Charles J Donahue

Title: The Innovations of Charles J. Donahue

Introduction

Charles J. Donahue is a notable inventor based in Enfield, Connecticut, recognized for his contributions to fuel injection technology. With a total of two patents to his name, Donahue has made significant advancements in the field of internal combustion engines.

Latest Patents

One of Donahue's latest patents is a fuel injection pump designed to supply measured charges of fuel to the nozzles of an associated internal combustion engine. This invention focuses on rotary distributor-type fuel pumps, featuring pumping plungers that are slidably mounted in radial bores of a rotary distributor. The design incorporates a circular cam ring with pairs of inwardly directed cam lobes that actuate the pumping plungers simultaneously, pressurizing the fuel charge effectively. This innovation addresses issues related to side loading by creating a hydraulic counterbalancing force that adjusts according to the reaction forces between the cam lobes and pumping plungers, all without adding extra moving parts.

Another significant patent by Donahue is for a fuel injection pump and plunger control means. This invention presents designs for variably controlling the maximum quantity of fuel delivered by the pumping stroke of the plungers. It includes combinations of resilient and rigid leaf spring arrangements that manage the maximum pumping stroke, with or without speed-responsive control valves or cams. This design allows for excess fuel during starting and shapes the maximum fuel delivery curve according to engine speed.

Career Highlights

Donahue's career is marked by his work at Stanadyne Corporation, where he has contributed to the development of advanced fuel injection systems. His expertise in this area has positioned him as a key figure in the automotive engineering sector.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Donahue has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Charles W. Davis and Gerald R. Bouwkamp. These partnerships have fostered innovation and development in fuel injection technologies.

Conclusion

Charles J. Donahue's contributions to fuel injection technology have significantly impacted the automotive industry. His innovative patents demonstrate a commitment to enhancing engine performance and efficiency.