Patents by Inventor Kenneth N. Matson

Kenneth N. Matson 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: 5797190
    Abstract: A wheel alignment system that uses the sidewall of the tire to define a measurement surface. The measurement surface is established by a wheel fixture that includes a pair of slide channels having flat faces that engage the sidewall of the tire and a base structure defining a planar measurement surface parallel to the sidewall that slides back and forth on the slide channels. A flexible strap is passed around the tire and attaches to the base structure at opposite sides to hold the fixture against the sidewall. A method is described for measuring the caster and steering axis inclination while the vehicle is jacked up. Another form of apparatus used for checking wheel straightness and for making toe measurements includes a cross member long enough to extend at least across the tire and engage the sidewall on opposite sides of the wheel. The cross member is supported on a pair of parallel rods that extend perpendicular to the cross member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Inventor: Kenneth N. Matson