Location History:
- Ortonville, MI (US) (1979 - 1980)
- Drayton Plains, MI (US) (1976 - 1989)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1976-1989
Title: Innovations by Inventor Thomas F. Carmichael
Introduction
Thomas F. Carmichael, based in Drayton Plains, Michigan, is an accomplished inventor with a total of five patents to his name. His innovative work primarily focuses on advancements in ignition systems and alternator technology, contributing significantly to the automotive and electrical engineering fields.
Latest Patents
Carmichael's most notable patent is for an innovative ignition system. This technology allows for the conversion of existing internal combustion engines to a solid-state capacitive discharge ignition system. It features an auxiliary coil, a primary ignition coil, and a secondary ignition coil all wound on a single leg of a stator. The design incorporates multiple additional legs to complete a conductive path for time-varying flux. Notably, the stator can be adapted for mounting onto existing engine structures. An ingenious aspect of this patent includes segments in the stator's legs that create varying sizes of air gaps, allowing for customizable timing of the ignition system.
Another remarkable invention by Carmichael includes an alternator featuring parallel windings. This design utilizes multiple sets of windings connected in parallel to achieve a reduction in wire cross-section while maintaining output current levels. The refinement in wire structure enhances winding efficiency and contributes to a more effective alternator design. Alongside this, Carmichael has developed shunt-type regulators that work in combination with the alternators to reduce current requirements, further optimizing performance.
Career Highlights
Carmichael's career is prominently anchored at Syncro Corporation, where he has worked on various cutting-edge technologies. His contributions have not only fostered innovation but also improved existing systems within the automotive and electrical arenas. The breadth of his work continues to inspire future developments in these fields.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Carmichael has collaborated with notable coworkers such as Richard J. Maier and Albert J. Dolecek. These partnerships have played a crucial role in refining and implementing his inventions, showcasing the importance of teamwork in advancing technological innovation.
Conclusion
Thomas F. Carmichael stands out as a prolific inventor with significant contributions to ignition and alternator technologies. His work continues to shape advancements in the automotive sector, illustrating the lasting impact of innovative thinking in engineering disciplines. As he continues to innovate, Carmichael sets a standard for aspiring inventors and engineers alike.