Patents by Inventor Bruce L. Erickson

Bruce L. Erickson 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).

  • Variable resistance device
    Patent number: 5570076
    Abstract: The present invention provides a variable resistance device having at least one pair of channels retaining a conductive ball between them. The channels contain a resistive element and a conductive element and movement of the conductive ball within the channels, caused by rotation of the channels relative to each other, provides a variable resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Inventors: Bruce L. Erickson, Alan H. Stull
  • Multiple range variable resistor
    Patent number: 5488349
    Abstract: A multiple range variable resistor and potentiometer suitable for use in the repair or manufacture of hearing aids and other miniature applications is disclosed. The user of the device can select the desired resistance range thereby allowing one component to be used in many different applications and reducing inventory requirements. It provides increased resistance to contamination of the internal components compared to conventional hearing aid volume controls and is not damaged by over-turning of the control knob in either direction. It can be manufactured for the same cost as conventional single range potentiometers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Inventors: Bruce L. Erickson, Allen H. Stull