Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2012
Title: Inventor Spotlight: Patrick L. Folk
Introduction
Patrick L. Folk, based in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, is an inventive mind making significant contributions to the automotive industry. With two patents to his name, Folk has demonstrated his prowess in the development of practical and innovative solutions for vehicle design and functionality.
Latest Patents
Folk's latest patents showcase his technical expertise and forward-thinking approach. The first patent is a "Lift-off Door Hinge," which is a vehicle door attachment designed to rotatably and detachably couple a vehicle door to its body. This innovative unit features a bodyside bracket equipped with first and second portions extending away from the vehicle body, each having respective apertures. The doorside bracket is designed with a segment that includes a third aperture. Together, these components work with a retaining mechanism and a fastener to ensure seamless alignment and rotational movement of the vehicle door.
The second patent is a "Method and Removable Clip for Holding a Vehicle Door Open," which provides a practical solution during the electro-coating and painting process. This clip attaches to the hinge of a vehicle door, holding it open conveniently during painting. Featuring a design where a stop attached to the door fits into the clip's receiver, this innovation allows for easy removal after the painting process is completed.
Career Highlights
Patrick L. Folk currently contributes his talents at Ford Global Technologies, LLC, where he helps drive innovation within the company's research initiatives. His focus on creating functional advancements within vehicle design has solidified his reputation as a noteworthy inventor in the automotive sector.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Folk has collaborated with several skilled professionals, including coworkers Craig Angelo Moccio and Ronald Machin. These partnerships highlight the cohesive environment in which innovative ideas are born and developed at Ford Global Technologies.
Conclusion
Patrick L. Folk exemplifies the spirit of innovation through his patents in vehicle hinge design and functionality. His contributions not only enhance the driving experience but also streamline manufacturing processes in the automotive industry. As technology continues to evolve, Folk's inventive spirit will undoubtedly lead to further advancements and solutions in vehicle design.