Donald Richard Doherty

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Donald Richard Doherty

Introduction

Donald Richard Doherty is a notable inventor based in St. Peters, Missouri, with a remarkable portfolio of seven patents. His work primarily focuses on advancements in socket assembly technology, showcasing his expertise in engineering and design.

Latest Patents

Doherty's latest patents include a socket assembly and a method of making a socket assembly. The first patent describes an assembly that features a housing with an inner bore and a ball stud. This ball stud has a ball portion with opposing first and second hemispheres. A bearing assembly is integrated into the inner bore of the housing, presenting a curved first bearing surface that is in slidable contact with only the first hemisphere of the ball portion. Additionally, the assembly includes a curved second bearing surface on a different component, which is in slidable contact with the second hemisphere of the ball portion. The bearing assembly consists of a plastic portion and several metal segments, allowing for individual movement of the segments to effectively seat against the ball portion of the ball stud.

The second patent elaborates on a socket assembly that includes a housing with an inner wall surrounding an open bore. A stud is partially received in the open bore, with a bearing interposed between the inner wall and the stud. This bearing has a bearing piece in surface-to-surface contact with the stud and a preload piece that is elastically compressed to impart a biasing force on the bearing piece. The preload piece is securely coupled with the bearing piece, allowing for easy insertion into the open bore of the housing as a unit. The materials used for the bearing and preload pieces differ in elasticity, enhancing the assembly's functionality.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Doherty has made significant contributions to the field of automotive parts through his work with companies such as Federal-Mogul Motorparts Corporation and Federal-Mogul World Wide, Inc. His innovative designs have played a crucial role in improving the performance and reliability of socket assemblies.

Collaborations

Doherty has collaborated with several professionals in his field, including Eric M. Kopsie and James J. Elterman. These collaborations have further enriched his work and contributed to the development of advanced technologies in socket assembly.

Conclusion

Donald Richard Doherty's inventive spirit and dedication to engineering have led to significant advancements in socket assembly technology. His patents reflect a deep understanding of