Patents by Inventor Charles R. Ericson

Charles R. Ericson 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: 7255304
    Abstract: The invention relates to an actuator system for a projectile having a first and second pair of opposing steering fins disposed in a transverse plane of the projectile. The first pair of opposing steering fins includes a first fin and second fin. The second pair of opposing steering fins includes a third fin and a fourth fin. The actuator system comprises a first motor assembly configured to control the position of the first pair of opposing steering fins, and a second motor assembly configured to control the position of the second pair of opposing steering fins. The first motor assembly and second motor assembly are mounted axially along an axis of the projectile such that a first portion of the first motor assembly is telescopically received within a second portion of the second motor assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles R. Ericson, Michael C. May
  • Patent number: 6446906
    Abstract: Pyrotechnic actuator cover/fin release system designed for high G forces of gun-launched-systems. As safety feature, system allows the pyrotechnic actuator to be installed as one of the last steps of the final testing sequence and removed safely on disassembly. A first cam action develops initial ejection. Subsequently firing the pyrotechnic pushes both the fins and the covers outward via a second cam surface. The release system both holds covers securely latched until commanded to release and then unlatches covers prior to pushing them open. The cover eject sequence results in the flight forward edge of cover being kicked into air stream. Thereafter the cover is lifted and rotates about its aft release hinge until, at about 30 degrees of rotation, the hinge disengages. The fins then are driven into the fully deployed state by a spring and piston/wedge mechanism on the actuator shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Versatron, Inc.
    Inventors: Allan A. Voigt, Che-Ram S. Voigt, John S. Speicher, Charles R. Ericson