Location History:
- New Albany, IN (US) (1985)
- Rochester, NY (US) (1998)
- Chagrin Falls, OH (US) (2002)
- North Attleboro, MA (US) (2009 - 2012)
- Sahuarita, AZ (US) (2013)
- Mars, PA (US) (2005 - 2014)
- Falmouth, MA (US) (2016)
- Stow, MA (US) (2016 - 2017)
- El Dorado Hills, CA (US) (2016 - 2018)
- Clarkston, MI (US) (2004 - 2021)
- Golden, CO (US) (2021)
- Columbia, MD (US) (2018 - 2022)
- Northville, MI (US) (2021 - 2022)
- Louisville, CO (US) (2020 - 2023)
- Metuchen, NJ (US) (2022 - 2023)
- Columbia, MO (US) (2023)
- Newburyport, MA (US) (2022 - 2024)
Company Filing History:
4 out of 30,943 
3 out of 74 
3 out of 46 
Years Active: 1985-2025
Title: Inventor Spotlight: Eric Smith from Northville, MI
Introduction
Eric Smith, a distinguished inventor hailing from Northville, MI, has made significant contributions to the field of remote actuation through his innovative patented technologies. With a total of two patents to his name, Eric has carved out a notable niche in engineering that focuses on the application of shape memory materials.
Latest Patents
Eric's latest inventions include the "SMC Integrated Bi-stable Strips for Remote Actuation" and "Morphable Body with Shape Memory Material Members." The first patent describes a remote actuator that employs bi-stable strips integrated with shape memory composite springs. This actuator harnesses the functionality of thermoplastics and conductors to transform the length of SMC springs when heated, enabling the bi-stable strip to switch from a coiled stable state to an elongated one. Additionally, this actuator can amplify displacement through a simple machine. The second patent encapsulates the concept of a morphable body that can be selectively reshaped. By utilizing shape memory material members — such as SMA wires — the body, often hollow and surface-restrained, can bend when activated, thereby allowing for dynamic configurations.
Career Highlights
Eric Smith currently works at Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. His role involves researching and developing advanced mechanical systems that enrich vehicle functionality. His inventive prowess is reflected in the patented technologies that aim to enhance remote actuation processes within automotive applications.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Eric has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Ryohei Tsuruta and Umesh N Gandhi. These partnerships have facilitated advancements in their shared engineering endeavors, combining diverse expertise to push the boundaries of innovation in automotive engineering.
Conclusion
Eric Smith stands out as a testament to the power of innovative thinking and collaboration in driving advancements in technology. His patents underscore the potential of shape memory materials in creating sophisticated mechanical systems, particularly in the automotive sector. As he continues to develop and refine his ideas, the impact of his work is likely to resonate well beyond the confines of his current projects, inspiring future innovations in various industries.
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.