G Dudley Shepard

Title: G Dudley Shepard: Innovator in Compliance-Matching Technology

Introduction

G Dudley Shepard is a notable inventor based in Exeter, NH (US), recognized for his contributions to innovative assembly technologies. With a total of three patents to his name, Shepard has made significant strides in enhancing the efficiency and precision of assembly processes.

Latest Patents

One of Shepard's latest patents is the Compliance-Matching Assembly Device. This device is designed to hold work-piece parts during assembly, grinding, sanding, or polishing processes. It features a rotational compliance that matches the compliance of the tool part, ensuring that both parts rotate equally about any axis perpendicular to their relative motion. This design preserves the relative orientation of the two parts, enhancing the accuracy of the assembly process.

Another significant patent is the Vibratory Interference Sensor. This apparatus and method facilitate the insertion of pins into holes, particularly when either the pin or the hole is chamfered or beveled. The method involves vibrating one part relative to the other in a plane orthogonal to the insertion direction. As one part is incrementally moved towards insertion, the system senses any interference caused by contact and adjusts the alignment accordingly until the pin is fully inserted.

Career Highlights

G Dudley Shepard is affiliated with the University of Lowell, where he continues to contribute to research and development in his field. His work has been instrumental in advancing technologies that improve assembly processes across various industries.

Collaborations

Shepard has collaborated with notable colleagues, including I Stuart Smith and Stephen R Christensen. These partnerships have fostered innovation and have led to the development of cutting-edge technologies in assembly and manufacturing.

Conclusion

G Dudley Shepard's innovative patents and contributions to assembly technology highlight his role as a significant figure in the field of invention. His work continues to influence the efficiency and precision of manufacturing processes, showcasing the importance of innovation in today's technological landscape.