Mechanism Operated Relatively Movable Shaft Assembly Patents (Class 52/111)
  • Patent number: 11421415
    Abstract: A foundation support system for supporting a manufactured building from a ground surface, includes a pan configured to engage the ground surface. The pan includes a longitudinal bracket integrally formed in the pan. The bracket includes a pair of spaced walls extending in a longitudinal direction. First and second longitudinal struts include first and second lower strut ends, respectively, received between and attached to the spaced walls of the longitudinal bracket. The pan may also include an integrally formed lateral bracket which receives a lateral strut. The pan may include integral reinforcing ribs extending parallel to and between the walls of each bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2022
    Assignee: Home Pride, Inc.
    Inventors: William B. Blevins, Andrew W. Oliphant, Claude E. Hammonds, Jason M. Wilson
  • Patent number: 11408193
    Abstract: There is disclosed a telescopic mast including one or more telescopic members with parallel walls. One of two adjacent telescoping sections is narrower than the other of the two adjacent telescoping sections such that a telescoping section can be moved into and out of, respectively, of a surrounding telescoping section in a telescopic member. This surrounding telescoping section can be moved into and out of a further telescoping section in a further telescopic member. In the one telescoping section in a telescopic member there is provided a guide rail running in axial direction of the telescoping section. Between each of two adjacent telescoping sections in a telescopic member there is provided at least one spacer means arranged for keeping the telescoping sections apart and controlling their mutual movement. This means includes a mounting fitting fastened to the second telescoping section in a telescopic member and a flexible sleeve mounted in the mounting fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Inventor: Jan Falck-Schmidt
  • Patent number: 10801229
    Abstract: The present invention is a remotely activated flag pole that raises and lowers a flag automatically and stores a flag within the hollow flag pole assembly when the flag is lowered. The flag pole includes a cap that lowers into place over the flag receiving section as the flag is lowered and allows the stored flag to remain dry and out of the weather when the flag is in its lowered stored position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Inventor: Donald A. George, Sr.
  • Patent number: 10119266
    Abstract: A sparse-isogrid columnar lattice structure including rigid ring frames connected by a mirrored symmetric double helix pattern comprised of first shell hinge elements in a first helical pattern and second shell hinge elements in a second helical pattern oriented in an opposite direction to the first helical pattern and congruent thereto. The helical axes of the first and second helical patterns intersect the respective centers of the ring frames. The first and second shell hinge elements are configured to stow in a stored energy state when the ring frames are collapsed toward one another along the helical axis, and the first and second shell hinge elements are configured to release the stored energy to deploy to a restored state and extend the ring frames apart from each other along the helical axis when deployed to form a stable rigid axial column in a restored state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: The Government of the United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Air Force
    Inventors: Sungeun K. Jeon, Jeremy Banik, Michael Peterson
  • Patent number: 9771731
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a building construction that includes an internal entertainment venue or event area. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide for a building with transient lodging, offices, residential space, or similar living spaces that surround an entertainment venue, event area, or recreational space in manner that allows the entertainment venue, event area, or recreational space to be viewable from those occupied areas of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Inventor: Jorge L. Canavati
  • Patent number: 9637944
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for assembling concrete towers with a decreasing sector for wind turbines which comprises a phase of pre-assembly of concrete tower sections which allows to reduce the space required during the stage of pre-assembly of the different tower section prior to lifting and the civil work associated to set said space up wherein, during the pre-assembly phase, a first annular section is confined at least partially within the inner space defined by a second annular section, the invention also relating to the wind turbine associated to said method of assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Acciona Windpower, S.A.
    Inventors: Teresa Arlaban Gabeiras, Ivan Garcia Maestre, Inigo Rubio Guillen, Jose Luis Aristegui Lantero, Javier Ciaurriz Martin, Jose Miguel Garcia Sayes, Miguel Nunez Polo
  • Patent number: 9488014
    Abstract: Disclosed is a drill rig having two master skids. Wherein prior to assembly of the drill rig, the master skids include a base box structure and a supported box structure arranged in a nested relationship. Additionally, the base box structures house hydraulic components and support components necessary to raise and support the supported box structure at an operational position. Further, the base box structures includes hydraulic components necessary to raise the drill rig mast to an operational position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: Unit Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Sparkman, Charles Vora, Aaron Chang
  • Patent number: 9416595
    Abstract: A method includes attaching a carriage support to a platform, the platform comprising a platform floor having an opening therein, with the carriage support located proximate the opening, attaching a drive carriage to the carriage support, and operably coupling to the drive carriage a first mast section of a mast comprising a plurality of mast sections, and wherein the first mast section is located above the opening. The method also includes arranging a second mast section below the first mast section, lowering, using the drive carriage, the first mast section through the opening, attaching the first mast section to the second mast section, and raising, using the drive carriage, the first mast section and the second mast section through the opening. In an exemplary embodiment, the platform floor is a rig floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Assignee: Nabors Drilling International Limited
    Inventors: Anthony Petrello, Padira Reddy, Ashish Gupta, Sean M. Bailey
  • Patent number: 9279267
    Abstract: A system comprising a support structure having a plurality of vertically extending members arranged to define a mast channel, the support structure attached to a platform having a rig floor and the support structure positioned above an opening in the rig floor; a first mast section that is attached to the support structure; a second mast section that is attached to the support structure and the first mast section; and a third mast section; wherein the system has a first arrangement in which the third mast section is located below the rig floor in a vertical position and is vertically spaced from the second mast; and wherein the system has a second arrangement in which the third mast section is attached to the second mast section and at least a portion of the third mast extends within the opening of the rig floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: NABORS DRILLING INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
    Inventors: Anthony Petrello, Padira Reddy, Ashish Gupta, Sean M. Bailey
  • Patent number: 9279288
    Abstract: A stepless ladder is provided that may comprise a frame adapted to support the weight of a user, a track attached to a portion of the frame, an escalating member attached to the track, the escalating member for supporting the weight of the user, and an escalating means adapted to raise and lower the escalating member along the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Inventor: Thomas G. Duff
  • Patent number: 8997435
    Abstract: A method including arranging a plurality of actuators into an operating position, arranging a first upper frame and a second upper frame proximate the actuators, attaching a support to the first upper frame and the second upper frame, wherein the support is located above the actuators, and extending the actuators to engage the support. The method also includes extending the actuators to raise the support, the first upper frame, and the second upper frame to a first position, arranging a first middle frame below the first upper frame and a second middle frame below the second upper frame, retracting the actuators to lower the support, the first upper frame, and the second upper frame to a second position, and attaching the first upper frame to the first middle frame and attaching the second upper frame to the second middle frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Nabors Drilling International Limited
    Inventors: Padira Reddy, Ashish Gupta, Sean M. Bailey
  • Patent number: 8938930
    Abstract: An apparatus for supporting tubular goods and wellbore tools that can be used to perform down-hole operations in oil and gas wells. The support apparatus has a minimal footprint and requires minimal surface area. The support apparatus can be used to jack and remove casing and other pipe, as well as other rig-less downhole well operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventors: Charles Larue Bryant, Jr., David J. Ruttley
  • Patent number: 8935901
    Abstract: A method comprising attaching a first mast section to a support structure using a first plurality of fasteners located on the support structure, wherein a lower portion of the support structure is connected to and located above an opening in the platform comprising a platform floor, and wherein the first mast section has a line, a hook, and a pulley, with the line operably coupled to the pulley and connected to a hoist attached to the platform. The method also comprises lowering the hook, using the hoist, in a downward direction away from the pulley and through the opening, attaching the hook to a second mast section located below the platform floor, raising the hook and the second mast section, using the hoist, in an upward direction towards the pulley and through the opening, and connecting the first mast section to the second mast section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Nabors Drilling International Limited
    Inventors: Anthony Petrello, Padira Reddy, Ashish Gupta, Sean M. Bailey
  • Publication number: 20150016996
    Abstract: A rotor blade includes a first rotor blade section, a second rotor blade section, a control device, and a reset device. The control device is configured to displace the first rotor blade section and the second rotor blade section relative to each other so as to form a telescopic rotor blade which can adopt a minimum position, an intermediate position or a maximum position. The reset device is configured so that, when the control device experiences a functional limitation, the telescopic rotor blade assumes the minimum position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Rolf Rohden
  • Patent number: 8925257
    Abstract: A method includes attaching a carriage support to a platform, the platform comprising a platform floor having an opening therein, with the carriage support located proximate the opening, attaching a drive carriage to the carriage support, and operably coupling to the drive carriage a first mast section of a mast comprising a plurality of mast sections, and wherein the first mast section is located above the opening. The method also includes arranging a second mast section below the first mast section, lowering, using the drive carriage, the first mast section through the opening, attaching the first mast section to the second mast section, and raising, using the drive carriage, the first mast section and the second mast section through the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Nabors Drilling International Limited
    Inventors: Anthony Petrello, Padira Reddy, Ashish Gupta, Sean M. Bailey
  • Publication number: 20140366460
    Abstract: An improved agricultural spray boom having a primary section, a secondary section and a break away section is provided. The primary section has a top extrusion having a web and two tubes, each tube having a heat sink and a wing. No welds are located above the centerline of the tubes where stress would be the greatest. The secondary section is pivotally attached to the primary section. Weight of the second section and break away section cause a twisting force to be applied to the primary section. The primary section has specially oriented side braces which act in compression to resist the twisting force. The primary section further has a steel connector connected to the underside of the extrusions (and not welded to top of extrusions). The secondary section also has a top extrusion with a web and two tubes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2013
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Applicant: Speciality Enterprises, LLC
    Inventors: Michael D. Peters, Peter J. Heinen, Roy Venton-Walters, Gregory Jackson Klemp, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8904716
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a bi-directionally raisable drilling rig mast system that includes a drilling rig mast having a bi-directional mast erection connection, a first erection connection positioned proximate a first side of a rig substructure, and a second erection connection positioned proximate a second side of the rig substructure, the second side being at an opposite side of the rig substructure from the first side. The system further includes at least one mast erection apparatus having an upper end that is adapted to be pivotably attached to the bi-directional mast erection connection and a lower end that is adapted to be pivotably attached to the first erection connection for erecting the drilling rig mast from the first side of the substructure, the lower end being further adapted to be pivotably attached to the second erection connection for erecting the drilling rig mast from the second side of the substructure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Robert Benjamin Donnally, Chunqiao Ren, Xilin Liu
  • Patent number: 8875447
    Abstract: A completion system and method adapted for use in wells having long lateral boreholes includes a mast assembly, a pipe handling mechanism, a pipe arm, a pipe tub, a pump/pit combination skid, a rig carrier, and a control system. The mast assembly can extend in a generally vertical direction, e.g., perpendicular to the rig carrier and/or the earth's surface, such that the rig can be placed directly adjacent to a wellbore, and the top drive or a similar drive system can be engaged with and move along the mast while remaining above the wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Superior Energy Services-North America Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Flusche
  • Publication number: 20140318040
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a portable tower having multiple sections including a base section and at least two slidable sections. The sections form a nested telescopic structure where each of the slidable sections is configured to move within another of the sections. The tower can also include a lifting system configured to extend the at least two slidable sections substantially simultaneously. Each section of the tower may also include multiple rollers configured to roll against at least one adjacent section of the tower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2013
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: SOLARIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Jonathan Edwards, Jose Manuel Villasenor
  • Publication number: 20140311057
    Abstract: A telescoping mast for deploying, retracting and securing a payload of equipment. The mast is formulated using advantaged geometry and comprises interlocking support legs and relatively lightweight skins mounted between the support legs as its base structure. In addition, some embodiments of the disclosed apparatus provide a secure channel through the mast for cables necessary for the operation of equipment mounted in a payload. Still further, some embodiments of the disclosed apparatus provide a wire rope and pulley system to raise and lower the mast and include structural flexibility to enable the telescoping mast to be used at various intermediate heights in between full extension and fully retracted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: News Sports Microwave Rental Inc, dba NSM Surveillance
    Inventors: John Michael Puetz, Jesse Richard Gililland, VI, Thomas Davidson Ford
  • Publication number: 20140259984
    Abstract: A head assembly includes a first portion including a first member and a first motor coupled to the first component, the first member configured to rotate about a first axis of rotation. The head assembly also includes a second portion including a second member and a second motor coupled to the second component, the second member configured to rotate about a second axis of rotation, the second axis of rotation being different than the first axis of rotation. The head assembly also includes a third portion including a clamping assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: KONECRANES PLC
    Inventor: Joe Yustus
  • Patent number: 8720127
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved apparatus and method for forming a retractable tower or column. The present invention includes pointed hooks wherein the hooks are attached to each section of a section chain, one in a horizontal direction and one in an off-set manner. The section chains are placed on a take up mechanism in an operable position and then raised utilizing a motor. As the section chains are raised, they are guided by a guide tower, rollers, shims, and gear racks into a position whereby hooks from adjacent sections of the section chains form coupled engagements. The coupled engagement of the hooks of the sections of each adjacent section chains thereby form the column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Tower Solutions, LLC
    Inventor: Steven A. Olsen
  • Publication number: 20140115977
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for a tower structure and erection thereof include, in one embodiment, a tower structure comprising a base support member, a mast structure pivotally coupled to the base support member, and a motion control device coupled between the base support member and the mast structure for controlling movement therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: EMI PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Fallon M. EGAN, Christoval SANCHEZ, Patrick M. WEISBROD
  • Publication number: 20140102803
    Abstract: A derrick apparatus for a drilling machine (10), the apparatus comprising a fixed structure (48, 50) for supporting drill equipment (14, 16), wherein the fixed structure (48, 50) has a generally prismatic shape with a generally constant cross-section along the vertical extent of the fixed structure (48, 50), and wherein the fixed structure (48, 50) comprises supporting beams (48, 50) about outer parts of the fixed structure and a void extending across the internal width of the fixed structure (48, 50).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicants: ULSTEIN SEA OF SOLUTIONS BV, NLI ENGINEERING AS
    Inventors: Mattis Storhaug, Adam Franciscus, Johannes, Maria Lambregts, Arjan Hendrik Boezeman
  • Patent number: 8661744
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a telescopic mast which at least includes one or more telescoping joints, where a telescoping joint is formed of two telescoping sections dimensioned so that one section can be moved into another section, where between each of the two adjacent telescoping sections in a telescoping joint there is provided at least one actuator urging the adjacent telescoping sections away from each other, where these actuators are disposed internally of the telescoping joints and offset at the internal periphery. By disposing actuators offset at the inner periphery of the telescoping sections, several advantages are achieved. The actuators are provided at a protected location, and the actuators may be designed with lengths that overlap each other when the telescopic mast is collapsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Falck Schmidt Defence Systems A/S
    Inventor: Lars Keller
  • Publication number: 20130299190
    Abstract: According to one aspect, a drilling rig carriage is adapted to move along a drilling mast, and includes a body structure, electric motors coupled to the body structure, and pinions operably coupled to the electric motors, respectively. The pinions are adapted to engage racks, respectively. According to another aspect, a drilling mast includes a longitudinally-extending frame having a first side portion and a second side portion spaced therefrom. Racks are coupled to the frame at the first side portion thereof. According to yet another aspect, an apparatus includes a drilling mast or tower extending longitudinally along an axis, the tower including racks spaced in a parallel relation. A top drive is movable along the axis and relative to the tower. Electric motors are coupled to the top drive and movable therewith. Pinions are operably coupled to the electric motors, respectively, and engage the racks, respectively, to move the top drive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Padira REDDY, Ashish Gupta, Sean M. Bailey, Richmond Todd Fox, Scott G. Boone, Beat Kuttel
  • Patent number: 8578663
    Abstract: A cover for an inflatable modular structure is claimed. A plurality of covers fit on the core of an inflatable module. An inflatable shell is attached to the core enclosing the covers and the core. In the pre-deployed configuration, the inflatable shell is folded over the covers and the covers provide a measure of protection for the shell. In the deployed state, the inflatable shell is filled with air and expands to its deployed configuration. The covers can be removed from core and attached to the inside of the shell. The covers then function as a platform to secure items in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Bigelow Aerospace
    Inventor: Robert T. Bigelow
  • Patent number: 8555564
    Abstract: A method to assemble a drilling rig includes providing a base structure of the drilling rig, stacking a rig floor including a derrick on the base structure, actuating lifting cylinders to lift the rig floor above the base structure, inserting at least one first upper box between the base structure and the rig floor, and retracting the lifting cylinders to set the rig floor atop the at least one first upper box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Integrated Drilling Equipment Company LLC
    Inventor: Philip Wasterval
  • Publication number: 20130239490
    Abstract: A telescoping structure includes a hollow outer section and a hollow inner section slidably mounted in the hollow outer section. The hollow outer section includes a first sidewall, a second sidewall and a third sidewall. The hollow inner section includes a fourth sidewall, a fifth sidewall and a sixth sidewall. A pair of sliding rails is disposed on the interior side of the first sidewall and a pair of raised sliding grooves is defined on the exterior side of the fourth sidewall. The pair of raised sliding grooves engages with the pair of sliding rails to enable a sliding movement of the hollow inner section relative to the hollow outer section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventors: WEI PENG, WEN-JING LIU, HSING-YI HU
  • Patent number: 8517037
    Abstract: The Elevated Habitable Module is primarily an enclosed living space that folds to a very small size and deploys to a tall and large elevated living quarters. It is designed to be readily transported and erected by utilizing a light weight design that unfolds easily and is uncomplicated to assemble. The floor is secure from ground animals and people by elevating it off of ground level. The design also ensures important basic living features, such as electricity which is often not initially available on site in remote locations, and a method of collecting rain water along with filtration so it can be used for drinking or sanitation purposes. The supporting structure is suitable for a variety of places, including flat surfaces or rugged terrain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: Carlo Alberto Vazquez
  • Publication number: 20130161128
    Abstract: A multi-stage mast module is cooperable with a mast lift. The mast lift includes a base supporting the multi-stage mast module and a platform coupled with the multi-stage mast module. The multi-stage mast module includes a mast unit including a plurality of telescoping mast sections, and a multi-stage drive connected between the telescoping mast sections of the mast unit. Gas springs are connected between the telescoping mast sections of the mast unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: JLG INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Jason James Watson, Geoffrey George Campbell
  • Patent number: 8468753
    Abstract: Systems and methods for erecting a drilling rig. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco L.P.
    Inventors: Robert Benjamin Donnally, Chunqiao Ren, Stuart Arthur Lyall McCurdy, Xi Lin Liu, Hui Chun Sheng, Yan Yu
  • Patent number: 8413390
    Abstract: Aspects of the invention relate to telescoping mast assemblies (telescoping “towers”), polygonal sided masts for use in such assemblies, methods of fabricating polygonal sided masts, methods and apparatus for sequentially actuating and deactuating hold-down and locking mechanisms in telescoping towers, and such other aspects as will be understood from the present descriptions and drawings. Telescopic towers are usable for supporting and raising to a height any type of communications payload, including, for example, radio antennas, television antennas, any type of surveillance and/or sensor payloads, including, for example, microphones, cameras, flood lights, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: US Tower Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth J. Pereira
  • Patent number: 8365471
    Abstract: A telescoping tower comprising a sensor for monitoring an environmental condition, a processor for comparing the monitored environmental condition to a predetermined value, and an actuator for automatically retracting the telescoping tower if the environmental condition is equal to or greater than the predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Aluma Tower Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald L. Diniz, Lowell Malo, Steve Fuhrman, Craig A. Davis
  • Patent number: 8288973
    Abstract: A telescoping mast with a cabling system configured to cover and store cable within the structure of the mast and able to efficiently extend and retract multiple telescoping sections without jar and minimal energy. The telescoping mast has a hollow mast housing. A telescoping section is nested within the interior of the mast housing. A set of upper pulleys affixed to the upper end of the mast housing, while a set of lower pulleys affixed to the lower end of the telescoping section. A cable is threaded through the first upper pulleys and first lower pulleys such that a first end of the cable is attached to the mast housing and the cable remains taut when the telescoping section is raised or lowered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: NS Microwave
    Inventor: Thomas Davidson Ford
  • Patent number: 8278863
    Abstract: A telescoping mast able to efficiently extend and retract multiple telescoping sections without jar and minimal energy. The telescoping mast has multiple telescoping sections, a position feedback sensor, a motor, a spring motor, and a computation unit. The position feedback sensor is coupled to at least one telescoping section and configured to identify a position of the telescoping sections. The motor is also coupled to the telescoping sections, and raises and lowers the telescoping sections. The computation unit controls the motor based on the position of the telescoping sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: NS Microwave
    Inventor: Thomas Davidson Ford
  • Patent number: 8276326
    Abstract: A telescopic mast system includes a telescopic mast comprising a plurality of telescopic mast sections and a drive mechanism for extending and retracting the telescopic mast sections. The drive mechanism includes a rigid chain having one end connected to a last one of the telescopic mast sections to move the telescopic mast sections and a plurality of guide plates cooperating with the telescopic mast sections to prevent buckling of the rigid chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Serapid Inc.
    Inventors: Said Lounis, Kevin Dombrowski
  • Patent number: 8234823
    Abstract: An extendible mast includes at least three columns having a plurality of column sections that telescopically nest one inside another. A base plate is connected to each column, and each of a plurality of brackets is also connected to each column. The plurality of brackets are positioned along the length of the mast when extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventors: Clifton D. McClure, Jonathan M. Lance, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8225559
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved apparatus and method for forming a retractable tower or column. The present invention includes pointed hooks wherein the hooks are attached to each section of a section chain, one in a horizontal direction and one in an off-set manner. The section chains are placed on a take up mechanism in an operable position and then raised utilizing a motor. As the section chains are raised, they are guided by a guide tower, rollers, shims, and gear racks into a position whereby hooks from adjacent sections of the section chains form coupled engagements. The coupled engagement of the hooks of the sections of each adjacent section chains thereby form the column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Tower Solutions, LLC
    Inventor: Steven A. Olsen
  • Patent number: 8228259
    Abstract: The present invention aims to provide an antenna tower structure comprising an essentially vertical elongated tower body with an internal installation shaft provided therein. One or more radio base stations are arranged in the installation shaft in the vicinity of one or more associated antennas at the top of the tower body. The installation shaft is formed to allow personnel access to the radio base station. The tower body is comprised of a metal-reinforced concrete material, and the mass ratio between the tower body and the radio base station equipment together with the antenna arrangement exceeds 15:1. The tower body is formed so that the mass center of the tower body and radio base station equipment is lower than ½ of the tower body height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget L M Ericsson (Publ)
    Inventor: Peter Häger
  • Publication number: 20120151853
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing a mast system including a telescoping mast having first and second mast sections, the mast having a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration, the first mast section including an inner surface having ribs disposed thereon, and, the second mast section including a coupling mechanism to engage the ribs on the first mast section for enabling axial movement of the second mast section with respect to the first mast section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: MATTHEW D. THOREN, Joseph C. Dimare, Cameron B. Goddard
  • Publication number: 20120151852
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing a mast system that includes a telescoping mast having first and second mast sections, the mast having a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration, and a stabilization structure including a guy wire to stabilize the mast in the deployed configuration, wherein the guy wire is connected to the first mast section for manipulating the first mast section between the stowed configuration and the deployed configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: MATTHEW D. THOREN, Joseph C. DiMare, Cameron B. Goddard
  • Patent number: 8186121
    Abstract: A device supporting a first and a second element of a piece of space equipment. The device includes at least two deployable flexible arms each having a first end and a second end, the ends are secured respectively to the first and second elements and each designed to adopt at least one initial position folded in curves and an unfolded final position, in which positions they hold the first element away from the second element by first and second chosen distances respectively, the second distance being greater than the first.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Thales
    Inventors: Jean Dupuis, Frédéric Falzon, Laurent Blanchard
  • Publication number: 20120102850
    Abstract: An extendable and retractable column which is formed from at least three linked sections or chains. The linked sections include a plurality of individual segments linked end to end. As the linked segments are extended, each of the individual segments of the linked chains engage individual segments of adjacent linked sections to form a column. As the linked sections are retracted, each of the individual segments of the linked sections disengage from the individual segment of the adjacent linked sections and the individual linked sections may be rolled up into a multi-sided form for compact storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventors: David George Kensinger, Steven George Kensinger, Eric T. Ohme, Dale A. Ohme
  • Publication number: 20120079778
    Abstract: A rapid deployment and retraction telescoping mast system for controlling the height of a mast. A retraction mechanism including a resilient member, a retraction reel, a reel shaft, and a motor disposed about a frame. The resilient member extends from the retraction reel and is rigidly attached to a top tube of the mast through a sealed passage. The reel shaft rotates the retraction reel and winds the resilient member creating a retraction force on the top tube causing controlled retraction of the mast. A deployment mechanism including a compressor, storage tank, exhaust valve and isolation valve arranged about the frame and in communication with the mast. The compressor generates pressurized air to be communicated to the mast when the isolation valve is in the open position. The increase of pressure generated by the deployment mechanism provides a force within the mast thereby controlling its deployment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventors: Andrew Paul Wasson, Michael James Kardohely
  • Patent number: 8125403
    Abstract: The present invention aims to provide a hollow antenna tower structure for use in a wireless communications network. The tower comprises tubular tower sections made of concrete, and having a generally hollowed cross section. A movable base station unit, having at least one antenna and at least one micro wave link, is being disposed inside the tubular tower. The whole base station unit is movable up and down inside the tower by the aid of an elevator system. The tower further comprises at least one entrance into the tower and a climbing facility and/or a second elevator system, inside the tower, giving access to the base station unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget L M Ericsson (publ)
    Inventor: Peter Hager
  • Publication number: 20110308174
    Abstract: A rod device that can be erected and retracted into a small amount of space, in which the device is formed of component parts that are flexible and can be rolled up when detached from one another, yet form a rigid assembly when connected to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventor: Nicholas Meyer
  • Patent number: 8042305
    Abstract: A deployable structural assembly is provided along with associated deployment mechanisms and associated methods of forming and deploying the structural assembly. In one exemplary embodiment, the structural assembly includes a plurality of structural side elements formed from furlable truss structures. The truss structures may include spaced apart longitudinal members, members extending substantially transversely between the longitudinal members, and diagonal members extending between the longitudinal members at an acute angle relative thereto. A plurality of interlocking elements are located along the edges of the longitudinal members and are configured to engage interlocking elements of an adjacent structural side element. In one embodiment the truss structures may be formed to include at least one material layer having the longitudinal members, the cross-members and the diagonals formed as an integral structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventors: Mark K. Pryor, Jeremy O. Newlin
  • Publication number: 20110252720
    Abstract: This invention relates to a tower for a wind turbine, comprising one or more tubular tower sections, having an outer jacket wall and an inward directed flange in its lower and upper ends, and at least one platform arranged inside the tower for facilitating access for maintenance and repairs to the inner of the tower and to the nacelle. The tower also comprises a support structure including at least three elongated tensile load carrying members, which each is attached in its upper end to the upper flange of the tower section and in its lower end to the lower flange of the tower section and which supports one or more platforms that are suspended by the tensile load carrying members while at least one ladder is attached to the platforms. The at least one ladder is stabilized in the horizontal direction by transversal tensile load carrying members extending from the ladder to the tensile load carrying members that are vertically arranged between the upper and lower flanges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: VESTAS WIND SYSTEMS A/S
    Inventor: Jonas Kristensen
  • Patent number: 8018395
    Abstract: An antenna tower structure comprising an essentially vertical elongated tower body with an internal installation shaft provided therein. One or more radio base stations are arranged in the installation shaft in the vicinity of one or more associated antennas at the top of the tower body. The installation shaft is formed to allow personnel access to the radio base station. There is also provided an elevator arrangement for an antenna tower structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget L M Ericsson (Publ)
    Inventor: Peter Häger