Company Filing History:
3 out of 615 
1 out of 11 
1 out of 832,912 Years Active: 1982-1988
Title: The Innovative Mind of Robert J. Dodge
Introduction
Robert J. Dodge is a notable inventor based in Houston, TX, with a remarkable portfolio of inventions. He holds a total of 5 patents, showcasing his creativity and technical expertise in the field of marine technology. His work primarily focuses on enhancing the functionality and reliability of marine buoy lanterns.
Latest Patents
One of his latest inventions is the "Buoy Lantern Assembly Employing Hinged Gimbal." This innovative marine buoy lantern features a heavily damped two-axis gimbal that includes an outer gimbal frame supported by hinges to the lantern housing. The inner gimbal member is mounted to the outer frame by another set of hinges made of plastic, which respond slowly to applied torque, unlike traditional gimbals that use bearings. This design allows the inner gimbal to support essential components such as the drum lens, flasher, lamp changer, and counterweights. The hinged gimbal works in conjunction with counterweights immersed in a viscous fluid, ensuring that the lantern remains vertically oriented despite the buoy's inclination of ±9 degrees.
Another significant invention is the "Buoy Lantern System," which employs a clear lens protective cover around the drum lens and a clear dome over the solar panel mounted above it. This lantern system features a heavily damped gimbal that supports the lens, lamp changer, and flasher above a bank of batteries. The weight of the batteries provides a righting moment to the gimbal when the marine buoy is tilted due to currents or wind. The lantern's interior is easily accessible by pivoting an annulus that supports the lens cover, solar panel, and dome.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Robert J. Dodge has made significant contributions to the field of marine technology. He has worked with reputable companies such as Pennwalt Corporation and Automatic Power, Inc., where he honed his skills and developed innovative solutions for various challenges in the industry.
Collaborations
Due to space constraints, the details of his collaborations will not be included.
Conclusion
Robert J. Dodge's inventive spirit and dedication to improving marine technology are evident in his patents and career achievements. His contributions continue to influence the industry, making him a noteworthy figure in the realm of innovation.