Dr. Gary Novak has over 40 years of industry experience in engineering including research & design, analysis, design, management, and six years experience in biomechanics. Dr. Novak held positions of Chief Technical Officer, Federal Mogul; Director of Advanced Technology, Fel-Pro; Research Professor, Rush Medical School; Senior Research Engineer, Borg Warner Automotive; and Stress Analysis Engineer, Chicago Bridge and Iron. He taught mechanical engineering undergraduate and graduate engineering classes at the University of Illinois. He is a Member of ASME, SAE and ASM.
Dr. Novak has 5 patents and over 25 publications in the areas of biomechanics and mechanical systems. He specializes in mechanical systems, design and analysis, biomechanical analysis, kinematic and kinetic analysis of human movement, power train, automotive systems, industrial and automotive sealing and fastening, product development, technology, and intellectual property management.
Areas of Expertise
Professional Associations
Publications
- Why Every Material Scientist or Metallurgist Needs an Applied Mechanic for a Failure Investigation of a Fastening System, Materials Science and Technology Conference, October 2023
- Shake and Bake: The Beneficial Use of Exemplar Testing to Evaluate the Failure Mechanism of an Engine Component in a Small Plane Crash, Materials Science and Technology Conference, September 2021
- Shelving Cart Design and Manufacturing Safety Analysis, The XXVIIIth Annual Occupational Ergonomics and Safety Conference, June 2016
- Failure Analysis of a Corroded Threaded Fitting in an Ammonia Refrigeration System, Failure Analysis and Prevention, January 2014
- Crib Mattress Support Collapse Accident Reconstruction, The XXV Annual Occupational Ergonomics and Safety Conference, June 2013
- ASM-WEST Symposium on Material and Design Challenges in Aerospace, Fasteners: The Role of Fastener and Gasket Selection on Sealing System Performance, November 2012
- New Stopper Technologies for MLS Gaskets, SAE paper, January 2002
- 3 D Engine Analysis and MLS Cylinder Head Gasket Design, SAE Paper, January 2002
- The Role of the Stopper in the Mechanics of Combustion Seals, SAE Paper, January 1998
- Flange Bending Model and Its Application to Bolt Span Specifications, SAE Paper, January 1998
See CV for additional publications.
Case Studies
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Aftermarket Wheel Bearing Case Settles in Favor of Plaintiff
A replacement wheel bearing with significant design differences from the original equipment manufacturer fails and causes permanent injury.
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Spinal Fusion Bone Mill Analysis
Metal fragments were found in the milled bone used for spinal fusion surgeries.
