Patents Issued in November 7, 2017
  • Patent number: 9809264
    Abstract: A dynamically balanced, tracked robot, which can switch between dynamically balanced (wheeled) operation and tracked operation, can include a body and at least one wheel rotatably mounted to the body. At least one strut can also be mounted to the body so that it extends therefrom, and an idler wheel can be fixed to the distal end of the strut. A track can be slipped over the wheel and that idler wheel, so that the track frictionally engages both the wheel and the idler wheel. The robot can have a defined vertical reference vector and a processor. The processor can have non-transitory written instructions that, when accomplished, cause the vertical reference vector to be parallel with a vector defined by the robot axis and the revised post-installation center of gravity, to continue to allow for dynamic balancing of the newly-tracked robot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: The United States of America, as Represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Kurt A. Talke, Aaron Bruce Burmeister, Anthony Douglas Jones
  • Patent number: 9809265
    Abstract: A joint design to connect tubes for a space frame, where a space frame may be a vehicle chassis, is provided. The joint may connect carbon fiber tubes and may be designed with different shapes and configurations. The joint may include acceptor ports that may mate with a tube and simultaneously contact an inner surface and outer surface of the tube for a strong connection. The joint may also include centering features which may create a space between a surface of the tube and a surface of the joint through which adhesive may flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Divergent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin R. Czinger, William Bradley Balzer, Praveen Varma Penmetsa, Zachary Meyer Omohundro, Matthew M. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 9809266
    Abstract: A method of using a mount to attach a tablet to a post of a forklift so as to allow a user to use the tablet from either inside or outside of the forklift or to stow the tablet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventors: Ramesh James, Li Zhao
  • Patent number: 9809267
    Abstract: A vehicle seat that provides rigidity of the seat while enabling weight reduction of the seat is provided. The vehicle seat has upper ribs projecting from a top surface and lower ribs projecting from a bottom surface in a seating region of a bottom plate. Also provided in the seating region are a center protrusion portion formed at a center portion and an annular protrusion portion formed outside the center protrusion portion to have a space therebetween. The upper ribs are formed at parts different from parts at which the center protrusion portion and the annular protrusion portion are formed, while the lower ribs are formed at the parts at which the center protrusion portion and the annular protrusion portion are formed. The upper ribs and the lower ribs are arranged alternately, while extending radially from the center protrusion portion toward the annular protrusion portion to form a honeycomb shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: TS Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomohisa Chiba, Yoshinori Ueyama
  • Patent number: 9809268
    Abstract: A motorcycle with a reduced number of parts for a step structure to achieve a compact and simple structure. The motorcycle includes an engine main body of an engine, which exerts power for driving a rear wheel. The engine is mounted on a body frame with a main step on which a rider's foot is placed being supported on the body frame. An exhaust muffler, to which exhaust gas from the engine main body is introduced, is supported by a muffler stay attached to the body frame. A muffler stay, which is attached to attachment portions provided in a body frame above a main step, extends downwardly toward the rear from the attachment portions and functions as a heel guard for a rider placing his/her foot on the main step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Takashi Shigihara
  • Patent number: 9809269
    Abstract: A scooter having a riding platform rotationally engaged to a front steering assembly is provided which significantly increases the ability of riders to perform tricks. The riding platform is rotationally engaged to the steering column which itself may be employed as a riding platform. An optional mechanism may be employed whereby the riding platform is rotated by a spin of the steering column with the handlebars. The scooter may also be equipped with skids to allow employment in the snow or on ice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Bellon
  • Patent number: 9809270
    Abstract: A vehicle has a frame, a motor connected to the frame, two front wheels operatively connected to the frame, two intermediate wheels operatively connected to the frame, the two intermediate wheels being disposed rearward of the two front wheels, two rear wheels operatively connected to the frame, the two rear wheels being disposed rearward of the intermediate wheels, a driver seat connected to the frame, a passenger seat disposed at least in part rearward of the driver seat, the driver seat and the passenger seat being straddle seats, and a cargo box connected to the frame, the passenger seat being disposed at least in part forward of the cargo box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS INC.
    Inventors: Jukka Olli, Paavo Sieppi, Hannu Yleva, Heikki Makkonen, Antti Suhanko, Jari Jokelainen
  • Patent number: 9809271
    Abstract: This vehicle is equipped with front and rear wheels and comprises a platform, a foldable/unfoldable steering column and a locking mechanism. According to the invention: the platform includes a cylindrical well (13), the axis of which is tilted according to an angle from 30° to 60° towards the rear of this platform (2). The steering column has a lower bent portion, connected to a cylindrical base (22) intended to be engaged into the well (13) with pivoting capability, the axis of this base (22) forming, with the axis according to which the remainder of the steering column (5) extends longitudinally, an angle complementary to 180° with the angle formed by the axis of the well (13). The locking mechanism includes a first device (16, 17; 27, 32) for angularly blocking the base (22) in the well (13), in the unfolding position of the steering column, and a second device (16, 18; 27, 32) for angularly blocking the base (22) in the well (13), in the folding position of the steering column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: ID Development Limited
    Inventor: Joseph Mazoyer
  • Patent number: 9809272
    Abstract: A set of elements giving the possibility of forming two types of wheeled devices for children which comprises: a platform (10), a handle (3) comprising an upright (20) intended to be connected to the front of the platform (10), and a removable seat (6); said handle (3) is removable with respect to the platform (10), and the platform (10) comprises, on the side of the front wheel(s) (11), a well (13) for receiving the lower portion of the upright (20); the platform (10) comprises a front boss (14) and said well (13) opens at the upper portion of this boss (14); the set of elements comprises a body (4) for supporting the seat (6), the front portion (4a) of which has a front extension (22) and a rear extension (23) defining together a housing (24) having a recessed shape corresponding to the shape of the boss (14); the set of elements comprises means (28, 31) for mounting the seat (6) on said supporting body (4), and the set of elements comprises means (5) for attaching at least one of said extensions (22, 2
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: ID Development Limited
    Inventor: Joseph Mazoyer
  • Patent number: 9809273
    Abstract: Some embodiments are directed to a foldable vehicle for use as a vehicle if being unfolded, and for use as a trolley if being folded. The vehicle in its folded configuration may also be placed in an upright parking position. The vehicle includes a first side frame coupled to a first wheel, a second side frame coupled to a second wheel and a coupling frame. The coupling frame includes a hinge joint between a first end and a second end of the coupling frame. The first end is hinged to the first side frame and the second end is hinged to the second side frame. When the first wheel translates towards the second wheel, the hinge joint moves from one side of the second wheel to the other side of the second wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: ROYALTY BUGABOO GMBH
    Inventors: Machiel Gerardus Theodorus Marie Barenbrug, Vincent Bernardus Hubertus Ten Horn
  • Patent number: 9809274
    Abstract: A hydraulic brake mechanism is mountable to a bicycle handlebar. The hydraulic brake mechanism includes a housing having a base portion and an extension portion, the base portion including first and second ends, the base portion including a handlebar clamp at the first end, the base portion extending generally horizontally and the extension portion extending forwardly of the base portion at the second end and angled generally upwardly from the base portion when the hydraulic brake mechanism is mounted to the bicycle handlebar, the housing sized and shaped to be grasped by a user's hand, the housing having a fluid outlet port in the extension portion. The hydraulic brake mechanism may include a fluid line attached to the fluid outlet port and disposed in a groove formed along a length of the extension portion and the base portion of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: SRAM, LLC
    Inventors: Charles E. Dunlap, Paul Feuerstein
  • Patent number: 9809275
    Abstract: A crank assembly for a pedal-driven vehicle includes a first member, a second member, and a rotary sensor. The first member rotates about a crank axis of the pedal-driven vehicle. The second member is rotationally coupled to the first member and is configured to pivot about the first member via a member pivot. The second member also is configured to receive a pedal at a pedal interface. The rotary sensor is coupled to the first member and configured to measure rotation of the second member relative to the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: Willem den Boer
  • Patent number: 9809276
    Abstract: An electric bicycle derailleur control system is basically provided with a derailleur, a detecting device and a controller. The derailleur includes a chain guide and an electrical actuator. The chain guide is configured to displace a bicycle chain. The electrical actuator is operatively coupled to the chain guide to displace the chain guide. The detecting device is configured to detect information related to a reaction force of the bicycle chain. The controller is configured to control the electrical actuator in accordance with detected information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Takafumi Katsura, Keijiro Nishi, Yuta Mizutani, Hiroshi Tachibana
  • Patent number: 9809277
    Abstract: In a frictional propulsion device comprising a frame, a main wheel including driven rollers rotatably supported by an annular core member about a tangential direction and a pair of drive disks each carrying drive rollers rotatable about a rotational center line at an angle with respect to both a tangential line of the drive disk and the rotational center line of the drive disk such that the drive rollers at least partly engage the driven rollers, each drive disk includes a hub rotatably supported by the support shaft, a disk member attached to a peripheral part of the hub, and holder beams arranged circumferentially between the hub and the disk member such that each holder beam is attached to the hub at a first end thereof and to the disk member at a second end thereof, each drive roller being rotatably supported by a corresponding adjoining pair of holder beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsutomu Yoshino, Wataru Yada
  • Patent number: 9809278
    Abstract: An apparatus for reducing an engaging force of an engaging member for a bicycle component comprises a first engaging member and a movable second engaging member, wherein the first engaging member engages the second engaging member. A biasing mechanism applies a biasing force to bias the first engaging member and the second engaging member towards each other, wherein the biasing mechanism reduces the biasing force when the second engaging member moves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Tatsuya Kawakami
  • Patent number: 9809279
    Abstract: This invention is type of dual-purpose boat, including cabin and hull. This boat is unique in that between the cabin and hull there is a lifting mechanism connecting the hull and cabin, at least one of which has been set up with a buoyancy regulating structure. This invention can be used as a regular boat, or if the cabin is lowered, this invention becomes a semi-submerged vessel that can be used for operational purposes or underwater sightseeing. When the invention enters shallow water or needs to navigate at high speed, the cabin can be raised to prevent beaching and to reduce resistance. The operation of this invention is simple and expands the single function of current boats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: V-Mark Enterprise Ltd.
    Inventor: Ren Wang
  • Patent number: 9809280
    Abstract: A cleat having an adjustable anchoring system configured to suspend a bumper. The cleat has a first horn located opposite a second horn. A support structure is connected to the cleat. A recess of the support structure has a ridge protruding from a wall surface of the recess. The ridge is configured to deform a portion of rope. A bore of the support structure is configured to receive a fastener. A base has a bore configured to receive the fastener. The bore of the support structure is oriented to align with the bore of the base. The base has two ramps that protrude from a wall surface of a recess of the base. The two ramps form a pocket that can have a protrusion configured to bind a portion of the rope when the fastener is tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventors: Steven Miller, Timo Pascal Kommerling
  • Patent number: 9809281
    Abstract: A submersible buoy comprising a body defining a space; a gas compressor in fluid communication with a pressure vessel, where the gas compressor is capable of releasing gas from the pressure vessel into the space and of sucking gas out of the space into the pressure vessel; a battery that powers the gas compressor; and a controller in electronic communication with the gas compressor, where the controller controls the operations of the gas compressor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: Glenn S. Welch
  • Patent number: 9809282
    Abstract: Provided is a liquefied gas transfer device for reducing boil-off gas. The liquefied gas transfer device for reducing boil-off gas comprises: at least one transfer pipe formed in a vertical direction inside a quay for storing liquefied gas so as to transfer the liquefied gas; a branch pipe which is branched from a lower part of the transfer pipe to one side of the transfer pipe, and which has an end part opened toward a bottom surface of the quay; a valve which is connected to the branch pipe and/or the transfer pipe, and which opens and closes the branch pipe or the transfer pipe so as to move the liquefied gas from the transfer pipe to the branch pipe; and a resistance member disposed inside the branch pipe so as to interrupt the flow of the liquefied gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Samsung Heavy Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sung-Yun Choi, Yong-Seok Song, Seung-Hyuk Kim, Ho-Byung Yoon
  • Patent number: 9809283
    Abstract: A multifunctional carrying device for a tidal stream generator and a using method thereof, the multifunctional carrying device for a tidal stream generator comprises: an elongated main floating body; carrying frames, horizontally extending towards the left side and the right side from the center part of the elongated main floating body, an end part of the carrying frames being used for carrying the tidal stream generator; the elongated main floating body being a central floating control pipe (100) with two ends sealed, cable tying locations being positioned at the two ends of the central floating control pipe (100), a pipe air inlet/outlet (702) being disposed above one end of the central floating control pipe (100) and a pipe water inlet/outlet (704) being disposed below the other end of the central floating control pipe (100); a remote air pipe (700), having one end connected to the pipe air inlet/outlet (702) and the other end connected to a control switch (707); the central floating control pipe (100) bei
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventors: Chang Zhang, Wenyu Zhou, Yanqian Pan
  • Patent number: 9809284
    Abstract: A lightweight surfboard that is rigid yet provides uniform flex characteristic without the use of a traditional wooden stringer includes a stringerless blank foam and a set of channels shaped into a top portion of the body of the surfboard. The set of channels comprises a pair of adjacent, axially extending elongated concave grooves that run along the length of the set of channels, meet at their end points and form a convex center section. The convex center section of the set of channels provides the support to prevent the board from breaking due to the bending of the surfboard while being ridden on the wave. A laminating layer may be glassed on the set of channels for additional strength. The laminating layer may include fiberglass cloth, Kevlar, carbon fiber or any suitable material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: Dane Ashley Hantz
  • Patent number: 9809285
    Abstract: A watersport board includes a board body, two female fasteners, a baseplate, a fin adapter, a fin and two male fasteners. The board body defines a receptacle. The female fasteners are embedded in the board body. Each female fastener has a receiving hole. The baseplate is attached underneath the board body. The baseplate has a first bore and two second bores. The fin adapter has an adapter body and an extension laterally extending from the adapter body. The adapter body passes through the first bore of the baseplate and is engaged in the receptacle of the board body, and the adapter body has a cavity. The fin has a base portion received in the cavity of the adapter body. Each male fastener has one end connected to the extension of the fin adapter, and the other end passing through the second bore of the baseplate and being engaged in the receiving hole of the female fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Agit Global IP Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Tzong In Yeh
  • Patent number: 9809286
    Abstract: A fin mounting assembly having a fin box and a cover plate. The fin mounting assembly has a fin box with an upper end that is substantially closed and a lower end that is open with an outer edge. An elongated recess is disposed substantially central along a first axis of the fin box that is adapted to receive and secure a base of a fin. The upper end of the fin box has a flange with an outer border. The flange has a gradually increasing wall height curvature along the first axis, beginning adjacent to the outer edge of the flange and a greatest wall height curvature at a flange central portion. The flange also has a slot cover wall that extends up and away from the flange along the first axis and positioned over the elongated recess. The slot cover wall has an increasing width thickness beginning at the outer edge of the flange that increases in width and has a largest width at a slot cover central portion. A cover plate has an outer border and is adapted to be attached to the outer edge of the fin box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventors: Rachel Eileen Jorgensen, Christopher Robert Fallon
  • Patent number: 9809287
    Abstract: One design embodiment of a holder for a container comprising: one or more bands each capable of retaining a container inside the band(s), with straps attached to and extending away from the exterior of the band(s); with fasteners on the ends of each strap such that container within the band or bands are held in a stable position relative to a harness to be worn by a user. The design embodiment allows easy attachment, use and deployment of containers in a variety of environmental conditions and situational uses, including but not limited to the carrying of gas supplies for underwater divers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: William Messner
  • Patent number: 9809288
    Abstract: The oar-carrying device is adapted for use with one or more oars used in sculling or rowing. The oar-carrying device comprises an arcuate shaft to which one or more oars are attached thus allowing the one or more oars to be carried in a controlled manner. The arcuate shaft further comprises a plurality of fasteners that attach the one or more oars to the arcuate shaft. The oar-carrying device comprises an arcuate shaft, a plurality of oar plates and a plurality of fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: Richard Newhard
  • Patent number: 9809289
    Abstract: A hull mounted, steerable marine drive system having trim actuation is both steerable through 360 degrees and is trimmable. The marine drive system includes a watertight enclosure assembly for sealing the hull, which is adapted for keeping much of the marine drive system from being exposed to water. The enclosure includes a gasket flange plate, a retention plate and a folded gasket. The gasket flange plate closely follows the contour of the hull and enhances the hydrodynamic and wake performance of the present marine drive system. Further, marine drive system includes a forward-neutral-reverse (FNR) transmission assembly, a drive unit assembly having a trimmable upper unit and a steerable lower unit, a steering actuator assembly, a trim actuator assembly, and, preferably, trim foils for providing enhanced negative and positive trim and for providing enhanced positive and negative lift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Blue Sky Marine, LLC
    Inventors: Robert E. Nutt, Scott Crutchfield, Robert Scott Beach, Douglas J. Yoder, Douglas G. Bickelhaupt, George Edward Phillips, David J. Gruenwald, Bryan L. Danner
  • Patent number: 9809290
    Abstract: An outboard motor mounting apparatus for outboard motors that control the outboard motor propeller thrust line angle of attack through a larger range than is currently available in practice today, including afterplanes (hydrodynamic lifting surfaces) in order to create boat stern lift. The afterplanes move to provide lift with a trimmable hinged portion in combination with movement of the outboard motor propeller thrust line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: Kurt D. Willows
  • Patent number: 9809291
    Abstract: Turning gear apparatus (10) for rotating a shaft (11) comprises a rotary drive arrangement (12) and a transmission system including a pivot arm (20). The rotary drive arrangement (12) is fixed, for example to a vessel hull (14), and the pivot arm (20) is pivotable between a first, shaft-disengaged, position and a second, shaft-engaged position where the rotary drive arrangement (12) is operably coupled to the shaft (11), thereby permitting control over rotation of the shaft (11) by the rotary drive arrangement (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: Eric Galloway
  • Patent number: 9809292
    Abstract: A method for controlling steering alignment in a marine vessel includes detecting a rotational position of a steering device and detecting a rotational addition of a steerable component, wherein the steerable component is couplable to a marine vessel and steerable to a plurality of positions so as to vary the direction of movement of the marine vessel. The rotational position of the steering device and the rotational position of the steerable component are then compared. The operation between the steering device and the steerable component is then automatically adjusted while the steering device is moved by a user until alignment between the steering device and the steerable component is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventor: Steven J. Gonring
  • Patent number: 9809293
    Abstract: A method for balloon launching may include loading a pre-packaged balloon and payload into a shell structure. The pre-packaged balloon may be pulled out of its packaging in a vertical direction, for instance using a gantry crane. The gantry crane may be configured to inflate the balloon from the top of the envelope. The balloon may be inflated while substantially within the shell structure, which may provide protection from wind gusts. A vehicle, such as a heavy forklift, may provide mobility and support for the balloon and shell. Once the balloon is inflated, the vehicle may move the balloon/shell combination at a rate and direction substantially matching the current wind direction/speed. Furthermore, after reaching a zero-velocity condition relative to the wind, the vehicle may assist and/or initiate the opening of the shell. A tether connecting the balloon to the shell structure may be disconnected, allowing the balloon to launch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: X Development LLC
    Inventor: Daniel Ratner
  • Patent number: 9809294
    Abstract: A high altitude balloon including a balloon film, a lifting gas disposed within the balloon film, a payload operably coupled to the balloon film, and a heat transfer element operably coupled between the payload and the balloon film configured to transfer heat from the payload to the lifting gas causing a change in buoyancy of the high altitude balloon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Taylor Evan Matthews, Anthony Paul Fry, Jessica Marie Lavigne, Rafy Uddin Athar
  • Patent number: 9809295
    Abstract: A sealing system for an aircraft having an opening and a door movable between an open condition spaced from the opening and a closed condition covering and sealing the opening includes a cover plate connected to the aircraft adjacent the opening. A first magnetic coupling secured to the cover plate includes a first plurality of magnets. A second magnetic coupling configured for securing to the door includes a second plurality of magnets. The first magnetic coupling is repelled by the second magnetic coupling when the couplings have a first degree of alignment with one another. This causes the cove plot move away from the door. The first magnetic coupling is attracted to the second magnetic coupling when the couplings have a second degree of alignment with one another greater than the first degree, causing the magnetic couplings to engage one another and seal the opening in the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Robert E. Bauer, John C. Rufino
  • Patent number: 9809296
    Abstract: An aircraft fuselage comprising a structure, a skin connected to the structure and forming a barrier between the interior and the exterior of the fuselage, an external coating being plated or placed against said skin, wherein the external coating comprises a thermal insulator that covers the fuselage at least in part and has at least one foam insulating layer. The external coating comprises a plurality of juxtaposed panels adhesively bonded to the fuselage and/or secured to the fuselage by mechanical fixings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Airbus Operations SAS
    Inventor: Olivier Picot
  • Patent number: 9809297
    Abstract: A stiffener 100 comprises a first stiffener portion (102), having a first cross-sectional profile (104) that is constant along the first stiffener portion (102). The stiffener 100 also comprises a second stiffener portion (106), having a second cross-sectional profile (108) that is constant along the second stiffener portion (106). The second cross-sectional profile (108) of the second stiffener portion (106) is different from the first cross-sectional profile (104) of the first stiffener portion (102). The stiffener 100 additionally comprises a transition stiffener portion (110) tapering from the second stiffener portion (106) to the first stiffener portion (102).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Jordan D. Charles
  • Patent number: 9809298
    Abstract: There is provided a drainage system of an aircraft which discharges moisture having entered inside horizontal tails, which are structures of an airframe of an aircraft, toward the rear end of a fuselage, the drainage system including: a drainage channel which includes an introduction end and a discharge end, and by a capillary action delivers moisture introduced from the introduction end toward the discharge end; and a heater which heats and dries the moisture delivered through the drainage channel. The drainage channel of the present invention is preferably composed of a paper drainage material. It is also preferable that the introduction end of the drainage channel is provided in a lowermost region in the vertical direction within an area in which moisture can accumulate inside the horizontal tails while the aircraft is parked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI AIRCRAFT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hiromu Okamoto, Masayoshi Suhara, Ryuichi Nagase, Toshikazu Shigetomi, Morimasa Ishida
  • Patent number: 9809299
    Abstract: A propeller blade retention arrangement having a propeller blade comprising in radial sequence an aerofoil portion, a shank portion and a root portion. The root portion having first cross-sectional area close to the shank portion and second cross-sectional area at the end distal to the aerofoil portion, wherein the second cross-sectional area is greater than the first cross-sectional area. At least two cheeks each having an inner surface arranged to abut the root portion, an outer surface that is threaded and edge surfaces that abut another of the at least two cheeks; wherein the at least two cheeks are arranged to surround the root portion in circumferential abutment. A collar having a threaded inner surface arranged to threadingly engage the outer surfaces of the at least two cheeks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventors: Kenneth Franklin Udall, David Michael Beaven, Mark John Houle
  • Patent number: 9809300
    Abstract: In response to a torque that is applied to a clutch module not exceeding a torque threshold, the clutch module is locked where a blade is configured to be at a first pitch angle in response to the clutch module being locked. In response to the torque that is applied to the clutch module exceeding the torque threshold, the clutch module is released where the blade has a range of motion which extends from the first pitch angle to a second pitch angle in response to the clutch module being released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Kitty Hawk Corporation
    Inventors: Steffen Kuentzel, Damon Vander Lind
  • Patent number: 9809301
    Abstract: The invention relates to an actuator (4) for controlling a flight control surface (3) of an aircraft, comprising:—a primary route (5) comprising a first member (8) for generating a first torque, and a first drive shaft (10) having an end (18) able to be connected to the first member (8) and an end (19) able to be connected to the control surface (3),—a secondary route (6) comprising a second member (24) for generating a second torque and a second drive shaft (26) having an end (45) able to be connected to the second member (24) and an end (46) able to be connected to the control surface (3), in which actuator the second drive shaft (10) is hollow and extends around the first drive shaft (26).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: SAFRAN ELECTRONICS & DEFENSE
    Inventors: Louis Chavignier, Marc Lebrun, Severin Viennot
  • Patent number: 9809302
    Abstract: A method of braking left and right landing gear wheels on respective left and right sides of an aircraft. A desired left braking parameter (L) is received for the left wheel and a desired right braking parameter (R) is received for the right wheel. The left wheel is braked with a reduced left braking parameter (L?) which is less than the desired left braking parameter (L), and the right wheel is braked with a reduced right braking parameter (R?) which is less than the desired right braking parameter (R). A difference between the braking parameters is maintained so that L??R?=L?R.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignees: AIRBUS OPERATIONS LIMITED, AIRBUS OPERATIONS SAS
    Inventors: George Howell, Livier Ben, Louis-Emmanuel Romana
  • Patent number: 9809303
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a method for determining a position of a rotor blade includes receiving a plurality of measurements from a plurality of magneto-resistive sensors and determining a position of the at least one magnet based on the received plurality of measurements. In this example, one of the plurality of magneto-resistive sensors and the at least one magnet moves with a rotor blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
    Inventor: Troy C. Schank
  • Patent number: 9809304
    Abstract: This disclosure describes a configuration of an aerial vehicle, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle, in which one or more of the propellers are positioned within a duct that includes an active airflow channel within the interior of the duct. The active airflow channel actively moves within the duct so that it remains aligned with the tips of the blades of the propeller within the duct. As the propeller and the active airflow channel rotate, at least some of the airflow structures (e.g., vortices) shed from the blades of the propeller are collected by the active airflow channel and channeled away from the propeller so that a following blade of the propeller does not pass through the collected airflow structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian C. Beckman, Gur Kimchi
  • Patent number: 9809305
    Abstract: Unmanned aerial vehicles (“UAVs”) which fly to destinations (e.g., for delivering items) may land on transportation vehicles (e.g., delivery trucks, etc.) for temporary transport. An agreement with the owner of the transportation vehicles (e.g., a shipping carrier) may be made for obtaining consent and determining compensation for landings, and the associated transportation vehicles that are available for landings may be identified by markers on the roof or other identification techniques. The routes of the transportation vehicles may be known and utilized to determine locations where UAVs will land on and take off from the transportation vehicles, and in cases of emergencies (e.g., due to low batteries, mechanical issues, etc.) the UAVs may land on the transportation vehicles for later retrieval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Buchmueller, Scott A. Green, Atishkumar Kalyan, Gur Kimchi
  • Patent number: 9809306
    Abstract: A system for flock-based control of a plurality of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The system includes UAVs each including a processor executing a local control module and memory accessible by the processor for use by the local control module. The system includes a ground station system with a processor executing a fleet manager module and with memory storing a different flight plan for each of the UAVs. The flight plans are stored on the UAVs, and, during flight operations, each of the local control modules independently controls the corresponding UAV to execute its flight plan without ongoing control from the fleet manager module. The fleet manager module is operable to initiate flight operations by concurrently triggering initiation of the flight plans by the multiple UAVs. Further, the local control modules monitor front and back end communication channels and, when a channel is lost, operate the UAV in a safe mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: James Alexander Stark, Clifford Wong, Robert Scott Trowbridge
  • Patent number: 9809307
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention comprise systems for providing a lifesaving apparatus to a distressed individual. Such systems may comprise an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) configured to selectably support a lifesaving apparatus. The UAV may comprise a release mechanism configured to release the lifesaving apparatus when proximate a distressed person. The system may additionally comprise a control device configured to wirelessly communicate with the UAV such that a user can pilot the UAV from a distance and deliver the lifesaving apparatus to a distressed person. Methods of using the same may comprise piloting the UAV proximate a distressed person, providing a signal to the UAV to release the lifesaving apparatus by operating the release mechanism, and then pulling the lifesaving apparatus and the distressed person to safety via a control line secured to the lifesaving apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: James Sommerfield Richardson
  • Patent number: 9809308
    Abstract: Load transport and retraining devices and methods for restraining industrial machines or heavy machinery, such as, turbines, to prevent displacement during adverse environmental conditions, such as, pitching and rolling seas, are provided. The devices include support structures adapted to support loads and having wheels positioned and adapted to engage rails. The wheels include a first set of wheels adapted to ride on top of the rails and a second set of wheels adapted to engage the sides of the rails and thereby retain the support structure to the rails. The devices may also include a third set of wheels adapted to also engage the sides of the rails. The devices may include brake and drive assemblies to facilitate handling. Aspects of the disclosure are uniquely adapted to turbines, but other aspects of the disclosure may restrain any industrial machine that may be exposed to adverse environmental conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Artemio Josue Aguilar, Juan Carlos Oidor, Mario Oscar Ramirez
  • Patent number: 9809309
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed herein for guide assemblies. A guide assembly may comprise a sliding rail comprising a first channel and a second channel, a first fitting comprising a first retaining rail, wherein the first retaining rail is configured to slide within the first channel, and a second fitting comprising a second retaining rail, wherein the second retaining rail is configured to slide within the second channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Goodrich Corporation
    Inventors: Skandan Berikai Kuppan, Bharath Marappan, Mallikarjun Awarad, Jeff Werbelow, Mark Olson
  • Patent number: 9809310
    Abstract: An aircraft passenger service device for receiving goods for cold storage to be supplied to aircraft passengers includes a receiving device having a viewing apparatus, a coolant inlet for feeding a coolant into the receiving device, and a coolant outlet for discharging the coolant from the receiving device. The viewing apparatus is designed to enable a user to inspect goods stored in the receiving device before removal. The aircraft passenger service device further includes a cooling arrangement having a coolant circuit line connected to the coolant inlet and the coolant outlet of the receiving device, and a device that directs into the coolant circuit line a refrigerant fluid flowing through a refrigerant fluid circuit line of a central cooling system of the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Kenan Sönmez, Markus Kerber, Volker Brakhan
  • Patent number: 9809311
    Abstract: A mounting system may be installed in an aircraft, such as by installing a first plate and a second plate on either side of a sandwich panel wall in a personal space of an aircraft. The first plate and second plate may be coupled together, and a structural interface may receive a mounting accessory such that it is positioned adjacent the first plate. A personal electronic device may be mounted to the mounting accessory, thereby facilitating use of the personal electronic device on-board the aircraft. Such a mounting system may facilitate the use of personal electronic devices in lieu of costly in-flight entertainment systems. The first plate and second plate may be secured to a honeycomb core sandwich panel, such that fasteners may extend through inserts extending through the core, thereby distributing the weight of the personal electronic device and mounting accessory via the first plate and second plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Stephen Michael Young, Carl Aaron Davison
  • Patent number: 9809312
    Abstract: A ventilation system for an interior room is provided, having a first air suction device, a second air suction device, a suction volume control device, a first air conduction pipe, a second air conduction pipe, a vacuum generating device and a control unit. The suction volume control device affects an air flow from the first and the second air suction device to the first and the second air conduction pipe, respectively, wherein the control unit controls the suction volume control device so that the air flow from the first air suction device to the first air conduction pipe is controllable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Matthias Reiss, Ole Becker, John Kwee
  • Patent number: 9809313
    Abstract: Systems and methods for intelligently alerting the flight crew of a cabin depressurization. An example system includes a cabin altimeter that generates a cabin pressure value, an alerting device, such as a speaker system and a processing device in data communication with the cabin altimeter and the alerting device. The processing device determines if there is a problem with the cabin pressure received from the cabin altimeter, determines rate of change of the cabin pressure, and sets at least one of an alert volume or an alert frequency based on the cabin pressure and the rate of change of the cabin pressure if it was determined that a problem exists with the cabin pressure. The processing device also issues a cabin depressurization alert over the alerting device based on at least one of the set alert volume or alert frequency, if there is a problem with the cabin pressure value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Kevin J Conner, Yasuo Ishihara, Steve C. Johnson