Location History:
- Rochester, MI (US) (1989)
- Rochester Hills, MI (US) (1991 - 1992)
- Sterling Heights, MI (US) (1993)
- Sterling Height, MI (US) (1994)
- Royal Oak, MI (US) (1999 - 2005)
- Middletown, CT (US) (2006)
Company Filing History:
7 out of 31,002 
7 out of 5,161 
Years Active: 1989-2006
Title: The Innovations of William L. Priest: A Pioneering Inventor in Cable Drive Technology
Introduction
William L. Priest, an accomplished inventor based in Middletown, Connecticut, holds an impressive portfolio of 14 patents. His innovative contributions primarily focus on cable drive assemblies designed to enhance the functionality of sliding doors in vehicles. His work exemplifies the marriage of engineering ingenuity and practical application, further advancing the automotive industry.
Latest Patents
Among his recent inventions, one notable patent is the **cable drive assembly**, which features a sophisticated design for opening and closing sliding doors on vehicles. This assembly consists of a cup-shaped front drum that incorporates a helical front cable groove, along with a rear cup-shaped drum with a helical rear cable groove. The front drum rotates around a longitudinal axis to open the sliding door, while the rear drum is partially nested within the front drum and rotates in the opposite direction to close it. The innovative connection between the two drums involves a tension spring that biases them in opposing directions during operation, providing greater control and efficiency. This design also includes a concentric clutch mechanism nested in the rear drum, which ensures seamless operation of the cable drive system.
Another significant patent by William involves a similar **cable drive assembly** designed specifically for sliding vehicle doors. This invention integrates first and second drums, connected through a tension spring that also biases the drums. This assembly features a catch mechanism that holds the drums in a cocked position, allowing for manual rotation that facilitates the insertion of a traveler into the track before the spring releases and takes up the slack in the cable.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, William has been associated with notable companies such as GM Global Technology Operations LLC and Delphi Technologies, Inc. His experience in these organizations has enriched his understanding of advanced engineering principles and the practical application of his inventions.
Collaborations
William collaborates with numerous talented professionals, including coworkers Kevin W. Wright and Mark Duane Nicholas. These partnerships have likely contributed to the success of his projects and the development of innovative solutions in the field of automotive technology.
Conclusion
William L. Priest stands as a testament to the power of innovation and the impact of inventive thinking in the automotive industry. His 14 patented inventions, particularly in cable drive technology, showcase his dedication to creating practical solutions that enhance user experience and vehicle functionality. As he continues to contribute to the field, his work will undoubtedly inspire future innovations in automotive engineering.