Patents by Inventor Lonny E. Weakland

Lonny E. Weakland 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).

  • Removable steering wheel knob and base
    Patent number: 6108871
    Abstract: An apparatus in connectible to a steering wheel for aiding disabled drivers. The apparatus includes a base having a first part and a second part for moving with a respect to one another. The base defines a steering-wheel-receiving aperture between the first and second parts for allowing the base to substantially sheath a portion of the steering wheel. A hinge connection is formed between the first and second parts of the base allowing pivotal movement with respect to one another. The hinge connection is formed along a common edge portion of the first and second parts for allowing placement of the base with respect to the steering wheel. A latch releasibly retains the first and second parts of the base with respect to one another. The latch is connected to the first and second parts opposite from the hinge axis. A knob is connected to the base for gripping by the driver with one hand for controlling movement of the steering wheel when the base is attached to the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Altair Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Lonny E. Weakland, Timothy R. Smith