Patents by Inventor Carl Q. Howard

Carl Q. Howard 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).

  • Device to reduce noise transmission through the gap between escalator steps
    Patent number: 8381895
    Abstract: A device (40, 50) for reducing noise levels in passenger conveyor systems (10) at least partially obstructs spacing (36) at the interface between two steps (24, 30) to allow for relative movement between one step and the next. A sound transmission reducing member (40, 50) at least partially obstructs a sound pathway that includes the spacing to reduce the transmission of noise through the spacing. The sound transmission reducing member in one example is a barrier that partially blocks the interface, while in another, it extends completely across the interface. Additionally, sound absorbing material (46) may be secured to the underside of the steps in order to further reduce sound transmission toward the passengers and individuals near the conveyer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Otis Elevator Company
    Inventors: Carl Q. Howard, Andreas Stuffel, Larry W. Hardin, Goldino S. Alves