Outer Space Vehicle Patents (Class 434/34)
  • Patent number: 11939083
    Abstract: A self-leveling recovery platform for a landing operation of an unmanned aerial vehicle and a method for an unmanned aerial vehicle on a self-leveling recovery platform are described. The platform includes landing includes a base, a landing pad, first to sixth motors, first to sixth arms, an accelerometer, a gyroscope/inertial measurement unit, and a controller. The base is for fixedly mounting to a moving body. The landing pad has a landing surface on which an aerial vehicle can land. The first to sixth motors are attached to the base. The first to sixth arms control the first to sixth motors to the platform. The accelerometer and gyroscope/inertial measurement unit sense motion of the platform and output sensing signals. The controller is responsive to the sensing signals to control each of the motors to adjust the arms such that the landing surface is maintained in a substantially stable plane relative to a predetermined surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Inventor: Michael A. Baklycki
  • Patent number: 11938623
    Abstract: A ground simulation device and method for an on-orbit manipulation of a space manipulator is provided. The ground simulation device includes: a dual-arm robot, configured to simulate the space manipulator operating a target object; a suspension device, including a fixed post and passive rods, where the passive rods are movably connected with a top end of the fixed post, and the target object is suspended to the passive rods; and a simulation platform, configured to fix the dual-arm robot and the suspension device thereon. The ground simulation device provides the passive rods on the suspension device and suspends the target object to the passive rods, thus overcoming the gravity of the target object. In addition, the passive rods can drive the target object to move under an influence of an external force, achieving a similar suspension effect to that in space, and providing a desired, safe, and reliable implementation effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2023
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Assignee: Shenzhen Technology University
    Inventors: Gan Ma, Ziqi Xu, Zixin Lin, Zihao Jiao, Zhiming Chen, Wenwei Zhang
  • Patent number: 11738892
    Abstract: A space seeker motion test system comprises a rough vacuum chamber including a space seeker holding fixture, a space chamber including a target to be imaged by a space seeker disposed in the space seeker holding fixture, a bellows coupling the space seeker holding fixture to the space chamber, a gate valve providing selective fluidic communication between the space seeker holding fixture and an internal volume of the space chamber through the bellows, a first vacuum pump configured to maintain the rough vacuum chamber at a rough vacuum, and a second vacuum pump configured to maintain the space chamber at high vacuum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2023
    Assignee: RAYTHEON COMPANY
    Inventor: Alan F. Vesterdal
  • Patent number: 11684851
    Abstract: A portable electronic device may be configured for play of a video game, with user controlled game characters operated based on inputs received on first user inputs of the device and a virtual game world modified based on information from motion-related sensors of the device. The modification of the virtual game world may be rotation and/or translation of the virtual game world in a gravitational reference frame. The portable electronic device may also allow for user configuration of the virtual game world.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Assignee: ACTIVISION PUBLISHING, INC.
    Inventors: William Christopher Castagna, Simon Davidian, Kristin Krabseth Fellingfors, Robert Louis Gallerani, Joshua David Huber, Daniel Kay, Brian Edward Labore, Keelan Ronald Massicotte, Robert Ewan Orr, Valeria Prandina
  • Patent number: 11645929
    Abstract: The present disclosure contains embodiments of an apparatus, system and method designed to facilitate learning or efficient multitasking involving movement while one or more user's or users' movement devices process or respond to different stimuli to facilitate users moving while learning, working, or participating in a simulation. In some embodiments this may be accomplished with the aid of a circular treadmill, spherical walkway, or combinable modular trackpads that may be linked to allow a user to lay the apparatus in a path suited for a plurality of environments. The embodiments of the disclosure involve the user moving while processing information (via: learning; creating through typing, moving, talking; or being entertained) and receiving feedback, assistance related to that movement, processing, or any combination thereof while combining the motion of the movement device with the feedback loop sent from sensor relays a user may receive an optimal experience for learning while moving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2023
    Assignee: Forward Entertainment & Technology, LLC
    Inventors: James Lowell Ramsey Clarke, Chiedo Raymond Ohanyerenwa
  • Patent number: 11155363
    Abstract: A self-leveling recovery platform for a landing operation of an unmanned aerial vehicle and a method for an unmanned aerial vehicle on a self-leveling recovery platform are described. The platform includes landing includes a base, a landing pad, first to sixth motors, first to sixth arms, an accelerometer, a gyroscope/inertial measurement unit, and a controller. The base is for fixedly mounting to a moving body. The landing pad has a landing surface on which an aerial vehicle can land. The first to sixth motors are attached to the base. The first to sixth arms control the first to sixth motors to the platform. The accelerometer and gyroscope/inertial measurement unit sense motion of the platform and output sensing signals. The controller is responsive to the sensing signals to control each of the motors to adjust the arms such that the landing surface is maintained in a substantially stable plane relative to a predetermined surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Inventor: Michael A. Baklycki
  • Patent number: 11072443
    Abstract: A system may include a pool of liquid and a control system associated with the pool of liquid and configured to, in concert with the pool of liquid, control one of more components of the system to simulate to a human in the pool of liquid performance of extravehicular activity in space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2021
    Assignee: Opifex Global, LLC
    Inventor: Charles Barton Bollfrass
  • Patent number: 10839709
    Abstract: A vehicle nonlinear dynamics experimental simulation device, such as flight simulator, including a motorized spherical vehicle suspended inside a spherical shell which has a smooth inner surface. The spherical vehicle is supported by a plurality of spiky legs with bearing assemblies. The spherical shell is supported by three controllable translational motion platforms. Simulating apparatuses for a pilot cabin is mounted inside the spherical vehicle. The spherical vehicle has driving, restoring, and damping capabilities in roll, pitch, and yaw directions and is capable of unbounded rotation in any directions. The spherical vehicle provides an experimental model to simulate a vehicle's rotational dynamics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Inventor: Shaojie Tang
  • Patent number: 10832490
    Abstract: A virtual reality experience apparatus includes: a displaying device configured to provide an experiencing user with a virtual reality image; and a riding device configured to provide the experiencing user with a motion, wherein the riding device includes: a riding part providing the experiencing user with a ridable space, and a gyro mechanism generating a pitching motion and a rolling motion of the riding part, wherein the gyro mechanism includes: a base structure having a pair of support columns disposed apart from each other, a pitching mechanism rotatably mounted on the pair of support columns to be rotated with respect to a pitching axis extending between the pair of support columns, and a rolling mechanism rotatably mounted on the pitching mechanism to be rotated with respect to a rolling axis perpendicular to the pitching axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: SANGWHA CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Beom Joon Jung
  • Patent number: 10695669
    Abstract: A game apparatus includes an enclosure including a controller, a display, an operation unit, and a riding part, wherein the game apparatus further includes at least one of an actuator for causing a user to perceive shaking or vibration and a supply unit for causing the user to perceive at least one of wind, water, smell, heat, a cooling sensation, and a tactile sensation, and wherein the controller controls content displayed on the display depending on a situation in a game and a change in a user's visual point, and the controller controls the actuator or the supply unit according to the situation in the game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Assignee: KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Keiko Erikawa
  • Patent number: 10661919
    Abstract: A docking simulator according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is a docking simulator capable of mimicking docking between two flight vehicles in a zero gravity environment, the docking simulator including: a passive module which is disposed at a preset position; and an active module which performs docking with the passive module by approaching the passive module while performing a translational motion. According to the present disclosure, the docking simulator capable of performing, on the ground, a logic verification test for rendezvous docking between the two flight vehicles in the space in the zero gravity environment is implemented, and as a result, it is possible to perform more various logic verification tests for rendezvous docking by mimicking the rendezvous docking by using actual objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Assignee: Korea Aerospace Research Institute
    Inventors: Jae Wook Kwon, Yong Sik Chun, Il Young Kim, Dong Young Rew, Gi Hyuk Choi
  • Patent number: 10593115
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a virtual reality experience apparatus. The virtual reality experience apparatus includes the image apparatus providing an experiencing user with an image and the riding apparatus providing the experiencing user with a physical motion, and the riding apparatus may include a riding part providing the experiencing user with a ridable space; and a gyro mechanism generating at least one of a pitching motion, a yawing motion, a rolling motion, and a reciprocating motion in the riding part, such that a stimulus sensed by the experiencing user through a sense of sight and a stimulus sensed through a physical motion may coincide with each other. Accordingly, the experiencing user may be prevented from feeling a sense of displacement, and an immersion level may be improved, as a result, a sense of realism may be improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Assignee: SANGWHA CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Beom Joon Jung
  • Patent number: 10332414
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing a simulation. The method comprises detecting a user input manipulating a virtual control on a control panel displayed in a target output location on a display system in a simulator during the simulation of a platform. Further, the method comprises identifying a sound for the virtual control when the user input is detected. Still further, the method comprises controlling a speaker system to output the sound identified during the simulation in a manner that is perceived by a human operator to be from the target output location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: John Desmond Whelan
  • Patent number: 10293265
    Abstract: A ride vehicle includes a base configured to move through an attraction environment and a sphere engaging the base and further including one or more ride seats disposed within the sphere. The one or more ride seats are coupled to an upper surface of a platform disposed within the sphere. The ride vehicle also includes a sphere drive system of the base configured to engage with an external surface of the sphere to rotate the sphere relative to the base. The upper surface of the platform is configured to remain substantially horizontal while the sphere drive system rotates the sphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: Universal City Studios LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Matthew Freedman, Ji Hyun Han
  • Patent number: 10258893
    Abstract: A simulator ride may include an annular structure forming at least a partial annulus on which a path is implemented. Additionally, the simulator ride may include a headset with a display designed to be worn by a passenger. A passenger support system may be coupled to the path of the annular structure and designed to move along the path and rotate about a center axis of the annular structure when in operation. Additionally, the annular structure may be configured to be articulated in one or more degrees of freedom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: Universal City Studios LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Matthew Freedman, Nathanael Gordon White, Paula Stenzler
  • Patent number: 10166485
    Abstract: This invention is an amusement ride, attraction or device comprising a modified vehicle, machine, vessel, container, load-carrying platform or similar device, or any combination thereof, or anything having the appearance thereof, which is used, useful or operated for mining, transportation, military or construction or other commercial or industrial uses, purposes or applications. Illustrative embodiments of this invention include a modified dump trailer, dump truck or load-carrying platform. Such a modified dump trailer includes a dump trailer modified so as to permit a horizontally-pivoting telescoping hydraulic cylinder to raise and lower the front of the modified dump trailer, which is modified with a passenger support system and a passenger restraint system. The invention may involve application of other devices, machines, means or forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Assignee: Diggerland USA, LLC
    Inventors: Ilya Girlya, Yan Girlya
  • Patent number: 9836988
    Abstract: A remotely actuated emergency medical services training apparatus designed to simulate a moving ambulance. The apparatus is comprised of a mock up of the rear of an ambulance positioned on a set of suspension parts controlled by a computer. A lower base and an upper base are connected via a set of air springs, shock absorbers, and sway braces. The upper base is connected to the mock up of the ambulance. Air springs which move the upper base relative to the lower base are controlled by a set of programmed instructions resident on the computer or manually by a joystick controller connected to the computer. Each component of the apparatus is sized to be easily transported through typically dimensioned doorways and hallways such that assembly and disassembly within the confines of a typical classroom is possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Inventor: Robert R. Harrison
  • Patent number: 9818285
    Abstract: A method and apparatus to facilitate learning while moving, efficient multitasking involving movement while the user processes or responds to different stimuli. The stimuli may include but are not limited to information related to education or entertainment or feedback concerning the user's movement. More specifically this movement may be related to coordination, exercise or physiotherapy. The methods and apparatuses of the disclosure involve the user conducting movement, while simultaneously processing information (via: learning; creating through typing, moving, or talking; or being entertained) and receiving feedback or assistance related to that movement, processing, or any combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: Forward Entertainment & Technology, LLC
    Inventors: James Clarke, Chiedo Ohanyerenwa
  • Patent number: 9776096
    Abstract: This invention is a relative motion amusement ride comprising having an inner compartment with a rider's area, a rotational drive and vertical drive attached to the inner compartment, a set of light panels disposed along an inner wall of the rider's compartment and along the perimeter of the rider's area; a light panel controller in communications with a database of images and computer readable instructions for displaying images on the set of light panels and door light panel wherein such display is cooperatively associated with the motion of the rider's compartment to coordinating the physical movement of the inner compartment and the image on the light panels to provide relative motion to the rider; an inner speaker for providing audio information in the rider's area wherein the audio information is coordinated the physical movement of the inner compartment and the image on the light panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Inventor: Gerald L. Barber
  • Patent number: 9480928
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are an experience ride representation apparatus and method for a real-sense media service based on a multi-vision. An experience ride representation apparatus for a real-sense media service based on a multi-vision in which a motion of a user is reflected so as to move in a plurality of screen units depending on a first signal received from the user, a second signal is transmitted to the user based on real-sense media contents reproduced on the screen unit, and metaverse contents are provided to a plurality of users when the screen unit is shared by the plurality of users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: ELECTRONICS AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS RESEARCH INSTIT
    Inventors: Sang-Wook Park, Jong-Hyun Jang
  • Patent number: 9358422
    Abstract: A treadmill system, comprises: a sidewall member comprising a rim member extending around at least a portion of an upper edge of the sidewall member and a hatch member that provides access to an area enclosed by the sidewall member; a base member; a support pole member; a handle member coupled to the support pole member that extends from an upper portion of the support pole member and that is removably coupled to the rim member of the sidewall member; a rotatable platform member comprising an exercise surface, a peripheral sidewall and an interior sidewall, configured to rotate around the support pole member; and a particulate substrate disposed on the exercise surface. The exercise surface of the rotatable platform member is configured to evenly distribute the particulate substrate between the peripheral sidewall and the interior sidewall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Inventor: Yuval Brontman
  • Patent number: 9194977
    Abstract: A variable gravity field simulator can be utilized to provide three dimensional simulations for simulated gravity fields selectively ranging from Moon, Mars, and micro-gravity environments and/or other selectable gravity fields. The gravity field simulator utilizes a horizontally moveable carriage with a cable extending from a hoist. The cable can be attached to a load which experiences the effects of the simulated gravity environment. The load can be a human being or robot that makes movements that induce swinging of the cable whereby a horizontal control system reduces swinging energy. A vertical control system uses a non-linear feedback filter to remove noise from a load sensor that is in the same frequency range as signals from the load sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Larry K. Dungan, Paul S. Valle, Derek R. Bankieris, Asher P. Lieberman, Lee Redden, Cecil Shy
  • Patent number: 9126121
    Abstract: This motion simulator uses a spherical shape driven by controlled wheels to produce any rotational motion within certain limits. The range of pitch and roll motions can be at least ?15 to +15 degrees; yaw is unlimited. There are no moving electrical connections such as slip rings. The physical system can be produced inexpensively. Control and simulation display use a smart phone or computer tablet, which, for example, could be one already owned by a family using the simulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Inventors: M. Harris Milam, George W. Batten, Jr., Robert L. Terry
  • Patent number: 9075156
    Abstract: A light curtain for the optical detection of shading objects in an area to be monitored, wherein the area to be monitored is repeatedly swept over by a collimated light beam of variable direction. The power of the light crossing the area is measured, shadow boundaries, position and size of a shading object are deduced by an evaluating control from the temporal profile of the measured power with knowledge of the temporal profile of the direction of the light beam. An optical detector area embodied as a planar optical waveguide is arranged along the edge of the area to be monitored, photoluminescent particles being integrated into said optical detector area and one or more photoelectric sensors being fitted to the optical detector area. Using the light curtain, shading objects can be detected with very good resolution, the light curtain can be robust and can have a low production cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: ISIQIRI INTERFACE TECHNOLOGIES GMBH
    Inventor: Robert Koeppe
  • Patent number: 8609828
    Abstract: The invention provides methods of detecting West Nile virus and oligonucleotide reagents derived from a West Nile virus consensus sequence that are useful in the methods of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Bayer HealthCare LLC
    Inventors: Stefan H. M. Burde, Todd M. Gierman, Christopher C. Glenn
  • Patent number: 8300844
    Abstract: A sensor is provided in a machine having a continuously variable transmission, for example, and the amount of force exerted by the machine against a load is sensed. Based on the sensed power, an appropriate audio signal is generated which simulates the sounds an operator would expect to hear when such force is applied with a machine having a conventional geared transmission. The sounds can include engine noises, as well as sounds associated with the flow of oil or other hydraulic fluids. In addition, the sounds can be generated from digitally pre-recorded audible data, or can be output based on calculated audible data. User controls are also provided to adjust the volume and frequency or pitch of the generated sounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Kent A. Casey, Norval P. Thomson, Vernon R. Smith
  • Publication number: 20110256512
    Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus are described for providing a reduced or modulated gravity environment in a land-based facility. The system includes the evaluation of terrain and man-made structures to support a vertical vehicle guide, the construction of a vehicle guide, the provision of a vehicle and a control system adapted to control a motion of the vehicle up and down along the vehicle guide with a specific velocity profile so as to produce a selected modulated gravity environment. The same apparatus can also be used as a vehicle launching method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventors: Jerry J. Huang, Li Jieh Huang
  • Patent number: 7587747
    Abstract: A telepresence server is for connection to a telecommunications network for providing access to a reality engine for a plurality of passive users. The reality engine can be controlled by an active user or a professional director through the network or by a local professional director. Active/passive mode displays can be used by the passive users in a passive mode and an active/passive mode display can be used by the active user in an active mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventor: Francis J. Maguire, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7559766
    Abstract: Spatial manipulator apparatus for a mammalian subject includes a stabilizing base; a hemispheroidal truss frame mounted for rotation on the stabilizing base, the truss frame supporting and stabilizing an outer generally circular rim in relation to a non-concentric hub located at its rotational axis; and a second frame mounted orthogonally within the outer rim on a second rotational axis, the second frame being configured to support a mammalian subject during spatial manipulation thereof by rotation about one or more of the orthogonal rotational axes. Preferably, the truss frame and the second frame are driven for rotation about the orthogonal rotational axes to achieve a desired mammalian-subject spatial orientation within a chair-like structure pivotally adjustably mounted within the second frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Epley Research, LLC
    Inventors: John Epley, William J. McDonough
  • Patent number: 7465236
    Abstract: A flying arrangement, consisting of at least one flying unit (10) that is able to start vertically and that can accommodate at least one person for flying freely within at least a hall (100,200), the boundaries (2,3,4,5,6) of which prevent a flying unit (10) from leaving the hall (100,200,300).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Dieter Wagels
    Inventor: Dieter Wagels
  • Patent number: 7441473
    Abstract: A ground-based system for simulating dynamic suborbital-flight environments occurring during substantially complete suborbital-flights by a flight vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventors: Taber K. MacCallum, Grant A. Anderson
  • Patent number: 7377783
    Abstract: A modular human habitat simulator for providing an environment on Earth that approximates, in a controlled test situation, a number of conditions expected to exist when an inflatable modular habitat is deployed into Earth orbit. The simulator has a housing with a rigid wall defining an internal volume, a longitudinal axis, a first and second opposing openings along the longitudinal axis, the rigid wall having an exterior surface, and an interior surface where the interior surface is generally the shape of an interior surface of a deployed inflatable shell of a modular human habitat, and the internal volume is substantially that of a deployed inflatable modular human habitat volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: Bigelow Aerospace
    Inventor: Robert T. Bigelow
  • Publication number: 20080070196
    Abstract: A docked emulation system is provided which accesses real flight software and emulates the hardware interaction between an outpost system and a second system docking thereto. The system includes a MIL-STD-1553B software application that accesses data on an emulated MIL-STD-1553B bus to drive external MIL-STD-1553B applications in the second docking system. The system further includes software portal applications that access data traffic on emulated data buses to interface a data exchange between the outpost flight software and simulation models for outpost craft avionics and other components. A telemetry server in the system provides raw data from the flight software into a format complying with control center applications. The docked emulation system allows analysis of an emulated docking interaction between two outpost systems from a PC workstation without requiring access to actual flight computers of either system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Applicant: United Space Alliance, LLC
    Inventors: Roger A. Luty, David J. McDill, Susan B. Ahrens, Jonathan F. Morsics
  • Patent number: 7190392
    Abstract: A telepresence server is for connection to a telecommunications network for providing access to a reality engine for a plurality of passive users. The reality engine can be controlled by an active user or a professional director through the network or by a local professional director. Active/passive mode displays can be used by the passive users in a passive mode and an active/passive mode display can be used by the active user in an active mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Inventor: Francis J. Maguire, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7148127
    Abstract: A method of repairing a defective one of devices mounted on substrate is provided. Devices are arrayed on a substrate and electrically connected to wiring lines connected to a drive circuit, to be thus mounted on the substrate. The devices mounted on the substrate are then subjected to an emission test. If a defective device is detected in this test, a repair device is mounted at a position corresponding to a position of the defective device. At this time, after wiring lines connected to the defective device are cut off, the repair device is electrically connected to portions of the wiring lines, the portions of the wiring lines being located at positions nearer to the drive circuit side than the cut-off positions of the wiring lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Toyoharu Oohata, Toshiaki Iwafuchi, Hisashi Ohba
  • Patent number: 6743019
    Abstract: A test chamber is pivotably suspended in an aircraft, so that the center of gravity of the test chamber always self-actingly orients itself in the direction of the effective residual acceleration. To simulate a selected acceleration greater than 0 g and less than 1 g, the aircraft is flown along a parabolic flight path with a downward vertical acceleration such that the difference between Earth's gravitational acceleration and the aircraft's acceleration corresponds to the selected acceleration to be simulated. To simulate gravitational conditions on Mars, the aircraft is flown with a downward vertical acceleration of about ⅔ g, so that the residual acceleration acting on the test chamber is about ⅓ g. The atmospheric conditions, such as the gas composition, pressure and temperature, of Mars can also be established in the test chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Astrium GmbH
    Inventors: Stephen Ransom, Manfred Zier
  • Patent number: 6719564
    Abstract: A space simulation chamber for simulating the temperature and pressure conditions of deep space comprises a vacuum chamber containing a thermal shroud and a coolant system for cooling the thermal shroud by heat exchange with helium gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Chart Inc.
    Inventors: Yatming R. Than, David A. McWilliams
  • Patent number: 6684182
    Abstract: A spacecraft emulation system that can emulate both the attitude control subsystem and the non-attitude control subsystem is integrated into a single compact unit. The unit includes an emulated spacecraft control processor for processing attitude control information and an emulated central command and telemetry unit for interfacing simulated spacecraft data. The inlet also includes a first simulation engine that is operative to simulate the spacecraft attitude control system and a second simulation engine that is operative to simulate the spacecraft power, thermal, propulsion and payload subsystems. Both the first and second simulation engines are connected to the emulated spacecraft control processor via a respective bus. A host computer provides the command data and receives the telemetry data from the emulated spacecraft control processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Hughes Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Gold, David L. Koza, Michael J. Surace, Steven R. Zammit
  • Patent number: 6641485
    Abstract: A space ride simulator allows a user to experience space travel l, the weightlessness of being in space, and the reduced gravitational effects experienced while walking on a celestial body that is smaller than the earth. A 3-D simulator is used to create the various sights and sounds and movements of space travel, while a weightlessness room allows the user to experience weightlessness, and a weight reduced room allows a user to experience reduced gravitational effects while walking on a celestial body. The weightlessness room and the weight reduced room each have magnets embedded within the floor and a user dons a vest having a magnet thereattached, of the same polarity as the magnets within the floors. The magnets within the floors are of sufficient strength so as to completely or partially repel the user from the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Sanjay Chauhan
  • Patent number: 6575787
    Abstract: The invention provides a waterproof connector in which a seal is maintained around a bolt without having to increase the number of components. A bolt 39 is passed through a through hole 36 of a bolt attachment member 35, this bolt 39 being passed from a countersunk hole 46 of a grommet 40 attached so as to cover a posterior face of a female housing 30. A nut 26 of a male housing 20 is fastened to this bolt 39, this fastening the two housings 20 and 30 together. A circular sealing member 50 is formed in a manner whereby it adjoins a central hole 47 of a base face 46A of the countersunk hole 46, a shaft 39A of the bolt 39 passing through this sealing member 50 in a manner whereby it fits tightly therewith. The sealing member 50 fits into a housing hole 53 of the bolt attachment member 35.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryotaro Ishikawa, Hajime Kawase, Yuuichi Nankou
  • Publication number: 20030096215
    Abstract: A space simulation chamber (100) for simulating the temperature and pressure conditions of deep space comprises a vacuum chamber (110) containing a thermal shroud (112) and a coolant system (114) for cooling the thermal shroud by heat exchange with helium gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2002
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventors: Yatming R. Than, David A. McWilliams
  • Patent number: 6220171
    Abstract: A roller coaster includes a plurality of ride vehicles that ride along a track. Each vehicle provides seating for at least one passenger. The track is elevated off the ground and includes a variety of hills, curves, loops, rolls, drops, inversions and the like. The vehicles are totally enclosed and preferably designed to represent a space capsule. Sight line controls and a yaw mechanism are used at the load platform to prevent passengers from seeing the other ride vehicles. In addition, the track at the load platform is angled upwards to allow for easy access to the ride vehicles. Portals in the cabin are designed to control sight lines to focus the passengers' attention on show elements that are placed along the track. An on-board audio system enhances the realism of the ride experience. Adjustable restraint systems are provided in each vehicle to keep the passengers in their seats and inside the vehicle during the ride.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Universal City Studios
    Inventors: Philip D. Hettema, Cecil D. Magpuri, Aidan J. Bradley, Kevin T. Parent, Edward S. Newquist
  • Patent number: 6196919
    Abstract: A CPU of a control system controls a signal processor to effect various calculations to move a player's spaceship on a projection display screen, orient the player's spaceship toward a shooting direction, move a camera position at a rear viewpoint toward the player's spaceship, and orient the shooting direction outside of the projection display screen, based on shooting game data including image data, audio data, and program data stored in recording medium. The CPU also controls an image processor to write image data and audio data into a RAM based on the calculated results from the signal processor. The image data thus written in the RAM is displayed on a television monitor and projected onto the projection display screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Konami Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akira Okubo
  • Patent number: 6083110
    Abstract: The present invention is a vertical wind tunnel amusement device. The device comprises a flight chamber wherein a user may experience a freefall through the atmosphere from the safety of an enclosed flight chamber. Airflow sufficient to fully support a user within the flight chamber is induced by a plurality of fans connected above the flight chamber through a duct. A staging area having openings to the flight chamber is adjacent to the flight chamber. A user may enter or retreat from the flight chamber at will through the staging area openings without significantly adjusting the airflow velocity in the flight chamber. A control room is adjacent to the fight chamber whereby an operator may observe a user or users within the flight chamber and thereby safely control the operation of the fans. A projection room is also adjacent to the flight chamber whereby a video of a skydiving experience may be displayed to a user within the flight chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Sky Venture, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Kitchen, Michael Palmer
  • Patent number: 5848899
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and device for producing an illusion of weightlessness. An enclosed room having walls, a floor and a ceiling defining an interior is provided. A plurality of visually polarized objects are rigidly secured to the walls, ceiling or floor to indicate an up and down direction. A user is secured into a cushioned user support member mounted in the enclosed room and rotated into the supine posture. The room is then rotated into alignment with the user's body. The room containing a rich variety of visually polarized objects having recognizable tops and bottoms still appears upright when the room and person in the support member are both rotated at an angle of 90.degree. from the upright position. The gravity sense organs in the inner ear (otolith organs) which normally indicate when the head is erect, are not powerful enough in most people to overcome the strong contradictory visual information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Assignee: Centre for Research in Earth and Space Technology
    Inventor: Ian P. Howard
  • Patent number: 5718587
    Abstract: A variable gravity simulator for giving a test subject, such as an astronaut, six degree freedom of movement in a variety of effective gravities by using a nearly uniform gas/liquid mixture as an immersion medium. This technique retains most of the benefits of conventional methods of varying effective gravity through immersion in a liquid yet greatly reduces the most serious drawback by reducing the resistance to all movement due to the immersion liquid's viscosity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1998
    Assignee: Joseph C. Sussingham
    Inventor: Joseph Christopher Sussingham
  • Patent number: 5634793
    Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus for simulating a system, which provides a recording of steps taken in operation of the system. The invention provides teaching and evaluation for the use and repair of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventor: Paul L. Hasse
  • Patent number: 5531644
    Abstract: A space game floater apparatus is disclosed, which can be utilized by any person for obtaining simulation experiment similar to space floating or enjoying various space games without need of any preliminary training.A dome-like floating space shell defines an inner artificial floating space, in which is sealed air supplied as pressurized gas under 2 to 3 atm. from a gas pressure control unit. A floater provided in the artificial floating space has a buoyancy vessel part and a support part in which a floating person rides. The floating person enters the artificial floating space through a gate unit and rides in the support part of the floater for steering the floater for floating operation thereof in the artificial floating space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Inventor: Masakazu Marumo
  • Patent number: 5507647
    Abstract: A simulator device provides a full 360 degree axial roll to a passenger capsule. This device also provides 70 degrees of pitch to the capsule. The 70 degrees of total range of pitch motion provided by the simulator device creates additional desirable and exciting sensations. For example, if the passenger is quickly rotated from a full pitched back position to a full pitch forward position, the feeling of flying or dropping straight down is simulated. The simulator device provides the passenger with 0.5 Gs pitch forward, 0.25 Gs pitch backward, 0.25 Gs rotational acceleration, and 2.25 Gs vertical acceleration. These forces simulate the motion sensations of high speed looping roller coasters, bobsled rides, water rides, flying rides, and driving rides. The simulator device provides sufficient vertical motion to create more than 1/2 second of weightlessness. In this manner, the passenger experiences free falls off cliffs, vertical drops down the side of skyscrapers or plunges over Niagara Falls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Assignee: Magic Edge, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald L. Morris
  • Patent number: RE43028
    Abstract: The present invention is a vertical wind tunnel amusement device. The device comprises a flight chamber wherein a user may experience a freefall through the atmosphere from the safety of an enclosed flight chamber. Airflow sufficient to fully support a user within the flight chamber is induced by a plurality of fans connected above the flight chamber through a duct. A staging area having openings to the flight chamber is adjacent to the flight chamber. A user may enter or retreat from the flight chamber at will through the staging area openings without significantly adjusting the airflow velocity in the flight chamber. A control room is adjacent to the fight chamber whereby an operator may observe a user or users within the flight chamber and thereby safely control the operation of the fans. A projection room is also adjacent to the flight chamber whereby a video of a skydiving experience may be displayed to a user within the flight chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Skyventure, LLC
    Inventors: William J. Kitchen, Michael Palmer