Location History:
- Ithaca, NY (US) (2006 - 2011)
- Brookhaven, PA (US) (2015 - 2016)
- Conroe, TX (US) (2018 - 2021)
Company Filing History:
4 out of 1,780 
3 out of 785 
3 out of 3 
Years Active: 2006-2021
Title: Inventor Spotlight: Erik Herz
Introduction
Erik Herz, a prolific inventor based in Ithaca, NY, has made significant contributions to the field of lubricants and working fluid identification. With a total of nine patents to his name, his innovative approaches have the potential to enhance the efficiency and performance of various mechanical systems.
Latest Patents
Among Erik’s recent inventions are two notable patents. The first is related to "Electrostatic varnish and precursor detection in lubricants", where innovative methods are developed for in-situ detection of varnish and deposit precursors in lubricant environments. By utilizing an electrostatic accumulator, this method enhances the accumulation of varnish on the accumulator’s surface, allowing for real-time characterization of deposits. This advancement contributes to understanding lubricants' behavior in operational settings.
The second patent is for a "Method and system for in-situ identification of working fluids". This invention includes a system design consisting of a working fluid reservoir equipped with sensors that detect the properties of the working fluid. The system transmits this data to a cloud computing platform, which compares it against a reference database for accurate identification of working fluids. This technology is pivotal for maintaining optimal conditions in various machinery.
Career Highlights
Erik Herz has worked with prestigious organizations, including ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company, where he likely honed his expertise in lubricant technologies. Additionally, his association with Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties, Inc. showcases his role in advancing academic research into practical applications. His innovative spirit has allowed him to excel in both industrial and academic settings.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Erik has collaborated with fellow experts, such as Carvel Holton and Kenith Meissner. These partnerships have been instrumental in driving forward his innovative projects, helping to solidify his reputation as a leader in his field.
Conclusion
Erik Herz's contributions to the field of lubricants and fluid identification are invaluable. With his recent patents addressing critical issues in lubricant management and working fluid identification, he continues to push the boundaries of innovation. His work not only benefits the companies he has been associated with but also advances the broader field of engineering and technology.