Patents by Inventor Beals, David C.

Beals, David C. 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).

  • Spiral lead platen robotic end effector
    Patent number: 4955653
    Abstract: A robotic end effector is disclosed which makes use of a rotating platen (1) with spiral leads (2,3) used to impact lateral motion to gripping fingers (46,48). Actuation is provided by the contact of rolling pins (54,56) with the walls of the leads. The use of the disclosed method of actuation avoids jamming and provides excellent mechanical advantage while remaining light in weight and durable. The entire end effector is compact and easily adapted for attachment to robotic arms currently in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 11, 1990
    Assignee: Administrator, National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventor: Beals, David C.