Michael Staihr

Title: Michael Staihr: Innovator in Hopper Car Technology

Introduction

Michael Staihr is an accomplished inventor based in Raymore, Missouri. He has made significant contributions to the field of railroad technology, particularly with his innovative designs for hopper car doors. His work has been instrumental in enhancing the functionality and safety of these essential components in the rail industry.

Latest Patents

Staihr holds a patent for a "Centering apparatus for hopper car doors." This invention features a centering apparatus that is bi-directionally pivotable, designed to improve the operation of hopper doors. The apparatus is coupled between the frame of a hopper car and a bell crank of a hopper door. It includes a housing with a piston that extends from one end, featuring a piston head that is biased toward the center of the housing by a pair of coil springs. This design ensures that the hopper door remains in a closed state, enhancing safety and efficiency. In a second configuration, the apparatus incorporates a double-acting actuator with independent piston assemblies, which maintains the hopper door in a closed position and ensures it returns to this position in case of system failure.

Career Highlights

Michael Staihr is currently employed at Herzog Railroad Services, Inc., where he continues to innovate and contribute to the field of railroad technology. His work has not only improved the functionality of hopper car doors but has also set new standards in safety and reliability within the industry.

Collaborations

Staihr has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Nathan A Landes and Stephen Bedingfield, who have contributed to his projects and innovations in various capacities.

Conclusion

Michael Staihr's contributions to hopper car technology exemplify the spirit of innovation in the railroad industry. His patent for the centering apparatus for hopper car doors showcases his commitment to enhancing safety and efficiency in rail transport.