Patents by Inventor Bruce Rowland

Bruce Rowland 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).

  • Patent number: 5393058
    Abstract: A simulated golf game in which a remotely controlled golfer plays on a miniature course, The physical mechanisms and methods of control of the game are directed to heighten its realism. The course has all the characteristics of a real golf course, e.g., hills, valleys, sand traps, and trees. The golfer is a model human figure who plays a miniature ball free that is to roll anywhere on the course. The golfer is remotely controlled through an overhead gantry positioning mechanism that connects to the golfer's back by way of a small-diameter rigid tube. The gantry simulates walking by moving the tube, with the golfer attached, about the golf course. Animation of the golfer itself (bending at the waist, swinging the club, etc.) is effected by a set of electric motors driving cables running inside the tube. Many of the motors are operated simultaneously to give the golfer a lifelike look. The motor operations are controlled by a computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Inventors: Bruce Rowland, Dean Rowland