Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2001-2017
Title: The Innovations of Richard Alan Thomas
Introduction
Richard Alan Thomas is a notable inventor based in Hartville, OH (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of tire technology, holding a total of 16 patents. His work primarily focuses on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of tire manufacturing and retreading processes.
Latest Patents
One of his latest inventions is an autoclave designed for heating articles such as tires. This autoclave features an elongated chamber with an interior section and an annular duct surrounding it. The design includes a dividing wall that separates the annular duct from the interior section. Additionally, it incorporates a heat source for heating the air, a fan for circulating the air within the chamber, and an air deflector positioned at the distal end of the chamber. This air deflector is crucial for redirecting airflow towards the interior portion of the chamber, which helps eliminate air recirculation zones and improves temperature uniformity.
Another significant patent is a method for retreading a pneumatic tire. This method involves several steps, including mixing a tire retread cushion laminate to form a cushion compound. The laminate consists of a first rubber layer, a second rubber layer, and an intermediate rubber layer. The first rubber layer contains a sulfur donor and is devoid of vulcanization accelerators, while the second rubber layer includes a vulcanization accelerator and lacks sulfur donors. The intermediate layer is free from both sulfur donors and vulcanization accelerators. The process continues with applying the cushion compound to a tire carcass and subsequently adding a tread portion.
Career Highlights
Richard Alan Thomas is currently associated with The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, where he continues to innovate and develop new technologies in tire manufacturing. His extensive experience and expertise have made him a valuable asset to the company.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Thomas has collaborated with several talented individuals, including Gary Arthur Tatum and Simon Shyhwen Wang. These collaborations have further enhanced his innovative capabilities and contributed to the success of his projects.
Conclusion
Richard Alan Thomas is a distinguished inventor whose work has significantly impacted the tire industry. His innovative patents and dedication to improving tire technology demonstrate his commitment to advancing this field. His contributions will continue to influence tire manufacturing processes for years to come.
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.