Patents by Inventor Wayne A. Thor

Wayne A. Thor 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: 4916448
    Abstract: To provide a predictive emergency warning to the pilot of flight and terrain conditions which will result in a collision with the ground unless the pilot takes immediate action, without issuing excessive nuisance warnings, the system uses input parameters from other aircraft systems such as the radar altimeter. Inertial Navigation System, and Central Air Data Computer which are processed in an on-board computer to determine when a warning is required. A software program which is part of the warning system provides a logic link between the on-board aircraft parameters and the on-board voice command ("pull-up, pull-up"). The software program is readily adaptable to all aircraft applications with varying amounts of modification depending on specific mission requirements for which this protection is required. A feature is the use of a continuously computing predictive warning algorithm (based on classical flight dynamics equations) in combination with unique inhibit logic equations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1990
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air Force
    Inventor: Wayne Thor
  • Patent number: 4069720
    Abstract: A two axis side controller, for use in manned aircraft, having the roll axis controller adjustably supported on a bracket which is secured to the arm rest. The input axis of the controller is positioned below the front center of the arm rest. A pitch axis controller is secured to the operating arm of the roll axis controller. A hand grip is connected to the control input of the pitch axis controller with an adjustable linkage. Adjustable counterweights are provided on the operating arms of the controllers to adjust the bobweight effect. Springs are provided in the controllers to provide simulated aerodynamic feedback forces to the pilot. Adjustable preloading apparatus is provided for the springs to provide adjustable breakout force. Vibration dampers are also provided in the controllers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1976
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1978
    Inventor: Wayne A. Thor