Patents by Inventor Larry D. Birdwell

Larry D. Birdwell 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: 7063580
    Abstract: A ship employing a buoyant propulsion system. A preferred such ship comprises a superstructure, a backbone, and a sub-structure. The backbone supports the superstructure. The sub-structure depends from the backbone and adapted to float the backbone and the superstructure above liquid water. The sub-structure includes one or more buoyant propulsion units. Each buoyant propulsion unit comprises an endless track having a plurality of associated paddle members and is adapted for elongate rotary motion of at least portions of the associated paddle members through the water. Each buoyant propulsion unit further comprises a race-roller-bearing assembly for transmitting load imposed by the superstructure to the track. Preferably, the one or more buoyant propulsion units are adapted to float the backbone and the superstructure substantially above the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Inventor: Larry D. Birdwell
  • Patent number: 6158876
    Abstract: A third hand for a flashlight. A flashlight holder adapted for receiving the flashlight that includes provision for stabilizing the flashlight loosely on a support surface or temporarily and releasably attaching the flashlight to a support surface or object. The flashlight holder is pivotally connected to an elongate joint arm at one end thereof, and a mounting mechanism is pivotally connected to the joint arm at the other end thereof. The mounting mechanism includes a variety of attachment devices, and the flashlight holder includes a plurality of stabilizing devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Larry D. Birdwell