Patents by Inventor Richard K. Simmons

Richard K. Simmons 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: 4910823
    Abstract: A method and apparatus, comprising a tool having a clam shell design, for sealing the interface volume between the internal wall of a reactor pressure vessel and submerged piping that penetrates the wall, and for cleaning the interface volume using a series of hydraulic and pneumatic operations. The tool is operable from a remote suface location, using a robotic arm for fine positioning, to clamp around the penetrating pipe. Hydraulic nozzles compressed air and mechanical brushes on the tool may be used to dislodge sediment in the interface volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1990
    Assignee: Advanced Resource Development Corporation
    Inventors: Eugene B. Silverman, Richard K. Simmons, Steve K. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 4709265
    Abstract: A surveillance system for hazardous environments and the like having a radio remote controlled vehicle that is sized and shaped for optimum maneuverability and stability, including mobility on stairs and inclined surfaces. The vehicle is designed to have a low center of gravity that is shiftable up and down, front to rear and side to side under operator control in order to provide stability. The top deck of the vehicle is uniquely shaped and is adapted to support any of several payloads, including an articulated arm module that is moveable in a pan and tilt direction and a smear sampler mechanism for repeatedly taking surface samples. The vehicle is moved by independently operated, motor driven tracks located on each of the two longitudinal sides of the vehicle and is adapted to move in a forward, reverse and rotational directions. Remote monitoring is provided by stereoptic TV cameras, stereo sound, and variety of environmental sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1987
    Assignee: Advanced Resource Development Corporation
    Inventors: Eugene B. Silverman, Richard K. Simmons, Robert B. Croston