Patents by Inventor Charles M. Crowell

Charles M. Crowell 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).

  • Publication number: 20020073833
    Abstract: A return to dig system for a work machine having at least one implement is actuated by a hydraulic cylinder using a switch, such as with a push button, to control a valve and solenoid to move the implement from a remote position to a preselected position, usually the starting position. The preselected position is determined by a sensor and a detectable element, such as a magnet. The location of the detectable element may be adjusted to provide a plurality of preselected positions. When the detectable element is sensed, the solenoid is repositioned to stop movement of the implement. The push button is located on a device that controls the movement of the implement and various other functions of the work machine. The actuation of the return to dig system by the push button does not affect any other unrelated function of the work machine controlled by the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Edwin G. Coombs, Andy Redeker, Charles M. Crowell, Joanne B. Schiernecker, Zach E. Kelsall
  • Patent number: 5018792
    Abstract: Impact rippers are useful for transmitting high impact blows to a hard material for fracturing the material. When linear reciprocating rams are used, a mounting arrangement which will withstand high compressive forces and still allow the ram to reciprocate must be used to mount the ram within a tool holder. The subject impact ripper apparatus includes a tool holder having a cavity for mounting a linear ram. The linear ram is mounted within the cavity by a plurality of laminated pads which withstand compressive force, but still allows the ram to reciprocate. This arrangement which is stiff in compression, but relatively soft in shear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Roussin, Charles M. Crowell, Jr.