Patents by Inventor William F. McKenna

William F. McKenna 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: 5091688
    Abstract: A motor-driven alternator including an improved remote on/off switch closure detection system capable of detecting closure of solid-state switches. Such switches are typical of appliances, tools, or other electrical load devices. A sensing signal is provided by a higher voltage ac or pulsating dc signal for overcoming the forward breakdown voltage of semi-conductors typical of such switches. A detection circuit is included which comprises an opto-isolator circuit for isolation of the power and sensing circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1992
    Assignee: Dennis G. Ewald
    Inventors: Dennis G. Ewald, William F. McKenna
  • Patent number: 4356638
    Abstract: Apparatus for digitally displaying inclination of a lift truck mast includes an inertial inclination sensor carried by the mast and a digital display module for operator viewing remote from the mast. The inclination sensor includes a disc pendulum pivoted for damping its movement, the disc having a wand extending from it for exaggerated movement about the pivot. A plurality of light responsive devices are provided for detecting the position of the wand for the purpose of determining the degrees of actual mast inclination with respect to a true vertical gravitational plumb line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1982
    Assignee: Leveling Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: William F. McKenna, Gerry A. Cwienkala