Ken S Laird

Title: Ken S. Laird: Innovator in Motor Vehicle Design

Introduction: Ken S. Laird is a notable inventor based in Canton, MI (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of motor vehicle design, particularly in the area of armrest assembly. His innovative approach has led to the development of a unique structural support system that enhances vehicle safety and functionality.

Latest Patents: Ken S. Laird holds a patent for a "Thin plate structural support for a motor vehicle armrest." This invention features a motor vehicle door and armrest assembly that utilizes a thin plate designed to be vertically strong while remaining laterally collapsible. The plate consists of a matrix of intersecting parallel struts that form four-sided cells, incorporating both acute and obtuse angles. The obtuse angles are strategically positioned to limit force transmission during side impact, thereby improving passenger safety. The struts are coupled to a frame, with variable cross-sectional areas that help determine the lateral stiffness of the plate.

Career Highlights: Ken S. Laird is currently employed at Ford Global Technologies, LLC, where he continues to innovate and contribute to advancements in automotive design. His work is characterized by a commitment to enhancing vehicle safety and user experience through thoughtful engineering.

Collaborations: Throughout his career, Ken has collaborated with talented professionals in the field, including Srinivasan Sundararajan and Krish E. Aekbote. These collaborations have fostered a creative environment that encourages the development of groundbreaking automotive technologies.

Conclusion: Ken S. Laird's contributions to motor vehicle design exemplify the spirit of innovation in the automotive industry. His patent for a thin plate structural support demonstrates his dedication to improving safety and functionality in vehicle design.