Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2014-2016
Title: The Innovations of Ralph Michael Duke: Pioneering CVT Belts in Lapeer, MI
Introduction
Ralph Michael Duke is an inventor based in Lapeer, Michigan. He has made significant contributions to the field of mechanical design, particularly with his patented innovations in continuously variable transmission (CVT) belts. With a total of two patents to his name, Duke is recognized for his ingenuity and technical expertise in this specialized area.
Latest Patents
Duke's latest patents revolve around a groundbreaking vulcanized rubber CVT belt. This innovative invention features an endless V-belt design, characterized by a belt body with angled sides. The belt incorporates a tensile cord layer made of helically spiraled continuous-filament carbon fiber, which is embedded into the belt body. This advanced design includes an overcord rubber layer and an undercord rubber layer. The tensile cord is a twisted, single-tow bundle that utilizes carbon fiber impregnated with an adhesive treatment to enhance compatibility with the rubber components. Notably, the carbon fiber tow may consist of up to 18,000 filaments, and the filament diameter ranges from 6.0 to 6.4 microns. The tensile modulus of the fiber is impressive, falling between 200 to 300 GPa, while the elongation at break statistics ranges from 1.9% to 2.3%.
Career Highlights
Ralph Michael Duke currently works at The Gates Corporation, a company primarily known for its expertise in power transmission and fluid transfer solutions. During his tenure, he has demonstrated significant professional growth and has committed himself to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the industry. His work on CVT belts has positioned him at the forefront of advances in automotive technology.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Duke has collaborated with notable professionals such as John Graeme Knox. Their teamwork exemplifies the importance of collaboration in the research and development process, as they work towards enhancing the functionality and performance of CVT systems through innovative design practices.
Conclusion
Ralph Michael Duke stands out as a key figure in the realm of mechanical engineering, particularly within the automotive sector. His innovative design of CVT belts reflects a commitment to enhancing performance while utilizing cutting-edge materials. As he continues his work at The Gates Corporation, Duke's contributions are likely to pave the way for future developments in transmission technology.