Location History:
- North Richland Hills, TX (US) (2009 - 2014)
- Forth Worth, TX (US) (2014)
- Fort Worth, TX (US) (2012 - 2015)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2009-2015
Title: The Innovative Contributions of Charles L. Hollimon
Introduction
Charles L. Hollimon is a notable inventor based in North Richland Hills, Texas. He holds a total of 10 patents, showcasing his significant contributions to the field of rotorcraft technology. His innovative designs have advanced the capabilities of rotor systems, particularly in enhancing flight efficiency and performance.
Latest Patents
Among his latest patents is a "Method and apparatus for in-flight blade folding." This invention features a foldable rotor system designed for rotorcraft, which includes a rotor assembly connected to a driveshaft operably associated with an engine. The rotor assembly comprises a rotor blade linked to a grip pin, with a swashplate that selectively changes the pitch of the rotor blade. The blade fold actuator is configured to fold and unfold the rotor blade around a designated axis. This design allows the rotorcraft to stop and fold the rotor blades during airplane mode, relying on engine thrust for propulsion. The rotor blades are folded in a spiral path, minimizing aerodynamic drag during the folding process.
Another significant patent is the "Dual spring rate damper," which pertains to a rotor hub designed to dampen forces exerted on the rotor hub by rotor blades during flight. This rotor hub includes a central member rotatably coupled to a rotor mast, with a blade grip attached to a blade and movably coupled to the central member. The adjustable damper is operably associated with the blade grip, allowing for selective adjustment between two spring rates to effectively dampen forces during operation.
Career Highlights
Charles has worked with prominent companies in the aerospace industry, including Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. and Textron Innovations Inc. His experience in these organizations has contributed to his expertise in rotorcraft technology and innovation.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Charles has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Dudley E. Smith and Daniel Bryan Robertson. These partnerships have likely fostered a creative environment that has led to the development of groundbreaking technologies in rotorcraft design.
Conclusion
Charles L. Hollimon's contributions to rotorcraft technology through his patents and collaborations highlight his role as an influential inventor in the aerospace industry. His innovative designs continue to shape the future of rotor systems and enhance flight capabilities.