This inventor holds 11 USPTO granted patents. Top assignees: Gm Global Technolgoy Operations, Inc., Other. Active years: 1980-2010.
Location History:
- Birmingham, MI (US) (1980)
- Rochester, MI (US) (1986 - 1989)
- Philadelphia, PA (US) (2008)
- Tecumseh, MI (US) (1992 - 2010)
Company Filing History:

Years Active: 1980-2010
Title: **Joseph L. Wanamaker: Innovator of Advanced Transmission Technologies**
Introduction
Joseph L. Wanamaker, based in Rochester, MI, is an accomplished inventor renowned for his contributions to automotive technology. With a remarkable portfolio of 10 patents, his innovations reflect a deep understanding of vehicle performance and efficiency.
Latest Patents
Among his latest inventions are two significant patents that showcase his expertise in transmission control systems. The first patent focuses on selecting transmission ratios based on performance drivability and fuel economy. This innovative transmission control system leverages a driver input device that generates a signal, which is then analyzed by a control module. The control module determines the operating mode of the transmission—whether maximum performance, power mode, or fuel economy—and selects the appropriate gear ratio accordingly.
The second patent, adaptive pressure control for automatic transmissions, presents a breakthrough in managing the relationship between fluid pressure and shift time. This improved control mechanism addresses nonlinearity in the transmission system by utilizing an empirically derived table to create a raw pressure error, facilitating a more accurate adaptive pressure correction. As a result, the system achieves enhanced adaptive convergence that permits better performance than previous models.
Career Highlights
Joseph currently works at GM Global Technology Operations LLC, where he contributes to the advancement of transmission technologies. His role enables him to influence the direction of automotive engineering, making strides toward improved vehicle dynamics and fuel efficiency.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Joseph has collaborated with industry professionals like Robert Charles Downs and Larry T. Nitz. Their collective efforts in transmission research highlight the innovative environment at GM, fostering a culture of teamwork and shared expertise in developing cutting-edge automotive solutions.
Conclusion
Joseph L. Wanamaker's inventive spirit and technical acumen are evident in his impactful patents and collaborations within the automotive sector. His dedication to enhancing vehicle performance and efficiency continues to drive innovations that will shape the future of transportation technology.