Michael D Winegard

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Michael D. Winegard

Introduction

Michael D. Winegard is a notable inventor based in Greenville, MI (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of engineering, particularly in the design of crankshaft bearings. With a total of two patents to his name, Winegard's work showcases his expertise and innovative spirit.

Latest Patents

Winegard's latest patents include a method for forming a crankshaft bearing having hydrodynamic thrust and a crankshaft bearing having hydrodynamic thrust flanges. The first patent describes a split crankshaft bearing assembly that includes two flanged half bearings designed to encircle a crankshaft. The flanges are equipped with oil supply grooves that create thrust bearing pads. Each pad features a positively sloped ramp surface leading to a raised land surface. This design allows the rotating crankshaft to drag a film of oil onto the land surface, providing hydrodynamic thrust support for the shaft. The manufacturing process ensures close tolerance control on the thrust bearing pad contour, with the oil supply grooves formed and the thrust face presized before the final contour is established through a coining operation.

The second patent also focuses on a split crankshaft bearing assembly with similar features, emphasizing the importance of hydrodynamic thrust support in enhancing the performance of crankshafts.

Career Highlights

Michael D. Winegard has built a successful career at Federal-Mogul Corporation, where he has applied his innovative ideas to develop advanced bearing technologies. His work has contributed to the company's reputation for excellence in engineering and manufacturing.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Winegard has collaborated with talented individuals such as Ronald Joseph Thompson and Ned L. Misner. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that encourages the development of groundbreaking technologies.

Conclusion

Michael D. Winegard's contributions to the field of engineering, particularly in crankshaft bearing design, highlight his innovative mindset and dedication to advancing technology. His patents reflect a commitment to improving performance and efficiency in mechanical systems.