Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1987-1989
Title: The Innovative Contributions of Blair A. Maust
Introduction
Blair A. Maust is a notable inventor based in Dunlap, Illinois, who has made significant contributions to the field of engineering through his innovative patents. With a total of two patents to his name, Maust has developed solutions that address critical challenges in severe service applications.
Latest Patents
One of Maust's latest patents is the "End Face Seal Assembly." This invention is designed for use in severe service applications, particularly for sealing track joints. The assembly features a rubber load ring, an L-shaped metal seal ring, and a polyurethane seal ring. The polyurethane seal ring is strategically mounted in a groove on the end face of the track bushing, providing a dynamic seal against the metal seal ring. This innovative design eliminates the grooving of the bushing end face, a common issue with prior art seals. The metal seal ring is crafted from a hard and corrosion-resistant material, ensuring durability and effectiveness.
Another significant patent by Maust is the "Master Track Chain Connection for Crawler Tractors." This invention introduces a master connection that independently secures the track shoe to the split master link while retaining the half-links together. By separating the track shoe retention function from the half-link clamping function, the design maintains clamping integrity even if bolt loosening occurs due to load-induced slippage. The apparatus includes multiple bolts, each serving a specific purpose to enhance the reliability of the connection.
Career Highlights
Blair A. Maust has built a successful career at Caterpillar Inc., a leading company in the manufacturing of construction and mining equipment. His work has significantly impacted the design and functionality of track systems used in heavy machinery.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Maust has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Richard E. Livesay and Robert J. Purcell. These collaborations have fostered an environment of innovation and creativity, leading to the development of groundbreaking technologies.
Conclusion
Blair A. Maust's contributions to engineering through his patents demonstrate his commitment to innovation and problem-solving in the industry. His work continues to influence the design of critical components in heavy machinery, showcasing the importance of inventive thinking in engineering.