Patents by Inventor Caitlin Gibbons

Caitlin Gibbons 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).

  • 5.5K coarse azimuth pointing system for balloon gondolas
    Patent number: 11609094
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel rotator for a standardized coarse azimuth-pointing system for a balloon-borne platform—either zero pressure or Super Pressure Balloons (SPB)—with a maximum suspended payload of 5,500 lbs. The 5.5K Rotator novel shaft design, bearings, motor, and housing, result in a weight of the rotator being decreased by 33% from existing legacy rotators. The present invention achieved a 24% parts reduction from existing legacy rotators, and has the advantages of lighter weight, reusability, cost-effectiveness, machinability, and ease of assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Administrator of NASA
    Inventor: Caitlin Gibbons