Sparta, IL, United States of America

Donald R Krull

This inventor holds 4 USPTO granted patents. Top assignees: Caterpillar Inc., Other. Active years: 1997-2026.

IDiyas Innovation Intelligence. (2026). Inventor Profile: Donald R Krull. Retrieved from https://idiyas.com/inventor/donald-r-krull

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


% Patents Active = 100.0

Average Co-Inventor Count = 1.5

ph-index = 2

Forward Citations = 11(Granted Patents)


Location History:

  • Galesburg, IL (US) (1997 - 2001)
  • Sparta, IL (US) (2018)

Company Filing History:

goldMedal2 out of 9,804 
 
Caterpillar Inc.
 patents
silverMedal1 out of 834,513 
Other
 patents
where one patent can have more than one assignee

Years Active: 1997-2026

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4 patents (USPTO):Explore Patents

Title: The Innovations of Donald R. Krull

Introduction

Donald R. Krull is an accomplished inventor based in Galesburg, IL (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of spark ignition systems and spark plugs. With a total of 4 patents to his name, Krull's work has had a notable impact on internal combustion engine technology.

Latest Patents

One of Krull's latest patents is for a spark plug with a lower operating temperature. This innovative spark plug features an electrode with a tip designed to evenly distribute heat at the firing end portion. The electrical insulating material surrounding the electrode is strategically spaced to allow heat to dissipate more quickly. Additionally, an annular groove in the first end surface of the insulating material minimizes electrical surface discharge between the electrode and the metal shell of the spark plug. The design also includes radii at locations of change in cross-section to reduce voltage breakdown.

Another significant patent by Krull is for a spark ignition system of an internal combustion engine. This system utilizes multiple electrodes operating at high voltages to generate several sparks across the combustion zone. The construction of this system allows for the formation of long-length sparks while maintaining the use of standard electrical wiring sizes.

Career Highlights

Donald R. Krull is currently employed at Caterpillar Inc., where he continues to innovate and develop new technologies. His work has contributed to advancements in engine performance and efficiency.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Krull has collaborated with notable colleagues, including George G. Codina and J. Thomas Vachon. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that encourages the development of groundbreaking technologies.

Conclusion

Donald R. Krull's contributions to the field of spark ignition systems and spark plugs demonstrate his commitment to innovation. His patents reflect a deep understanding of engineering principles and a dedication to improving engine technology.

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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