Patents by Inventor Timothy M. Gutzwiller

Timothy M. Gutzwiller 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: 6975930
    Abstract: A method of controlling an operation of a mechanism is provided. A first rate limit is assigned to a first input device that is operable to generate a first signal to control the operation of the mechanism. A second rate limit is assigned to a second input device that is operable to generate a second signal to control the operation of the mechanism. At least one of the first and second input devices are manipulated to effect a desired change in the operation of the mechanism. A maximum allowable rate of change in the operation of the mechanism is identified based on the first and second signals and the first and second rate limits. A rate of change in the operation of the mechanism to achieve the desired change in the operation of the mechanism is determined based on a comparison of the maximum allowable rate of change in the operation of the mechanism with a last used rate of change in the operation of the mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin D. Drake, Timothy M. Gutzwiller, Michael F. Coffman, Timothy A Feucht
  • Patent number: 6549837
    Abstract: In many applications, it is desirable to have work machines automatically maintain a desired speed and heading. Provided is an electronic control connected with left and right hydraulic motor assemblies that drive left and right ground engaging propulsion mechanisms, left and right speed sensors, and on operator input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc
    Inventors: Timothy A. Feucht, Timothy M. Gutzwiller
  • Publication number: 20020169536
    Abstract: In many applications, it is desirable to have work machines automatically maintain a desired speed and heading. Provided is an electronic control connected with left and right hydraulic motor assemblies that drive left and right ground engaging propulsion mechanisms, left and right speed sensors, and on operator input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventors: Timothy A. Feucht, Timothy M. Gutzwiller
  • Publication number: 20020168226
    Abstract: A control system for use with an asphalt paving machine receives inputs from an operator interface for inputting a desired tamping frequency or a desired tamping rate (tamps/ft) and a speed sensor that produces a signal indicative of the speed of the asphalt paver. The control system includes an automatic mode and when in automatic mode the system modifies the tamping frequency to better achieve a desired number of tamps per foot traveled irrespective of speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventors: Timothy A. Feucht, Evant T. Graham, Timothy M. Gutzwiller
  • Patent number: 6027177
    Abstract: A controllable mechanical brake release system for controllably releasing a mechanical brake included in a hydrostatic machine is disclosed. In the preferred embodiment the hydrostatic machine is located on an incline. The mechanical brake is included in a mechanical braking system. The hydrostatic machine has the braking system, a hydrostatic propulsion system and a controller. A determined hydraulic pressure associated with the hydrostatic propulsion system is compared with an established trip indicator. A release mechanical brake signal is produced in response to the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Alan L. Ferguson, Conrad G. Grembowicz, Timothy M. Gutzwiller