Patrick J O'Keefe, Jr

Title: Innovations of Patrick J O'Keefe, Jr.

Introduction

Patrick J O'Keefe, Jr. is an accomplished inventor based in Elyria, OH (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of automotive technology, particularly in the area of speed control systems for heavy vehicles. With a total of 3 patents to his name, O'Keefe's work reflects a commitment to enhancing vehicle safety and efficiency.

Latest Patents

One of O'Keefe's notable inventions is an automatic speed control system for heavy-duty vehicles. This innovative system includes a controller that regulates communication between a compressed air source and an air actuated throttle mechanism. The controller generates a control signal based on a speed error signal and the position of the air actuated throttle. The speed error signal is determined by the difference between a commanded speed signal and the actual speed signal. To create the control signal, the error signal and throttle position signal are processed using different lead-lag transfer functions. These terms are then combined with a proportional speed error term to produce the desired control signal. Additionally, the system features a throttle control mechanism for powering auxiliary equipment when the actual speed signal is zero. It also limits the commanded speed signal to a predetermined value when it exceeds a set limit.

Career Highlights

O'Keefe has spent a significant portion of his career at The Bendix Corporation, where he has been able to apply his innovative ideas in a practical setting. His work has contributed to advancements in vehicle technology, particularly in enhancing the safety and performance of heavy-duty vehicles.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, O'Keefe has collaborated with talented individuals such as Guy T Rini and Robert D Krieder. These partnerships have allowed for the exchange of ideas and the development of cutting-edge technologies in the automotive industry.

Conclusion

Patrick J O'Keefe, Jr. is a notable inventor whose work in automatic speed control systems has made a significant impact on the automotive industry. His innovative solutions continue to enhance vehicle safety and efficiency, showcasing his dedication to advancing technology.