Abstract: A system for providing automatic trim control associated with a control surface in an aircraft that utilizes at least two sensors that must agree in direction before trim adjustment is made. Each sensor is provided with a separate an independent controller channel to further enhance fail-safe operation. A trim sensor is placed in the coupling link between a servo and aircraft primary control linkage leading to the associated control surface. A trim sensor is provided that utilizes a spring with a portion disposed laterally with respect to the direction of the force to be measured. An arm is attached to the lateral portion of the spring to effect motion that can be sensed by various sensors including optical, mechanical switch and magnetic sensors.
Abstract: A valve wrench comprising a telescoping shaft assembly further comprising an inner shaft and an outer shaft, a handle pivotally attached to a first end of the shaft assembly, and a work coupling element fixed or mounted on a second end. The inner shaft may include a spring loaded button that engages the outer shaft to hold the inner and outer shaft in an operation position or alternatively in a storage position. The handle pivots to form a compact linear assembly in a storage configuration and is shaped conformal to the telescoping shaft to minimize occupied space in the storage configuration. The inner and outer shafts may be constructed from a number of complementary cross section shapes including rectangular, hexagonal, and spline to assist in the transfer of torque from the handle to the valve. A number of alternative valve coupling elements are provided for different valves.
Abstract: A system and associated method where a vertical flight dynamic sensor is stabilized using pitch rate gyro information combined with azimuth rate gyro information corrected by scaling the azimuth rate gyro information in accordance with feedback derived from the difference between the vertical flight dynamic sensor signal and the corrected vertical flight dynamic output. In one embodiment, the vertical flighy dynamic sensor may be a vertical speed sensor. In another embodiment, the vertical flight dynamic sensor may be a pitch attitude sensor derived from the difference between an inertial based acceleration signal and a velocity based acceleration signal. The velocity based acceleration signal may be based on airspeed or GPS velocity.
Abstract: Motorized chassis, base, cart and/or carriage apparatus and methods for supporting mobile medical imaging systems. Such apparatus having precision propulsion mechanism to mechanically guide, advance and retract medical imaging equipment about a body of a patient. The invention further including methods of manufacture and use thereof.
Abstract: Apparatus and methods for transmitting rotative forces through a series of meshed gears, comprising a gear system or assembly having at least one gear with a plurality of non-traditional, non-conventional configured teeth that serve as rotatable bearings that contact and engage corresponding teeth of an adjacent gear.
Abstract: Door assembly and method of manufacture thereof having a wooden composite subframe assembly and an insulative foam core that are encapsulated within an exterior veneer or solid wood stile and/or rail of finish wood material. Wooden door jamb assembly having a wooden composite subframe, an insulative foam door jamb core, and an exterior veneer or solid wood laminate of finish wood material.
Abstract: This invention comprises a weighted, molded, artificial fishing lure having an enlarged belly and thinner torso relative to the belly. The lure generally resembles a wide variety of swimming forage fish and substantially maintains a proper upright orientation when towed through water. The lure also has a dorsal fin with a plurality of spiny rays extending upwardly from its back and a large, protruding eye located on each side of the lure. A hook, eye connector, fresh bait, or any desired configuration or color of jig, worm, apron, etc., may be integrally formed within or secured to a tail portion of the lure.
Abstract: Magnetically controlled torque system or wrench for turning a fastener in a controlled manner until a variable and selectable maximum torque value is achieved whereupon the torque system is rendered inoperative, the maximum torque value being determined by the amount of force required to decouple a plunger from a magnetic field.
Abstract: Apparatus and methods for absorbing liquid and/or stopping cut hair from running down a neck of a person when that person's hair is washed and/or cut. The apparatus comprises: a length of cloth or other liquid absorbent material which serves as an adjustable, removable collar, choker, or neck band that may be secured to the neck of the person; and means for fastening and securing respective ends of the choker or neck band around the neck of the person to provide an adequately close but comfortable fit. A relatively large protective cape may then be placed over the choker or neck band. The apparatus is reusable, and serves as a medium into which lengths of cut hair may be pierced, impaled, or imbedded, and thereby captured.