Location History:
- Santa Clara County, CA (US) (1994)
- Palo Alto, CA (US) (1976 - 2008)
Company Filing History:
5 out of 5,307 
5 out of 8 
1 out of 11 Years Active: 1976-2008
Title: **William A. Little: A Pioneer in Gas Separation Technologies**
Introduction
William A. Little, based in Palo Alto, California, is a notable inventor with an impressive portfolio of 11 patents. His work primarily focuses on innovative technologies for gas separation and liquefaction processes, contributing significantly to advancements in the field.
Latest Patents
Among his latest patents, one of his notable inventions is a "Device and method for removing water and carbon dioxide from a gas mixture using pressure swing adsorption." This invention features a pressure swing adsorption (PSA) dryer that utilizes two compound adsorbent columns. Each column comprises a primary adsorption material for water and a secondary adsorbent that captures carbon dioxide, utilizing a solid amine as its main component. In this setup, a mixture of primary and secondary adsorbent materials creates an intermediate layer, sandwiched between layers of pure water adsorbent material.
Another significant patent by Little is the design for a "Small-scale gas liquefier." This technology involves a refrigeration system that is thermally coupled at an evaporator to the cold end of a gas supply system within a dewar. The innovative refrigeration mechanism operates at a temperature just above the boiling point of the gas at atmospheric pressure, ensuring efficient liquefaction and subsequent cooling. With features like a flow restrictor and a purge valve for defrosting, this invention is pivotal for applications requiring gas liquefaction.
Career Highlights
William A. Little has made substantial contributions to research and development through his roles in reputable organizations. He has worked with Leland Stanford Junior University and MMR Technologies Inc., where he developed groundbreaking technologies that paved the way for advancements in gas separation and liquefaction techniques.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Little has collaborated with esteemed professionals, including Igor Sapozhnikov and Melvyn N. Kronick. These partnerships have undoubtedly enriched his research, fostering an environment of shared innovation and creativity in the realm of gas technologies.
Conclusion
William A. Little stands out as a leading figure in the field of gas separation technologies. With a solid number of patents and collaborative efforts alongside talented colleagues, he continues to push the boundaries of innovation, contributing valuable inventions that enhance efficiency in gas processing applications. His work not only showcases his commitment to scientific discovery but also addresses significant challenges in environmental sustainability and energy usage.
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.