Patents by Inventor Benjamin Ralph Hoffmann

Benjamin Ralph Hoffmann has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 7880345
    Abstract: A linear actuator system is described that includes a linear actuator, a first motor, and a second motor. The linear actuator is configured to transmit rotational motion to linear motion. The first motor is operatively connected to the linear actuator. The second motor is also operatively connected to the linear actuator. The first motor is configured to provide a different amount of force and a different speed to the linear actuator than the second motor. Methods of operating a linear actuator are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Exlar Corporation
    Inventors: Benjamin Ralph Hoffmann, William Joseph Zerull, Richard Harley Welch, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6255751
    Abstract: A compact integrated servo motor and gear reducer assembly that includes a rotor having a rotor shaft and a stator, and a planetary gear system including a sun gear, a plurality of planet gears and an outer ring gear. First and second bearings support the planetary gear system. The first and second bearings are located on opposing sides of the planetary gear system, and the first bearing has a first diameter and the second bearing has a second diameter. A third bearing supports the rotor shaft, and the third bearing has a third diameter that is less than the first and second diameters. Moreover, the third bearing is positioned between an edge of the first bearing and an edge of the second bearing. The assembly can be used in applications requiring high torque output but yet with size and/or space limitations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Torex Corporation
    Inventor: Benjamin Ralph Hoffmann