This inventor holds 2 USPTO granted patents. Top assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Active years: 1999-2000.
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1999-2000
Title: Joseph Spano: Innovator in Human Transport Systems
Introduction
Joseph Spano is a notable inventor based in Lodi, California. He has made significant contributions to the field of human transport systems, holding 2 patents that showcase his innovative approach to personal mobility.
Latest Patents
One of his latest patents is titled "Human transport system with dead reckoning facilitating docking." This invention describes a hybrid personal vehicle capable of holonomic omni-directional self-locomotion. The vehicle can be programmed to navigate to a specified location within a crowded household environment. It is equipped with sensors that ensure accurate docking and tight mating with fixtures such as toilets or beds. A controller determines the docking trajectory to a specified fixture and can adjust its behavior with arbitrary stiffness in each degree of freedom around a determined center of compliance.
Another significant patent is "Surface wave distributed actuator systems." This apparatus is designed for positioning a human subject on a surface and transferring them from one surface to another. The subject is placed on the top surface of a fluid enclosure, and an actuator mechanism creates local deformations of the top surface to generate traveling waves. This action exerts a tangential force on the subject, allowing for movement across the surface. The actuator mechanism may include a motor driver and multiple linear actuators, which can be configured to create local deformations in both vertical and horizontal directions. The linear actuators may also utilize shape memory fibers.
Career Highlights
Joseph Spano is affiliated with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he continues to push the boundaries of innovation in human transport systems. His work reflects a commitment to enhancing mobility and accessibility for individuals in various environments.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Joseph has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as Haruhiko Harry Asada and Stephen Mascaro. These partnerships have contributed to the advancement of his research and the development of his patents.
Conclusion
Joseph Spano is a pioneering inventor whose work in human transport systems is shaping the future of personal mobility. His innovative patents demonstrate a deep understanding of technology and its application in everyday life.