Patents by Inventor Kevin J. Higgins

Kevin J. Higgins 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: 7429017
    Abstract: The disclosed system and method for improving aerodynamic stability of aeronautic vehicles generally includes an ejectable grid fin adapted for releasable engagement with aeronautic vehicles. The grid fin is generally configured to optimize the flight performance characteristics of the aeronautic vehicle taken in engaged combination with the grid fin as compared with the flight performance of the aeronautic vehicle taken alone. Disclosed features and specifications may be controlled, adapted or otherwise optionally modified to improve the aerodynamic stability and/or control of a variety of deployed aeronautic vehicles. Exemplary embodiments of the present invention generally provide ejectable grid fins that may be used in conjunction with missiles mounted on an eject rail of an aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Kevin J. Higgins, Charles D. Lyman, Mark L. Bouchard, Aaron C. Heidel, Matthew B. Castor