PEORIA, Ill. — Two Caterpillar engineers recently received the prestigious Intellectual Property Owners Association’s "Inventor of the Year" award for their role in developing Cat’s ACERT technology.

Jim Weber, applied technology development manager, and Scott Leman, engineering manager, were recognized for developing the air management system which is one of four systems of ACERT. The other three systems include the advanced fuel injection technology, engine electronics and effective aftertreatment. The four systems work together to lower emissions to meet the EPA’s latest standards.

"We’re extremely proud that two of our team members were recognized by this organization as America’s most outstanding recent inventors," said Tana Utley, director of engineering, Caterpillar On-Highway Engines. "Their part in the development of ACERT Technology will have a positive impact on the environment and the trucking industry for years to come."

The advanced air system couples precise valve control and series turbochargers to provide optimal quantities of cool, clean air to the combustion chamber. That lowers the temperature of combustion reducing the formation of emissions at the point of combustion.

"Jim Weber and Scott Leman’s efforts to produce more environmentally-friendly diesel engines highlight the value of creativity and the importance of patents," said Herbert C. Wamsley, executive director of IPO. "Because of their ingenuity, and because a sound patent enabled their company to invest heavily in research and development, millions of Americans can breathe easier."