Patents by Inventor George W. Byrd

George W. Byrd 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: 4024823
    Abstract: An automatic blade angle controller system capable of maintaining a blade an earth-working tool level with the ground. A transparent, closed manometer partially filled with an opaque liquid is contained in an opaque enclosure. A light source is located within the perimeter of the manometer. Two solar cells are located on opposite sides of the enclosure in such manner that the light from the light source must pass through the manometer before impinging on the solar cells. The opaque liquid partially blocks the light from impinging on the solar cells. The voltages from the solar cells are subtracted resulting in an error signal. Of course, when the two voltages are of equal value, no error signal is produced, thereby establishing a level reference position for the enclosure. The enclosure is rigidly affixed to the blade, thereby establishing a reference position for the blade. A servo-hydraulic system returns the blade to its reference position upon receipt of the error signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1974
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1977
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Carter J. Ward, Kwang-Ta Huang, George W. Byrd