Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2001
Title: **Innovative Mind: Robert Walter Francis and His Patented Thermal Cycler**
Introduction
Robert Walter Francis, an inventive engineer residing in Manhattan Beach, CA, has made significant contributions to the field of thermal cycling technology. With one patent to his name, he has developed an innovative approach that enhances the testing efficiency of devices, particularly solar cells.
Latest Patents
The cornerstone of Francis’s achievements lies in his patent for the "Compartmental Fast Thermal Cycler." This groundbreaking device features a temperature chamber divided into a heated top compartment and a cooled bottom compartment. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, the thermal cycler optimizes thermal cycling rates, ensuring rapid thermal life testing where precision and efficiency are crucial. The system is designed to use pressurized gaseous nitrogen for thermal conduction and regulation, along with a motor-driven mechanism to transport test devices between compartments. The enhancements brought by computer control allow for in-situ electrical testing, precision in temperature management, and efficient thermal gradient control.
Career Highlights
Robert Walter Francis is currently affiliated with The Aerospace Corporation, a company renowned for its advanced technology and services in the aerospace sector. His work focuses on enhancing testing processes and ensuring that critical devices perform optimally under various conditions. The innovation he brings to his role has positioned him as a vital contributor within the organization.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Francis has worked alongside notable colleagues such as Charles Sve and Pierre R. Valenzuela. These collaborations have played an important role in refining his ideas and advancing the technologies they work on. Their combined expertise promotes a culture of innovation, ultimately leading to groundbreaking developments in thermal testing.
Conclusion
Robert Walter Francis is a prominent figure in the realm of inventions, particularly through his unique patent for a fast thermal cycler. His contributions at The Aerospace Corporation showcase the significant impact that innovative minds can have on technology, particularly in optimizing processes that are crucial for the sustainability and efficiency of future devices. As technology continues to evolve, inventors like Francis will remain at the forefront, paving the way for countless advancements in the industry.