Patents by Inventor Gary M. Vance

Gary M. Vance 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: 5347397
    Abstract: An optical device for reorienting an optical image from a first optical pathway to a second optical pathway and the method of manufacturing such an optical device. In a preferred embodiment, a housing is provided that defines at least two optical pathways. Both optical pathways align with a common aperture in the housing. Since both optical pathways are generally cylindrically shaped and the common aperture aligns with both optical pathways, the common aperture is elliptical in shape so as to correspond to the plane of intersection between the two cylindrical pathways. A generally rectangular mirror, that is larger than the elliptical aperture in the housing, is placed over the aperture on the exterior of the housing. As a result, the mirror covers the area of the elliptical aperture and redirects any light passing through the elliptical aperture from one of the optical pathways into the other optical pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1994
    Assignee: ITT Corporation
    Inventors: John C. Nelson, Gary M. Vance, Vincent J. Thomas, Thomas H. Pifer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5306884
    Abstract: The present invention is a knob which attaches to the switch post of a push/pull switch. The knob selectively disengages from the switch post as the knob is inadvertently impacted, thereby isolating the push/pull switch from the impacting force. The knob moves independently of the switch post and contacts the housing supporting the switch. Consequently, the force of impact is directed to the housing through the body of the knob and very little force is directed to the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Assignee: ITT Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph N. Caserta, Gary M. Vance