This inventor holds 24 USPTO granted patents and 1 published patent application and 1 EPO patent. Top assignees: Diamond Innovations. Inc., General Electric Company, Gte Valeron Corporation. Active years: 1987-2015.
Location History:
- Plymouth, MI (US) (1991 - 1993)
- Ann Arbor, MI (US) (1987 - 2015)
Company Filing History:
3 out of 123 
2 out of 52,359 
1 out of 58 Years Active: 1987-2015
Title: The Innovative Contributions of Robert H. Frushour
Introduction
Robert H. Frushour, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a distinguished inventor known for his significant contributions to materials science, particularly in the development of polycrystalline diamond cutting elements. With an impressive portfolio of 24 patents, Frushour's work showcases his expertise and innovative spirit in the field of rock drilling and high-performance materials.
Latest Patents
Among his latest innovations, Frushour has developed notable patents such as the "High Abrasion Low Stress PDC" and "PDC Made with Low Melting Point Catalyst". The High Abrasion Low Stress PDC represents a polycrystalline diamond cutting element designed for use in rock drilling applications that require exceptional abrasion resistance and high transverse rupture strength at elevated temperatures. This cutting element features a diamond layer composed of pre-sintered polycrystalline diamond agglomerate (PPDA) which is bonded to a supporting substrate. The unique formulation allows for a thermally stable PPDA that can achieve tailored abrasion resistance characteristics without compromising internal stress.
In addition, the PDC Made with Low Melting Point Catalyst uses a solvent catalyst with a melting point lower than that of cobalt—used to cement tungsten carbide supporting substrates. This innovation enables better control of catalyst retention in the interstices after HPHT sintering, as it can be processed without melting the cobalt, thus preventing it from filling the diamond mass’s pore volume.
Career Highlights
Frushour's career includes pivotal roles at various companies, including Diamond Innovations, Inc., where he made substantial advancements in diamond cutting technologies. His innovative mindset has consistently driven progress within his professional endeavors, contributing significantly to the field of high-performance materials.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Robert H. Frushour has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Christopher J. Torbet and Wei Li. These partnerships have facilitated the exchange of ideas and the advancement of technology within the industry, further enhancing the effectiveness and capabilities of polycrystalline diamond applications.
Conclusion
Robert H. Frushour stands out as a key figure in the realm of innovations related to polycrystalline diamond technologies. His patents reflect a profound understanding of materials science and engineering, continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible in rock drilling and related operations. As he continues his work, Frushour’s contributions are set to leave a lasting legacy in the field of high-performance cutting elements.