Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1994
Title: Innovations of Richard E McKnight, Jr.
Introduction
Richard E McKnight, Jr. is an accomplished inventor based in Louisville, KY (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of washing machine technology, holding 2 patents that showcase his innovative approach to electronic washer control systems.
Latest Patents
One of his latest patents is for an electronic washer control that includes automatic balance, spin, and brake functionalities. This invention features a fabric washing machine that incorporates a container designed to receive fabrics and washing fluid. A switched reluctance motor is operatively connected to oscillate and rotate the container. The design includes ribs formed on the center post of the container that agitate the fabrics and fluid during oscillation. Just prior to a spin extraction operation, the container oscillates with an asymmetric pattern to minimize fabric wrapping around the center post. The motor operates at a constant torque, measuring the time to accelerate the container, which allows for the calculation of the load's inertia and size. This information is then used to determine the degree of unbalance in the load of fabrics, allowing for optimized spin operations.
Career Highlights
Richard E McKnight, Jr. has had a notable career at General Electric Company, where he has applied his expertise in engineering and innovation. His work has significantly advanced the functionality and efficiency of washing machines, making them more user-friendly and effective.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Richard has collaborated with talented individuals such as Thomas R Payne and Steven Andrew Rice. These partnerships have contributed to the development of his innovative technologies and have fostered a collaborative environment for creativity and problem-solving.
Conclusion
Richard E McKnight, Jr. is a prominent inventor whose work in washing machine technology has led to significant advancements in electronic control systems. His contributions continue to influence the industry and improve consumer experiences.