Patents by Inventor Richard T. Cairns

Richard T. Cairns 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).

  • Vehicle having a torsional suspension and torsional joint
    Patent number: 6354615
    Abstract: An articulating vehicle (10) includes a front axle (21) operatively connected to a front frame (40) and a rear axle (21) is operatively connected to the rear frame (30). A torsional joint (50) has an inner shaft member (51) operatively connected one of the frames and an outer hollow member (52) operatively connected to the other of the frames. An elastomeric material (53) is positioned between the inner member (51) and outer member (52). The elastic material (53) connects the inner and outer members, whereby the frames may rotate relative to each other along the longitudinal axis as the elastomeric member (53) is compressed and resiliently resists rotation between the frames (30 and 40). A torsional energy absorption suspension is provided for one of the wheels. The suspension includes a torsional joint (50), a single A-frame member (94). A lever arm (95) may also be utilized to vary the preload on the torsional joint (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: The Toro Company
    Inventors: Kip S. Vangsgard, Richard T. Cairns, Rodney W. Woock, Dennis J. Berndt
  • Vehicle
    Patent number: D445066
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: The Toro Company
    Inventors: Darrell W. Hinklin, Bart T. Ellson, Kip S. Vangsgard, Richard T. Cairns, Jonathan P. Van Dore, Kenneth R. Parker