Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1983
Title: Innovations of Donald A. Walker
Introduction
Donald A. Walker is a notable inventor based in Lexington, KY (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of thermal printing technology. With a total of 2 patents, his work has had a considerable impact on the efficiency and functionality of printers.
Latest Patents
One of his latest patents is titled "Ribbon guiding for thermal lift-off correction." This invention addresses the challenges faced during thermal printing by allowing the guide position to be adjusted on a pivoted arm during lift-off correction. This innovation ensures that a bond for correction can set before the ribbon is pulled away, enhancing the printing process. The ribbon used in this technology has an outer layer that adheres to printed characters at elevated temperatures but remains non-tacky at room temperatures.
Another significant patent by Walker is the "Electrically conductive ribbon break detector for printers." This invention tackles the serious issues that can arise from ribbon feed failures in printers, particularly those that utilize heat for ink transfers. By monitoring the electrical properties of the ribbon, the invention can detect abnormalities that indicate ribbon failure, triggering a cessation of printer operation to prevent damage to the printhead and other components.
Career Highlights
Donald A. Walker is associated with the International Business Machines Corporation (IBM), where he has contributed to advancements in printing technology. His work has been instrumental in improving the reliability and performance of thermal printers.
Collaborations
Walker has collaborated with notable colleagues such as James J. Molloy and Stanley Dyer, further enhancing the innovative efforts within his field.
Conclusion
Donald A. Walker's contributions to thermal printing technology through his patents demonstrate his commitment to innovation and improvement in the industry. His work continues to influence the development of more efficient printing solutions.