Jerry Kennie

Title: Innovator Spotlight: Jerry Kennie

Introduction

Jerry Kennie, an accomplished inventor based in Canton, MI, has made significant contributions to the automotive industry, particularly in the area of fuel composition technology. With a portfolio of eight patents, Kennie's innovative ideas focus on improving the reliability and efficiency of flexible fueled vehicles.

Latest Patents

Among his latest patents, Kennie developed a "Fuel Composition Sensor Rationality Test." This method allows for monitoring the integrity of a fuel composition sensor in flexible fueled vehicles. The process includes testing the sensor's electrical and rationality viability at ignition-on and subsequently conducting periodic non-intrusive checks for potential rationality errors. If these indicate malfunctions, the system can autonomously convert to a limp-in mode based on feedback from an exhaust gas oxygen sensor system.

Additionally, he created a "Method of Determining the Composition of Fuel in a Flexible Fueled Vehicle After Fuel Blending." This inventive system determines the percent alcohol content of fuel at the instance of fueling, using two calculated percent alcohol content values—one for E85 fuel and another for E0 fuel. The system cleverly adapts based on the inferred ethanol content during different operational conditions, ensuring accurate fuel composition assessment.

Career Highlights

Kennie has had a fruitful career, primarily at Ford Motor Company's Chrysler Corporation and DaimlerChrysler Corporation. His tenure at these companies has allowed him to develop and refine his inventive solutions aimed at enhancing vehicle performance and environmental sustainability.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Kennie has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Robert J. Nankee II and Yi Cheng. These professional relationships have fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas, contributing to his success as an inventor in the automotive field.

Conclusion

Jerry Kennie stands out as a vital contributor to automotive innovations, particularly in the development of fuel composition monitoring technologies. With a commitment to excellence and a strong record of patents, Kennie's work continues to shape the future of flexible fueled vehicles, ensuring they operate more efficiently and effectively in an ever-evolving market.