Patents by Inventor Michael J. Spence

Michael J. Spence 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: 5153603
    Abstract: A self-contained alcohol purging and cleaning system for direct writing type trace recorders utilizes a source of compressed air, a tank of R-22 refrigerant and a tank of isopropyl alcohol. A main supply line tube may have its inlet port end selectively connected to either the source of the compressed air or the R-22 tank. The outlet port end of the main supply line tube is connected to the inlet port of the alcohol tank. A first elongated tubing member has its one end connected to the outlet port of the alcohol tank and its free output port end may be detachably connected to inlet end of an output hose whose outlet end is detachably connected to the ink supply manifold of a direct writing type trace recorder. By opening various valves of the system, pressurized gas passing through the main supply line tube forces the isopropyl alcohol into the ink supply manifold and out through its outlet ports until thickened ink is purged and the isopropyl alcohol flowing therefrom is reasonably clear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1992
    Assignee: General Dynamics Corporation, Space Systems Division
    Inventor: Michael J. Spence