Robert Clayton Roethler

Title: The Innovations of Robert Clayton Roethler

Introduction

Robert Clayton Roethler is an accomplished inventor based in Howell, Michigan, known for his significant contributions to automotive technology. With a total of five patents to his name, Roethler has developed innovative systems that enhance vehicle performance and efficiency.

Latest Patents

One of Roethler's latest patents is a "System and method for heating vehicle fluids." This system utilizes engine coolant to selectively heat and cool fluids or oils used by various vehicle systems, such as transmissions. It includes a first cooling path with a fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger that is fluidly coupled to the engine. Additionally, it features a second fluid flow circuit that communicates transmission oil to and from the transmission. The system employs a conventional solenoid-controlled shunt valve that selectively channels transmission oil through the heat exchanger based on parameters like ambient temperature and transmission oil temperature, allowing for rapid heating under specific operating conditions.

Another notable patent is the "Toroidal traction transmission for all-wheel vehicles." This automatic transmission includes a variator of the traction drive type, featuring two input discs, two output discs, and rollers that engage with the discs to continuously vary the speed ratio. Each planetary gearset consists of a carrier driven by the engine, an input disc, and a sun gear connected to the driveshafts that power the front and rear wheels of the vehicle. The independent angular variation of the rollers enables the variator to drive the forward and rear drive sun gears at different speeds.

Career Highlights

Roethler has worked with prominent companies in the automotive industry, including Ford Global Technologies, LLC and Ford Global Tech, Inc. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to refine his skills and contribute to groundbreaking automotive innovations.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Roethler has collaborated with talented individuals such as John Curtis Hickey and Andrew Paredes. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that has led to the development of his innovative patents.

Conclusion

Robert Clayton Roethler's contributions to automotive technology through his patents demonstrate his expertise and commitment to innovation. His work continues to influence the industry and improve vehicle performance.