Patents by Inventor R. Edwin Howe

R. Edwin Howe 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: 7401541
    Abstract: A positioning system includes an actuator, valve (preferably pneumatic), position sensor and an electronic valve controller, integrated in a single unit. Continuously variable setpoints are possible within the range of operation. A preferred control circuit includes a signal converter, a ramp generator to smooth the shape of the command or target value signal applied, a position feedback sensor to report the actual position of the actuator, a controller, and a driver, containing an H-bridge, for controlling the pneumatic valve which feeds air into the actuator mechanism. Integration of all these components into a single unit shortens signal paths, improves resistance to electrical noise, and permits faster response time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Enfield Technlogies, LLC
    Inventors: Vincent P. McCarroll, R. Edwin Howe, Blake D. Carter, Daniel S. Cook