Patents by Inventor David W. Shultz

David W. Shultz 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).

  • Automated search apparatus for locating leaks in geomembrane liners
    Patent number: 4719407
    Abstract: An automated search apparatus is disclosed for detecting leaks in liquid impoundments usually defined by a geomembrane layer. A voltage gradient is created within the impoundment by means of a source electrode. The search apparatus contains pairs of electrodes coupled to differential amplifiers which allow plotting of the voltage gradient within the impoundment. The search vessel is controlled via radio telemetry, and its position may be tracked using optical theodolites. A distortion in the equipotential lines associated with the voltage gradient indicates the presence of a leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1988
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventors: Merle E. Converse, David W. Shultz