Location History:
- Ghent, BE (1991 - 1993)
- Temse, BE (1996 - 1998)
- Steendorp, BE (2013)
- Wetteren, BE (2020)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1991-2020
Title: Innovations by Rudi Mortelmans: A Glimpse into His Patents and Career
Introduction
Rudi Mortelmans, an inventive mind based in Ghent, Belgium, has made significant contributions to the field of materials suitable for railway applications. With a total of six patents to his name, Mortelmans has played a pivotal role in advancing technology, particularly in improving the efficiency and safety of railway switches.
Latest Patents
Among his latest patents, the most notable is the "Compressible Sealing Element and Use Thereof for Filling the Gap Between a Stock Rail and a Switch Rail in a Railway Switch." This innovative sealing element consists of a resilient foam designed to fill gaps between stock rails and switch rails, thereby preventing issues such as snow blockage. The foam boasts an open-cell content of at least 50% and is engineered to compress easily under a force of less than 2000 N, reducing the volume of the surrounding cuboid by 40%. Furthermore, the sealing element includes a water-impermeable cover layer, enhancing its utility in varying weather conditions.
Another important patent by Mortelmans is the process for preparing flexible, resilient polyurethane foam. This invention involves reacting polyisocyanates with liquid compounds containing isocyanate reactive groups. The resulting foam displays improved wet compression set characteristics, contributing to its suitability for various applications in the railway industry.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Rudi Mortelmans has worked with notable companies such as Recticel and Prefoam AG. His innovative spirit has been enhanced by his experiences in these dynamic environments, where he contributed to advancements in foam technologies and railway applications.
Collaborations
Mortelmans has collaborated with esteemed colleagues including Lucien Jourquin and Brian James Blackwell. These partnerships have fostered an environment of creativity and innovation, allowing for the exchange of ideas and expertise in materials science and engineering.
Conclusion
Rudi Mortelmans continues to be a significant figure in the realm of inventions, particularly in the development of materials for railway systems. His patents not only reflect his innovative prowess but also offer practical solutions to real-world challenges in the industry. With each contribution, Mortelmans strengthens the framework for future advancements in railway technology.