Patents by Inventor Robert J. Shimota

Robert J. Shimota 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: 6045204
    Abstract: The invention provides a high cost saving method of achieving restricted bin motion. A linkage that supports an overhead stowage bin (22) in an aircraft (12) and is operable for moving the stowage bin (22) between open and closed positions. The linkage includes an upper link (26), a lower link (28') and a gas spring (36). The gas spring (36) is pivotally connected at an upper first end to the upper link (26) and at a lower second end to the lower link (28'). Modifying apparatus comprises an additional link (56) that is connectable at a first end to the upper link (26) and at a second end to the first end of the gas spring (36). A new or extended existing lower link (28) may be used. This apparatus changes the location of the pivotal connection (40) of the upper end of the gas spring (36) to the upper link (26), so as to change the open position of the overhead stowage bin (22) in a way that lessens projection of the stowage bin (22) into aisle space (18) when the stowage bin (22) is in its open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Hexcel Corporation
    Inventors: Joe K. Frazier, Robert J. Shimota, Gary L. Ferson