Patents by Inventor Ronald D. Towner

Ronald D. Towner 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: 4215569
    Abstract: A water brake dynamometer includes a water brake having a stator housing with a rotor disc mounted on a through shaft. Water from a reservoir is directed into the housing as the shaft and rotor are driven by an external engine. Means are provided to measure the torque transferred from the rotor to the stator housing. An adjustable, unitary valve mechanism controls the rate water is directed into the housing from the reservoir and removed from the housing for return to the reservoir. The valve mechanism includes a single stem having multiple valve members operated by a single hydraulic piston control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1978
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1980
    Assignee: M & W Gear Company
    Inventors: Melvin E. Bonomo, Kenneth M. Coldren, Loren L. Rathbun, Ronald D. Towner
  • Patent number: 4213332
    Abstract: A water brake dynamometer includes a water brake having a stator housing with a rotor disc mounted on a through shaft. Water is pumped into the interior of the housing as the shaft and rotor are driven by an external engine. Momentum interaction transfers force between the rotor and stator housing. The planar surfaces of the opposing surfaces of the rotor housing are substantially identical as are those of the stator. A measuring device has been provided to measure the torque transferred from the rotor to the stator housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1979
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1980
    Assignee: M & W Gear Company
    Inventors: Melvin E. Bonomo, Kenneth M. Coldren, Verne O. Lemke, Loren L. Rathbun, Ronald D. Towner