Location History:
- Rekkem, BE (2007)
- Wevelgem, BE (2013 - 2019)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2007-2019
Title: The Innovations of Rik Mullebrouck
Introduction
Rik Mullebrouck is a notable inventor based in Wevelgem, Belgium. He has made significant contributions to the field of materials engineering, particularly in the development of advanced steel cords for rubber products. With a total of 3 patents to his name, Mullebrouck's work has had a substantial impact on the tire manufacturing industry.
Latest Patents
One of Mullebrouck's latest patents is for a "Steel cord with reduced residual torsions." This innovation involves a steel cord designed for reinforcing a breaker or belt ply in a rubber tire. The cord consists of a core group made of two to four core steel filaments and a sheath group made of one to six sheath steel filaments. The unique ratio of the diameters of these filaments allows for improved performance in tire applications. Another significant patent is for an "Off-the-road steel cord with crimped strands." This steel cord is specifically adapted for the reinforcement of rubber products and features a core with three or more outer strands twisted around it. The wavy form of the outer strands enhances the cord's elongation at break and impact resistance capacity.
Career Highlights
Mullebrouck is currently employed at Bekaert, a leading global company in steel wire transformation and coating technologies. His work at Bekaert has allowed him to focus on innovative solutions that enhance the performance of rubber products, particularly in the tire industry.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Mullebrouck has collaborated with talented professionals such as Luc Sabbe and Stijn Vanneste. These collaborations have fostered a creative environment that encourages the development of cutting-edge technologies.
Conclusion
Rik Mullebrouck's contributions to the field of materials engineering, particularly through his patents, demonstrate his commitment to innovation. His work continues to influence the tire manufacturing industry, showcasing the importance of advanced materials in modern applications.