Brian Phillip Pate

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Brian Phillip Pate

Introduction

Brian Phillip Pate, an accomplished inventor from Fredericksburg, Indiana, has made significant contributions to the field of engineering through his innovative patents. With a total of three granted patents, his work primarily focuses on enhancing the functionality and reliability of proximity switch assemblies, a key component in various industrial applications.

Latest Patents

Among his latest inventions, Pate has developed a groundbreaking method of manufacturing an enclosed proximity switch assembly. This patent details a process of non-rotatably securing a target to a shaft that extends along a longitudinal axis within the assembly. The design includes a support for at least one target magnet and features a hub with a body portion that accommodates a shaft aperture and threaded body apertures. The innovative approach involves inserting a shaft into the aperture, using a set screw to engage the shaft, and sealing the set screw within the body aperture with a high-temperature potting material. This method improves the stability and performance of the proximity switch assembly in various operational environments.

Another vital component of his patent portfolio is the enclosed proximity switch assembly itself, which features a top enclosure and a bottom enclosure that create a defined interior volume. The design allows a vertical shaft to rotatably connect within the enclosure, with a samarium cobalt target magnet engaging with a corresponding driver magnet. This interaction alters the state of the switch, facilitating reliable operation even in demanding conditions.

Career Highlights

Brian Phillip Pate is currently employed by General Equipment and Manufacturing Company, Inc., where he continues to leverage his expertise to drive innovation. His contributions to engineering and product development have garnered recognition within the industry, showcasing his ability to blend theoretical knowledge with practical solutions.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Pate has worked collaboratively with talented colleagues, including Gregory Curtis Merrifield and Robert Lynn LaFountain. Their collective efforts have not only fostered an environment of innovation but have also led to the successful development and patenting of cutting-edge inventions that benefit various sectors.

Conclusion

Brian Phillip Pate's inventive spirit and commitment to enhancing technological solutions have made a lasting impact on the engineering landscape. His patents continue to reflect his dedication to advancing the functionality of proximity switch assemblies, marking him as a noteworthy inventor in his field. As technology evolves, Pate's contributions will undoubtedly inspire future innovations in this vital industry.