Patents by Inventor S. Robert Ward

S. Robert Ward 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: 4801422
    Abstract: Apparatus for installing and removing a control rod drive from beneath the pressure vessel of a nuclear reactor, including an elevator carriage for carrying the control rod drive in a generally horizontal position and a single winch mounted on a cart for swinging the control rod drive between horizontal and vertical positions and for raising and lowering the drive when it is in a vertical position. A pneumatic cylinder provides the final lifting action for seating and removing the control rod drive. The lower end of the control rod drive is supported on the elevator cradle by a self-centering bearing which permits the horizontal position of the drive to be adjusted for final alignment with the drive housing. The pneumatic cylinder is mounted on a swinging arm which allows the cylinder to remain in axial alignment with the control rod drive as it is moved horizontally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1989
    Assignee: Electric Power Research Institute, Inc.
    Inventors: Arthur P. L. Turner, S. Robert Ward