Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1988-2023
Title: Innovations by James Earl Koerner
Introduction
James Earl Koerner is a notable inventor based in Uniontown, OH (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of tire technology, holding a total of 11 patents. His work primarily focuses on enhancing tire performance and safety through innovative designs.
Latest Patents
One of Koerner's latest patents is for a tire with a tread wear sensor plug. This invention includes a pair of sidewalls extending from a respective bead area to a tread. The tread is designed with multiple tread elements and a radially outer surface. A sensor unit is mounted to the tire, featuring a pair of electrical contacts. The tread wear sensor plug consists of a cylindrical projection that extends through an opening in one of the tread elements, along with a flange and a wire. The wire's proximal ends are located in the flange, while the distal end is near the radially outer surface of the projection. When the tread element and the cylindrical projection wear down to the distal end of the wire, the wire and the circuit break, prompting the sensor unit to transmit a notice.
Another significant patent by Koerner is a method and apparatus for making a compartmentalized tire sealant strip. This method involves co-extruding a barrier strip made of non-sealant elastomeric material with a series of projecting linear walls and a sealant strip. The sealant strip is formed on one side of the barrier strip, filling the spaces between the projecting walls to create a compartmentalized sealant strip and barrier assembly. This innovative approach enhances the effectiveness of tire sealants.
Career Highlights
Koerner's career is marked by his work at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, where he has been instrumental in developing advanced tire technologies. His inventions have contributed to improving tire safety and performance, making a lasting impact on the industry.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Koerner has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Charles Kenneth Schmalix and William M. Hopkins. These collaborations have fostered innovation and have led to the development of groundbreaking tire technologies.
Conclusion
James Earl Koerner's contributions to tire technology through his innovative patents have significantly advanced the industry. His work continues to influence tire design and safety, showcasing the importance of innovation in engineering.