MOSSVILLE, Ill. — Two Caterpillar, Inc. engineers were recently honored with the Intellectual Property Owners Association’s "Inventor of the Year" award for their role in the development of the company’s breakthrough ACERT technology for emissions reduction.

Jim Weber, applied technology development manager, and Scott Leman, engineering manager, developed the air management system that is one of four integral systems of ACERT. These four systems – which also include advanced fuel injection technology, engine electronics and effective aftertreatment – work together to lower emissions to meet stringent EPA standards while still delivering the performance and fuel efficiency engine customers need to be profitable in today’s market.

"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 Engine Division. "Their part in the development of ACERT technology will have a positive impact on the environment and the trucking industry for years to come."

All Caterpillar on-highway engines now in production are equipped with ACERT Technology. The technology also will be used as the foundation to meet future emission regulations for the company’s entire diesel engine product line, including construction and mining machines and power generation units.

Founded in 1972, the Intellectual Property Owners Association (IPO) is a national trade organization for owners of patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets. IPO is the only association in the U.S. that serves all intellectual property owners in all industries and fields of technology. The "Inventor of the Year" is selected from nominations of independent inventors and inventors employed in industries, universities and government.

For more details, visit www.cattruckengines.com