Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1988-2011
Title: **The Innovative Contributions of Marvin Gordon Rains**
Introduction
Marvin Gordon Rains, located in Tualatin, Oregon, is a notable inventor with a total of four patents to his name. His inventive works primarily focus on advancements in the railroad industry, emphasizing efficiency and structural integrity of rail cars.
Latest Patents
Among his notable inventions, Rains has developed two significant patents:
1. **Lightweight Hopper Car with Through Center Sill** - This innovation presents a lightweight hopper car designed with one or more reinforcing members strategically placed to ensure both the carrying capacity and structural strength are comparable to heavier hopper cars. The design includes reinforcement at critical locations, such as selective intersections between the center sill and slope sheets of cargo wells, and junctions between side sheets and end slope sheets. Moreover, it introduces a novel method of bolstering side sheets against the warping that often occurs during the manufacturing process.
2. **Handbrake Operating Linkage for Multi-Unit Rail Cars** - This patent reveals an improved manual brake operating system that interconnects the braking equipment of multiple wheeled railroad freight car trucks. It enhances the initial rapid take-up of slack within the linkage while providing a greater mechanical advantage as the brake shoes engage the wheels. The innovation employs a system of noncircular sheaves to optimize the tension application, greatly improving the efficiency and functionality of the braking system.
Career Highlights
Marvin Rains is associated with Gunderson, Inc., a company renowned for its innovative contributions to the railcar manufacturing industry. His role in developing these cutting-edge inventions highlights his commitment to improving transportation solutions and fostering advancements in rail technology.
Collaborations
Rains has collaborated with several notable professionals during his career, including David J. DeBoer and Gary S. Kaleta. These partnerships have played a vital role in the successful development of his inventive concepts, allowing for a blend of expertise and innovative thinking in their projects.
Conclusion
With his groundbreaking patents, Marvin Gordon Rains exemplifies the spirit of innovation in the railroad sector. His work not only enhances the functionality and efficiency of rail cars but also showcases the potential of thoughtful engineering in addressing industry challenges. As he continues to contribute to the field, his inventive spirit is sure to leave a lasting impact.