Patents by Inventor Thomas R. Waugh

Thomas R. Waugh 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: 6131974
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved grapnel which permits towed ars to be retrieved more easily and with less chance of damaging the array. The invention includes a pair of U-shaped members attached to a center stock, the U-shaped members being attached in a perpendicular relationship to each other. A threaded rod connects each vertical portion of the U-shaped members to the center stock, and each row has a roller disposed thereon. The grapnel further includes a hub disposed on the center stock proximate the rollers and ramps respectively attached to each vertical portion of the U-shaped members, for guiding a towed array into engagement with the rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Thomas R. Waugh
  • Patent number: 5494240
    Abstract: A recovery device for use from the cargo door of a helicopter hovering over vehicle to be recovered and including a telescoping pole with an upper end secured to the helicopter floor and a lower end defining a hoop which can be manipulated around the weapon or target into a first position for securing a first noose to a first portion of the vehicle to be recovered. The snare pole is then shifted to a second position where a second noose is tightened around a second portion of the vehicle. After the nooses have been positioned about the vehicle, the crewman aboard the helicopter pulls the retainer lanyard joined to the retaining pins. This operation releases the snare pole from the helicopter. The inner pole telescopes within the outer pole, and the vehicle is held directly beneath the helicopter by the cargo hook. The pilot can then fly the helicopter upwardly to carry the vehicle clear of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Thomas R. Waugh