Patents by Inventor Eric N. Thomas

Eric N. Thomas 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: 9208963
    Abstract: An apparatus generates a machine operation enable signal as a function of a closed position of a movable safety access door of a safety guard for a work cell. A pivotal plate carries a handle and a switch receiver. A stationary non-contact proximity switch is mounted to be activated by the switch receiver when the door is closed and the pivotal plate is in a latched position. A ring receives a tongue projecting from the pivotal plate when the plate and handle are in the latched position. A pivotal hasp is movable around the ring into interference with the path of movement of the pivotal plate to block the plate from the fully latched position. A movable detent enables the plate and handle to be moved to the fully latched position only by moving the detent from exterior side of the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric N Thomas
  • Publication number: 20150228421
    Abstract: An apparatus generates a machine operation enable signal as a function of a closed position of a movable safety access door of a safety guard for a work cell. A pivotal plate carries a handle and a switch receiver. A stationary non-contact proximity switch is mounted to be activated by the switch receiver when the door is closed and the pivotal plate is in a latched position. A ring receives a tongue projecting from the pivotal plate when the plate and handle are in the latched position. A pivotal hasp is movable around the ring into interference with the path of movement of the pivotal plate to block the plate from the fully latched position. A movable detent enables the plate and handle to be moved to the fully latched position only by moving the detent from exterior side of the plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Publication date: August 13, 2015
    Inventor: Eric N. Thomas