James B McKnight

Title: The Innovations of James B McKnight

Introduction

James B McKnight is a notable inventor based in Champaign, IL (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of engineering, particularly in the automotive and construction industries. With a total of 4 patents to his name, McKnight's work focuses on enhancing safety and efficiency in machinery.

Latest Patents

One of McKnight's latest patents is for an "Automatic brake application for emergency stop." This invention involves an electronic control unit (ECU) that detects emergency stopping events in vehicles. The ECU can determine if the electro-hydraulic brakes are in a disabled mode and can override this mode based on the position of the brake pedal to engage the brakes during emergencies. Another significant patent is for "Locking out a machine to prohibit movement." This invention provides a system and method for locking out construction machines to prevent movement without shutting them down. The electronic control module (ECM) can collect information about the machine's status and command a lockout if necessary.

Career Highlights

James B McKnight is currently employed at Caterpillar Inc., a leading company in the construction and mining equipment industry. His work at Caterpillar has allowed him to apply his innovative ideas to real-world applications, contributing to the safety and functionality of heavy machinery.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, McKnight has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Dennis A Barney and Charles W Birchenough. These collaborations have likely fostered an environment of innovation and creativity, leading to the development of impactful technologies.

Conclusion

James B McKnight's contributions to innovation in the automotive and construction sectors are commendable. His patents reflect a commitment to improving safety and efficiency in machinery. His work continues to influence the industry and inspire future inventors.