Patents by Inventor Thomas M. Sheperd

Thomas M. Sheperd 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: 4798141
    Abstract: A plurality of pan-shaped beams and supports of graphite/epoxy laminate mrial are mounted on a circular graphite/epoxy aft panel to form a symmetrical structure which is attached to the missile shell. Four main stiffening beams intersect at right angles to form a central square structure with the intersecting walls extending outward beyond the central square to the missile shell. Four diagonal stiffening beams are disposed across the corners within the central square to form a central hexagonal structure. Additional stiffness is provided by strut support beams oriented parallel to the main support beams and support ribs oriented perpendicular to the main support beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1989
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Daniel Cunha, Wayne M. Brown, James E. Pool, Thomas M. Sheperd