This inventor holds 14 USPTO granted patents. Top assignees: Midcon Pipeline Equipment Co., Crc-Evans Pipeline International, Inc., Central Welding Supply Co., Inc.. Active years: 1977-1989.
Company Filing History:
8 out of 32 
2 out of 43 
1 out of 3 Years Active: 1977-1989
Title: The Innovations of Clyde M. Slavens: A Pioneer in Welding Technology
Introduction: Clyde M. Slavens, an accomplished inventor based in Houston, TX, has made significant contributions to the field of welding technology. With a remarkable portfolio of 14 patents, Slavens has demonstrated a commitment to innovation that has advanced the capabilities of welding equipment and processes. His inventions have been instrumental for various applications, particularly in the pipeline industry.
Latest Patents: Among Slavens' most notable inventions are two patents that showcase his engineering prowess. The first is the **Internal Welding Head Assembly**, an advanced system designed to enhance welding processes within confined spaces. This apparatus features a welding torch mounted on a pivotal support, allowing precise movement towards and away from the weld site. The design utilizes a rotative shaft which oscillates the torch transversely through the action of an eccentric in a yoke. This innovative design is compact and can be mounted on a carrier to be rotated within pipes or tanks, providing a versatile solution for varied welding scenarios.
The second patent, the **Welding Carriage**, introduces a sophisticated articulated body equipped with support wheel sets. One end of the carriage houses a drive assembly, which can be adjusted to move toward or away from the track that it travels on. The assembly comprises two tandem drive wheels powered by an electric motor, allowing the carriage to support multiple welding heads. This enables the simultaneous formation of one or more weld beads as it progresses past a welding groove, greatly enhancing productivity.
Career Highlights: Clyde M. Slavens has had a noteworthy career, working with prominent companies such as Midcon Pipeline Equipment Company and Crc-Evans Pipeline International, Inc. His roles in these organizations have allowed him to apply his inventive skills in real-world applications, leading to advancements in pipeline technology and operations.
Collaborations: Throughout his career, Slavens has collaborated with talented professionals, including coworkers Edward A. Clavin and James E. Alleman. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that has contributed to his innovative output, resulting in patents that have significantly impacted the industry.
Conclusion: Clyde M. Slavens' contributions to welding technology through his inventions are commendable. His patents reflect a deep understanding of engineering and practical applications in the pipeline sector. As a forward-thinking inventor, Slavens continues to inspire innovation within the field, leaving a lasting legacy that will benefit future generations of engineers and inventors.