James K Dunn

Title: James K. Dunn: Inventor in Fluid-Handling Technology.

Introduction

James K. Dunn is an inventor associated with Columbia, South Carolina, and United Technologies Corporation. His patent work addresses a practical challenge in pressure-operated fluid-handling devices: determining the correct preload for a valve-closing spring.

Latest Patents

Dunn is credited with one patent, titled “Method and Apparatus for Determining Spring Preloading in a Fluid.” The invention determines the required preload by mechanically precompressing a spring, applying operating pressure to the device, and then relieving the spring’s bias until the pressure opens the valve. The thickness of the shim used to set the preload corresponds to the difference between the spring-length change caused by initial precompression and the change caused by relieving that precompression before the valve opens. This method provides a way to establish spring preload based on the device’s operating conditions.

Career Highlights

Dunn’s recorded patent activity includes 1 patent related to valve operation and spring adjustment in fluid-handling equipment. The patent is associated with United Technologies Corporation, a company involved in engineering and technology.

Collaborations

Dunn’s listed coworkers include Stephanie A. Roberts and John Spearen. Their names provide context for his professional associations, though the available information does not specify their roles in the patent.

Conclusion

James K. Dunn’s patent describes a method for setting valve-closing spring preload through measured changes in spring length under operating pressure, reflecting a focused contribution to fluid-handling technology.