Patents by Inventor Hugh R. Putnam

Hugh R. Putnam 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: 5057814
    Abstract: A protection system has a power supply connected to lamps by a low value resistor. The resistor is part of a voltage divider system which provides input signals to a number of comparators. These comparators provide appropriate signals to a microprocessor to indicate normal operation. When a malfunction is detected, the voltage drop across the low value resistor changes and alters the output of the comparators. The microprocessor thereafter produces an appropriate warning signal. In a vehicle turn signal circuit, the present invention is incorporated to detect a burned out bulb. A warning is provided to the vehicle operator when a bulb is out. Further, pursuant to federal safety regulations, the remaining functioning bulbs, when activated, flash at a substantially slower rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Assignee: Harley-Davidson, Inc.
    Inventors: Lance C. Onan, James Scholler, Douglas E. Stehr, Hugh R. Putnam
  • Patent number: 4972174
    Abstract: A turn signal control circuit has a power source, left and right turn signal inputs, a speed detection input and circuitry for conditioning the power source voltage and current as well as the input signals for proper operation. When a turn signal switch provides an input signal to a logic controller, the circuit begins flashing the respective turn signal. Upon release of the switch, a microprocessor reviews the vehicle speed by way of a speedometer input line and references a lookup table to determine the proper distance at which to turn off the signal. Generally, the faster the vehicle is travelling, the longer the turn signals are left on. Various manual cancellation options are also available to the motorcycle operator. A four-way flasher sysem is operated by simultaneously pushing the two turn signal switches, remaining on until both switches are again simultaneously pressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 20, 1990
    Inventors: Lance C. Onan, James Scholler, Douglas E. Stehr, Hugh R. Putnam