SPRINGDALE, Ark. -- Dayco Products recently honored 24 employees who have led the company's technological success through their contributions to 26 new United States patents.
 
Thirteen new members of the Dayco Inventors Club were recognized with plaques commemorating their patents, and existing inventors (including some of those being newly inducted) were honored for multiple patents. Among those being honored was Randy Foster, director - Aftermarket Product Technology, who has received a total of 42 U.S. patents, more than any other current Dayco employee. Foster also has four pending U.S. patent applications.  

Dennis Welvaert, retiring president of Dayco North American Automotive Aftermarket Division, and himself a Dayco Inventor, commented, "Technological innovation is and always has been a strategic effort, leading the success of Dayco. The inventors honored here are the core of that effort."

Dayco (including its predecessor companies) has received more than 1,300 United States patents by 309 inventors in its 106-year history. Dayco rewards its inventors through a recognition program that includes financial incentives for United States patent applications filed, United States patents issued, unit volume achieved and trade secrets, as well as periodic recognition celebrations and membership in the exclusive Dayco Inventors Club.