant material. These elements engage and support a slowly rotating rod while helping maintain a seal that prevents clearing or lubricating fluid from leaking into the applied coating.

The contact elements can be advanced inward as they wear, extending the rod holder’s useful life. The design also describes screws and segmented backing plates that allow coat weight to be refined across the substrate, as well as an air tube that can adjust overall coating thickness.

Career Highlights

Osburn’s documented patent contribution concerns rod metering and coating-process equipment. The invention combines adjustable rod support, wear compensation, and coating control in a single apparatus.

Collaborations

Osburn’s listed coworkers include Gerald R. Garde and Shihua Liang. His company affiliation is Beloit Technologies, Inc.

Conclusion

Andrew W. Osburn’s patent describes a practical rod-holder design intended to improve stability, reduce fluid leakage, extend component life, and support precise coating control.