Cathleen Mary Clausen

Title: Cathleen Mary Clausen: Innovator in Sensor Technology

Introduction

Cathleen Mary Clausen is a notable inventor based in Wilmington, NC (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of sensor technology, holding a total of 4 patents. Her work focuses on innovative solutions that enhance energy harvesting and sensor functionality.

Latest Patents

One of her latest patents is titled "Sensor and/or power harvesting apparatus having a wide dynamic range for responding to a driving rotational input." This invention provides a mechanism for sensing and harvesting energy across a wide dynamic range of a driving rotational input. The apparatus includes a rotor magnet that responds to the driving rotational input. The utilization of a togging effect or a magnetic spring effect allows the rotor magnet to rapidly rotate during certain rapid-rotation events, regardless of the low rate of rotation of the driving input. A coil assembly is magnetically coupled to the rotor magnet, generating a signal in response to its rotation. This signal can be used to harvest electrical energy or to determine characteristics of the driving rotational input.

Another significant patent is the "Proximity switch with snap lock." This invention features a proximity switch that quickly snaps and locks between two positions of movable electrical contacts. A magnet moves a first shaft toward a magnetic target when the target is near the sensor end of the switch housing. A spring urges the first shaft away from the sensor end, and the movement of the first shaft causes a second spring to urge a second shaft in the direction of the first shaft. The switch can be adapted to a client cable pin configuration via an adapter plug in the housing, with a flexible interconnection circuit folded in a chamber between the adapter plug and leads from fixed electrical contacts of the switch.

Career Highlights

Cathleen is currently employed at Dynapar Corporation, where she continues to develop innovative technologies. Her work has been instrumental in advancing sensor applications and energy harvesting techniques.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Cathleen has collaborated with talented individuals such as John Marshall Thomasson and Nicholas Graham Hartman. These collaborations have contributed to her success and the development of her patented technologies.

Conclusion

Cathleen Mary Clausen is a pioneering inventor whose work in sensor technology and energy harvesting has made a significant impact in her field. Her innovative patents reflect her commitment to advancing technology and improving functionality in various applications.