Patents by Inventor Theresa L. Clifton

Theresa L. Clifton 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).

  • Apparatus for measuring characteristics of a hole and associated method
    Patent number: 7016052
    Abstract: The apparatus and method of the present invention provide a quick, simple and accurate manner in which to measure the dimensions or characteristics of a hole without contacting the hole. The apparatus and method of the present invention also automatically detect different materials defining the hole and, therefore, the location of the interface where the materials meet. To measure the characteristics of the hole, the apparatus and method measure the intensities of the light reflected off the hole wall. In addition, the light directed toward the hole wall by the optical fiber may be of the type, such as collimated or focused, to provide distinct reflections that are received and measured by the optical receiver to supply accurate measurements of the hole characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Daniel D. Bloch, John H. Belk, Theresa L. Clifton, Philip L. Freeman
  • Apparatus for measuring characteristics of a hole and associated method
    Publication number: 20030063291
    Abstract: The apparatus and method of the present invention provide a quick, simple and accurate manner in which to measure the dimensions or characteristics of a hole without contacting the hole. The apparatus and method of the present invention also automatically detect different materials defining the hole and, therefore, the location of the interface where the materials meet. To measure the characteristics of the hole, the apparatus and method measure the intensities of the light reflected off the hole wall. In addition, the light directed toward the hole wall by the optical fiber may be of the type, such as collimated or focused, to provide distinct reflections that are received and measured by the optical receiver to supply accurate measurements of the hole characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Daniel D. Bloch, John H. Belk, Theresa L. Clifton, Philip L. Freeman