Patents by Inventor Ross S. Woods

Ross S. Woods 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: 6530574
    Abstract: A device and method for sealing a first cylinder in a fixed position inside a second concentric cylinder. The inner cylinder has an annular depression in its wall at the point of sealant placement, which causes the wall of the inner cylinder to intrude inwardly. The depression is filled with a partially compressible fluid and is covered over by a malleable/ductile sleeve. The inner cylinder is placed within the outer cylinder with the covered annular depression positioned at the desired sealing point. A cylindrical displacement device is directed through the inside of the inner cylinder where it encounters the intrusion of the annular depression. The displacement device is forced past the annular intrusion and pushes the wall outward. The partially compressible fluid is forced to expand outward under the malleable/ductile cover in a manner that intrudes into the annular space between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder and into contact with the outer cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Inventors: Gary L. Bailey, Ross S. Woods
  • Patent number: 6463699
    Abstract: An air beam structure having reduced weight, increased rigidity, and lower inflation pressure requirements. The structure includes a closed tubular cylindrical shell of air impermeable fabric having at least one inflation valve. Fixed within the shell is an “I” beam envelope comprised of flexible, air impermeable walls sealed to the interior of the shell. The “I” beam envelope extends the length of the shell and defines at least four air chambers in communication with the inflation valve. A quantity of compressible material is dispersed throughout the interior of the “I” beam envelope. When subjected to compressive forces by pressurization of the air chambers, the material becomes rigid. The filled envelope is either vented to atmosphere or connected to a vacuum source. The air beam is used in groups and may be connected one to another by sheet materials to form a wall or roof structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: OBI Corporation
    Inventors: Gary L. Bailey, Ross S. Woods
  • Patent number: 6098717
    Abstract: A well tubular is hung within a casing through placement of the tubular in overlapping relationship with the casing. A spacer may be located therebetween. The tubular is expanded which in turn expands the spacer when used. The tubular is expanded beyond the yield point such that it or an intervening spacer engages the inside of the casing and stresses the casing within its elastic limits. The assembly then contracts to form a tight structural support between the tubulars and a high pressure seal against flow therebetween. A spacer having channels about either end with ductile sealing material therein is of an expanded metal material through cuts in the sheet. A hydraulic ram is employed with an expandable collet to draw the collet through the overlapping area of the liner and the casing. The collet extends within a shoulder at the end of its stroke such that it will be substantially released from the upper end of the liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Formlock, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary L. Bailey, Leo D. Hudson, Sherman R. Warren, Ross S. Woods