Patents by Inventor Steven R. Miller

Steven R. Miller 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).

  • Publication number: 20100312428
    Abstract: A global navigation satellite sensor system (GNSS) and gyroscope control system for vehicle steering control comprising a GNSS receiver and antennas at a fixed spacing to determine a vehicle position, velocity and at least one of a heading angle, a pitch angle and a roll angle based on carrier phase position differences. The roll angle facilitates correction of the lateral motion induced position errors resultant from motion of the antennae as the vehicle moves based on an offset to ground and the roll angle. The system also includes a control system configured to receive the vehicle position, heading, and at least one of roll and pitch, and configured to generate a steering command to a vehicle steering system. The system includes gyroscopes for determining system attitude change with respect to multiple axes for integrating with GNSS-derived positioning information to determine vehicle position, velocity, rate-of-turn, attitude and other operating characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventors: André C. Roberge, Walter J. Feller, Michael L. Whitehead, John A. McClure, Steven R. Miller
  • Patent number: 7808428
    Abstract: A GNSS system includes a receiver connected to an external mass storage device. Applications for the system, including GNSS data processing methods are also disclosed. The external storage device can comprise a flash (thumb) drive, which can be connected to the receiver via a USB interconnection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Hemisphere GPS LLC
    Inventors: Michael L. Whitehead, Bradley P. Badke, John A. McClure, Steven R. Miller
  • Publication number: 20100176991
    Abstract: A multi-frequency down converter includes first and second signal paths. A common local oscillator/synthesizer drives both of the signal paths. Exemplary applications include GNSS systems operating across superbands. The down converter is adapted for use in a GNSS receiver system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventors: Mark R. Webber, Bradley P. Badke, Walter J. Feller, Steven R. Miller
  • Publication number: 20100154955
    Abstract: A drive axle assembly includes a non-rotating spindle having a cylindrical body defining an internal cavity and an axle shaft assembly mounted within the internal cavity for rotation about an axis. A seal assembly is positioned within the internal cavity to provide a sealed chamber between the axle shaft assembly and the non-rotating spindle. A first air passage is formed within the cylindrical body and includes an air inlet to be in fluid communication with an air supply and an air outlet in fluid communication with the sealed chamber. A second air passage is formed within the axle shaft assembly and receives air input from the sealed chamber and includes an air output to be associated with at least one tire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: Scott Jenkinson, Jeremy Tertzakian, Steven R. Miller, David Gonska, Tracy G. Ellis, Christopher J. Wittry, John D. Morgan, Richard Decaire, Norman D. Austin, Yenkai Wang
  • Patent number: 7690412
    Abstract: A drive axle assembly includes a non-rotating spindle having a cylindrical body defining an internal cavity and an axle shaft assembly mounted within the internal cavity for rotation about an axis. A seal assembly is positioned within the internal cavity to provide a sealed chamber between the axle shaft assembly and the non-rotating spindle. A first air passage is formed within the cylindrical body and includes an air inlet to be in fluid communication with an air supply and an air outlet in fluid communication with the sealed chamber. A second air passage is formed within the axle shaft assembly and receives air input from the sealed chamber and includes an air output to be associated with at least one tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Scott Jenkinson, Jeremy Tertzakian, Steven R. Miller, David Gonska, Tracy G. Ellis, Christopher J. Wittry, John D. Morgan, Richard Decaire, Norman D. Austin, Yenkai Wang
  • Publication number: 20090322600
    Abstract: A method for locating GNSS-defined points, distances, directional attitudes and closed geometric shapes includes the steps of providing a base with a base GNSS antenna and providing a rover with a rover GNSS antenna and receiver. The receiver is connected to the rover GNSS antenna and is connected to the base GNSS antenna by an RF cable. The receiver thereby simultaneously processes signals received at the antennas. The method includes determining a vector directional arrow from the differential positions of the antennas and calculating a distance between the antennas, which can be sequentially chained together for determining a cumulative distance in a “digital tape measure” mode of operation. A localized RTK surveying method uses the rover antenna for determining relative or absolute point locations. A system includes a base with an antenna, a rover with an antenna and a receiver, with the receiver being connected to the antennas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventors: Michael L. Whitehead, Steven R. Miller, John A. McClure, Cary Davis, Walter J. Feller
  • Publication number: 20090204281
    Abstract: A visual, GNSS and INSS (gyro) system for autosteering control uses crop row and furrow row edge visual detection in an agricultural application in order to closely track the actual crop rows. Alternatively, previous vehicle tracks can be visually detected and followed in a tramline following operating mode. GNSS and inertial (gyroscopic) input subsystems are also provided for supplementing the video input subsystem, for example when visual references are lost. Crop damage is avoided or at least minimized by avoiding overdriving the existing crops. Other applications include equipment control in logistics operations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2009
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Applicant: Hemisphere GPS LLC
    Inventors: John A. McClure, Steven R. Miller
  • Publication number: 20090164067
    Abstract: A global navigation satellite sensor system (GNSS) and gyroscope control system for vehicle steering control comprising a GNSS receiver and antennas at a fixed spacing to determine a vehicle position, velocity and at least one of a heading angle, a pitch angle and a roll angle based on carrier phase position differences. The roll angle facilitates correction of the lateral motion induced position errors resultant from motion of the antennae as the vehicle moves based on an offset to ground and the roll angle. The system also includes a control system configured to receive the vehicle position, heading, and at least one of roll and pitch, and configured to generate a steering command to a vehicle steering system. The system includes gyroscopes for determining system attitude change with respect to multiple axes for integrating with GNSS-derived positioning information to determine vehicle position, velocity, rate-of-turn, attitude and other operating characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2009
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventors: Michael L. Whitehead, Walter J. Feller, John A. McClure, Steven R. Miller
  • Publication number: 20090091496
    Abstract: A GNSS system includes a receiver connected to an external mass storage device. Applications for the system, including GNSS data processing methods are also disclosed. The external storage device can comprise a flash (thumb) drive, which can be connected to the receiver via a USB interconnection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventors: Michael L. Whitehead, Bradley P. Badke, John A. McClure, Steven R. Miller
  • Patent number: 7292186
    Abstract: A method and system of synchronizing multiple tracking devices in a geo-location receiver system comprising: receiving a first plurality of geo-location signals with a first tracking device; and receiving a second plurality of geo-location signals with a second tracking device. The method also includes: enabling the first tracking device as either a master tracking device or a master-with-mark tracking device; enabling the second tracking device to operate as a slave tracking device; the master tracking device generates and transmits a timing signal to the slave tracking device; and the master-with-mark tracking device is configured to receive an external input for synchronization and generates and transmits a timing signal to the slave tracking device. The method also includes acquiring the first plurality of geo-location signals and the second plurality of geo-location signals at a substantially simultaneous instant of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: CSI Wireless Inc.
    Inventors: Steven R. Miller, Bradley P. Badke, Michael L. Whitehead
  • Patent number: 7229094
    Abstract: A tandem axle suspension assembly includes a pair of walking beams disposed substantially parallel to a vehicle longitudinal axis supporting first and second axles. A link plate is pivotally attached to each of the walking beams and is pivotal about an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis. A first and a second link include pivotal connections between the link plate and a vehicle frame member. Vertical movement of the walking beams causes a corresponding rotation of the link plate to compensate for longitudinal displacement of the pivotal links with the first and second links and minimize longitudinal displacement of the walking beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Steven R. Miller, Mark P. Reynolds, James Eckelberry, Robert P. Carlstedt, Daniel G. Chien, Kenneth G. Lang, Martin Peaker, Nancy L. Saxon, Jos Timmermann, Jeff Lloyd, James Grant, Richard M. Clisch
  • Patent number: 7207593
    Abstract: A tractor-trailer slider includes spaced apart longitudinal side rails having control arm supports extending downwardly from the side rails for supporting the slider. Portions of the longitudinal side rails and the control arms supports are integrated using one or more common plates. Lightening holes and edge of the slider are flanged to reinforce the walls. Coining and ribbing are also used for additional reinforcement. Lateral cross-members extend between the longitudinal side rails. The lateral cross-members have tabs on opposing ends that are received in an interlocking relationship with complementary elongated slots in the longitudinal side rails. Air spring supports arranged at forward and rearward portions of the slider are secured to the longitudinal side rails, the control arm supports, and the lateral cross-members to provide a structurally rigid frame. The air spring supports provide spaced apart air spring mounting pads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Nancy L. Saxon, Braden Bromley, Steven R. Miller, James Eckelberry, Craig Holt, Steven G. Saieg, Shaun Muston, Jos Timmermans, John Raymond Brink, Martin J. Watterson
  • Patent number: 7072763
    Abstract: A vehicle information system has a first load sensor for generating a first load signal based on a first vehicle load. A first position sensor generates a first position signal based on a position of a vehicle axle. A second position sensor generates a second position signal based on a position of a vehicle kingpin. A memory unit stores vehicle optimization data. An evaluation unit is in communication with the first load sensor, the first position sensor, the second position sensor and the memory unit. A general user interface for receiving input is also in communication with the evaluation unit. The evaluation unit makes an evaluation of the first load signal, the first position sensor, the second position signal, and any input and generates a vehicle optimization instruction relating to a distance between the axle and the kingpin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Nancy L. Saxon, James Eckelberry, John K. Ma, Frank A. Maly, Jr., Joseph Melekian, Steven R. Miller, Rajesh J. Somnay
  • Patent number: 7067538
    Abstract: The present invention relates to sulfones that are useful in the treatment of chemokine-mediated disorders. In certain embodiments, the present invention concerns the compounds that are MCP-1 receptor antagonists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Warner-Lambert Company, LLC
    Inventors: Larry D. Bratton, Alexander J. Bridges, David T. Connor, Steven R. Miller, Yuntao Song, Kuai-Lin Sun, Bharat K. Trivedi, Paul C. Unangst
  • Patent number: 6886669
    Abstract: A method and device for suspending a wheel axle from a vehicle includes a unitary flexible member coupled between the vehicle and the wheel axle and to an electronic control unit. The flexible member is formed of a material that changes shape in the presence of electrical signals having a varying signal strength. The electronic control unit, upon receiving various suspension related inputs, transmits the electrical signals having the varying signal strength to the unitary flexible member to change the shape thereof in order to vary the stiffness of the flexible member and thus control the suspension of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems, LLC
    Inventors: David K. Platner, Kurt A. Burmeister, Ragnar Ledesma, Steven R. Miller, Mark P. Reynolds, Monte G. Williams, Thomas Hughes
  • Patent number: 6820883
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension includes a dock height holding device. First and second jounce bumper portions preferably each include a surface configuration that faces generally toward the oppositely facing jounce bumper portion. By moving at least one of the jounce bumper portions between first and second alignment positions, the clearance between suspension components is controlled in a manner that controls the height of a truck bed or trailer deck. In one example, each jounce bumper portion includes four projections and four spaced recesses. In the first alignment position the projections on one jounce bumper portion are received within the recesses on the oppositely facing portion during normal driving conditions. In the second alignment position, the projections of the jounce bumper portions engage each other and maintain a larger clearance between the suspension components to ensure an appropriate deck height when the vehicle is parked for loading or unloading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Meritor Heavy Vehicle Technology LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth G. Lang, James Eckelberry, Steven R. Miller, Richard M. Clisch
  • Patent number: 6793233
    Abstract: A trailer slider pin control system is provided including a vehicle body and a rail supported along the body. The rails are moveable between a plurality of positions defined by a plurality of holes in the rail. A pin assembly is supported on the vehicle body and includes a pin moveable between unlocked and locked positions. The pin is disposed in the hole locking the rail to the vehicle body in the locked position. Conversely, the rail is free to move along the vehicle body in the unlock position. A sensor senses a location of a portion of the pin assembly, which corresponds to the unlock position. A vehicle speed control device, such as an engine, transmission, or braking system, is actuatable to limit the speed of the vehicle. A controller is connected to the sensor and the vehicle speed control device to actuate the vehicle speed control device to limit the speed of the vehicle in response to the sensors sensing the unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Meritor Heavy Technology, LLC
    Inventors: James Eckelberry, John Ma, Frank A. Maly, Jr., Joe Melekian, Steven R. Miller, Nancy L. Saxon, Rajesh J. Somnay
  • Patent number: 6786509
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension assembly includes a height holding device that is at least partially supported within an air spring of the suspension assembly. The height holding device includes a hydraulic ram. A moveable portion of the hydraulic ram moves between a first position where a minimum clearance is maintained between suspension components and a second position where a larger clearance is maintained between the suspension components. The height holding device moves into the second position to maintain a desired height of the truck or trailer bed during loading and unloading operations at a loading dock, for example. The height holding device allows for the suspension air springs to be evacuated of air pressure during loading or unloading conditions without a change in deck height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Meritor Heavy Vehicle Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth G. Lang, Steven R. Miller, James Eckelberry, Richard M. Clisch
  • Patent number: 6744404
    Abstract: A method of measuring phase of a pseudorandom (PN) sequence of chips, the method includes: generating a reference model exhibiting a reference phase, the reference phase adjustable to facilitate alignment with the phase of the pseudorandom sequence; establishing a plurality of pulsed-windows over which a plurality of samples of the pseudorandom sequence are collected for a selected accumulation interval; and accumulating the plurality of samples for each pulsed-window of the plurality of pulsed windows to form a plurality of accumulated sums. The method also includes: compensating each accumulated sum to form at least one compensated sum, if a number of level transitions and non-transitions of the pseudorandom sequence is not equal; and combining the compensated sum to determine a phase error from the plurality of compensated sums, the phase error corresponding to a phase difference between the reference phase and the phase of the pseudorandom sequence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: CSI Wireless Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Whitehead, Steven R. Miller
  • Publication number: 20040079557
    Abstract: A vehicle information system has a first load sensor for generating a first load signal based on a first vehicle load. A first position sensor generates a first position signal based on a position of a vehicle axle. A second position sensor generates a second position signal based on a position of a vehicle kingpin. A memory unit stores vehicle optimization data. An evaluation unit is in communication with the first load sensor, the first position sensor, the second position sensor and the memory unit. A general user interface for receiving input is also in communication with the evaluation unit. The evaluation unit makes an evaluation of the first load signal, the first position sensor, the second position signal, and any input and generates a vehicle optimization instruction relating to a distance between the axle and the kingpin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventors: Nancy L. Saxon, James Eckelberry, John K. Ma, Frank A. Maly, Joseph Melekian, Steven R. Miller, Rajesh J. Somnay