Patents by Inventor Norton J. Erickson

Norton J. Erickson 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: 4702489
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus for engaging and lifting the end of a hitch resting on the ground. The apparatus is particularly useful when attached to a yard tractor used for moving trailers or trailer dollys about a parking yard. The apparatus includes a rigid member pivotally attached to a frame attached to the yard tractor. The free end of the rigid member has a plate for scooping under the end of the hitch. A hydraulic actuator remotely rotates a pin into engagement with the end of the hitch. Another actuator pivots the rigid member upwardly to lift the end of the hitch for subsequent movement of the trailer or dolly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1987
    Inventor: Norton J. Erickson
  • Patent number: 4534828
    Abstract: An evaporator apparatus (10) and method for converting a contaminated fluid including mostly water and water soluble substances into a vapor and a residue. Apparatus (10) includes a container (11) for retaining the fluid. A heat source (17) is utilized for supplying heat to evaporate the fluid. A flue assembly (18) positioned in the fluid conveys the heat from the heat source (17) through the fluid. A draft mechanism (20) draws off the resulting vapors as they are formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1985
    Assignee: Nordale Incorporated
    Inventors: Dale C. Erickson, Norton J. Erickson