Jonathan J Harter

Title: Innovations by Jonathan J Harter in Rare Earth Material Recovery

Introduction

Jonathan J Harter is an accomplished inventor based in Oak Ridge, TN (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of recycling rare earth materials, particularly through his innovative methods for recovering valuable components from electric machines and hard disk drives. With a total of two patents to his name, Harter's work is paving the way for more sustainable practices in material recovery.

Latest Patents

Harter's latest patents include "Automated recovery of rare earth permanent magnets from electric machines" and "Hard disk drive dismantlement for critical material recovery." The first patent outlines a method for the automated recovery of rare earth permanent magnets from electric machines. This method involves identifying electric machines in a mixed product stream and performing a unique robotic disassembly routine. Machines that are not identified are sent to a robot training station, where a suitable disassembly routine is implemented. The remaining machines are delivered to a rotary platform for simultaneous disassembly, allowing for efficient sorting and recycling of permanent magnets.

The second patent focuses on a system and method for recycling rare earth materials from dissimilar hard disk drives. This innovative approach includes scanning each hard disk drive, sorting and aligning them, and rapidly removing fasteners. The method also involves generating a metrology data collection record for drives that do not match an inventory database. Harter's system is commercially scalable, with the potential to generate between 600 and 700 metric tons of rare earth elements annually from a single processing facility.

Career Highlights

Harter is currently employed at UT-Battelle, Inc., where he continues to develop and refine his innovative recycling methods. His work not only contributes to the field of material recovery but also addresses the growing demand for rare earth elements in various industries.

Collaborations

Harter collaborates with Timothy James McIntyre, leveraging their combined expertise to enhance the effectiveness of their recycling systems and methods.

Conclusion

Jonathan J Harter's innovative patents and career at UT-Battelle, Inc. highlight his commitment to advancing the field of rare earth material recovery. His contributions are essential for promoting sustainable practices in the recycling industry.