Patents by Inventor Ray E. Spinks

Ray E. Spinks 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).

  • Parachute canopy suspension line release device and method
    Patent number: 4279393
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for converting a conventional, non-glidable, circular canopy parachute having a plurality of suspension lines normally fixedly looped at their lower ends of a riser link, into a glidable parachute. This is accomplished by rearranging the looped connection of selected suspension lines so they can be released from the riser links by pulling a tab. When the tab is pulled, pre-selected suspension lines are disconnected, and the parachutist can glide along a desired path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1979
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1981
    Inventor: Ray E. Spinks
  • Side-mounted automatic power release attachment for manual connectors
    Patent number: 4050122
    Abstract: An attachment for a manually operable quick-release connector to enable the onnector to be retrofitted so as to be power operated by a remote signal, the attachment being mounted to the side of the connector in a position offering a low profile, a minimum discomfort to the user, and requiring a minimum modification of an existing connector structure during retrofitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1975
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1977
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: James Wesley Turner, deceased, Ray E. Spinks
  • Separable link connector
    Patent number: 4041580
    Abstract: A separable link connector particularly suitable for detachably connecting omponents of a parachute harness, the connector being essentially U-shaped and having an easily removable end cap including a yoke-shaped latch member which straddles the arms of the body and enables the end cap to be locked in place by a single recessed bolt extending through the end cap and anchored in the latch member. The invention presents a more reliable and maintainable means for insuring that the removable end cap remains in place during deployment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1976
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1977
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: James Wesley Turner, deceased, Ray E. Spinks