Location History:
- Whitinsville, MA (US) (1996 - 2008)
- Danvers, MA (US) (2018)
Company Filing History:
8 out of 159 
3 out of 7 
2 out of 11 Years Active: 1996-2024
Title: The Innovations of William G. Thorburn
Introduction
William G. Thorburn is a notable inventor based in Whitinsville, MA (US), recognized for his contributions to optical position encoders. With a total of 14 patents to his name, Thorburn has made significant advancements in the field of precision measurement and control.
Latest Patents
Among his latest innovations is the "Rotary Position Encoder Based on Polarization." This invention features a rotary optical position encoder that utilizes a source of linear-polarized light, a polarization-sensitive detector, and a rotating retarder. The design allows for increased resolution by producing a polarized exit beam whose polarization state rotates at a rate greater than that of the retarder. This results in an electrical detector output that varies four times per revolution, enhancing the resolution compared to traditional encoders. Another significant patent is the "Multi-Track Absolute Encoder," which includes a scale with multiple tracks that interact with an incident light beam to generate optical patterns. This encoder employs a set of optical detectors to effectively detect these patterns, improving the accuracy of position measurement.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Thorburn has worked with prominent companies such as GSI Group Corporation and MicroE, Inc. His work in these organizations has contributed to the development of advanced optical technologies and position encoding systems.
Collaborations
Thorburn has collaborated with notable professionals in the field, including Donald K. Mitchell and Keith M. Hinrichs. These partnerships have fostered innovation and the sharing of ideas, further enhancing the impact of his work.
Conclusion
William G. Thorburn's contributions to the field of optical position encoders demonstrate his innovative spirit and technical expertise. His patents reflect a commitment to advancing technology and improving precision in measurement systems.
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.