Jeffrey B Crist

Title: **Innovator Spotlight: Jeffrey B. Crist**

Introduction

Jeffrey B. Crist, based in Sterling Heights, MI, is a notable inventor with a focus on automotive interior innovations. With a total of two patents to his name, Crist has made significant contributions to the industry that enhance both functionality and aesthetics in vehicle design.

Latest Patents

Crist's latest innovations include two key patents related to in-mold decorative appliqués featuring textured surfaces. The first patent, titled "Method of Manufacturing In-Mold Decorative Appliqué with Textured Surface," outlines a manufacturing method for creating a plastic-molded automotive interior trim component. This method produces a curvilinear finished surface that includes both relatively flat and curved portions. The process involves molding a decorative film subcomponent with a smooth outer surface, which is pigmented to match the desired color. This decorative film is then positioned in a mold designed with a film-receiving surface featuring three-dimensional textures. The innovative approach allows a structural backing member to be laminated with the decorative film by injecting molten plastic material, creating an embossed pattern that remains uniform and undistorted across varying surface geometries.

The second patent, titled "In-Mold Decorative Appliqué with Textured Surface," complements the first by detailing a plastic-molded component with a similar curvilinear finished surface and decorative film subcomponent. The integration of a textured backing enhances the embossed appearance, providing a sophisticated design element that meets the aesthetic demands of modern automotive interiors.

Career Highlights

Crist’s career has been marked by his dedication to advancing automotive manufacturing technologies. He is currently associated with Ford Global Technologies LLC, where he continues to contribute innovative ideas that shape the future of vehicle interiors. His expertise in material and manufacturing processes plays a crucial role in bringing modern designs to life.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Crist has worked alongside talented professionals, including Linh Ngoc Doan and James P. Holland. These collaborations highlight the importance of teamwork in driving forward groundbreaking innovations in automotive design and manufacturing.

Conclusion

Jeffrey B. Crist's contributions to the field of automotive interior design through his innovative patents reflect the important role inventors play in enhancing consumer experience. His work not only demonstrates technical expertise but also creative vision, setting a standard for quality and design in the automotive industry. As he continues his journey with Ford Global Technologies LLC, the impact of his inventions will undoubtedly resonate in future automotive developments.