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For the Inventor, By the Inventor

Ann Arbor, MI, United States of America

Donald G Wheatley

This inventor holds 53 USPTO granted patents, primarily in Tonneau Cover Systems (CPC class 2961). Top assignees: Ford Motor Company Limited, Donald G. Wheatley, Extang Corporation. Active years: 1976-2009.

IDiyas Innovation Intelligence. (2026). Inventor Profile: Donald G Wheatley. Retrieved from https://idiyas.com/inventor/donald-g-wheatley

Data source: USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) public patent records. Weekly synchronization. How IDiyas builds this profile

USPTO Granted Patents = 53

% Patents Active = 96.2

Average Co-Inventor Count = 1.2

ph-index = 30

Forward Citations = 2,045(Granted Patents)

Forward Citations (Not Self Cited) = 1,962(Dec 10, 2025)


Inventors with similar research interests:


Location History:

  • Orchard Lake, MI (US) (1976)
  • Ann Arbor, MI (US) (1987 - 2009)

Company Filing History:

goldMedal4 out of 6,167 
 
Ford Motor Company Limited
 patents
silverMedal1 out of 1 
 
Donald G. Wheatley
 patent
bronzeMedal1 out of 87 
 
Extang Corporation
 patents
4. 44 out of 834,513 
Other
 patents
where one patent can have more than one assignee

Years Active: 1976-2009

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Areas of Expertise:
Tonneau Cover
Automatic Coupling
Carbon Fiber Reinforcement
Tie-Down Rails
Cargo Management
Vehicle Accessories
Moisture Drainage
Rail Retaining Mechanism
Clamp Design
Hinged J-Strip
Ventilation Baffle
Pick-Up Truck
53 patents (USPTO):Explore Patents
1. 7607714 - Covering structure having automatic coupling system (2009-10-27),
2. 7484790 - Covering structure having automatic coupling system (2009-02-03),
3. 7484788 - Solid fold tonneau system (2009-02-03),
4. 7427095 - Covering structure having automatic coupling system (2008-09-23),
5. RE39839 - Carbon fiber reinforcement system (2007-09-17),
6. 7204540 - Method for covering structure having automatic coupling system (2007-04-17),
7. 7188888 - Tonneau system latch (2007-03-13),
8. 7037057 - Universal vehicle tie-down rails (2006-05-02),
9. 7025403 - Covering structure having automatic coupling system (2006-04-11),
10. 6976724 - Covering structure having automatic coupling system (2005-12-20),
11. 6953312 - Pick-up truck tie-down rails and method (2005-10-11),
12. 6893073 - Tonneau cover clamp (2005-05-17),
13. 6846537 - Carbon fiber reinforcement material (2005-01-25),
14. D500471 - Cargo tie-down rails (2005-01-04),
15. 6824191 - Tonneau cover system with seal member (2004-11-30),

Title: Innovations by Donald G. Wheatley: A Profile of a Leading Inventor

Introduction

Donald G. Wheatley, based in Ann Arbor, MI, is a prolific inventor with an impressive portfolio of 53 patents. His innovations span various applications, particularly in the automotive industry, reflecting his expertise and commitment to enhancing vehicle functionality and design.

Latest Patents

Wheatley's latest inventions include notable advancements in cargo management systems. One of his significant patents details a **Covering Structure Having Automatic Coupling System**. This cargo box tonneau system is designed with a comprehensive system frame and cover, featuring a bow member that applies biased tension to the cover. The innovative design ensures better engagement and tailgate movement, contributing to the functionality of pickup trucks. Another recent patent is the **Solid Fold Tonneau System**, which introduces a design for pickup truck cargo boxes that includes panels and hinge assemblies. These assemblies are engineered not only to pivot with ease but also to mitigate fluid collection, ensuring the cargo area remains clean and functional.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Wheatley has contributed to renowned organizations, notably the Ford Motor Company. His extensive work in creating practical and efficient solutions has positioned him as a significant figure in vehicle design and functionality enhancements. His ability to innovate continuously has led to numerous patents that showcase his technical prowess.

Collaborations

During his innovative journey, Wheatley has worked alongside notable individuals, including Donald E. Wheatley and Patricia A. Wheatley. These collaborations have likely fostered an environment rich in creativity and shared knowledge, further enhancing the quality and impact of their collective inventions.

Conclusion

Donald G. Wheatley's contributions to the field of automotive innovation demonstrate his commitment to improving vehicle design and functionality. With a portfolio of 53 patents, his work continues to influence the automotive industry, making him a notable inventor in the field. As he moves forward, his innovative spirit is sure to bring about even more groundbreaking advancements.

Profile summary based on public USPTO records.
Data Sources: USPTO Patent Grant XML, Patent Center, EPO & CIPO • Normalized by IDiyas Innovation Graph. Methodology & provenance architecturePlease report any incorrect information to [email protected]
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