Patents Examined by Theresa M. Wesson
  • Patent number: 5841057
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for injecting a liquid through a liquid passage cocting a liquid chamber to an outlet in the vicinity of the entrance of a gun bore. The liquid is forced through the passage by a piston movable in the liquid chamber in response to the pressure of a gas generated in a propellant chamber by combustion of a propellant for propelling a projectile down the bore. Two pistons and two liquid chambers may be arranged opposite to each other in a common plane with the propellant chamber and the outlets of the liquid passages may be located substantially opposite to each other in a wall of the bore. Each liquid passage may be arranged to inject the liquid in a tangential direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the bore so that centrifugal forces spread the liquid as a film around the circumference of the bore. Valves may be provided to close the respective liquid passages in the absence of pressure in the liquid chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Aviezer Birk
  • Patent number: 5837916
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for facilitating the removal of spent primers from a press having a ram is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of punching a primer hole at a specified location, drilling the primer hole to a specified diameter and specified angle, drilling the hole to a larger diameter, inserting a piece of thin wall tubing into the primer hole, attaching a length of plastic tubing to the thin wall tubing and extending a lower end of the plastic tubing into a receptacle of choice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventor: Everett Noakes, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5836599
    Abstract: An rear suspension apparatus suitable for use in a motor vehicle capable of decoupling longitudinal and lateral compliance is described. The suspension includes a control arm (18) having a rearward end (19) for supporting a rotatable wheel and tire assembly (16). The control arm (18) also includes inboard and outboard ends (20, 22) extending forwardly from the rearward end (19). The rear suspension also includes lower joints (24, 26) attached to the inboard and outboard ends (20, 22) of the control arm (18) for allowing the control arm to pivot relative to the lower joints. A pair of upper joints (34, 36) provide attachment to the vehicle structure (10). A linking device (42) is disposed between the lower and upper joints, whereby the control arm transfers loads through the lower joint means into the link, which transfers the load into the upper joint and into the vehicle structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexander Rein de Vlugt
  • Patent number: 5838635
    Abstract: A speed sensor for a ship, more particularly, a thin speed sensor which can be mounted in the hull of the ship and remain flush with the outer surface of the hull. The transducer assembly for the speed sensor is composed of two thin piezoelectric transducers mounted in a spacer plate that locates them in an exact position relative to each other. A baseplate and a coverplate are affixed by appropriate adhesive techniques to each side of the transducers to create a single transducer assembly. Holes through the baseplate and spacer plate permit electrical contact to each side of the transducers so that they may be stimulated to generate acoustic waves. The entire transducer assembly is significantly thinner than the hulls of most watercraft. Thus, a large hole completely through the hull is not necessary. Rather, a shallow recess approximately equal to the thickness of the transducer assembly is made in the hull to countersink the transducer assembly flush with the hull.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventor: Karl Masreliez
  • Patent number: 5837926
    Abstract: Metal structures that are resonant to electromagnetic waves are combined h land mines to make them easier to detect using Ground Penetrating Radar. Knowledge of the resonant characteristics in the metal structures enhances detection and identification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Donald E. Franklin
  • Patent number: 5836415
    Abstract: A compound steering mechanism for a vehicle includes a steering axle, steerable wheels mounted on the lateral ends of the axle for pivoting movement relative to the axle, and a mechanism for mounting the axle to the vehicle body to permit pivotal movement relative to the vehicle body about two orthogonal axes, the first axis being generally vertical and offset from the line of contact between the steerable wheels and the ground and the second axis extending generally fore-aft of the vehicle body. The mechanism for mounting the steering axle on the vehicle body is formed with an intermediate member, termed a skate, that is mounted on the vehicle body for pivoting about the said fore-aft axis and having a gimbal mount for supporting the steering axle in a manner to allow pivoting of the latter about the vertical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: New Holland North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Barrowman
  • Patent number: 5837918
    Abstract: A weapons system/device is provided for a dazzling laser with directed laser radiation with a laser operating in the visible range. This is integrated in a rifle-like carrier with an aiming device, range finder, and a portable power supply unit. The laser is adjustable in terms of beam divergence, energy to be emitted, and irradiation time. A control computer is provided for entering target reconnaissance parameters, as well as measuring instruments for determining these parameters with respect to a target subject and the environment. The controls/instrumentation are associated with the laser, wherein the control computer calculates the laser parameters (beam divergence, single pulse or pulse train, pulse energy and pulse count of the pulsed laser) necessary for the reversible dazzling of the eye on the basis of the target reconnaissance parameters entered, and it automatically presets and regulates the resulting laser power and the exposure time of the continuous laser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Daimler-Benz Aerospace AG
    Inventor: Gunther Sepp
  • Patent number: 5837917
    Abstract: A cooling system for a missile launcher having a plurality of missile-containing cells connected to a common plenum. Disposed in the plenum beneath each missile is an impingement plate in the path of hot exhaust gas from the missile. A cooling water injection nozzle is arranged below each impingement plate and is supplied with cooling water during a hot missile launch to cool the hot exhaust gas and the plenum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: Donald A. Macnab, James P. Wei
  • Patent number: 5836540
    Abstract: A projectile having a longitudinal axis, a sensor disposed in the substantially pointed front end of the projectile for detecting a respective target, and electronics connected to the output of the sensor for igniting a correction charge to effect a correction of the flight path of the projectile by a predetermined angle (.delta..sub.0). In order to install the apparatus for flight-path correction into the respective projectile completely and in a space-saving manner, so that, unlike in known projectiles, corresponding evaluation and signal-transmission units in the respective weapon carrier can be omitted and complicated gyroscopic systems in the projectile can be omitted, the sensor determines the angle (.delta.) between the longitudinal axis of the projectile and the line (target line) connecting the projectile and the target, and when an angle (.delta..sub.0) is reached that is identical in size/magnitude to the deviation caused by the respective correction charge, the electronics ignite this charge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Rheinmetall W & M GmbH
    Inventors: Rudolf Romer, Gerd Wollmann
  • Patent number: 5831197
    Abstract: A device and method for loading primers into primer receptacles of a rectilinear primer holder strip. The device includes an elongated track for longitudinally guiding the primer strip through a primer loading station. The primer strip includes a series of longitudinally aligned receptacles, each of which is designed to hold a primer in an interference fit that prevents dislodgement of the primer from the strip. Each primer strip also has a plurality of laterally extending castellations including teeth and depressions that slide on a ledge within the track. The track of the loading device is of substantially the same width as the strip, such that the strip slides through the track. A primer delivery slot in the device delivers a primer into the track, and a pressure application device is positioned to press the primer into a target primer receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Blount, Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene F. Bill, Fred B. Blodgett, Jerry D. Brand, Steven J. Koch, Lester V. Rodriques, Alan D. Schufeldt, Steven R. Shields, Ronald L. Smith
  • Patent number: 5831206
    Abstract: Apparatus for generating a ring vortex which will damage the hull of the get vessel. The apparatus comprises a torpedo which is launched from an attack submarine in the direction of the target vessel. When the torpedo is at a predetermined position, the torpedo is detonated. Detonation of the torpedo results in the generation of a ring vortex. The ring vortex is directed toward the hull of the target vessel and will impact the hull of the target vessel with sufficient force to destroy or disable the target vessel. Positioned about the periphery of the torpedo are a plurality of necklace charges. The torpedo also has a central charge which is located near the front end of the torpedo. When detonated each necklace charge forms a ring of imploding gas bubbles which collapse inward. At a predetermined time period after the necklace charges are denoted, the main charge within the torpedo is denoted resulting in the generation of an expanding gas bubble which expands outwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Guy F. Cooper
  • Patent number: 5831198
    Abstract: The wiring harness assembly of the present invention is an electrical and structural network which serves as a distribution system for the command/control signals and power of a comprehensive warfare system. The warfare system, which in worn by an individual soldier, contains multiple subsystems. The wiring harness assembly includes four distinct segments which allow each subsystem to communicate with a central microprocessor and with each other. The wiring harness assembly includes the Torso Segment which is partially embedded within the frame of an equipment carrier borne by the individual soldier. The embedded portion of the wiring harness assembly is protected from any harsh environment that may be encountered by the soldier. Other segments include the Integrated Helmet Assembly Subsystem Segment, the Weapon Subsystem Segment, and the Sensor Subsystem Segment which provide the electrical network for a variety of equipment options available to the soldier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Douglas G. Turley, Tom S. Quan, Dennis Carlson, Rohinton P. Billimoria, Gary J. Mladjan, Douglas A. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5831199
    Abstract: An immobilization weapon of the type which imparts an electrical voltage across a live target using a projectile launched toward the target from a distance, employs a projectile having two connecters. One such connecter extends from the projectile in fixed relation thereto. The other such connecter is launched from the projectile at or near the target to assure proper spacing between the connecters irrespective of the distance to the target. In the preferred embodiment, the secondarily launched connecter is actuated by current through the target when the projectile is in proximity to the impact surface of the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: James McNulty, Jr.
    Inventors: James McNulty, Jr., John F. Chudy, II
  • Patent number: 5826360
    Abstract: An ammunition clip or magazine for a firearm including a self-contained system for sensing the amount of ammunition contained within the magazine and visually or audibly indicating that value to the user of the firearm. The counting and indicator system may be configured to display the number of rounds remaining in the magazine itself, or the number of rounds remaining in the firearm overall (the number of ammunition rounds in the magazine plus one round in the chamber of the firearm, if applicable), or it may be configured to simply indicate that the magazine is empty or that the number of rounds remaining in the magazine is below some other predetermined threshold. The magazine may be utilized in conjunction with any suitable firearm without modifying the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Inventors: Michael A. Herold, Mark D. Herold
  • Patent number: 5826819
    Abstract: A launch aircraft launches a bomb at a target and uses a radar to transmit a predefined waveform at the bomb and target. The bomb incorporates a transponder that frequency shifts the transmitted waveform and illuminates the target with a shifted waveform having a null at the center of its beam pattern. The initially transmitted waveform and frequency shifted waveform are reflected from the target and are received by the radar. The received signals are processed to generate a correction signal that is a function of the offset between the null of the frequency shifted waveform and the target location. The correction signal is transmitted to the bomb and is processed therein to correct the flight path of the bomb toward the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Stephen C. Oxford
  • Patent number: 5826361
    Abstract: A firearm cartridge case capable of withstanding internal gas pressures of at least about 50,000 psi has two substantially cylindrical portions of significantly different diameters interconnected by a frusto-conical shoulder portion. The case has a ratio of its overall length to its diameter, at a location 1.25 inch from its base, of no more than about 4.2, giving it an unusually short, fat profile. The base of the case has a rim with an outer diameter substantially no less than the case diameter at the aforementioned location, to facilitate reliable feeding of the cartridge from the magazine. The corresponding firearm chamber which matingly accepts the cartridge is capable of withstanding internal gas pressures of at least about 65,000 psi.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Inventor: John R. Jamison
  • Patent number: 5824945
    Abstract: A distraction device having a fuse assembly and a body which body has a sealed storage area for energetic pyrotechnic material. The device when operated produces noise and light without ejecta or forces of propulsion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: Universal Propulsion Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Stanley J. Barlog, Michael C. Magenot, Wilburn C. Roberts
  • Patent number: 5822914
    Abstract: A jig-type fishing lure which simulates the movement of live bait and functions as a weedless fishing lure. The fishing lure includes a typical jig head having a molded head, a hook member, and an attachment eye. A pair of spring arms are attached to the molded head such that the spring arms extend upwardly and outwardly from the molded head and intersect one another. The spring arms contact the bottom of a lake or river to simulate the movement of live bait. Upon contacting a weed, the pair of spring arms deflect to prevent the weed from becoming entangled in the barb of the hook member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: American Building Restoration Products, Inc.
    Inventor: John E. Tadych
  • Patent number: 5822906
    Abstract: A pit blind for hunting and observing waterfowl includes a lightweight, low profile molded shell that is contoured for use by a single reclining individual. The shell is placed in a shallow open hole dug into the ground. A low profile cover is placed on top of the shell, with camouflage material placed on the cover to conceal the user. The cover is made of hinged panels, allowing the user lying in a horizontal prone position within the shell to rapidly push up the cover panel overlying the upper torso, sit up and take aim at approaching waterfowl. While reclining in the pit blind with a firearm, the user can point the barrel of the firearm through gun ports in the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: North Central Outfitters
    Inventor: Patrick J. Ward
  • Patent number: 5819460
    Abstract: A repeater mechanism for a rifle that allows the breech to be pulled straight back, while the rifle remains in a supported stable position, for example, on the shoulder of the shooter. Breech, trigger assembly, pistol grip and a forward stock portion form a repeater mechanism that may be pulled back and moved forward along slide rails. A rearward stock portion comprises an opening for accommodating, in telescoping fashion, the forward stock portion when the repeater mechanism is pulled back. During the manipulation of the repeater mechanism, the rearward stock portion remains resting on the shoulder of the shooter and the shooter's hand, that manipulates the trigger, remains resting on the grip and thus, the stability of the rifle during quick manipulation of the repeater mechanism, is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Sommer + Ockenfuss GmbH
    Inventor: Ulrich Ockenfuss