Location History:
- Macomb Township, Macomb County, MI (US) (1999 - 2000)
- Macomb Township, MI (US) (1997 - 2023)
Company Filing History:
12 out of 146 
4 out of 165 
3 out of 484 Years Active: 1997-2023
Title: David Alan Smith: Innovator in Automotive Design
Introduction
David Alan Smith is an accomplished inventor based in Macomb Township, MI, with a total of 19 patents to his name. His remarkable work in the automotive industry has significantly contributed to the development of innovative vehicle components, particularly focusing on enhancing vehicle top assemblies and door rail systems.
Latest Patents
Among his most recent inventions is the "Rear Hard Enclosure for a Soft Top." This innovative panel top assembly is designed for vehicles and includes a pivotal portion that can rotate between a closed position and an open sunroof position. The design features guide assemblies that allow the rear portion to slide back for an open top experience. Additionally, it incorporates a removable hard rear window, a rear hard drip rail, and removable hard rear side window assemblies that create clear rear hard corners, ensuring an effective sealing engagement with the rear window. When fully opened, the rear hard drip rail and the pivotal portion can drop at an angle into the vehicle's rear cargo area.
Another notable patent is the "Removable Door Surround for a Folding Soft Top," which features an anti-rotation design in the door rail clamp assembly. This assembly ensures stability while the vehicle door is closed, applying clamp load to prevent free movement. The incorporation of a second rotatable clamp allows for effective fastening, reinforcing the assembly’s integrity under load.
Career Highlights
David has worked with prominent companies in the automotive sector, such as Bestop, Inc. and Asc Corporation. His experience in these organizations has provided him with valuable insights into automotive design and innovation, leading to the patenting of his inventive ideas.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, David has collaborated with talented colleagues, including Stephen John Lewis and Duane Charles Junkin. These partnerships have enriched his work experience and contributed to his success in developing innovative solutions for the automotive industry.
Conclusion
David Alan Smith's extensive portfolio of 19 patents showcases his dedication to innovation in automotive design. His latest inventions reflect a deep understanding of the industry's needs and a commitment to improving vehicle functionality and user experience. As he continues to innovate, David remains a significant figure in the automotive engineering space, inspiring future generations of inventors.