Patents by Inventor David E. Dunlap

David E. Dunlap 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: 4166598
    Abstract: Stowable and inflatable apparatus for enshrouding a vehicle. The apparatus, in its most generic and most basic embodiment, includes an inflatable framework external of which is attached a multilayer superinsulating blanket shroud. The inflatable tubular framework includes a plurality of inflatable tubular-shaped longitudinal members in spaced-apart relationship, and a plurality of inflatable toroidal-shaped members also in spaced-apart relationship. Each of the toroidal-shaped members is positioned essentially perpendicular to, and in contact with, each of the tubular-shaped longitudinal members. The inventive apparatus solves the problems which are inherent in enclosing a large, relatively hot space vehicle to retain the heat therefrom, and in folding (and stowing) and in unfolding an apparatus in a space environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1974
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1979
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air Force
    Inventors: Clair F. Seifert, Harvey S. Seapy, David E. Dunlap