Patents by Inventor Rex E. Estes

Rex E. Estes 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).

  • Dual mode actuator
    Patent number: 11054005
    Abstract: A retractable component actuator that comprises a first portion, fixable to a fixed component and comprising a first engagement feature, and a second portion, fixable to a retractable component and comprising a second engagement feature releasably supportable on the first engagement feature. The retractable component actuator further comprises an automated drive mechanism operable to move the first engagement feature upward and downward relative to the fixed component when the first portion is fixed to the fixed component. Downward movement of the second engagement feature relative to the first engagement feature is constrained by the first engagement feature. Upward movement of the second engagement feature relative to the first engagement feature is unconstrained by the first engagement feature. The second engagement feature is upwardly and downwardly co-movable, relative to the fixed component, with the first engagement feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Michael J. Burghdoff, Rex E. Estes
  • DUAL MODE ACTUATOR
    Publication number: 20190368582
    Abstract: A retractable component actuator that comprises a first portion, fixable to a fixed component and comprising a first engagement feature, and a second portion, fixable to a retractable component and comprising a second engagement feature releasably supportable on the first engagement feature. The retractable component actuator further comprises an automated drive mechanism operable to move the first engagement feature upward and downward relative to the fixed component when the first portion is fixed to the fixed component. Downward movement of the second engagement feature relative to the first engagement feature is constrained by the first engagement feature. Upward movement of the second engagement feature relative to the first engagement feature is unconstrained by the first engagement feature. The second engagement feature is upwardly and downwardly co-movable, relative to the fixed component, with the first engagement feature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2018
    Publication date: December 5, 2019
    Inventors: Michael J. Burghdoff, Rex E. Estes