Patents by Inventor Todd Mendenhall
Todd Mendenhall 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).
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Patent number: 11897298Abstract: A weight distributing trailer hitch and associated method are described. The weight distributing trailer hitch can include a hitch portion for interfacing with a hitch receiver associated with a vehicle. The weight distributing trailer hitch can also include a ball portion to facilitate coupling with a tongue of a trailer. In one embodiment, the weight distributing trailer hitch can further include a spring bar vertically pivotal relative to the hitch portion, and an adjustment mechanism actuatable to selectively adjust a tilt angle of the spring bar relative to the hitch portion to vary preload on the spring bar and adjustably distribute weight of the trailer relative to the vehicle. In another embodiment, the weight distributing trailer hitch can further include a spring bar for distributing weight of the trailer relative to the vehicle, and a load measurement device to determine a magnitude of a downward force on the hitch ball.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2022Date of Patent: February 13, 2024Assignee: Weigh Safe, LLCInventors: Kevin McAllister, Morgan McAllister, Todd Mendenhall, Brandon Doman
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Publication number: 20230264530Abstract: A spring bar coupling device is described for coupling a spring bar of a weight distributing trailer hitch to a trailer frame. The spring bar coupling device can include a spring bar support operable to interface with and support a spring bar of a weight distributing trailer hitch. The spring bar support can have a vertical support arm having a first coupler opening, and a lower spring bar stop extending from the vertical support arm to provide a lower interface for the spring bar. The spring bar coupling device can also include a channel bracket having at least two opposing walls defining a vertically oriented channel operable to receive the vertical support arm, and a second coupler opening in at least one of the two walls. The first and second coupler openings can be configured to be aligned with one another at a first coupling location when the vertical support arm is located at least partially within the vertically oriented channel.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2023Publication date: August 24, 2023Applicant: Weigh Safe, LLCInventors: Kevin McAllister, Morgan McAllister, Todd Mendenhall, Brandon Doman
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Patent number: 11565557Abstract: A spring bar coupling device is described for coupling a spring bar of a weight distributing trailer hitch to a trailer frame. The spring bar coupling device can include a spring bar support operable to interface with and support a spring bar of a weight distributing trailer hitch. The spring bar support can have a vertical support arm having a first coupler opening, and a lower spring bar stop extending from the vertical support arm to provide a lower interface for the spring bar. The spring bar coupling device can also include a channel bracket having at least two opposing walls defining a vertically oriented channel operable to receive the vertical support arm, and a second coupler opening in at least one of the two walls. The first and second coupler openings can be configured to be aligned with one another at a first coupling location when the vertical support arm is located at least partially within the vertically oriented channel.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2019Date of Patent: January 31, 2023Assignee: Weigh Safe, LLCInventors: Kevin McAllister, Morgan McAllister, Todd Mendenhall, Brandon Doman
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Publication number: 20220176760Abstract: A weight distributing trailer hitch and associated method are described. The weight distributing trailer hitch can include a hitch portion for interfacing with a hitch receiver associated with a vehicle. The weight distributing trailer hitch can also include a ball portion to facilitate coupling with a tongue of a trailer. In one embodiment, the weight distributing trailer hitch can further include a spring bar vertically pivotal relative to the hitch portion, and an adjustment mechanism actuatable to selectively adjust a tilt angle of the spring bar relative to the hitch portion to vary preload on the spring bar and adjustably distribute weight of the trailer relative to the vehicle. In another embodiment, the weight distributing trailer hitch can further include a spring bar for distributing weight of the trailer relative to the vehicle, and a load measurement device to determine a magnitude of a downward force on the hitch ball.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2022Publication date: June 9, 2022Applicant: Weigh Safe, LLCInventors: Kevin McAllister, Morgan McAllister, Todd Mendenhall, Brandon Doman
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Patent number: 11267301Abstract: A weight distributing trailer hitch and associated method are described. The weight distributing trailer hitch can include a hitch portion for interfacing with a hitch receiver associated with a vehicle. The weight distributing trailer hitch can also include a ball portion to facilitate coupling with a tongue of a trailer. In one embodiment, the weight distributing trailer hitch can further include a spring bar vertically pivotal relative to the hitch portion, and an adjustment mechanism actuatable to selectively adjust a tilt angle of the spring bar relative to the hitch portion to vary preload on the spring bar and adjustably distribute weight of the trailer relative to the vehicle. In another embodiment, the weight distributing trailer hitch can further include a spring bar for distributing weight of the trailer relative to the vehicle, and a load measurement device to determine a magnitude of a downward force on the hitch ball.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2018Date of Patent: March 8, 2022Assignee: Weigh Safe, LLCInventors: Kevin McAllister, Morgan McAllister, Todd Mendenhall, Brandon Doman
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Publication number: 20210094370Abstract: A spring bar coupling device is described for coupling a spring bar of a weight distributing trailer hitch to a trailer frame. The spring bar coupling device can include a spring bar support operable to interface with and support a spring bar of a weight distributing trailer hitch. The spring bar support can have a vertical support arm having a first coupler opening, and a lower spring bar stop extending from the vertical support arm to provide a lower interface for the spring bar. The spring bar coupling device can also include a channel bracket having at least two opposing walls defining a vertically oriented channel operable to receive the vertical support arm, and a second coupler opening in at least one of the two walls. The first and second coupler openings can be configured to be aligned with one another at a first coupling location when the vertical support arm is located at least partially within the vertically oriented channel.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2019Publication date: April 1, 2021Applicant: Weigh Safe, LLCInventors: Kevin McAllister, Morgan McAllister, Todd Mendenhall, Brandon Doman
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Publication number: 20210094371Abstract: A weight distributing trailer hitch and associated method are described. The weight distributing trailer hitch can include a hitch portion for interfacing with a hitch receiver associated with a vehicle. The weight distributing trailer hitch can also include a ball portion to facilitate coupling with a tongue of a trailer. In one embodiment, the weight distributing trailer hitch can further include a spring bar vertically pivotal relative to the hitch portion, and an adjustment mechanism actuatable to selectively adjust a tilt angle of the spring bar relative to the hitch portion to vary preload on the spring bar and adjustably distribute weight of the trailer relative to the vehicle. In another embodiment, the weight distributing trailer hitch can further include a spring bar for distributing weight of the trailer relative to the vehicle, and a load measurement device to determine a magnitude of a downward force on the hitch ball.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2018Publication date: April 1, 2021Applicant: Leap Innovations, Inc.Inventors: Kevin McAllister, Morgan McAllister, Todd Mendenhall, Brandon Doman
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Publication number: 20150207964Abstract: A sensor system comprising specific subassemblies provides high definition video in small unmanned aerial systems. The sensor system provides for efficient space and power utilization.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 25, 2013Publication date: July 23, 2015Inventors: George Bye, Matt Bickel, John W. Brown, Todd Mendenhall, Brian S. Goldberg, Ryan W. Franz
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Publication number: 20090067965Abstract: An apparatus for collecting refuse, the apparatus comprising a vehicle having a frame formed as two substantially parallel members and a hopper secured to the frame. First and second bins may be connected by respective first and second dumping mechanisms to opposite, exterior sides of the hopper. The first and second dumping mechanisms may selectively and independently move respective first and second bins between stowed positions substantially below the hopper and dumping positions above the hopper. The width between the exterior extremes of the first and second bins when both are in stowed positions may substantially be defined by a summation of the width of the first bin, the distance between the outer extremes of the frame, and the width of the second bin.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2008Publication date: March 12, 2009Applicant: COLLECTECH DESIGNS, L.L.C.Inventors: Gerald F. Martin, Todd Mendenhall, Fred P. Smith
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Patent number: 7452175Abstract: An apparatus for collecting refuse, the apparatus comprising a vehicle having a frame formed as two substantially parallel members and a hopper secured to the frame. First and second bins may be connected by respective first and second dumping mechanisms to opposite, exterior sides of the hopper. The first and second dumping mechanisms may selectively and independently move respective first and second bins between stowed positions substantially below the hopper and dumping positions above the hopper. The width between the exterior extremes of the first and second bins when both are in stowed positions may substantially be defined by a summation of the width of the first bin, the distance between the outer extremes of the frame, and the width of the second bin.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2004Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Assignee: Collectech Designs, L.L.C.Inventors: Gerald F. Martin, Todd Mendenhall, Fred P. Smith
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Patent number: 7352836Abstract: Described are a system and method for providing an interface to synchronize data transfers across clock domains. A first pulse converter receives a request signal in a first clock domain and converts the request signal into a synchronization signal in a second clock domain. A second pulse converter receives the synchronization signal in the second clock domain from the first pulse converter and converts the synchronization signal into an acknowledgment signal in the first clock domain. The pulse converters cooperate thus to perform a self-acknowledging handshake that synchronizes writes and reads to and from a FIFO memory, thereby effectuating the transfer of data across two clock domains.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2002Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: Nortel Networks LimitedInventor: Todd Mendenhall
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Patent number: 7341157Abstract: A crane comprising a boom formed as an elongate tubular structure and a line assembly to extend a line from a least one end of the boom. The line assembly may include a first bank of sheaves, a second bank of sheaves, a line reeved around the first and second banks of sheaves, and an extension mechanism controlling the distance between the first and second banks of sheaves. The second bank of sheaves and at least a portion of the extension mechanism being enclosed within boom.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2005Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Inventors: Methody W. Slobogean, Fred P. Smith, Todd Mendenhall, Nathan H. Morrill
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Patent number: 7309205Abstract: A trailer unloading system anchors one or more trailers to a deck, with, or without tractor attached. The sides of the trailers are free to pivot from a top, longitudinal, pivot axis once unlatched from the edge of the trailer floor. The deck tilts the trailers sideways, the doors swing free, and the load discharges. The deck returns to level, the sides latch to support the floor and the trailers are ready to be reloaded.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: TY-Crop Manufacturing Ltd.Inventors: Kevin Richard McCrory, Gary Wayne Teichrob, Todd Mendenhall, Fred P. Smith
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Publication number: 20060239802Abstract: An apparatus and method for gripping containers, each having a circumference, for dumping material in a material collection vehicle including more than one gripping mechanisms, wherein each of the gripping mechanisms can engage a container around at least one-half of the circumference of the container. In one embodiment, the gripping mechanism is attached to a base member and includes an outer gripping member pivotally attached to the base member and an inner gripping member pivotally attached to the base member and an actuating mechanism for moving at least one gripping member toward the other gripping member.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2006Publication date: October 26, 2006Applicant: Wayne Engineering CorporationInventors: Fred Smith, Todd Mendenhall
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Publication number: 20060124570Abstract: A crane comprising a boom formed as an elongate tubular structure and a line assembly to extend a line from a least one end of the boom. The line assembly may include a first bank of sheaves, a second bank of sheaves, a line reeved around the first and second banks of sheaves, and an extension mechanism controlling the distance between the first and second banks of sheaves. The second bank of sheaves and at least a portion of the extension mechanism being enclosed within boom.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2005Publication date: June 15, 2006Inventors: Methody Slobogean, Fred Smith, Todd Mendenhall, Nathan Morrill
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Publication number: 20060064935Abstract: A door assembly for a chute system comprising a door pivotally connected to a frame assembly mountable around an opening in a chute system. The door is manufactured from stainless steel and is free of welds. The door includes an automatic closer mounted to its interior surface and being directly connected to the frame assembly at one end and to the door at the other end. When the door is opened, the closer moves with the door out of the opening to the chute system, thereby increasing the usable space for inserting articles into the chute. The closer does not intrude into the interior of the chute when the door is in a closed position. The door may also include a deflector plate mounted proximate the door hinge to protect the hinge and prevent debris from articles inserted into the chute from dropping into the gap between the door and frame and interfering with the action of the hinge.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2005Publication date: March 30, 2006Inventors: Fred Smith, Todd Mendenhall, Hadi Boustani
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Publication number: 20060006256Abstract: A spreader for distributing a material on a surface. In certain embodiments, the spreader may include a disk rotatable about an axis and having an upper surface extending substantially radially from the axis. A driver may operably connect to the disk to provide rotation about the axis. A paddle may secure to the upper surface of the disk and rotate therewith. The paddle may be aligned to rotationally engage particulate material directed thereto and generate a centrifugal acceleration therein. A controller may limit the centrifugal release of the particulate material from the apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2005Publication date: January 12, 2006Inventors: Fred Smith, Todd Mendenhall
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Patent number: 6948701Abstract: An articulated cable puller includes a boom assembly having a boom with a sheave positioned thereon. The boom is mounted upon a load beam and is movable between generally horizontal and vertical positions. A rotatable base is positioned upon a vehicle and has a rectangular link pivotally attached thereto. An A-frame is pivotally attached to the top of the link and features a tube attached to its top side. The load beam features downward extending ears that are secured to the tube of the A-frame by a pin. Hydraulic cylinders are connected between the base and the load beam and frame and may be actuated to adjust the positioning of the boom assembly. Hydraulic cylinders are also positioned between the vehicle and the base and are actuated to adjust the position of the base.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2001Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: Ok Champion CorporationInventors: L. Paul Knoerzer, Fred P. Smith, Todd Mendenhall
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Patent number: 6935829Abstract: A transfer system for transferring a transfer body onto a truck. The impetus to move the transfer body is provided by a driver mounted to the truck. The driver may engage a track extending along the transfer body in order to move the transfer body onto the truck. The track may be mounted to a pull bar pivotably secured near one end to the transfer body. The truck may have a dump-truck body with a continuous floor. The pull bar may be pulled underneath the floor as the transfer body is transferred onto the truck whereas the transfer body is pulled onto the floor. A latching system for a transfer module is actuated by a mechanism mounted on the truck and maintains the tailgate of the transfer body closed when remote from a truck. The mechanism may also operate a latching system latching and unlatching a tailgate secured to the body of the truck.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2002Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Assignee: Smith Patents, L.L.C.Inventors: Fred P. Smith, Todd Mendenhall, Curtis B. Workman
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Patent number: 6932286Abstract: A spreader for distributing a material on a surface. In certain embodiments, the spreader may include a disk rotatable about an axis and having an upper surface extending substantially radially from the axis. A driver may operably connect to the disk to provide rotation about the axis. A paddle may secure to the upper surface of the disk and rotate therewith. The paddle may be aligned to rotationally engage particulate material directed thereto and generate a centrifugal acceleration therein. A controller may limit the centrifugal release of the particulate material from the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2002Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Inventors: Fred P. Smith, Todd Mendenhall