Patents Assigned to Autonomous Effects, Inc.
  • Patent number: 5954310
    Abstract: An angular positioning apparatus is disclosed for rotating a housing mounted within a supporting structure to any angular position relative to a sphere along a plurality of orthogonal axes that intersect at approximately the center of mass of the housing. The supporting structure may be comprised of supporting members having annular concave surfaces that match the contour of the housing and thus maintain the housing within the supporting structure. The housing may be rotated about the axes by an actuator assembly and drive mechanism contacting the wall of the housing. Because the axes of rotation intersect the center of mass of the housing, or, if a payload is attached to the housing, the center of mass of the combination of the housing and payload, the housing can be positioned quickly, accurately, and with a minimum force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: Autonomous Effects, Inc.
    Inventors: Monnett H. Soldo, David A. Soldo, Scott Barclay