Patents Represented by Attorney Gifford, Krass, Sprinkle, Anderson & Citkowaski, P.C.
  • Patent number: 8065951
    Abstract: A motion platform/simulator uses pumps coupled to servo-controlled electric motors to pump fluid directly into and out of rubber bellows-type actuators. Peristaltic or gear pumps may be used in conjunction with linear transducers/encoders. The fluid can be a gas such as air or one of many non-toxic fluids, even water, as the pump or actuators require no lubrication from the working fluid. In the preferred embodiment, a mechanical pivot such as a U-joint is situated between the platform and the ground surface, and each transducer is located immediately adjacent an actuator. A reservoir or reservoirs may be provided to supply and receive fluid to and from the actuator(s) through the pump(s) or, alternatively, the pump(s) may be coupled between two actuators, thereby eliminating the need for a fluid reservoir. A pump may be coupled between two stacked actuators or different actuators located at different points on the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: P.I. Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Hetherington, Michael Hetherington