Patents by Inventor Ferdinand Hofer

Ferdinand Hofer 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: 4646671
    Abstract: An apparatus for improving the flow of air past the headsail (5) of a sailboat including an airfoil (41) which is oval-shaped in cross-section, the leading edge of the sail being secured in a groove (45) along one side thereof. A portion (37 or 39) of the curved surface of the airfoil (41) extends into the wind, with the surface (37 or 39) curving toward the inner side of the sail, forming a wide leading edge for the sail. The airfoil (41) may be rotated about the leading edge of the headsail as necessary, depending on the direction of the boat relative to the wind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1987
    Inventors: James G. Innes, Ferdinand Hofer