Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1989-1990
Title: Innovations by Norman G Gratke
Introduction
Norman G Gratke is a notable inventor based in Elm Grove, Wisconsin, who has made significant contributions to the field of membrane switch technology. With a total of three patents to his name, Gratke's work focuses on enhancing the functionality and efficiency of switchcore designs.
Latest Patents
Gratke's latest patents include innovative designs that improve the performance of membrane switchcores. One of his notable inventions is the "Membrane switchcores with high resistivity ink circuits." This invention features a decodable alphanumeric membrane switchcore that includes at least 36 key cells, utilizing spaced circuits and printed with ink that has a resistivity of at least about 10 ohms per square per 0.001' of ink thickness. The design ensures that at least one path defined by a row trace, column trace, and a key cell has a resistance greater than 10,000 ohms.
Another significant patent is the "Self-referencing capacitive key cell structure and switchcore matrices." This invention introduces an improvement in capacitive switchcores by adding an intracell coactive loading capacitor to each key cell. This enhancement eliminates the need for a separate reference capacitor, as loading is provided intrinsically through the effect of the intracell coactive loading capacitors acting through multiple key cells connected to a sense line.
Career Highlights
Gratke is currently associated with W. H. Brady Co., where he continues to innovate and develop advanced technologies in the field of membrane switches. His work has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of what is possible in switchcore design.
Conclusion
Norman G Gratke's contributions to membrane switch technology through his innovative patents demonstrate his expertise and commitment to advancing the field. His inventions not only enhance the functionality of switchcores but also pave the way for future developments in this area.