Patents by Inventor Carl F. Stephens

Carl F. Stephens 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: 11598336
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a two-piece counterweight for a scroll compressor is provided. The method includes molding an outer plate, and molding a base having a first opening configured to receive a scroll compressor drive shaft having a longitudinal axis. The method further includes configuring the base for assembly and attachment to the drive shaft. The method also includes attaching the outer plate to the base such that the outer plate is axially offset from the base. In a particular embodiment of this method, the base and outer plate are molded from powdered metal. In certain embodiments, the base and outer plate include one or more openings aligned to permit attachment by inserting a mechanical fastener through the aligned openings. In alternate embodiments, the base and outer plate are attached via brazing or welding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: BITZER Kuehlmaschinenbau GmbH
    Inventors: Carl F. Stephens, Lauren A. Markley
  • Publication number: 20200291940
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a two-piece counterweight for a scroll compressor is provided. The method includes molding an outer plate, and molding a base having a first opening configured to receive a scroll compressor drive shaft having a longitudinal axis. The method further includes configuring the base for assembly and attachment to the drive shaft. The method also includes attaching the outer plate to the base such that the outer plate is axially offset from the base. In a particular embodiment of this method, the base and outer plate are molded from powdered metal. In certain embodiments, the base and outer plate include one or more openings aligned to permit attachment by inserting a mechanical fastener through the aligned openings. In alternate embodiments, the base and outer plate are attached via brazing or welding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2020
    Publication date: September 17, 2020
    Applicant: BITZER Kuehlmaschinenbau GmbH
    Inventors: Carl F. Stephens, Lauren A. Markley
  • Patent number: 10697454
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a two-piece counterweight for a scroll compressor is provided. The method includes molding an outer plate, and molding a base having a first opening configured to receive a scroll compressor drive shaft having a longitudinal axis, and configuring the base for assembly and attachment to the drive shaft. The method also includes attaching the outer plate to the base such that the outer plate is axially offset from the base. In a particular embodiment of this method, the base and outer plate are molded from powdered metal. In certain embodiments, the base and outer plate include one or more openings aligned to permit attachment by inserting a mechanical fastener through the aligned openings. In alternate embodiments, the base and outer plate are attached via brazing or welding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2020
    Assignee: BITZER Kuehlmaschinenbau GmbH
    Inventors: Carl F. Stephens, Lauren A. Markley
  • Patent number: 9856874
    Abstract: A scroll compressor that includes a housing and scroll compressor bodies disposed in the housing. The scroll bodies include a non-orbiting scroll body (also referred to as “fixed”) and a moveable body, where scroll bodies have respective bases and respective scroll ribs that project from the respective bases. The scroll ribs are configured to mutually engage, and the movable scroll body orbits relative to the fixed scroll body for compressing fluid. A pilot ring engages a perimeter surface of the fixed scroll body to limit movement of the fixed scroll body in the radial direction. A simplified holding plate prevents rotation between the pilot ring and the fixed scroll body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: BITZER Kuehlmaschinenbau GmbH
    Inventors: Johnathan P. Roof, Xianghong Wang, Carl F. Stephens, Christopher Allen Wyker
  • Publication number: 20170260980
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a two-piece counterweight for a scroll compressor is provided. The method includes molding an outer plate, and molding a base having a first opening configured to receive a scroll compressor drive shaft having a longitudinal axis, and configuring the base for assembly and attachment to the drive shaft. The method also includes attaching the outer plate to the base such that the outer plate is axially offset from the base. In a particular embodiment of this method, the base and outer plate are molded from powdered metal. In certain embodiments, the base and outer plate include one or more openings aligned to permit attachment by inserting a mechanical fastener through the aligned openings. In alternate embodiments, the base and outer plate are attached via brazing or welding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2016
    Publication date: September 14, 2017
    Applicant: BITZER Kuehlmaschinenbau GmbH
    Inventors: Carl F. Stephens, Lauren A. Markley
  • Publication number: 20160090985
    Abstract: A scroll compressor that includes a housing and scroll compressor bodies disposed in the housing. The scroll bodies include a non-orbiting scroll body (also referred to as “fixed”) and a moveable body, where scroll bodies have respective bases and respective scroll ribs that project from the respective bases. The scroll ribs are configured to mutually engage, and the movable scroll body orbits relative to the fixed scroll body for compressing fluid. A pilot ring engages a perimeter surface of the fixed scroll body to limit movement of the fixed scroll body in the radial direction. A simplified holding plate prevents rotation between the pilot ring and the fixed scroll body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2015
    Publication date: March 31, 2016
    Applicant: BITZER KUEHLMASCHINENBAU GMBH
    Inventors: Johnathan P. Roof, Xianghong Wang, Carl F. Stephens, Christopher Allen Wyker
  • Patent number: 9248738
    Abstract: A power transmission device for a four-wheel drive vehicle includes an input shaft adapted to be driven by a power source. A first output shaft is rotatable about a first axis and adapted to transmit torque to a first driveline. A second output shaft is adapted to transmit torque to a second driveline and is rotatable about a second axis. The first and second axes diverge from one another. A transfer unit includes a drive member rotatably supported on the first output shaft and a driven member coupled to the second output shaft. A joint is positioned within a cavity formed in the driven member and drivingly interconnects the driven member and the second output shaft. The driven member includes first and second portions separable from and re-mountable to each other to allow service to the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: Magna Powertrain of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl F. Stephens, William A. Hellinger, Dale R. Fine
  • Patent number: 8968135
    Abstract: A transmission for a vehicle including a hydrostatic regenerative braking system includes a first rotatable shaft having a first end adapted to be driven by a first prime mover and a second end adapted to be coupled to a vehicle driveline. A second shaft selectively drives the first shaft and is adapted to drive a hydraulic pump of a second prime mover. A planetary gearset includes a first member restricted from rotation, a second member and a third member. A transfer mechanism includes a first sprocket fixed for rotation with the second member, a second sprocket fixed for rotation with the input shaft and a flexible member interconnecting the first and second sprockets. A clutch transfers torque between the third member and the first shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Magna Powertrain USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl F. Stephens, Joseph G. Mueller
  • Patent number: 8888638
    Abstract: A hybrid transfer case can include first and second output shafts adapted for connection to respective rear and front drivelines, a first input shaft adapted for connection to a transmission and for selective connection to the first output shaft, and a second input shaft that can be rotatably supported on the first input shaft and selectively connected to the first output shaft. The transfer case can further include a planetary gearset, a transfer system and an electric motor/generator. The planetary gearset can include a first member fixed for rotation with the first input shaft, a second member fixed for rotation with the second input shaft, and a third member. The transfer system can couple the second input shaft to the second output shaft, and the electric motor can selectively drive the third member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Magna Powertrain of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph G. Mueller, Carl F. Stephens
  • Publication number: 20140174253
    Abstract: A power transmission device for a four-wheel drive vehicle includes an input shaft adapted to be driven by a power source. A first output shaft is rotatable about a first axis and adapted to transmit torque to a first driveline. A second output shaft is adapted to transmit torque to a second driveline and is rotatable about a second axis. The first and second axes diverge from one another. A transfer unit includes a drive member rotatably supported on the first output shaft and a driven member coupled to the second output shaft. A joint is positioned within a cavity formed in the driven member and drivingly interconnects the driven member and the second output shaft. The driven member includes first and second portions separable from and re-mountable to each other to allow service to the joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: Magna Powertrain of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl F. Stephens, William A. Hellinger, Dale R. Fine
  • Publication number: 20140135171
    Abstract: A transmission for a vehicle including a hydrostatic regenerative braking system includes a first rotatable shaft having a first end adapted to be driven by a first prime mover and a second end adapted to be coupled to a vehicle driveline. A second shaft selectively drives the first shaft and is adapted to drive a hydraulic pump of a second prime mover. A planetary gearset includes a first member restricted from rotation, a second member and a third member. A transfer mechanism includes a first sprocket fixed for rotation with the second member, a second sprocket fixed for rotation with the input shaft and a flexible member interconnecting the first and second sprockets. A clutch transfers torque between the third member and the first shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Inventors: Carl F. Stephens, Joseph G. Mueller
  • Patent number: 8607666
    Abstract: A power transmission device for a four-wheel drive vehicle includes an input shaft adapted to be driven by a power source. A first output shaft is rotatable about a first axis and adapted to transmit torque to a first driveline. A second output shaft is adapted to transmit torque to a second driveline and is rotatable about a second axis. The first and second axes diverge from one another. A transfer unit includes a drive member rotatably supported on the first output shaft and a driven member coupled to the second output shaft. A joint is positioned within a cavity formed in the driven member and drivingly interconnects the driven member and the second output shaft. The driven member includes first and second portions separable from and re-mountable to each other to allow service to the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Magna Powertrain of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl F. Stephens, William A. Hellinger, Dale R. Fine
  • Patent number: 8419578
    Abstract: A transmission for a vehicle including a hydrostatic regenerative braking system includes a first rotatable shaft having a first end adapted to be driven by a first prime mover and a second end adapted to be coupled to a vehicle driveline. A second shaft selectively drives the first shaft and is adapted to drive a hydraulic pump of a second prime mover. A planetary gearset includes a first member restricted from rotation, a second member and a third member. A transfer mechanism includes a first sprocket fixed for rotation with the second member, a second sprocket fixed for rotation with the input shaft and a flexible member interconnecting the first and second sprockets. A clutch transfers torque between the third member and the first shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Magna Powertrain USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl F. Stephens, Joseph G. Mueller
  • Publication number: 20120329566
    Abstract: A power transmission device for a four-wheel drive vehicle includes an input shaft adapted to be driven by a power source. A first output shaft is rotatable about a first axis and adapted to transmit torque to a first driveline. A second output shaft is adapted to transmit torque to a second driveline and is rotatable about a second axis. The first and second axes diverge from one another. A transfer unit includes a drive member rotatably supported on the first output shaft and a driven member coupled to the second output shaft. A joint is positioned within a cavity formed in the driven member and drivingly interconnects the driven member and the second output shaft. The driven member includes first and second portions separable from and re-mountable to each other to allow service to the joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: MAGNA POWERTRAIN OF AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Carl F. Stephens, William A. Hellinger, Dale R. Fine
  • Patent number: 8256328
    Abstract: A power transmission device for a four-wheel drive vehicle includes an input shaft adapted to be driven by a power source. A first output shaft is rotatable about a first axis and adapted to transmit torque to a first driveline. A second output shaft is adapted to transmit torque to a second driveline and is rotatable about a second axis. The first and second axes diverge from one another. A transfer unit includes a drive member rotatably supported on the first output shaft and a driven member coupled to the second output shaft. A joint is positioned within a cavity formed in the driven member and drivingly interconnects the driven member and the second output shaft. The driven member includes first and second portions separable from and re-mountable to each other to allow service to the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Magna Powertrain of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl F. Stephens, William A. Hellinger, Dale R. Fine
  • Publication number: 20120077633
    Abstract: A hybrid transfer case can include first and second output shafts adapted for connection to respective rear and front drivelines, a first input shaft adapted for connection to a transmission and for selective connection to the first output shaft, and a second input shaft that can be rotatably supported on the first input shaft and selectively connected to the first output shaft. The transfer case can further include a planetary gearset, a transfer system and an electric motor/generator. The planetary gearset can include a first member fixed for rotation with the first input shaft, a second member fixed for rotation with the second input shaft, and a third member. The transfer system can couple the second input shaft to the second output shaft, and the electric motor can selectively drive the third member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: Magna Powertrain of America Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph G. Mueller, Carl F. Stephens
  • Patent number: 7992668
    Abstract: A power transmission device for a four-wheel drive vehicle includes an input shaft adapted to be driven by a power source. A first output shaft is rotatable about a first axis and adapted to transmit torque to a first driveline. A second output shaft is adapted to transmit torque to a second driveline and is rotatable about a second axis. The first and second axes diverge from one another. A transfer unit includes a drive member driven by the first output shaft and a driven member driving the second output shaft. A spline coupling is positioned within a cavity formed in the driven member to drivingly interconnect the driven member and the second output shaft. The second output shaft is axially moveable relative to the driven member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Magna Powertrain of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Burke Smith, William A. Hellinger, Carl F. Stephens, David W. Wenthen
  • Publication number: 20100314189
    Abstract: A power transmission device for a four-wheel drive vehicle includes an input shaft adapted to be driven by a power source. A first output shaft is rotatable about a first axis and adapted to transmit torque to a first driveline. A second output shaft is adapted to transmit torque to a second driveline and is rotatable about a second axis. The first and second axes diverge from one another. A transfer unit includes a drive member driven by the first output shaft and a driven member driving the second output shaft. A spline coupling is positioned within a cavity formed in the driven member to drivingly interconnect the driven member and the second output shaft. The second output shaft is axially moveable relative to the driven member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Burke SMITH, William Hellinger, Carl F. Stephens, David W. Wenthen
  • Publication number: 20100313705
    Abstract: A power transmission device for a four-wheel drive vehicle includes an input shaft adapted to be driven by a power source. A first output shaft is rotatable about a first axis and adapted to transmit torque to a first driveline. A second output shaft is adapted to transmit torque to a second driveline and is rotatable about a second axis. The first and second axes diverge from one another. A transfer unit includes a drive member rotatably supported on the first output shaft and a driven member coupled to the second output shaft. A joint is positioned within a cavity formed in the driven member and drivingly interconnects the driven member and the second output shaft. The driven member includes first and second portions separable from and re-mountable to each other to allow service to the joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Carl F. Stephens, William A. Hellinger, Dale R. Fine
  • Publication number: 20100144476
    Abstract: A transmission for a vehicle including a hydrostatic regenerative braking system includes a first rotatable shaft having a first end adapted to be driven by a first prime mover and a second end adapted to be coupled to a vehicle driveline. A second shaft selectively drives the first shaft and is adapted to drive a hydraulic pump of a second prime mover. A planetary gearset includes a first member restricted from rotation, a second member and a third member. A transfer mechanism includes a first sprocket fixed for rotation with the second member, a second sprocket fixed for rotation with the input shaft and a flexible member interconnecting the first and second sprockets. A clutch transfers torque between the third member and the first shaft. An alternate transmission having the clutch and the planetary gearset reversed is also discussed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventors: Carl F. STEPHENS, Joseph G. Mueller