Thomas Gregory Engel

US Patent:

6696775, Feb 24, 2004

Filed:

Jan 22, 2002

Appl. No.:

10/054566

Inventors:

Thomas Engel - Columbia MO

Assignee:

The Curators of the University of Missouri - Columbia MO

International Classification:

H02K 4100

US Classification:

310135, 310 12, 310 13, 310 14, 310 15, 89 8, 124 3

Abstract:

Apparatus for commutating turns of a stator coil for a helical coil launcher. An annular brush assembly includes an annular support and a plurality of electrical contacts disposed circumferentially about the annular support for contacting the stator coil. A projectile for a helical coil launcher is also disclosed having an armature coil and a body assembly containing at least one annular brush assembly for contacting a stator coil that is slidably engaged with the projectile.

US Patent:

20080202438, Aug 28, 2008

Filed:

Feb 26, 2008

Appl. No.:

12/072308

Inventors:

Thomas G. Engel - Columbia MO, US
Victoria A. Engel - Columbia MO, US

International Classification:

A01K 7/06

US Classification:

119 72

Abstract:

A motion activated pet drinking apparatus which attaches to both indoor (i.e., sink) and outdoor water faucets and is activated by the motion of the pet to deliver a measured supply of fresh tap water for the pet's consumption. Upon activation, a fresh stream of tap water is directed in a suitable manner for the pet to drink. An electronic timer in the control circuitry shuts off the flow of water after a specified time, typically one minute. The apparatus does not store water and, therefore, does not collect algae, slime, or water deposits and requires only a minimal amount of cleaning. The absence of water storage minimizes cross-contamination when multiple pets use the apparatus. The apparatus is highly energy efficient due to the unique digital control valve used and can easily be powered from standard off-the-shelf commercial batteries. Household power (120 VAC) can also be used to power the apparatus if a nearby source is available. The apparatus has an in-line two-stage water filter and electric heating elements. The two-stage in-line filter is an optional component to filter particulate matter, chemicals, and bad tastes often found in public water supplies. The electric heating elements prevent freezing when the apparatus is used outdoors in low temperatures. Since the electric heating elements consume a relatively large amount of energy, the outdoor model of the apparatus requires 120 VAC household power source.

US Patent:

20170314887, Nov 2, 2017

Filed:

Mar 8, 2017

Appl. No.:

15/453592

Inventors:

Thomas Gregory Engel - Columbia MO, US

International Classification:

F41B 6/00

Abstract:

Apparatus for electromagnetic launching system for the linear acceleration of macro particles. The apparatus disclosed is autonomously-powered, compact, and lightweight. The apparatus disclosed has low recoil force, low acoustic report, and low visible and infra-red signature. The apparatus disclosed is capable of automatic operation and the maximum particle velocity can be adjusted. The apparatus disclosed includes a trigger, controller, component power source, particle container, particle loader, propellant container, propellant loader, igniter, combustion chamber, sound suppressor, linear electrical generator, linear electrical motor, and thermal barrier.