Patents by Inventor Richard L. Patten

Richard L. Patten 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: 9248352
    Abstract: A visual adjustable alignment system for adapting the alignment device according to the particular user. The visual adjustable alignment system includes an implement member for performing a task, an adjustment assembly in communication with the implement member and an alignment member pivotably supported by the adjustment assembly for aligning the implement member relative to an object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Inventor: Richard L. Patten
  • Publication number: 20040242342
    Abstract: A golf putter includes a putter head having an error variability reducing insert that imparts proportional damping properties such that the distance accuracy problems of conventional golf putters are statistically reduced. Through the use of a proportional damping insert comprising at least one exterior striking layer in combination with at least one interior proportional damping layer, the golf putter increases forward distance control by decreasing the distance error consequences of putting swing force errors. The statistical advantage of an error variability reducing insert having proportional damping properties results in missed putts, on average, ending up closer to the hole as compared to conventional putter designs. The exterior striking layer can have a hardness exceeding the level required by the United States Golf Association.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Richard L. Patten
  • Patent number: 5917326
    Abstract: The guidance system of the invention includes at least two spaced, permanently magnetized regions that each produce a magnetic field. The two permanently magnetized regions can be provided at either side of another region that produces a magnetic field of less intensity than the permanently magnetized regions, and in one embodiment, the former region produces no magnetic field. The system may also include portable means for detecting the magnetic fields produced by the permanently magnetized regions, and that sensor may be mounted to a cane for use by a person. In another embodiment, the permanently magnetized regions contrast with either each other or the region that produces a magnetic field of less intensity, or have different surface characteristics, or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Bernard A. Gonzalez, Richard L. Patten
  • Patent number: 5764060
    Abstract: The guidance system of the invention includes at least two spaced, permanently magnetized regions that each produce a magnetic field. The two permanently magnetized regions can be provided at either side of another region that produces a magnetic field of less intensity than the permanently magnetized regions, and in one embodiment, the former region produces no magnetic field. The system may also include portable means for detecting the magnetic fields produced by the permanently magnetized regions, and that sensor may be mounted to a cane for use by a person. In another embodiment, the permanently magnetized regions contrast with either each other or the region that produces a magnetic field of less intensity, or have different surface characteristics, or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Bernard A. Gonzalez, Richard L. Patten
  • Patent number: 5377541
    Abstract: A grip training assembly for use with a golf club includes a sensor for detecting grip pressure, a covering extending over the sensor and an indicator for indicating when the grip pressure is greater than a certain value. The sensor and the covering are relatively thin and flexible to avoid interfering with the golfer's normal grip. The covering is releasably connected to the handle portion of the club to enable the position of the sensor to be changed as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Inventor: Richard L. Patten
  • Patent number: 5147204
    Abstract: Light emitting apparatus for curing photocurable dental material includes a handpiece having a housing, a depending handle and a detachable light guide. The light guide is received in a head connected to the housing. Rotational movement of the head relative to the housing also rotatably moves the light guide so that the guide may be turned by the same hand of the user that is grasping the handle. Additionally, a pivotal connection between the housing and the handle permits limited pivotal adjustment of the angle of the housing relative to the handle for improved manipulation and user comfort. A base of the apparatus includes an upright pedestal that houses a device for determining the intensity of light provided by the light guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Co.
    Inventors: Richard L. Patten, Ronald A. Carlson
  • Patent number: D326474
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Robert A. Luhman, Richard L. Patten
  • Patent number: D366081
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Inventor: Richard L. Patten
  • Patent number: D368752
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventor: Richard L. Patten
  • Patent number: D408878
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventor: Richard L. Patten