Patents by Inventor Michael G. Wilhelm

Michael G. Wilhelm 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: 6592427
    Abstract: A toy vehicle set accessory is claimed. The toy vehicle set accessory comprises a grain loader and a toy vehicle adapted for use with the grain loader. The grain loader comprises a grain elevator assembly for simulating the transfer of grain to the toy vehicle. The toy vehicle includes a movable load and a release mechanism for returning the movable load from an unstable condition to a stable condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Learning Curve International, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael G. Wilhelm, Gregory R. Kieso, Gary Aigner
  • Patent number: 6312311
    Abstract: The present invention provides a water tower generally having a base portion, a tower support attached to the base portion, and a fluid vessel attached to the tower support and containing a fluid. A buoyant vessel having a first magnet attached is contained within the fluid vessel. A first arm defining a cam slot and rotatably attached to the tower support by a first pivot pin guides a second arm, an end of which is disposed within the cam slot. The second arm is rotatably attached to the tower support by a second pivot pin. A second magnet is attached to a second end of the movable arm. In operation, the first arm is rotated to move a second arm, bringing the first and second magnets into alignment. The magnets create an attraction force which sinks the buoyant vessel within the fluid, giving the water tower the appearance of being full. When the first arm is rotated so magnets are taken out of axial alignment, the attraction force of the magnets is diminished, and the buoyant vessel floats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Learning Curve International, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael G. Wilhelm, Robert Cecchini