Patents Assigned to Douglas Corporation
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Patent number: 6152739Abstract: A visual display system for producing a continuous far-focused virtual image according to the present invention includes a number of adjacent video image generation and display modules. Each module includes an image generator that generates a video image representative of a portion of a composite display image displayed on a video display. The visual display system also includes a number of optical viewing lenses associated with each video image generation and display modules and positioned between the operator and the video display. The lenses restrict the operator's field of view such that the operator views only a portion of the active display area of the video displays. The lenses of adjacent modules are joined together along their edges to form an enclosure partially surrounding the operator so that the operator views the composite display image displayed on the video displays through the lenses and perceives the composite display image as a continuous far-focused virtual image.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 1998Date of Patent: November 28, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventors: John G. Amery, John A. VanHoogstrate, Michael E. Stockton
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Patent number: 6140632Abstract: A method for producing a spatially stratified Optical System includes the steps of a) selecting a suitable, spatially stratified profile of index of refraction to achieve an optical system having a desired performance; b) selecting an atomic/molecular species having a suitable index of refraction in a desired operational wavelength band; c) forming sub-micron pellets of the species; and d) placing the pellets into a host material while controlling the density of the placement. The density is varied to achieve a local index of refraction value for the optical system in accordance with the selected stratified profile. The wavelength regime the optical system is designed for is much greater than the characteristic scale of stratification, which in turn is much greater than the spatial size of the pellets. The optical system is much greater than the wavelengths in the wavelength regime.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 1998Date of Patent: October 31, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: Stanley Schneider
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Patent number: 6138951Abstract: A dispensing system for releasing a number of spacecraft from a launch vehicle. The dispensing system includes a base support structure securely fastened to a launch vehicle and a number of stacked frame assemblies. Each frame assembly includes a number of substantially parallel load bearing elongated post elements and a shear load transferring structure. The post elements are so arranged and spaced so as to define a geometry having a centerline. Each post element has a first end portion and a second end portion. Each first end portion is connected to either another frame assembly or the base support structure of the launch vehicle. The post elements support a number of spacecraft. The spacecraft are supported between adjacent post elements. The shear load transferring structure is connected to the post elements for transferring shear loads between the post elements.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 1998Date of Patent: October 31, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventors: George J. Budris, Peter A. McGrath, II, Tony L. Toulouse, Richard J. Catalano, Michael B. Diverde
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Patent number: 6129309Abstract: An aircraft engine apparatus with a reduced inlet vortex is provided which utilizes a vortex disruption system that periodically discharges pulses of engine bleed fluid through at least one outlet port opening through the inlet of the engine nacelle to disrupt the engine inlet vortex. The vortex disruption system thereby prevents ingestion of foreign matter into the engine inlet without sacrificing engine power, efficiency, or aircraft cruise performance.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 1998Date of Patent: October 10, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventors: David M. Smith, John Dorris, III
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Patent number: 6128545Abstract: A computer system automatically generates CNC code for a stitching machine. The computer determines the locations of a present stitching point and a next stitching point. If a constraint is not found between the present stitching point and the next stitching point, the computer generates code for making a stitch at the next stitching point. If a constraint is found, the computer generates code for changing a condition (e.g., direction) of the stitching machine's stitching head.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1997Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: Jeffrey L. Miller
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Patent number: 6128112Abstract: The method and associated apparatus of the present invention decodes digital signals by appropriately weighting the respective noise portions of the two phase segments generated by the detector, such as an APD in an optical communications system, such that the digital signal can be reliably decoded despite the presence of multiplicative noise induced by the detector. The detector detects a digitally encoded communications carrier signal having a waveform defining first and second portions. The detector then generates an electrical signal in response to the digitally encoded communications carrier signal. The electrical signal has two phase segments, namely, one phase segment corresponding to the first portion of the digitally encoded communications carrier signal and another phase segment corresponding to the second portion of the digitally encoded communications carrier signal. Each phase segment also includes a respective noise portion.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 1997Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: Daniel Nelson Harres
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Patent number: 6126110Abstract: The present invention relates to an engine mount assembly for supporting an aircraft engine in aft-cantilevered position beneath the aircraft wing. The assembly includes a pair forward engine mounts positioned on opposite sides of an integrally formed yoke member wrapped about the upper half of the engine casing. Each side of the yoke is preferably configured as an A-shaped frame member with the bottom portions joining each other and the pylon. To prevent "backbone bending" of the engine trunnion assembly, the forward engine mounts supported at opposite ends of the yoke engage the casing along its centerline. The trunnion assembly is preferably constructed of high strength titanium machined and/or forged.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1997Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventors: John D. Seaquist, Chris Culbertson
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Patent number: 6122884Abstract: The structural assemblies are selectively reinforced with metal matrix composite in the regions susceptible to mechanical failure. More specifically, a channel is machined in a structural member in an area of relatively high stress. A reinforcing member is inserted into the channel. A metal powder is deposited on and around the reinforcing member. The metal powder is irradiated by a high energy source to thereby encase the reinforcing member in a metal matrix and to consolidate the metal matrix to the interior surface of the channel. The resultant assembly is lightweight and has improved strength and stiffness at room and elevated temperatures.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2000Date of Patent: September 26, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: Rajesh Talwar
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Patent number: 6121618Abstract: A high responsivity thermochromic infrared detector which has an operating temperature that is established on the steepest part of the phase transition curve and is maintained there while the infrared detector is operated.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 1999Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: Henry B. Morris
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Patent number: 6119982Abstract: The stores ejection system and method of the present invention provide automatic pre-load device, such as a pneumatically-operated pre-load piston, to pre-load a store ejection ram into contact with a bomb or other store prior to store ejection. Mechanical shock to the store during ejection is thereby minimized. The ejection system automatically retracts following store ejection to minimize ejection system aerodynamic drag during flight.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 1998Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventors: Thaddeus Jakubowski, Jr., John K. Foster
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Patent number: 6122569Abstract: A store interface for routing different types of store signal formats to multiple wing stations using pre-existing aircraft wing wiring. The store interface provides an interface between an aircraft and an associated store adapted to bidirectionally communicate with the aircraft according to one of a plurality of predetermined store signal formats. The store interface includes a store identifier that determines the type of the associated store, and an interface that bidirectionally communicates between the aircraft and the store, includinga first and second communication links that communicate with the store using either a first set of store control signals configured in accordance with a first store signal format or a second set of store control signals configured in accordance with a second store signal format.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 1998Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventors: William J. Ebert, James V. Leonard, Richard E. Meyer
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Patent number: 6121936Abstract: A conformable, integrated antenna assembly providing three or more radiating apertures in a single antenna structure is provided. The antenna assembly is adapted to mount flush with the fuselage or other surface of an aircraft or other structure. A range of antenna services, including communications, navigation and IFF (CNI) services, may thus be provided while simultaneously minimizing aerodynamic drag and reducing size, weight and cost.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 1998Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventors: Leland H. Hemming, Micheal A. Kovalchik, Donald T. Johnson
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Patent number: 6122102Abstract: A sighting apparatus is provided for aiming an optical device mounted on a moving platform and having both coarse and fine adjustment. The sighting apparatus includes a fixed base and an outer support ring that is capable of rotation by a drive motor about an azimuthal axis perpendicular to an axis defined by the outer support ring. A support hub is rotatably supported within the outer support ring and is capable of rotation by a drive motor about an elevational axis substantially coincident with the axis defined by the outer support ring. At least one mounting plate is supported by the support hub and the mounting plate is capable of movement about the azimuthal and elevational axes relative to the support hub, and the mounting plate is capable of movement about a roll axis perpendicular to the azimuthal and the elevational axes.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 1998Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventors: James D. Gehris, Wesley A. King
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Patent number: 6119055Abstract: An imaging apparatus for aiding landing of aircraft in weather conditions obscuring a pilot's view of a runway. The apparatus comprises a plurality of LED assemblies which are disposed along the runway. Each LED assembly includes a plurality of LEDs, a receiver and a plurality of drivers responsive to the receiver for energizing the LEDs. The LEDs of each LED assembly are pulsed on by signals from a transmitter disposed adjacent an end of the runway. The transmitter also sends synchronization signals to a receiver located on board the approaching aircraft. The receiver on the aircraft is coupled to a processor which uses the synchronization signals to determine when the LEDs are energized and when they are not energized. The processor controls a CCD camera mounted on the aircraft so as to obtain an unobstructed view of the approaching runway. The processor controls the CCD camera such that the camera takes images (i.e., frames) while the LEDs are pulsed on and also while the LEDs are off.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1998Date of Patent: September 12, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: Isaac Richman
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Patent number: 6115656Abstract: A method for recording and reporting fault information pertaining to various components of an aircraft. The method involves recording a diverse plurality of information output from various line replaceable units (LRU's) and other components of the aircraft during takeoff, flight and landing through the use of a bulk storage device, such as an optical quick access recorder (OQAR), on an electronic medium. The electronic medium is then removed from the aircraft after landing and read by an appropriate apparatus. From this information a service technician is able to determine whether or not a fault indication recorded during flight is in fact a legitimate fault requiring the affected LRU to be removed from the aircraft for further diagnostic testing. The method significantly reduces the incidents of no-fault-found diagnostic test results and saves significant man hours which would otherwise be spent testing LRU's and other components which are in fact operating properly.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 1999Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: Michael D. Sudolsky
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Patent number: 6114674Abstract: A multilayer circuit board and an associated heating apparatus is provided for heating electrical components. The multilayer circuit board includes a trace layer having at least one electrical trace terminating with a contact pad that is positioned to electrically contact a respective lead of an electrical component mounted upon the multilayer circuit board. The multilayer circuit board also includes a heating layer disposed in thermal contact with the electrical component mounted upon the multilayer circuit board. The heating layer includes a first electrically resistive heating element disposed upon an insulating substrate in general alignment with the electrical component mounted upon the multilayer circuit board. The electrically resistive heating element provides heat to maintain the operating temperature of the electrical component within a desired range.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 1997Date of Patent: September 5, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventors: Walter Thomas Baugh, Stephen Mark Kusek, Francis Wessling, III
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Patent number: 6109563Abstract: The present invention provides a door operating system for opening and closing a door covering an exit opening of an aircraft. More particularly, the present invention provides a door operating system for opening and closing a plug type door typically located on the lower passenger deck of an aircraft. The door operating system includes a frame that is connected to the door of the aircraft and defines a pivot for the door. Connected to the frame is a torque drum and linkage system. The door operating system also includes a motor and a cable drum attached to the opposite end of the track. A cable is connected to the cable drum, the torque drum, and the frame. When opening the door, the motor turns the cable drum, which thereby pulls the cable. The cable rotates the drive torque drum and causes the door to be rotated about the pivot thereby moving the door upwardly and inwardly away from the exit opening.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1996Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventors: Teunes Verhoeven, Wilfred E. Boehringer, William V. Mutz, Terry J. Beezhold
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Patent number: 6105902Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming an aircraft fuselage having at least one doubly curved portion. A plurality of fuselage panels are extruded with integrally formed stiffening portions extending preferably longitudinally the full length of each fuselage panel. The stiffening portions are further formed so as to be generally parallel to one another. The fuselage panels are then formed into skin panels having a desired curvature and trimmed into gores, and the stiffening portions trimmed at end portions that run out toward longitudinal edges of the panels. When adjacent panels are affixed together, the stiffening portions run out toward longitudinal edges of adjacent panels. The longitudinal edges are secured by splice longerons which are riveted or welded to the longitudinal edges of the skin panels. Independent fastening members are then secured to the stiffening portions and the splice longerons at the points where the stiffening portions run out to positions closely adjacent the splice longerons.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 1997Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: Richard G. Pettit
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Patent number: 6101884Abstract: A method for measuring strain on a structure having a bore and an untethered fiber-optic strain gauge embedded in the bore, which includes the steps of inserting a coupler portion of a fiber-optic cable into the bore in operative relationship to the fiber-optic strain gauge, and using an optical cavity length measurement device attached to the distal end of the fiber-optic cable to measure the strain on the structure. The coupler portion of the fiber-optic cable is removed from the bore after the strain on the structure has been measured. In an illustrative embodiment, the structure is a fastener, e.g., a rivet, used to join together the aluminum skin and the airframe of an aircraft, the bore being provided coincident with the central, longitudinal axis of the rivet.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 1997Date of Patent: August 15, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: John M. Haake
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Patent number: 6098260Abstract: The present invention provides a fastening assembly system for applying fasteners along the seams of a cylindrical structure. The fastening apparatus includes a base unit which releasably attaches to a cylindrical structure, and a first fastening device coupled the base unit for applying fasteners along a seam of the cylindrical structure. The base unit may be embodied as either two crescent shaped members in parallel alignment for attaching to the upper half of the cylindrical structure. Alternatively, the base unit may include a base plate that is attachable to the floor beams on the interior of the cylindrical structure. In the preferred embodiment, the first fastening device cooperate with a second fastening device located on the opposite side of the cylindrical structure during the fastening process.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 1996Date of Patent: August 8, 2000Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: Branko Sarh