Patents by Inventor Thomas M. Pfenning

Thomas M. Pfenning 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: 5912610
    Abstract: A high energy inductor and method of manufacture relates to an inductor which is capable of mechanically withstanding the high magnetic forces imposed thereon during transfer of high energy pulses. The inductor is wound with a conductor under tensile stress, wherein the conductor has a fixed inner end and a free outer end. The stress is maintained in the finished inductor by means of a clamp attached to and fixing the free end of the conductor. The fabrication method involves inducing tensile stress in the conductor as it is wound on an inductor core and then maintaining the conductor tensile stress in the finished inductor component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: United Defense, LP
    Inventors: Charalampos D. Marinos, Thomas M. Pfenning
  • Patent number: 5656796
    Abstract: A high energy coaxial cable is disclosed which is flexible to the extent of allowing a bend radius as short as 11 1/2 inches. The cable will conduct up to 500 kiloamperes and is reinforced to resist the high magnetic forces within the cable caused by the high current conducted. The cable is therefore useful in coupling high current between parts which experience relative movement such as a stationary power supply and a recoiling gun breech.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1997
    Assignee: FMC Corp.
    Inventors: Charalampos Marinos, Thomas M. Pfenning, Gary R. Sarff
  • Patent number: 5528973
    Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed which provides coaxial connection between a high energy power supply and a plurality of plasma injectors in a gun breech assembly over a plurality of high energy transmission coaxial cables without losing the coaxial nature of the high energy transmission path at the connections between the coaxial cables and the plasma injectors. The apparatus includes a conductive bell housing for surrounding the connections while providing access for securing the connections with the bell housing in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Assignee: FMC Corp.
    Inventors: Thomas M. Pfenning, Charalampos D. Marinos, Chris S. Sorenson