Patents by Inventor Robert H. Kern

Robert H. Kern 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: 6220821
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an ion pump construction having constructional components to avoid etch through failure of the vacuum housing and, additionally, constructional features to reduce the latent period within which the ion pumping function is initiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Kernco, Incorporated
    Inventors: Robert H. Kern, Kevin D. Hosman
  • Patent number: 6215366
    Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is a cell construction for use in optically activated atomic frequency standards. The cell includes a stiff non-magnetic metallic chamber body having an integral cold weldable tubulation through which the atomic source material may be charged and the tubulation pinched off to seal the chamber. Optically transparent windows for introducing light radiation into the chamber and receiving light signals generated therein are sealed to the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Kernco, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert H. Kern, Michael J. Delaney, Kristin N. Bonnette
  • Patent number: 4460317
    Abstract: An ion pump is described which includes a vacuum housing, a unique, readily removable and replaceable magnet system which makes it possible to measure leakage current alone and a unique, readily removable and replaceable reactive metal cathode for reacting with gaseous ions impinging thereon for their collection. It also includes a novel tandem sputter shielding arrangement for preventing deposition of sputter products on the anode insulator. Both power supply and current metering means which may be mounted on and directly connected to the ion pump are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1981
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1984
    Assignee: Kernco, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert H. Kern, Wilfred P. Levesque
  • Patent number: 3967115
    Abstract: An atomic beam tube provides a single sealed envelope structure that serves both as vacuum envelope and as structural member to which the operative components are attached. The envelope is composed of a heavy and relatively rigid frame and a relatively thin and flexible cover sealed to the frame. The operative elements are separately assembled in independent subassembly units which are secured to the frame at a minimum of locations to provide fixed alignment and thermal isolation of the operative elements, and easy disassembly of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1974
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1976
    Assignee: Frequency & Time Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert H. Kern