Patent US5052799A successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US5052799A
Expired / Lapsed
US
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Object orienting systems and systems and processes relating thereto
Assignee: Individual
•
Filing: 1989-07-17
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Granted: 1991-10-01
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Expires: 2009-07-17
Abstract
Abstract A reference signal used for orienting an object has a beam of electromagnetic radiation with a first signal component that is a rotating component and also a second signalcomponent which is periodically generated when the first signal component is in a predetermined direction. The beam may be a linearly polarized laser light beam with a rotating plane of polarization, an unpolarized laser light beam with a rotating and shaped image of predetermined configuration, or a linearly polarized microwave beam with a rotating plane of polarization. The second signal component may be generated as a component of the beam bearing the first signal component or separately generated and propagated. Provisions are made for receiving and comparing the direction indicated by the reference signal with the direction of the object to be oriented and the information derived from the comparison is analyzed and processed to provide an output signal that useful in orienting the object. The orientation of video displays, vehicles and parts of vehicles are illustrated.
Inventors
- 👤 Thurman Sasser
- 👤 Roger L. Martin
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-23 19:19
CPC Classifications
G; G01; G01C; G01C21/00; G01C21/26; G01S; G01S5/00; G01S5/02; G01S5/0247; G01S5/16; G01S5/163; G05; G05D; G05D1/00; G05D1/02; G05D1/021; G05D1/0231; G05D1/0246; G05D1/0268; G05D1/0272
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 74
Claim 1
Independent Claim
211 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a laser light beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an optical output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said optical output signal for analyzing said optical output signal and generating an electronic output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said electronic output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
211 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a laser light beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an optical output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said optical output signal for analyzing said optical output signal and generating an electronic output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said electronic output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
32 words
A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating a linearly polarized laser light beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
47 words
A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating an unpolarized laser light beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, and (A-2) means for linearly polarizing at least a portion of the unpolarized laser light beam.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
68 words
A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating a linearly polarized laser light beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, and (A-2) means for rotating the linearly polarized laser light beam about said axis of propagation, and said rotating linearly polarized laser light beam has a rotating plane of polarization that constitutes said first signal component.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
96 words
A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating a linearly polarized laser light beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, and (A-2) means for rotating the linearly polarized laser light beam about said axis of propagation, said rotating linearly polarized laser light beam has a rotating plane of polarization that constitutes said first signal component, and said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-3) means for generating said second signal component when said rotating plane of polarization is oriented in said predetermined angular direction.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
116 words
A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating a linearly polarized laser light beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, and (A-2) means for rotating the linearly polarized laser light beam about said axis of propagation, said rotating linearly polarized laser light beam has a rotating plane of polarization that constitutes said first signal component, and said linearly polarized laser light beam rotating means comprises (A-2-a) a half-wave plate arranged along said axis of propagation to receive and transmit the linearly polarized laser light beam, and (A-2-b) means for rotatably driving said half-wave plate at a uniform angular velocity about said axis of propagation.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
144 words
A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating a linearly polarized laser light beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, and (A-2) means for rotating the linearly polarized laser light beam about said axis of propagation, said rotating linearly polarized laser light beam has a rotating plane of polarization that constitutes said first signal component, said linearly polarized laser light beam rotating means comprises (A-2-a) a half-wave plate arranged along said axis of propagation to receive and transmit the linearly polarized laser light beam, and (A-2-b) means for rotatably driving said half-wave plate at a uniform angular velocity about said axis of propagation, and said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-3) means for generating said second signal component when said rotating plane of polarization is oriented in said predetermined angular direction.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
183 words
A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating an unpolarized laser light beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, and (A-2) means for linearly polarizing at least a portion of the unpolarized laser light beam, and (A-3) means for rotating the linearly polarized laser light beam about said axis of propagation, said rotating linearly polarized laser light beam has a rotating plane of polarization that constitutes said first signal component, said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-4) means for generating said second signal component when said rotating plane of polarization is oriented in said predetermined angular direction, and said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-4-a) means for deflecting a portion of the unpolarized laser light beam along an auxiliary axis of propagation therefore, and (A-4-b) means interrupting the unpolarized laser light beam portion along said auxiliary axis of propagation and releasing a light pulse from the interrupted unpolarized laser light beam for propagation along said auxiliary axis when said rotating plane of polarization is oriented in said predetermined direction.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
215 words
A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating an unpolarized laser light beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, and (A-2) means for linearly polarizing at least a portion of the unpolarized laser light beam, and (A-3) means for rotating the linearly polarized laser light beam about said axis of propagation, said rotating linearly polarized laser light beam has a rotating plane of polarization that constitutes said first signal component, said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-4) means for generating said second signal component when said rotating plane of polarization is oriented in said predetermined angular direction, and said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-4-a) means for deflecting a portion of the unpolarized laser light beam along an auxiliary axis of propagation therefore, (A-4-b) means interrupting the unpolarized laser light beam portion along said auxiliary axis of propagation and releasing a light pulse from the interrupted unpolarized laser light beam for propagation along said auxiliary axis when said rotating plane of polarization is oriented in said predetermined direction, and (A-4-c) means for combining the released light pulse of unpolarized laser light with said rotating linearly polarized laser light beam to provide a light beam composed of polarized and unpolarized light components.
Claim 11
Independent Claim
241 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a laser light beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an optical output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said optical output signal for analyzing said optical output signal and generating an electronic output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said electronic output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object, said receiving and comparing means comprising (B-1) a polarizer arranged to receive and pass at least a portion of the reference signal and to thereby provide said optical output signal.
Claim 12
Independent Claim
241 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a laser light beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an optical output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said optical output signal for analyzing said optical output signal and generating an electronic output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said electronic output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object, said receiving and comparing means comprising (B-1) a polarizer arranged to receive and pass at least a portion of the reference signal and to thereby provide said optical output signal.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
79 words
A system in accordance with claim 10 wherein said electronic output signal generating means comprises (C-1) light responsive means for transforming said optical output signal into an electronic signal having time spaced first and second signal components that are respectively associated with said first object's direction and said reference direction, and (C-2) means for determining the time spacing of the time spaced first and second signal components and generating said electronic output signal on the basis of such determination.
Claim 14
Independent Claim
256 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a laser light beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an optical output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said optical output signal for analyzing said optical output signal and generating an electronic output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said electronic output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object, said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating said laser light beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, and (A-2) means for interrupting said laser light beam along said propagation axis to provide a shaped light beam with a predetermined image.
Claim 15
Independent Claim
256 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a laser light beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an optical output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said optical output signal for analyzing said optical output signal and generating an electronic output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said electronic output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object, said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating said laser light beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, and (A-2) means for interrupting said laser light beam along said propagation axis to provide a shaped light beam with a predetermined image.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
40 words
A system in accordance with claim 12 wherein said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-3) means for rotating the shaped light beam about said axis of propagation to provide a rotating image therein which constitutes said first signal component.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
64 words
A system in accordance with claim 12 wherein said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-3) means for rotating the shaped light beam about said axis of propagation to provide a rotating image therein which constitutes said first signal component, and (A-4) means for generating the second signal component of the reference signal when the rotating image is oriented in said predetermined angular direction.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
70 words
A system in accordance with claim 12 wherein said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-3) means for rotating the shaped light beam about said axis of propagation to provide a rotating image therein which constitutes said first signal component, said rotating means comprises (A-3-a) means supporting the light beam interrupting means and arranged to rotate about said axis of propagation, and (A-3-b) means for rotatably driving said supporting means.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
97 words
A system in accordance with claim 12 wherein said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-3) means for rotating the shaped light beam about said axis of propagation to provide a rotating image therein which constitutes said first signal component, said rotating means comprises (A-3-a) means supporting the light beam interrupting means and arranged to rotate about said axis of propagation, and (A-3-b) means for rotatably driving said supporting means, and said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-4) means for generating said second signal component when the rotating image is oriented in said predetermined angular direction.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
105 words
A system in accordance with claim 12 wherein said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-3) means for rotating the shaped light beam about said axis of propagation to provide a rotating image therein which constitutes said first signal component, said rotating means comprises (A-3-a) means supporting the light beam interrupting means and arranged to rotate about said axis of propagation, and (A-3-b) means for rotatably driving said supporting means, and said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-4) means for modulating the rotating shaped light beam when the rotating image therein is oriented in said predetermined angular direction to provide said second signal component.
Claim 21
Independent Claim
244 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a laser light beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an optical output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said optical output signal for analyzing said optical output signal and generating an electronic output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said electronic output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object, said receiving and comparing means comprising (B-1) means having a light passageway arranged to receive and pass at least a portion of the reference signal and to thereby provide said optical output signal.
Claim 22
Independent Claim
244 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a laser light beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an optical output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said optical output signal for analyzing said optical output signal and generating an electronic output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said electronic output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object, said receiving and comparing means comprising (B-1) means having a light passageway arranged to receive and pass at least a portion of the reference signal and to thereby provide said optical output signal.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
15 words
A system in accordance with claim 18 wherein said light passageway has a predetermined shape.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
86 words
A system in accordance with claim 18 wherein said light passageway has a predetermined shape, said electronic output signal generating means comprises (C-1) light responsive means for transforming said optical output signal into an electronic signal having time spaced first and second signal components that are respectively associated with said first object's direction and said reference direction, and (C-2) means for determining the time spacing of the time spaced first and second signal components and generating said electronic output signal on the basis of such determination.
Claim 25
Independent Claim
253 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a light beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an optical output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said optical output signal for analyzing said optical output signal and generating an electronic output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said electronic output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object, said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating said light beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, and (A-2) means for interrupting said light beam along said propagation axis to provide a shaped light beam with a predetermined image.
Claim 26
Independent Claim
253 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a light beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an optical output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said optical output signal for analyzing said optical output signal and generating an electronic output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said electronic output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object, said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating said light beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, and (A-2) means for interrupting said light beam along said propagation axis to provide a shaped light beam with a predetermined image.
Claim 27
Independent Claim
210 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a microwave beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having a first output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said first output signal for analyzing said first output signal and generating a second output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said second output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object.
Claim 28
Independent Claim
210 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a microwave beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having a first output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said first output signal for analyzing said first output signal and generating a second output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said second output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
29 words
A system in accordance with claim 22 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating the microwave beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
31 words
A system in accordance with claim 22 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating a linearly polarized microwave beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
64 words
A system in accordance with claim 22 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating a linearly polarized microwave beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, and (A-2) means for rotating the linearly polarized microwave beam about axis of propagation, and said rotating linearly polarized microwave beam has a rotating plane of polarization that constitutes said first signal component.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
93 words
A system in accordance with claim 22 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating a linearly polarized microwave beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, and (A-2) means for rotating the linearly polarized microwave beam about said axis of propagation, said rotating linearly polarized microwave beam has a rotating plane of polarization that constitutes said first signal component, and said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-3) means for generating the second signal component when the rotating plane of polarization is oriented in said predetermined angular direction.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
122 words
A system in accordance with claim 22 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating a linearly polarized microwave beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, said linearly polarized microwave beam generating means comprises (A-1-a) a wave guide, and (A-1-b) a feed horn coupled to said wave guide, said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-2) means for rotating the linearly polarized microwave beam about said axis of propagation, said rotating linearly polarized microwave beam has a rotating plane of polarization that constitutes said first signal component, and said rotating means comprises (A-2-a) a wave guide output probe that is rotatably mounted and communicates with said feed horn, and (A-2-b) means for rotatably driving said output probe.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
150 words
A system in accordance with claim 22 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating a linearly polarized microwave beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, said linearly polarized microwave beam generating means comprises (A-1-a) a wave guide, and (A-1-b) a feed horn coupled to said wave guide, said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-2) means for rotating the linearly polarized microwave beam about said axis of propagation, said rotating linearly polarized microwave beam has a rotating plane of polarization that constitutes said first signal component, said rotating means comprises (A-2-a) a wave guide output probe that is rotatably mounted and communicates with said feed horn, and (A-2-b) means for rotatably driving said output probe, and said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-3) means for generating the second signal component when the rotating plane of polarization is oriented in said predetermined angular direction.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
142 words
A system in accordance with claim 22 wherein said reference signal generating means comprises (A-1) means for generating a linearly polarized microwave beam and propagating it along said axis of propagation, said linearly polarized microwave beam generating means comprises (A-1-a) a wave guide, and (A-1-b) a feed horn coupled to said wave guide, said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-2) means for rotating the linearly polarized microwave beam about said axis of propagation, said rotating linearly polarized microwave beam has a rotating plane of polarization that constitutes said first signal component, said reference signal generating means further comprises (A-3) means for generating the second signal component when the rotating plane of polarization is oriented in the predetermined angular direction, and said second signal component generating means comprises (A-3-a) means for generating and propagating a microwave pulse along another axis of propagation.
Claim 36
Independent Claim
225 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a microwave beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having a first output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said first output signal for generating a second output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said second output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object, said second output signal generating means comprises (C-1) means for analyzing said first output signal and generating said second output signal.
Claim 37
Independent Claim
225 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a microwave beam with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that constitutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having a first output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said first output signal for generating a second output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said second output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object, said second output signal generating means comprises (C-1) means for analyzing said first output signal and generating said second output signal.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
52 words
A system in accordance with claim 30 wherein said analyzing and generating means comprises (C-1-a) a heterodyne system for analyzing said first output signal and generating a third output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (C-1-b) means for processing said third output signal and generating said second output signal.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
80 words
A system in accordance with claim 30 wherein said analyzing and generating means comprises (C-1-a) a heterodyne system for analyzing said first output signal and generating a third output signal with time spaced first and second signal components that are respectively associated with said first object's direction and said reference direction, and (C-1-b) means for determining the time spacing of the timed spaced first and second signal components and generating said second output signal on the basis of such determination.
Claim 40
Independent Claim
206 words
A system for use in indicating the directional orientation of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal with a first signal component and a second signal component comprising means for generating and propagating a beam of electromagnetic radiation along an axis of propagation therefor, said beam having a component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about said axis and constitutes said first signal component, and means for periodically generating a signal when the rotating component is oriented in a predetermined direction during its rotating movement about said axis, said periodically generated signal constituting said second signal component and having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, and said predetermined direction constituting said reference direction, and (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of another object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions and thereby indicative of the directional orientation of said first object.
Claim 41
Independent Claim
206 words
A system for use in indicating the directional orientation of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal with a first signal component and a second signal component comprising means for generating and propagating a beam of electromagnetic radiation along an axis of propagation therefor, said beam having a component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about said axis and constitutes said first signal component, and means for periodically generating a signal when the rotating component is oriented in a predetermined direction during its rotating movement about said axis, said periodically generated signal constituting said second signal component and having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, and said predetermined direction constituting said reference direction, and (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of another object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions and thereby indicative of the directional orientation of said first object.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
20 words
A system in accordance with claim 33 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation is a laser beam of coherent light.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
32 words
A system in accordance with claim 33 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation is a laser beam of coherent light, and said periodically generated signal is formed by an interrupted light beam.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
19 words
A system in accordance with claim 33 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation is a beam of microwave energy.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
19 words
A system is accordance with claim 33 wherein said periodically generated signal is formed by an interrupted light beam.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
35 words
A system in accordance with claim 33 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation is a beam of polarized coherent light, and said periodically generated signal is formed by an interrupted beam of unpolarized coherent light.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
30 words
A system in accordance with claim 33 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation is a light beam with a rotating image of predetermined shape that constitutes the first signal component.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
32 words
A system in accordance with claim 33 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation is a beam of coherent light with a rotating image of predetermined shape that constitutes the first signal component.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
44 words
A system in accordance with claim 33 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation is a beam of coherent light with a rotating image of predetermined shape that constitutes the first signal component, and said second signal component is formed by an interrupted light beam.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
40 words
A system in accordance with claim 33 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation is a beam of coherent light with a rotating image of predetermined shape, and said second signal component is formed by interrupting said beam of coherent light.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
46 words
A system in accordance with claim 33 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation is a polarized beam of microwave energy that is propagated along said axis, and said second signal component is formed by generating and propagating a microwave pulse along an axis of propagation therefore.
Claim 52
Independent Claim
177 words
The method of indicating the directional orientation of a first object comprising (A) generating a reference direction indicating reference signal by generating and propagating a beam of electromagnetic radiation along an axis of propagation therefore, treating the beam to provide a first signal component that rotates about said axis at a uniform angular velocity, and generating a second signal component when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined direction during its angular movement about the axis of propagation of the beam, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis and thereby to indicate said reference direction, and (B) receiving said reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of another object that is equated in directional orientation thereto to determine the angular deviation between the compared directions and thereby to indicate the directional orientation of said first object with respect to said reference direction.
Claim 53
Independent Claim
177 words
The method of indicating the directional orientation of a first object comprising (A) generating a reference direction indicating reference signal by generating and propagating a beam of electromagnetic radiation along an axis of propagation therefore, treating the beam to provide a first signal component that rotates about said axis at a uniform angular velocity, and generating a second signal component when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined direction during its angular movement about the axis of propagation of the beam, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis and thereby to indicate said reference direction, and (B) receiving said reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of another object that is equated in directional orientation thereto to determine the angular deviation between the compared directions and thereby to indicate the directional orientation of said first object with respect to said reference direction.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
114 words
The method in accordance with claim 44 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation comprises a laser beam of coherent light, the beam treatment providing the first signal component comprises rotating a half-wave plate at a uniform angular velocity about said axis, and passing the generated laser beam of coherent light through said half-wave plate to provide said first signal component as a light beam with a rotating plane of linearly polarized coherent light that propagates along said axis, and the generating of said second signal component comprises generating a pulse of light when said rotating plane of linearly polarized coherent light is oriented in said predetermined direction to thereby provide said second signal component.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
116 words
The method in accordance with claim 44 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation comprises a laser beam of coherent light, the beam treatment providing the first signal component comprises rotating a light mask having an aperture with a predetermined shape at a uniform angular velocity about said axis, and passing a portion of the generated beam of coherent light through said aperture to provide said first signal component as a light beam with a rotating image of coherent light that propagates along said axis, and the generating of said second signal comprises periodically interrupting the beam of coherent light when said rotating image is oriented in said predetermined direction to thereby provide said second signal component.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
140 words
The method in accordance with claim 44 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation comprises a linearly polarized microwave beam, the beam treatment providing the first signal component comprises maintaining a wave guide with a rotatable output probe in communication with a feed horn, passing the polarized microwave beam to said wave guide, and rotating said output probe at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of said feed horn to propagate said microwave beam along said axis of propagation and provide said first signal component as a microwave beam with a rotating plane of polarized microwave energy, the generating of said second signal component comprises periodically generating a microwave pulse and propagating it along an axis of propagation therefore when said rotating plane of polarized microwave energy is oriented in said predetermined direction to thereby provide said second signal component.
Claim 57
Independent Claim
129 words
The method of generating a reference signal with a reference direction for use as a directional reference in orienting objects comprising generating a beam of electromagnetic radiation and propagating the beam along an axis of propagation therefore, treating the beam to provide a first signal component of the reference signal that rotates about said axis at a uniform angular velocity, and generating and transmitting a second signal component of the reference signal when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction during its angular movement about the axis, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete rotation of said first signal component about said axis, and said predetermined angular direction constituting said reference direction.
Claim 58
Independent Claim
129 words
The method of generating a reference signal with a reference direction for use as a directional reference in orienting objects comprising generating a beam of electromagnetic radiation and propagating the beam along an axis of propagation therefore, treating the beam to provide a first signal component of the reference signal that rotates about said axis at a uniform angular velocity, and generating and transmitting a second signal component of the reference signal when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction during its angular movement about the axis, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete rotation of said first signal component about said axis, and said predetermined angular direction constituting said reference direction.
Claim 59
Independent Claim
211 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a beam of electromagnetic radiation with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that consistutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having a first output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said first output signal for analyzing said first output signal and generating a second output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating dependence upon receipt of said second output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object.
Claim 60
Independent Claim
211 words
A system for orienting the direction of a first object comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal that includes a beam of electromagnetic radiation with a first signal component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about the axis of propagation of the beam and a second signal component that is detectable when the first signal component is oriented in a predetermined angular direction that consistutes said reference direction, said second signal component having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, (B) means for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with the direction of said first object or with the direction of a second object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having a first output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, (C) means operating in dependence upon receipt of said first output signal for analyzing said first output signal and generating a second output signal that is indicative of said angular deviation, and (D) means operating dependence upon receipt of said second output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said first object.
Claim 61
Independent Claim
256 words
A system for orienting the direction of a visual display appearing on a video display device which is mounted on and moveable with a ground vehicle used in traversing a predetermined area comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal with a first signal component and a second signal component comprising means for generating and propagating a beam of electromagnetic radiation along an axis of propagation into said predetermined area, said beam having a component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about said axis and constitutes said first signal component, and means for periodically generating a signal when the rotating component is oriented in a predetermined direction during its rotating movement about said axis, said periodically generated signal being detectable in said predetermined area and constituting said second signal component, said periodically generated signal having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, and said predetermined direction constituting said reference direction, and (B) means mounted on the vehicle for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with either the direction of the vehicle or the direction of an object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, and (C) means mounted on the vehicle and operating in dependence upon receipt of said output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said visual display.
Claim 62
Independent Claim
256 words
A system for orienting the direction of a visual display appearing on a video display device which is mounted on and moveable with a ground vehicle used in traversing a predetermined area comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal with a first signal component and a second signal component comprising means for generating and propagating a beam of electromagnetic radiation along an axis of propagation into said predetermined area, said beam having a component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about said axis and constitutes said first signal component, and means for periodically generating a signal when the rotating component is oriented in a predetermined direction during its rotating movement about said axis, said periodically generated signal being detectable in said predetermined area and constituting said second signal component, said periodically generated signal having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, and said predetermined direction constituting said reference direction, and (B) means mounted on the vehicle for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with either the direction of the vehicle or the direction of an object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, and (C) means mounted on the vehicle and operating in dependence upon receipt of said output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said visual display.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
15 words
A system in accordance with claim 50 wherein said vehicle is a self-propelled ground vehicle.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
19 words
A system in accordance with claim 50 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation is a beam of laser light.
Claim 65
Independent Claim
255 words
A system for orienting the direction of a self-propelled vehicle that has a steering system and is used in traversing a predetermined area comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal with a first signal component and a second signal component comprising means for generating and propagating a beam of electromagnetic radiation along an axis of propagation into said predetermined area, said beam having a component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about said axis and constitutes said first signal component, and means for periodically generating a signal when the rotating component is oriented in a predetermined direction during its rotating movement about said axis, said periodically generated signal being detectable in said predetermined area and consitituting said second signal component, said periodically generated signal having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, and said predetermined direction constituting said reference direction, and (B) means mounted on the vehicle for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with either the direction of the vehicle or the direction of an object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, and (C) means mounted on the vehicle and operating in dependence upon receipt of said output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said vehicle, said vehicle direction controlling means including said steering system.
Claim 66
Independent Claim
255 words
A system for orienting the direction of a self-propelled vehicle that has a steering system and is used in traversing a predetermined area comprising (A) means for generating a reference direction indicating reference signal with a first signal component and a second signal component comprising means for generating and propagating a beam of electromagnetic radiation along an axis of propagation into said predetermined area, said beam having a component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about said axis and constitutes said first signal component, and means for periodically generating a signal when the rotating component is oriented in a predetermined direction during its rotating movement about said axis, said periodically generated signal being detectable in said predetermined area and consitituting said second signal component, said periodically generated signal having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, and said predetermined direction constituting said reference direction, and (B) means mounted on the vehicle for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with either the direction of the vehicle or the direction of an object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, and (C) means mounted on the vehicle and operating in dependence upon receipt of said output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said vehicle, said vehicle direction controlling means including said steering system.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
15 words
A system in accordance with claim 53 wherein said vehicle is a self-propelled ground vehicle.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
19 words
A system in accordance with claim 53 wherein said beam of electromagnetic radiation is a beam of microwave energy.
Claim 69
Independent Claim
140 words
A system for orienting the direction of a visual display appearing on a video display device which is mounted on and moveable with a ground vehicle used in traversing a predetermined area comprising (A) means for generating a reference signal with a detectable reference direction, (B) means for passing the reference signal into said predetermined area, (C) means mounted on the vehicle for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with either the direction of the vehicle or the direction of an object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, and (C) means mounted on the vehicle and operating in dependence upon receipt of said output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said visual display.
Claim 70
Independent Claim
140 words
A system for orienting the direction of a visual display appearing on a video display device which is mounted on and moveable with a ground vehicle used in traversing a predetermined area comprising (A) means for generating a reference signal with a detectable reference direction, (B) means for passing the reference signal into said predetermined area, (C) means mounted on the vehicle for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with either the direction of the vehicle or the direction of an object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, and (C) means mounted on the vehicle and operating in dependence upon receipt of said output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said visual display.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
134 words
The system in accordance with claim 56 wherein said reference signal generating means has first and second signal components and comprises means for generating and propagating a beam of electromagnetic radiation along an axis of propagation, said beam having a component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about said axis and constitutes the first signal component, and means for periodically generating a signal when the rotating component is oriented in a predetermined direction during its rotating movement about said axis, said periodically generated signal being detectable in said predetermined area and constituting said second signal component, said periodically generated signal having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, and said predetermined direction constituting said reference direction.
Claim 72
Independent Claim
122 words
A system for orienting the direction of a vehicle used in traversing a predetermined area comprising (A) means for generating a reference signal with a detectable reference direction, (B) means for passing the reference signal into said predetermined area, (C) means mounted on the vehicle for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with either the direction of the vehicle or the direction of an object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, and (D) means mounted on the vehicle and operating in dependence upon receipt of said output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said vehicle.
Claim 73
Independent Claim
122 words
A system for orienting the direction of a vehicle used in traversing a predetermined area comprising (A) means for generating a reference signal with a detectable reference direction, (B) means for passing the reference signal into said predetermined area, (C) means mounted on the vehicle for receiving the reference signal and comparing said reference direction with either the direction of the vehicle or the direction of an object that is equated in directional orientation thereto, said reference signal receiving and comparing means having an output signal that is indicative of the angular deviation between the compared directions, and (D) means mounted on the vehicle and operating in dependence upon receipt of said output signal for controlling the directional orientation of said vehicle.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
134 words
The system in accordance with claim 58 wherein said reference signal generating means has first and second signal components and comprises means for generating and propagating a beam of electromagnetic radiation along an axis of propagation, said beam having a component that rotates at a uniform angular velocity about said axis and constitutes the first signal component, and means for periodically generating a signal when the rotating component is oriented in a predetermined direction during its rotating movement about said axis, said periodically generated signal being detectable in said predetermined area and constituting said second signal component, said periodically generated signal having a time duration that is small in comparison to the time required for a complete revolution of said first signal component about said axis, and said predetermined direction constituting said reference direction.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1994-09-30 | 1995-04-01 | 1995-10-01 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1998-09-30 | 1999-04-01 | 1999-10-01 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2002-09-30 | 2003-04-01 | 2003-10-01 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |