US3668790A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Variable terrain model
Assignee: Link Flight Simulation Corp
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Filing: 1969-12-08
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Granted: 1972-06-13
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Expires: 1989-12-08
Abstract
Abstract A terrain model suitable for use with a viewing device to simulate terrain features of the real world with means for varying in a controlled manner the elevation of various portions of the model, thereby allowing the contour of the terrain to be changed quickly and easily. The changes are accomplished by movable actuators located beneath a deformable, elastic sheet. Means are also provided for maintaining permanent features, such as buildings, in the proper vertical relationship as the slope of the surface thereunder is varied.
Inventors
- 👤 Raymond C Wilton
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-06 01:01
CPC Classifications
G; G09; G09B; G09B9/00; G09B9/02; G09B9/08; G09B9/30; G09B9/305; G09B25/00; G09B25/06
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 3
Claim 1
Independent Claim
185 words
A variable terrain model for use in a visual simulation system, said model comprising, in combination: a. a unitary sheet of deformable material having a surface simulating an area of the real-world surface on a reduced scale; b. means located beneath said sheet and movable between a plurality of positions in contact with said sheet to change the contour thereof, and thereby the appearance of said simulated real-world surface; c. means for selectively adjusting said movable means; d. scale models of terrain features having a fixed relation to the real-world gravity vector; and e. means for causing said fixed relation to be maintained as the contour of the portion of said sheet supporting said features is varied said last-named means comprising a rigid upper portion and resilient lower portion of said scale model, a rigid link fixedly attached to said upper portion and depending therefrom through a central opening in said lower portion, and a weight on the lower end of said link, whereby the force of gravity on said weight urges said link, and thereby said scale model to remain in said fixed relation.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
185 words
A variable terrain model for use in a visual simulation system, said model comprising, in combination: a. a unitary sheet of deformable material having a surface simulating an area of the real-world surface on a reduced scale; b. means located beneath said sheet and movable between a plurality of positions in contact with said sheet to change the contour thereof, and thereby the appearance of said simulated real-world surface; c. means for selectively adjusting said movable means; d. scale models of terrain features having a fixed relation to the real-world gravity vector; and e. means for causing said fixed relation to be maintained as the contour of the portion of said sheet supporting said features is varied said last-named means comprising a rigid upper portion and resilient lower portion of said scale model, a rigid link fixedly attached to said upper portion and depending therefrom through a central opening in said lower portion, and a weight on the lower end of said link, whereby the force of gravity on said weight urges said link, and thereby said scale model to remain in said fixed relation.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
25 words
The invention according to claim 1 wherein said link extends through an opening provided therefor in said sheet, said weight being positioned below said sheet.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1975-06-13 | 1975-12-13 | 1976-06-13 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1979-06-13 | 1979-12-13 | 1980-06-13 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1983-06-13 | 1983-12-13 | 1984-06-13 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |