Lynn D Lane

US Patent:

45036225, Mar 12, 1985

Filed:

Apr 20, 1983

Appl. No.:

6/486631

Inventors:

Harold L. Swartz - Glendale AZ
Thomas R. Hoogervorst - Scottsdale AZ
Lynn R. Lane - Phoenix AZ

Assignee:

Sperry Corporation - New York NY

International Classification:

G01C 906

US Classification:

33366

Abstract:

An inclinometer providing a digital numerical readout includes a level sensor responsive to orientation and means for driving a liquid crystal display to indicate the inclination of a surface with a high degree of precision. Features include high stability with changes in battery voltage and surrounding temperature, a battery condition monitor, freedom from operational adjustments after the initial calibration, and partial blanking of the display to alert a user that the linear inclination limit has been reached. The direct reading digital readout permits ease of operation and a high degree of accuracy and repeatability. Circuitry is especially adapted for low power consumption.

US Patent:

45479720, Oct 22, 1985

Filed:

Aug 30, 1983

Appl. No.:

6/527907

Inventors:

Jeffrey C. Heidel - Phoenix AZ
Thomas R. Hoogervorst - Scottsdale AZ
Lynn R. Lane - Phoenix AZ
Harold L. Swartz - Glendale AZ

Assignee:

Sperry Corporation - New York NY

International Classification:

C01C 906

US Classification:

33366

Abstract:

An angular measuring system consisting of one or more sensors that transmit angular measurements to a central control unit where numerical readout of any selected sensor is provided. A threshold can be preset at individual sensors or the control unit for an allowable angular deviation, beyond which a warning device is actuated. The circuitry permits locating the sensors remotely from the console and provides precision and stability of operation. Low power consumption permits extended operating periods with internal batteries. False alarms are minimized by incorporating a hysteresis loop in the threshold detection circuitry.