Patents by Inventor W. Chris Swick

W. Chris Swick 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: 7040044
    Abstract: A method of modulating a boom assembly to perform in a linear manner. The boom assembly includes a boom and a stick. The method comprising the steps of sending at least one lever signal to a control device indicative of operator desired direction and desired velocity of the boom and the stick, calibrating the lever signals to provide a boom command signal and a stick command signal, applying an algorithm-to-the boom command signal and the stick command signal, which the algorithm uses command signal mapping, and providing a modulating factor to the control device as a result of the algorithm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Caterpillar S.A.R.L.
    Inventors: Chad T. Brickner, C. Erik Bright, Clayton L. Padgett, W. Chris Swick
  • Patent number: 6374605
    Abstract: A control arrangement is provided to control the output of a hydrostatic transmission in response to a selectable input from an operator. This is accomplished by having a adjustable relief valve connected to the pilot control arrangement that controls the displacement of the variable displacement pump of the hydrostatic transmission. The adjustable relief valve vents a portion of the pilot control pressure being directed to the variable displacement pump in response to the pressure between the variable displacement pump and the fluid motor of the hydrostatic transmission and the setting of the adjustable relief valve by the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Paul A. Dvorak, W. Chris Swick
  • Patent number: 6266960
    Abstract: Earthmoving machines are often provided with quick coupling devices that allow them to change work implements in a relatively rapid fashion when compared to changing conventionally mounted implements. A locking system between the machine linkage and the implement is positioned between the components and includes a hydraulic system which continually applies pressurized fluid to the locking system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Caterpillar S.A.R.L.
    Inventors: John S. Bibb, Paul A. Dvorak, Tim A. Green, W. Chris Swick, Peter R. Hildner
  • Patent number: 6135230
    Abstract: An interlock control system for controlling certain operations of a work machine wherein such system includes a first switch coupled to an operator restraint mechanism, a second switch coupled to the operator seat, a third switch operable to control the operation of the parking brake mechanism, and an electronic controller coupled to all three switches for receiving signals therefrom, the controller outputting a signal to enable the drive mechanism and the implement control system when the controller receives signals from the first, second and third switches indicative of the fact that the operator is present in the seat, the operator restraint mechanism is positioned in its restraining position, and the parking brake switch has been actuated to release the parking brake. With the drive mechanism and implement control system enabled, a second activation of the parking brake switch will disable the drive mechanism and set the parking brake, but it will not disable the implement control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Caterpillar S.A.R.L.
    Inventors: Raymond T. Schenck, W. Chris Swick, Steven T. Ufheil, Reid W. Waitt