Location History:
- Pontiac, MI (US) (1982)
- Clarkston, MI (US) (1992)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1982-1992
Title: Innovations by Joseph M. Kotzan in Automotive Diagnostics
Introduction
Joseph M. Kotzan, an inventive engineer based in Clarkston, MI, is renowned for his significant contributions to automotive diagnostics. With three patents to his name, Kotzan has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing vehicle technology, particularly in the realm of air injection and fuel system diagnostics.
Latest Patents
Kotzan’s latest innovations include:
1. **Air Injection System Diagnostic**: This comprehensive diagnostic system utilizes existing hardware in many vehicle exhaust systems to monitor the oxygen content of exhaust gases. It indicates when the steady-state oxygen levels do not align with the air injection system's expected performance, thereby diagnosing potential failures effectively.
2. **Vehicle Engine Fuel System Diagnostics**: This patent focuses on diagnosing the fuel system of internal combustion engines based on a learned term adjusted through closed-loop air-fuel ratio modifications. The system intelligently tracks adjustments, signaling a fuel system fault if the learned term exceeds either primary or secondary rich or lean limit values, indicating potential performance issues.
Career Highlights
Joseph M. Kotzan works at GM Global Technology Operations LLC, where he has been a pivotal contributor to advancements in automotive technology. His expertise lies in harnessing existing components to introduce effective monitoring systems, significantly improving the reliability of vehicle performance.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Kotzan has collaborated with fellow innovators such as Clifford R. Carlson and Leo H. Voelkle. These partnerships have fostered an environment of creativity and technical excellence, leading to the advancement of critical automotive technologies.
Conclusion
Joseph M. Kotzan exemplifies the spirit of innovation in the automotive industry. His inventions in air injection and fuel system diagnostics are pivotal for enhancing vehicle performance and reliability. Through his continued efforts, Kotzan remains a crucial figure in shaping the future of automotive technologies.