Robert W McLoughlin

Title: Innovations by Robert W McLoughlin

Introduction

Robert W McLoughlin is a notable inventor based in Bangor, GB. He has made significant contributions to the field of inspection apparatus, particularly in the context of cigarette manufacturing. With a total of two patents to his name, McLoughlin's work showcases his expertise and innovative spirit.

Latest Patents

One of McLoughlin's latest patents is an inspection apparatus designed for a cigarette tipping machine. This apparatus monitors the size and position of cork patches. It features a rotary knife that cooperates with a rotary drum to cut a strip of material into spaced patches. A generator produces a reference signal at the moment of the cut, and an optical detecting head generates a patch signal when a patch passes by. The signals are processed in a circuit, producing a fault signal if the delay between the two pulses falls outside an acceptable range.

Another significant patent is related to optical inspection apparatus for monitoring a continuously moving rod. This invention includes a circular head through which the rod passes, utilizing fibre optic conductors to illuminate the rod and capture reflected light. The reflected light is transmitted to photoelectric elements, which are organized into angularly spaced groups. The outputs are processed through channels connected to comparator means, which generate a fault pulse if the noise signal level exceeds a preset threshold. Each channel is equipped with an amplifier that maintains a constant mean level of the amplified noise signal.

Career Highlights

Robert W McLoughlin has worked at Gallaher Limited, where he has applied his innovative ideas to improve manufacturing processes. His patents reflect a deep understanding of both mechanical and optical systems, contributing to advancements in quality control within the industry.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, McLoughlin has collaborated with notable coworkers, including Colin P Nuttall and Paul S Fisher. These collaborations have likely fostered an environment of innovation and shared expertise, enhancing the development of new technologies.

Conclusion

Robert W McLoughlin's contributions to the field of inspection apparatus demonstrate his commitment to innovation and quality in manufacturing. His patents not only highlight his technical skills but also his ability to address industry challenges effectively.