Patents Assigned to NASA
  • Patent number: 5218467
    Abstract: A satellite system for optical communications such as a multi-access laser transceiver system. Up to six low Earth orbiting satellites send satellite data to a geosynchronous satellite. The data is relayed to a ground station at the Earth's surface. The earth pointing geosynchronous satellite terminal has no gimbal but has a separate tracking mechanism for tracking each low Earth orbiting satellite. The tracking mechanism has a ring assembly rotatable about an axis coaxial with the axis of the field of view of the geosynchronous satellite and a pivotable arm mounted for pivotal movement on the ring assembly. An optical pickup mechanism at the end of each arm is positioned for optical communication with one of the orbiting satellites by rotation of the ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1993
    Assignee: NASA and Laser Data Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Monte Ross, Donald C. Lokerson, Michael W. Fitzmaurice, Daniel D. Meyer
  • Patent number: 5075117
    Abstract: A material for keeping foods fresh which essentially comprises an aqueous stabilized chlorine dioxide solution containing potassium permanganate, chlorinated choline and magnesium chloride. The freshness-keeping material is capable of removing ethylene gas and bacteria from foods, and preventing them from gathering mold while being stored, thus keeping them fresh even if they are stored for a long period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Nasa
    Inventors: Hiroo Kumami, Akio Okamoto
  • Patent number: 4927651
    Abstract: Disclosed is a food preserving method comprising the steps of: adding to the food plant extracts containing flavonoids and/or polyphenols; wrapping the food with a food wrapping material which is capable of radiating far infrared rays and absorbing ethylene gas; and keeping the wrapped food at a relatively low temperature. The far infrared radiating ceramic causes the activation of the enzyme in the food; elimination of ethylene gas and other undesired gas from the food; and sterilization of the food. The plant extract applied to the food prevents the oxidation of the food. The cooperative effect of the wrapping material and the plant extract applied to the food assures that discoloration, appearance of oil or fat on the food surface, water dripping and degradation of taste are prevented for an elongated period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1990
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Nasa
    Inventors: Hiroo Kumani, Akio Okamoto