Patents by Inventor James D. Shires

James D. Shires 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: 5183960
    Abstract: A rocket glider stabilization system wherein a releasable, granular, counterweight, or ballast material is provided in the forward end of a model rocket aircraft to offset the weight of a tail mounted rocket motor assembly. The counterweight ballast material is releasably maintained in a counterweight bay formed at the opposite end of the model glider fuselage from the rocket motor. A rocket body tube connects the rocket motor with the counterweight bay and, when the ejection charge of the rocket motor is ignited, the ejection charge pressure ruptures or opens a retaining structure to release the ballast and maintain the desired center of gravity for glide flight of the rocket back to the ground. At least one adjustable or fixed trim tab is employed on at least one of the flight surfaces to induce the desired glide path return for the model aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1993
    Inventor: James D. Shires