Company Filing History:
2 out of 24 
2 out of 2 
1 out of 130 Years Active: 2002-2006
Title: Kurt Apel: Innovator in Automotive Technology
Introduction
Kurt Apel is a notable inventor based in Neuenstein, Germany. He has made significant contributions to the automotive industry, particularly in the field of tube grounding and fittings. With a total of five patents to his name, Apel's work showcases his innovative approach to solving engineering challenges.
Latest Patents
One of Apel's latest patents is a method of grounding a jacketed metal tube using a clip welded to the jacket. This method involves a plastic clip that is made conductive by incorporating conductive particles. The clip is clamped onto the jacket of metal automotive vehicle tubing, allowing projections on the clip to penetrate through the jacket and engage the outer surface of the metal tube. The clip body is then welded to the jacket, creating a hermetic seal at the contact region. Another significant patent is for a tube-end fitting, which features a tube end with an outwardly projecting ridge. This design allows the tube end to be secured in a fitting with a seat that is centered on an axis and open axially rearwardly. The retaining clip on the body can move between an outer spread position and an inner retaining position, ensuring a secure fit for the tube end.
Career Highlights
Kurt Apel has worked with prominent companies in the automotive sector, including Ti Automotive GmbH and Ti Group Automotive Systems GmbH. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to develop and refine his innovative ideas, contributing to advancements in automotive technology.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Apel has collaborated with talented individuals such as Andreas Rose and Thorsten Otto. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that has led to the development of groundbreaking inventions.
Conclusion
Kurt Apel's contributions to the automotive industry through his patents and collaborations highlight his role as an influential inventor. His innovative methods and designs continue to impact the field, showcasing the importance of creativity in engineering.