Patents by Inventor Neil D. Gerl

Neil D. Gerl 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).

  • Universal method and apparatus for attaching an aircraft tug to an airplane
    Patent number: 4950121
    Abstract: A novel approach is employed for attaching an aircraft tug to the nosewheel tire assembly of an airplane. A tire capturing mechanism comprising a pivoting capture arm and a transversally adjustable crossbar opens to allow positioning of the capturing mechanism around and beneath the portion of said tire that is not in contact with the runway surface. After tire capture is accomplished, said capturing mechanism is elevated off the runway surface by a lifting mechanism, so that the entire portion of the weight of said airplane supported by said tire is borne by said aircraft tug. A universal tire clamping mechanism is employed to secure said tire firmly to said capturing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 21, 1990
    Assignee: Aeromover Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald A. Meyer, Neil D. Gerl