Patents Issued in April 16, 2019
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Patent number: 10259530Abstract: An electric vehicle includes a switching unit which is capable of performing switching between a permission state in which an electric motor is permitted to operate and an inhibiting state in which the electric motor is inhibited from operating. An assembling management system of the electric vehicle includes an information obtaining section which obtains set information set in a vehicle body or a battery and transmits the obtained set information to a determiner section which determines whether or not the electric motor is permitted to operate based on the set information, and an output section which receives a result of determination from the determiner section, and outputs an electric signal indicating which of a permission state and an inhibiting state should be set in the switching unit.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2013Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Yoshimoto Matsuda
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Patent number: 10259531Abstract: A bicycle front derailleur basically includes a base member, a chain guide, a linkage assembly and a support structure. The base member is configured to be mounted to a bicycle frame. The linkage assembly movably couples the chain guide to the base member to move relative to the base member between a retracted position and an extended position. The support structure includes a support member and a contact member. The support member is configured to be mounted to the base member and to advance toward the bicycle frame in a first direction. The contact member includes a contact part and a coupling part extending from the contact part. The contact part is configured to contact the support member and the bicycle frame. The coupling part is configured to be movably coupled to the base member.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: SHIMANO (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD.Inventor: Shir Ting Keong
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Patent number: 10259532Abstract: The control device is for controlling a transmission ratio between a traction means and a wheel set rotatable about a wheel axle and including at least two wheel blades alternatively wrapped around by the traction means. At least one of the wheel blades is composed of several independently adjustable wheel rim segments. The adjustment of the wheel rim segments in relation to a fixed plane (“plane of alignment”) in which the traction means wraps around the wheel set is effected by the control device in a direction substantially transverse to the plane of alignment. The control device includes at least one electrically actuatable control element, in particular a servomotor, provided that the at least one control element is arranged to rotate with the at least two wheel blades.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2015Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Praxis Works LLCInventor: Gregor Schuster
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Patent number: 10259533Abstract: A bicycle operating device includes a base member, a positioning ratchet, a positioning member, a pulling member, a pulling pawl and first and second release members. The positioning ratchet pivots in first and second directions. The positioning member moves between a holding position that prevents pivoting of the positioning ratchet in the first direction, and a releasing position that releases the positioning ratchet in the first direction. The pulling member pivots the positioning ratchet in the second direction as the pulling member is moved by the pulling pawl. The first release member moves the positioning member from the holding position to the releasing position. The second release member moves the pulling pawl away from the pulling member. The second release member extends between opposite axial sides of the positioning ratchet. The first release member and the pulling member are positioned on opposite axial sides of the positioning ratchet.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2017Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Kazutaka Fukao
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Patent number: 10259534Abstract: A recreational sport boat includes a hull, having starboard and port sides and a transom, and a pair of wake-modifying devices positioned aft of the transom. One of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a port side of the boat's centerline and another of the wake-modifying devices is positioned on a starboard side of the boat's centerline. Each wake-modifying device includes a plate-like member and at least one downturned surface at a trailing portion of the plate-like member. Each wake-modifying device is pivotable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position about a pivot axis that is horizontal or inclined no more than about 35° from horizontal. When a wake-modifying device is in the deployed position, the downturned surface is lower than it is in the non-deployed position so as to be able to modify the boat's wake.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2017Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: MasterCraft Boat Company, LLCInventors: Darren S. Sheedy, Matthew J. Huyge, Michael D. Myers, Zane E. Schwenk
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Patent number: 10259535Abstract: A collapsible watercraft comprised of a single high-strength foldable panel that is creased in a predetermined pattern to form living hinges, the panel being foldable to transform from self-defined compact knocked down package, into a rigid three dimensional kayak form. Other removable rigid structural members, bulkheads, seat assembly and floorboards help maintain the shape and integrity of the shell.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2018Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Oru Designs, LLCInventor: Anton Willis
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Patent number: 10259536Abstract: An anchor system for a floating object that includes an eyelet mounted on a rotating swivel arm. The eyelet is adapted to connect to a rope or cable that extends downward from the floating object. The swivel arm is adapted to rotate freely 360 degrees around a rigid support pole. The lower end of the support pole includes at least one support flange that is imbedded into a concrete block during manufacturing. The swivel arm includes a horizontal flange with a center bore adapted to receive the support pole. The support pole includes a lower stop surface and an upper stop surface. When assembled, the swivel arm is mounted on the support pole so that the horizontal flange is positioned between the lower and upper stop surfaces. Disposed around the support pole and between the horizontal flange and the upper and lower stop surfaces are upper and lower nylon washers.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2018Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Inventor: Timothy Knapp
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Patent number: 10259537Abstract: A bridle block is for a deflector, and has a stem and a rocker arm attached to each other on a pivot axis. The stem has an attachment for a vessel towline, a forward portion of the rocker arm has an attachment for fore bridle lines of the deflector, and an aft portion of the rocker arm has an attachment for aft bridle lines of the deflector. A hydraulic cylinder has a valve, and is attached to the stem and the rocker arm to hold the stem and the rocker arm in a relative position. The valve is operated by a signal from a control unit. The valve takes an open position when a signal is missing, so there is an open fluid connection between a piston side of a piston and a reservoir or an open fluid connection between the piston-rod side of the piston and the reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2015Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Mørenot Offshore ASInventors: Stig Hurlen, Terje Søvik
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Patent number: 10259538Abstract: A liquefied gas tank installed in a surrounding structural body includes: a tank main body in which a liquefied gas is storable, the tank main body including a plurality of planar portions and corner portions between the planar portions, the corner portions having less rigidity than that of the planar portions; a bottom supporting body that supports the tank main body from below the tank main body; and a plurality of side supporting bodies that support the tank main body from side of the tank main body. The tank main body is configured to stand by itself by being supported by the bottom supporting body when the tank main body stores no cargo, and be supported by the bottom supporting body and the side supporting bodies when the liquefied gas is stored in the tank main body.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2014Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Atsushi Sano, Naruyoshi Izumi, Yukichi Takaoka, Toshifumi Fukasawa, Hiroyasu Nishikawa, Hideki Kumamoto, Hiroaki Mori
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Patent number: 10259539Abstract: A method and apparatus for the water-based transfer of heavy loads. The invention is a lightweight apparatus is reconfigurable, and it includes a gantry arrangement mounted on beams or a platform and the apparatus is used to transfer heavy load items. The apparatus reconfigurable and may be used in a water-based loading environments in performing a variety of loading functions in situations involving one or more watercrafts and/or a pier or the like.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Robert J. Galway, Daniel J. Galway
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Patent number: 10259540Abstract: Systems and methods for launching and retrieving payloads in aquatic environments employ a platform that is both floatable and submersible at the discretion of and/or under the control of a user, on which submersible objects to be launched, delivered to a subsea location and/or retrieved (the payload) may be located. The submergible platform has a plurality of sealed and/or sealable buoyancy chambers and at least one low pressure gas storage tank having associated fixtures and valves providing introduction of gas to the buoyancy chambers. One or more buoyant elements may be coupled to the submersible platform to support the platform in a submerged condition. A payload docking system providing secure docking of a payload on the platform deck is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: OceanGate, Inc.Inventor: Richard Stockton Rush, III
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Patent number: 10259541Abstract: Low or no disturbance sampling can be accomplished such as through a single-platform aquatic species and habitat sampling system with data integration and rapid processing capabilities that can address the need for sampling at variable depths over varied habitats, along with the simultaneous collection of linked physical and biological data. The platform may be based on a 24-36 foot boat, and may include a net mouth opener brace for an adjustable concentrator net and smaller drift net which may be attached to an adjustable sample chamber, perhaps containing variable mesh capture nets as well as cameras, water sampling equipment, and water quality sensors integrated with a fish finder, GPS, and other monitoring and data recording equipment. The depth of the net mouth opener brace and sample chamber may be adjustable using a depth control.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2017Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: S.P. Cramer & Associates, Inc.Inventor: Joseph Merz
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Patent number: 10259542Abstract: A support structure floating in the open sea and connected to anchors by bracing elements. The support structure has a first component arranged under water and a second component cutting through the surface of the water. Furthermore, the first component has first buoyant bodies arranged at corner points of a polygon and serving as carriers of the second component and second buoyant bodies connecting them with one another and having a tube shape. A nodal structure connecting at least two second buoyant bodies with one another and at least one U-shaped junction plate are arranged in the first buoyant body. The nodal structure is simultaneously the carrier for a tube-shaped support element and is therefore a node of the underwater support structure that absorbs and channels off forces in connection with the junction plate. The second component has the tube-shaped support elements cutting through the surface of the water.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2014Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Gicon Windpower IP GmbHInventors: Jochen Grossmann, Frank Dahlhaus
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Patent number: 10259543Abstract: The invention relates to a system for the storage and production of electrical energy in a marine environment, wherein at least one ballast is lowered from a high position to a low position and then raised, by means of at least one cable (115) connected to a barge or platform (110). The barge comprises a generator/motor (113) actuated by the cable or actuating same. The ballasts (107, 108) are secured to a partially floating element (106) which is itself connected, by a retaining cable (105), to an element (101) floating on the surface and provided with means for varying the length of said retaining cable (105), the partially floating element (106) comprising a volume of gas compressible according to the surrounding pressure.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Inventor: Louis Stevens
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Patent number: 10259544Abstract: A motion control system for a ship has one or more sensors generating sea condition data and at least one ship control system. Analyzer software receives the sea condition data and predicts a sea condition event. Calculator software calculates one or more commands in preparation for the sea condition event. Interface software communicates the one or more commands to the at least one ship control system and the at least one ship control system implements a command in advance of the event. The at least one ship control system may comprise a ride control system having one or more motion control devices. The at least one ship control system may also comprise an auto pilot system.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2013Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Naiad Maritime Group, Inc.Inventors: John D. Venables, Christopher M. Pappas, Benton H. Schaub, Jr.
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Patent number: 10259545Abstract: The present invention relates generally to lighting systems employed in outboard motors used as marine propulsion systems, and to marine vessel assemblies employing outboard motors with such lighting systems, and related methods of operation and implementation. In one example embodiment of a lighting system, the lighting system includes a first cowling panel portion including a reflective strip portion, and a second cowling panel portion that, in combination with the first cowling panel portion, at least partly defines an interior region within the cowling. The lighting system also includes a lighting source that is positioned within the interior region and positioned so that, when operating, first light is emitted toward the reflective strip portion and, upon the first light reaching the reflective strip portion, at least some of the first light is directed outward away from the cowling.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: SEVEN MARINE, LLCInventors: Eric A. Davis, Richard A. Davis
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Patent number: 10259546Abstract: Described herein is a device for recovering an object from water comprising an object attachment point, for attaching the device to the object, and an inflatable and/or buoyant target mesh element, the attachment point and target mesh element being linked by an extendible line portion which is extendible when placed under longitudinal pressure. Such a “Man Overboard Recovery System” allows a vessel to remain under proper control in difficult weather conditions when dealing with a casualty recovery situation.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2015Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Inventor: Jeffrey William Birkin
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Patent number: 10259547Abstract: One or more specific embodiments herein includes a personal flotation device, comprising a vest capable of floating in water and having front panels; a power source; a light source; at least two support straps; a first electrical cable; and a second electrical cable. Further, the first electrical cable and the second electrical cable are capable of being connected to one another to form a connector assembly through which electrical current is capable of flowing, and the connector assembly includes a housing for preventing water from contacting the electrical current when the connector assembly is formed.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2018Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Inventor: George Kiel
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Patent number: 10259548Abstract: A splash guard for a snorkel tube has an extension pipe, a pivot member pivotally mounted on the extension pipe, a space surrounded by the extension pipe and the pivot member, a float member pivotally mounted on the pivot member and located in the space, a closure member disposed on the pivot member, and a cover disposed on the extension pipe. The extension pipe has a first aperture and a second aperture in opposition. The pivot member has two pivot arms and a support portion. A pivoting limit is formed in a surface of the support portion facing the extension pipe which is selectively abutted by the float member. The closure member selectively seals the first aperture. The cover has a socket selectively engaged by the projection. The present invention can prevent inadequate sealing and has the advantages of light weight and small volume.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: WATER SQUARE SPORTS CO., LTD.Inventor: Chen-Lieh Pan
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Patent number: 10259549Abstract: The invention relates to a launch apparatus for an Unmanned Underwater Vehicle—in particular, for an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle or for a Remotely Operated Vehicle—with a launching tube having an inner wall and an outlet, and the Unmanned Underwater Vehicle contained within the launching tube, whereby the Unmanned Underwater Vehicle has a vehicle casing with a vehicle casing inhomogeneity, such that an ejection of the Unmanned Underwater Vehicle causes different contact loads between the vehicle casing and the inner wall, whereby the Unmanned Underwater Vehicle has a detachable compensating form, which is designed in such a way that the vehicle inhomogeneity is compensated, such that the result is a combination of the Unmanned Underwater Vehicle and the detachable compensating form, the combination whereof, when ejected, causes a substantially more uniform contact load to occur between the combination and the inner wall.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2015Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: ATLAS ELEKTRONIK GMBHInventor: Detlef Lambertus
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Patent number: 10259550Abstract: A method for deploying a payload into a body of water using a deployment vessel, the deployment vessel including a hull defining a payload compartment, the method including positioning the payload in the payload compartment of the deployment vessel, the deployment vessel and the payload having a buoyancy, wherein the buoyancy is initially negative, deploying the deployment vessel into the water at a drop zone, wherein the deployment vessel moves horizontally through the water as it submerges vertically downward under a force of gravity, changing the buoyancy to positive after a minimum horizontal distance is established between the drop zone and the deployment vessel, thereby causing the deployment vessel to surface and, after the surfacing of the deployment vessel, opening the hull to release the payload therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2017Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Jamie J. Childress, Marci A. George, Paul L. Wynns, Kurt A. Matthews, John J. Fagan, Jr., Egan Greenstein
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Patent number: 10259551Abstract: A support strut has an upper end rotatable supported at a bottom of a vessel and a lower end supporting a casing. A first electric motor within the casing drives a propeller via a first shaft. An annular nozzle surrounds an outer perimeter of the propeller and is fixedly supported on the casing, with a support construction comprising at least three vanes extending in the radial direction between the outer perimeter of the casing and the inner perimeter of the nozzle. A duct for water flow is formed through the interior of the annular nozzle. The propeller pulls the vessel in a driving direction. The vanes are positioned after the propeller in the driving direction of the vessel, whereby the vanes are optimized for redirecting rotational flow components of the flow produced by the propeller into axial thrust.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: ABB OyInventor: Tomi Veikonheimo
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Patent number: 10259552Abstract: A rudder device is disclosed for a hydrojet vessel. The rudder device comprises a first mounting bracket coupled to a first hydrojet. A first rudder is coupled to the first hydrojet and the first mounting bracket. A second mounting bracket is coupled to a second hydrojet. A second rudder is coupled to the second hydrojet and the second mounting bracket. A coupling rod is pivotably coupled to the first hydrojet, the second hydrojet and a hull rudder for pivoting in alignment and in unison the first rudder with the first hydrojet and the second rudder with the second hydrojet relative to the hull rudder. The first rudder and the second rudder provide steerage to the vessel during non directional thrust absent from the first hydrojet and the second hydrojet.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2017Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Inventor: Jeffrey T. Walkowiak
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Patent number: 10259553Abstract: A watercraft having a propulsion mechanism extending through an opening in the bottom of the watercraft having a propulsion mechanism adapted to be inserted in an opening in the bottom of a watercraft comprising a pair of pedals each coupled to a flexible fin extending below the water line, the pair of fins oscillate through an arcuate path on a horizontal axis to propel the watercraft. The horizontal axis is preferably continuously rotatable in either direction through 360° on a vertical axis disposed at a substantially right angle to the longitudinal axis of the watercraft to propel the watercraft in any direction.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2017Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Hobie Cat CompanyInventors: Philip James Dow, Gregory Scott Ketterman, James Taylor Czarnowski, Jason Christopher Kardas, Drew William Brackett, Shane Yellin, John Thomas Myers, III
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Patent number: 10259554Abstract: An outboard motor has an adapter plate with an upper surface supporting an engine, a lower surface spaced therefrom, and fore and aft sides connecting the upper and lower surfaces. A first pocket is defined in the adapter plate's fore side and a second pocket is defined in its aft side. A midsection housing is coupled to the adapter plate's lower surface and suspends a propulsion unit therebelow. A driveshaft coupling the engine's output shaft to the propulsion unit's propeller shaft extends through the adapter plate. A steering arm, which extends into the first pocket, has a hole through which the driveshaft extends. A mount in the second pocket is located aft of the driveshaft, and the mount's fore side is coupled to the steering arm's aft end by way of connectors. A cover plate attached to the adapter plate's aft side secures the mount within the second pocket.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2018Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Brunswick CorporationInventors: Charles H. Eichinger, Wayne M. Jaszewski, Donald Anderson, Jr.
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Patent number: 10259555Abstract: A method for controlling movement of a marine vessel near an object includes accepting a signal representing a desired movement of the marine vessel from a joystick. A sensor senses a shortest distance between the object and the marine vessel and a direction of the object with respect to the marine vessel. A controller compares the desired movement of the marine vessel with the shortest distance and the direction. Based on the comparison, the controller selects whether to command the marine propulsion system to generate thrust to achieve the desired movement, or alternatively whether to command the marine propulsion system to generate thrust to achieve a modified movement that ensures the marine vessel maintains at least a predetermined range from the object. The marine propulsion system then generates thrust to achieve the desired movement or the modified movement, as commanded.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Brunswick CorporationInventors: Aaron J. Ward, Michael J. Lemancik
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Patent number: 10259556Abstract: A marine vessel engine in which moving parts found in conventional marine engines are eliminated, wherein such engine is used for the propulsion of marine vessels. In the marine vessel engine, no lubrication or cooling is required, and a column of water replaces the conventional piston in a cylinder of the engine, wherein such water column partially fills such cylinder. The marine vessel engine comprises a cylinder, a bent tube with a plurality of openings and two ends, a flapping member, at least one solenoid valve, and an exhaust. In operation of the marine vessel engine, a column of water fills the cylinder through the bent tube openings, and is purged outside from the cylinder through the flapping member. The at least one solenoid valve controls the flow of a power source into the cylinder.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Jordan University of Science and TechnologyInventor: Khaled Rafiq Asfar
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Patent number: 10259557Abstract: Described and illustrated is a pressure bulkhead for an aircraft fuselage, comprising a sandwich structure defining a central axis and extending between a circumferential border area which is configured for being mounted to a fuselage shell, wherein the sandwich structure comprises an inner face sheet extending perpendicularly with respect to the central axis, an outer face sheet opposite the inner face sheet, extending perpendicularly with respect to the central axis, and a core assembly sandwiched between the inner face sheet and the outer face sheet, wherein the inner face sheet, when viewed in a radial cross section along the central axis, has an even shape.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventors: Paul Jörn, Markus Müller
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Patent number: 10259558Abstract: A lavatory for an aircraft cabin includes a wall having a forward wall portion disposed immediately aft of and substantially conforming to an exterior aft surface of an aircraft cabin structure, such as a passenger seat, that is substantially not flat in a vertical plane. The forward wall portion includes a forward projection over an aft portion of the adjacent passenger seat. The forward wall portion can define a secondary space in the interior lavatory space, which can provide an amenity stowage space, and can include design elements providing visual space.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: B/E Aerospace, Inc.Inventors: Donald F. Cook, Liberty Harrington, Philipp Steiner, Robert K. Brauer, Trevor Skelly
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Patent number: 10259559Abstract: A hidden latch system for an interior structure of an aircraft includes at least two engagement features coupled to an interior structure of an aircraft. Each of the at least two engagement features includes an engagement portion, an engagement rod, and a self-centering feature. The engagement portion is configured to engage and release the engagement rod, and the self-centering feature is configured to self-center the engagement rod in at least one direction. Further, the engagement portion is configured to release the engagement rod using a cable pull system.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2015Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Troy N. Terry, Jasen P. Schoales
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Patent number: 10259560Abstract: A modular payload system for an aircraft includes a modular bay recessed within the aircraft. The modular bay includes a modular bay interface. The modular payload system includes a plurality of payload modules each having a respective function and a payload interface adapted to connect to at least a portion of the modular bay interface. The plurality of payload modules are interchangeably insertable into the modular bay to enable the modular bay to support the functions of the plurality of payload modules.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.Inventors: Steven Ray Ivans, Brent Chadwick Ross
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Patent number: 10259561Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating an airfoil system. A gas may be generated. The gas may be sent into an inflatable airfoil system comprising an inflatable air foil and a section. The inflatable airfoil may have an inner end and an outer end in which the inflatable airfoil may be comprised of a number of materials that substantially pass electromagnetic waves through the inflatable airfoil. The section may have a number of openings in which the inner end of the inflatable airfoil may be associated with the section. The section may be configured to be associated with a fuselage. The number of openings may be configured to provide communications with an interior of the inflatable airfoil. The section with the number of openings may be configured to reduce reflection of the electromagnetic waves encountering the section.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2018Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Kevin Reed Lutke, Aaron Jonathan Kutzmann
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Patent number: 10259562Abstract: Sounds are generated by an aerial vehicle during operation. For example, the motors and propellers of an aerial vehicle generate sounds during operation. Disclosed are systems, methods, and apparatus for actively adjusting the position of one or more propeller blade treatments of a propeller blade of an aerial vehicle during operation of the aerial vehicle. For example, the propeller blade may have one or more propeller blade treatments that may be adjusted between two or more positions. Based on the position of the propeller blade treatments, the airflow over the propeller is altered, thereby altering the sound generated by the propeller when rotating. By altering the propeller blade treatments on multiple propeller blades of the aerial vehicle, the different sounds generated by the different propeller blades may effectively cancel, reduce, and/or otherwise alter the total sound generated by the aerial vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2015Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Brian C. Beckman, Gur Kimchi, Allan Ko
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Patent number: 10259563Abstract: A lift fan includes a stator which is configured to output a magnetic field. The lift fan also includes a first housing which in turn includes a blade, a second housing, and a magnet array. The magnet array is coupled to either the first housing or the second housing and the housing, which is coupled to the magnet array, rotates in response to the magnet array responding magnetically to the magnetic field output by the stator.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2017Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Kitty Hawk CorporationInventor: Geoffrey Alan Long
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Patent number: 10259564Abstract: A control unit for controlling movement of a stabilizer and an elevator on an aircraft, the control unit comprising a processor which is configured to receive a pitch reference command from a flight control input device of the aircraft, determine, based on the pitch reference command, an elevator command configured to command the elevator in the aircraft nose-up or nose-down direction, determine a difference between the elevator command and a desired elevator value corresponding to the pitch reference command, determine a threshold value as a desired maximum elevator deflection at a given pitch reference command, compare the difference with the threshold value and in response thereto generate a command signal configured to retain a current position of the stabilizer when the difference is smaller than or equal to the threshold value, and to command the elevator in the aircraft nose-up or nose-down direction based on the pitch reference command.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Gulfstream Aerospace CorporationInventors: Michael Clay Harden, Jong-Yeob Shin
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Patent number: 10259565Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a low-distortion inlet assembly for reducing airflow swirl distortion entering an aft fan mounted to a fuselage of an aircraft. Further, the inlet assembly includes a plurality of structural members mounted at one or more predetermined locations around a circumference of the fan shaft of the fan. More specifically, the predetermined location(s) has a swirl distortion exceeding a predetermined threshold. Further, the inlet assembly includes at least one airflow modifying element configured within the inlet so as to reduce swirl distortion entering the fan.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Kishore Ramakrishnan, Shourya Prakash Otta
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Patent number: 10259566Abstract: An aircraft includes an elongated wing having a leading edge extending to a trailing edge, an upper surface extending from the leading edge to the trailing edge, and a lower surface extending from the leading edge to the trailing edge; an air passage forming an entrance opening at the leading edge and configured to extend to an exit opening positioned at the upper surface; and an airflow stop configured to control airflow movement through the air passage.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Inventor: James Randolph Lawrence
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Patent number: 10259567Abstract: A multilayer construction for aerodynamic riblets includes a first layer composed of a material with protuberances, the first layer material exhibiting a first characteristic having long-term durability and a second layer composed of a material, exhibiting a second characteristic with capability for adherence to a surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Diane C. Rawlings, Kevin R. Malone
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Patent number: 10259568Abstract: A non-jamming shrink latch assembly for retractable aircraft landing gear is disclosed. The non-jamming shrink latch assembly may comprise a rod; a hook pivotally coupled to a first rod end of the rod; a lower link having a first lower link end and a second lower link end, wherein the first lower link end is pivotally coupled to the hook; and an upper link pivotally coupled to the second lower link end of the lower link. The hook may be configured to move from a locked position to an open position in response to receiving a mechanical load from the lower link. The hook may also be configured to move from the open position to the locked position in response to receiving a mechanical load from a roller.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: GOODRICH CORPORATIONInventor: William E. Luce
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Patent number: 10259569Abstract: A brake system for an aircraft is provided according to various embodiments. The system may include a left pedal arrangement comprising a left pedal, a first left sensor to generate a first left signal in response to translation of the left pedal. The system also includes a right pedal arrangement comprising a right pedal, a first right sensor to generate a first right signal in response to translation of the right pedal. Normal brake control logic controls the brake system in response to a normal condition being set. The normal brake control logic commands a left brake based on the left signal, and a right brake based on the first right signal. Emergency brake control logic controls the brake system in response to an emergency condition being set. The emergency brake control logic commands a same force to the left and right brakes based the left and right signals.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Goodrich CorporationInventors: Eric Cahill, Efrem E. Ayichew
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Patent number: 10259570Abstract: An electrically actuated braking system for an aircraft, comprising: an electro-mechanical brake actuator (EMAbrake) proximate a wheel of the aircraft, the EMAbrake including a motor; an electro-mechanical actuator controller (EMAC) including a motor controller for generating a drive signal for the EMAbrake; and a braking control unit for generating a braking force command signal for the EMAC, wherein the braking control unit and the EMAC are disposed together with the EMAbrake in a common line replaceable unit (LRU).Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2014Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Airbus Operations LimitedInventors: George Iordanidis, John Rees
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Patent number: 10259571Abstract: An electrically controlled park and emergency brake system is disclosed. The brake system may comprise a brake control module having a shut-off valve in fluid communication with an outboard servo-valve and an inboard servo-valve. An emergency/park power source may supply fluid to the shut-off valve. The brake system may also comprise a vehicle management system in electronic communication with the brake control module. The brake system may also comprise mechanical inputs, including a wheel well brake handle and a cockpit brake handle. The brake system may also comprise redundant emergency/park power sources.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Goodrich CorporationInventors: Eric Daniel Cahill, Paul R. Burte, Casey Canan, Efrem E. Ayichew, David B. Stein
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Patent number: 10259572Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining failure diagnosis of drive systems of rotorcrafts through measuring the spectral characteristics of rotational oscillations and torsional oscillations and steady windup of a drive shaft. Mechanical anomalies of the drive system will alter the spectral characteristics of rotational oscillations and torsional oscillations and steady windup as detected by a pair of variable reluctance sensors in conjunction with a radial grating mounted on the drive shaft.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2015Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.Inventors: Rodney Keith Hale, Steven Kirk Spears, Brian Tucker
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Patent number: 10259573Abstract: A coaxial twin-propeller twin-motor aerial vehicle comprises an upper propeller (1), a lower propeller (2) and an aerial vehicle body (3). A first motor (4) and a second motor (5) are disposed in the aerial vehicle body (3). The first motor (4) is connected to the lower propeller (2) through a first transmission shaft (42). The second motor (5) is disposed below the first motor (4) and is connected to the upper propeller (1) through a second transmission shaft (52). The second transmission shaft (52) passes through the first motor (4), the first transmission shaft (42), and the lower propeller (2) sequentially and then is connected to the upper propeller (1). The second transmission shaft (52) and the first transmission shaft (42) are coaxial. The upper propeller (1) and the lower propeller (2) rotate at the same speed and in opposite directions under the drive of their individual motors.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2016Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: GoerTek Technology Co., Ltd.Inventor: Zhongyu Cai
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Patent number: 10259574Abstract: Sounds are generated by an aerial vehicle during operation. For example, the motors and propellers of an aerial vehicle generate sounds during operation. Disclosed are systems, methods, and apparatus for actively adjusting the position of one or more propeller blade treatments of a propeller blade of an aerial vehicle during operation of the aerial vehicle. For example, the propeller blade may have one or more propeller blade treatments that may be adjusted between two or more positions. Based on the position of the propeller blade treatments, the airflow over the propeller is altered, thereby altering the sound generated by the propeller when rotating. By altering the propeller blade treatments on multiple propeller blades of the aerial vehicle, the different sounds generated by the different propeller blades may effectively cancel, reduce, and/or otherwise alter the total sound generated by the aerial vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2015Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Brian C. Beckman, Gur Kimchi, Allan Ko
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Patent number: 10259575Abstract: A system and method for counteracting a rotor moment of one or more rotors of a coaxial rotor helicopter includes receiving signals with a processor indicative of a displacement command from a controller during a flight maneuver; receiving one or more signals with the processor from a sensor indicative of an airspeed and air density for the helicopter; determining a commanded rate of acceleration for the helicopter during the flight maneuver; and adjusting with one or more control servos a cyclic pitch for the one or more rotors to counteract the rotor moment during the flight maneuver.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2015Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: SIKORSKY AIRCRAFT CORPORATIONInventors: Matthew T. Luszcz, Matthew A. White, Kenneth S. Wittmer
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Patent number: 10259576Abstract: A rotary system including a grip having an opening forming a first bridge for receiving a centrifugal force bearing that faces inwardly towards the rotor mast. A rotor blade couples to the grip and a pitch horn positioned outside the opening pitches the rotor blade during flight. A bearing assembly attaches the first bridge to the yoke and controls blade forces exerted against the hub assembly during flight.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2017Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.Inventors: Chad Lewis Jarrett, Frank Bradley Stamps, Glenn Shimek
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Patent number: 10259577Abstract: A flight control apparatus for fixed-wing aircraft includes a first port wing and first starboard wing, a first port swash plate coupled between a first port rotor and first port electric motor, the first port electric motor coupled to the first port wing, and a first starboard swash plate coupled between a first starboard rotor and first starboard electric motor, the first starboard electric motor coupled to the first starboard wing.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2018Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: AEROVIRONMENT, INC.Inventors: Dana J. Taylor, Phillip T. Tokumaru, Bart Dean Hibbs, William Martin Parks, David Wayne Ganzer, Joseph Frederick King
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Patent number: 10259578Abstract: Provided are an unmanned aerial vehicle executing relief work in an emergency such as a disaster, a relief system, and a relief method for performing relief work by using an unmanned aerial vehicle. An unmanned aerial vehicle capable of performing autonomous flight includes a receiving unit receiving an input of relief work from a user A2 and a control unit controlling the execution of the relief work based on content of the input received by the receiving unit.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2017Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Yuusuke Sekine, Shinya Sano, Chisato Iwakiri, Ryouta Yamane
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Patent number: 10259579Abstract: Vehicles such as unmanned air vehicles that are capable of movement from an open, flight configuration to an enclosed configuration in which all major flight components can be protected by an outer shell are disclosed. In the enclosed configuration, the vehicles can take on standard geometric shapes such as a rectangular prism, sphere, cylinder, or another shape, so as to not be recognizable as an unmanned air vehicle. Embodiments of vehicles can also include interchangeable and/or wireless motor arms, motor arms which are electrically connected to the remainder of the vehicle only when in an open configuration, remote controllers removably attached to the remainder of the vehicle, and clip or other attachment mechanisms for attachment to objects such as backpacks.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2018Date of Patent: April 16, 2019Assignee: GoPro, Inc.Inventor: Ryan Michael Goldstein