Joe Kraus

Title: Joe Kraus: Innovator Behind the Single-Sided Inflatable Vertical Slit Valve

Introduction

Joe Kraus is an accomplished inventor based in Austin, TX, who has made significant contributions to the field of vacuum technology. With a focus on innovative solutions, he holds a noteworthy patent that exemplifies his ingenuity. His work is vital for advancing processes in various industrial applications.

Latest Patents

Kraus is the inventor of a single-sided inflatable vertical slit valve. This patent describes a sophisticated vacuum chamber equipped with a gate valve. The design includes a chamber housing that defines an internal vacuum region along with two openings. Central to this invention is a sealing door located in the processing region, designed to effectively seal the first opening in the chamber housing. The gate valve features a vertical actuator positioned outside the chamber and a one-sided horizontal actuator inside the processing region, which connects to the sealing door. Additionally, a valve shaft extends through the second opening of the chamber housing, linking the vertical actuator to the horizontal actuator.

Career Highlights

Joe Kraus has made his mark in the innovation landscape while working at Applied Materials, Inc. His experience in a leading company allows him to leverage advanced technologies and collaborate with top professionals in the field. His journey reflects a deep commitment to enhancing the capabilities of vacuum systems, paving the way for numerous applications in the industry.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Kraus has collaborated with talented colleagues, including Jeff Blahnik and Mike Rice. These partnerships emphasize the importance of teamwork in driving innovation and advancing technology. Together, they work on developing solutions that meet the evolving needs of their industry.

Conclusion

Joe Kraus is a key figure in innovation, particularly known for his single-sided inflatable vertical slit valve patent. Through his work at Applied Materials, Inc., and collaborations with skilled peers, he continues to contribute to advancements in vacuum technology. His inventive spirit and dedication to excellence inspire future generations of inventors and innovators.