Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1978-1990
Title: The Innovative Mind of Louis J Vassos
Introduction
Louis J Vassos, an inventive mind hailing from Park Ridge, IL, has made significant contributions to the field of powered tools. With a total of four patents to his name, he is recognized for his innovative designs that enhance functionality and user experience in the realm of cordless tools.
Latest Patents
Among his most recent inventions is a cordless powered ratchet wrench. This unique tool features a ratchet actuator that allows users to select the direction of the output shaft, effectively accommodating various rotating tools. Notably, the ratchet actuator not only serves as a directional selector but also acts as a ratcheting stop, permitting manual tightening or loosening of nuts and bolts. This invention incorporates a lost-motion drive, which connects the battery power to the output shaft while allowing nearly two full rotations of ratcheting motion. Additionally, a pushbutton mechanism operates internal switches that manage the rechargeable battery’s direction and includes a safety interlock to prevent torque reversal during operation.
Another of his notable patents is a battery charging circuit designed for portable power tools. This circuit supports both trickle and fast charge modes, with a silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR) facilitating the fast charge. The circuit maintains the SCR active until the battery reaches full charge, at which point it switches to a trickle charge mode. This innovative design ensures efficient charging while preventing reversion back to the fast charge mode prematurely.
Career Highlights
Louis J Vassos is currently associated with Skil Corporation, a leader in the power tool industry. His work has undoubtedly elevated the reputation of the company through his inventive contributions. His designs are not only practical but also demonstrate a profound understanding of user needs, enhancing the overall utility of power tools.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Vassos has collaborated with esteemed colleagues like John W Heinz and James R Hartmann. Together, they have worked on various projects that further push the boundaries of innovation in power tool technology. These collaborations highlight the importance of teamwork in achieving remarkable advancements in the industry.
Conclusion
Louis J Vassos stands as a testament to innovation in the power tool sector. His inventive spirit and technical expertise have not only led to the development of advanced tools but also significantly impacted the way users interact with them. As he continues to forge new paths in invention, his contributions will undeniably inspire future generations of inventors and innovators.