Rainer J Rothbauer

Title: Inventor Spotlight: Rainer J Rothbauer

Introduction

Rainer J Rothbauer is an accomplished inventor based in San Antonio, Texas, who has contributed significantly to the field of engineering, particularly in the development of advanced piston designs for direct injection engines. With a total of four patents to his name, Rothbauer's work focuses on optimizing combustion chamber performance to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

Latest Patents

Rothbauer's recent innovations include two notable patents:

1. **Piston Bowl with Spray Jet Targets** - This patent describes a piston featuring a bowl at its upper end that forms part of a combustion chamber. The bowl's inner surface is designed to accommodate a fuel-air mixture, equipped with at least one surface feature angled between 20° to 80° from the piston face. These features target the fuel spray and can either protrude from or be recessed into the inner surface, helping to reduce soot and improve fuel-air mixing.

2. **Piston Bowl with Flat Bottom** - This invention presents a piston that includes a bowl with a flat bottom surrounding a central protruding dome. The flat bottom is bordered by radial concave surfaces below convex separation features for the injected fuel spray. The geometrical design of this piston may also contribute to reduced soot emissions and improved mixing of fuel and air.

Career Highlights

Rothbauer is currently affiliated with the Southwest Research Institute, where he is engaged in innovative research aimed at refining engine technologies. His work has played a pivotal role in paving the way for more efficient combustion processes in modern engines, addressing both performance and environmental considerations.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Rothbauer has collaborated with fellow inventors, including Charles Edward Roberts, Jr., and Thomas W Ryan, III. These collaborations highlight the importance of teamwork and diverse expertise in driving innovation and advancing engineering solutions.

Conclusion

Rainer J Rothbauer stands out as a notable inventor in the automotive engineering sector, particularly for his pioneering work on piston designs that enhance the efficiency and sustainability of direct injection engines. His patents not only reflect individual creativity but also the collaborative spirit that fuels progress in technology. As automotive demands evolve, innovations like those from Rothbauer will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of engine design.