Company Filing History:
1 out of 8,181 
1 out of 3,523 
1 out of 4 Years Active: 1997-2013
Title: The Innovations of Robert Rickenbach
Introduction
Robert Rickenbach is a notable inventor based in Thousand Oaks, California. He holds a total of seven patents, showcasing his significant contributions to the field of optical technology. His work primarily focuses on developing advanced position sensing systems that utilize fiber optics.
Latest Patents
One of Rickenbach's latest patents is the "Optical spectrum modulated position sensor having a controller with at least one fiber optic line." This high-resolution fiber optic position sensor system includes a remote sensor head connected by a pair of optical fibers to an electronic controller unit. The sensor is an electronically passive device that utilizes optical signals only, sensing the angular absolute position over a full 360° rotation with a sensing resolution of 13 bits (8196). The sensor modulates the optical signal based on the exact position of the sensor disk. This modulated optical signal is analyzed in the controller and translated into the position signal. Because the sensor head is electrically passive, it can be deployed in an EMI/RFI intense environment. Furthermore, it is immune to lightning strikes and can be located many hundred meters away from the control unit without creating undesirable ground loops.
Another significant patent is the "Fiber optic encoder for position sensing." This passive all-fiber optic encoder determines the speed, position, and direction of movement of a movable object. The all-passive encoder utilizes no electronics within the sensing part, making it deployable in harsh environments, electrical, electromagnetic, and radiation fields, which is otherwise not possible with conventional electronic encoders. The system utilizes a multiwavelength light source and one optical fiber leading to the encoder sensor housing, which has a shutter, a light filter assembly, and a reflective mirror. The movement of the shutter produces a sequential series of light impulses sequenced proportional to the movement of the shutter. The light filter assembly utilizes a minimum of two different filters, each of which passes or rejects light within a certain space and wavelength range.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Robert Rickenbach has made significant advancements in optical sensing technologies. His innovative designs have paved the way for new applications in various industries, enhancing the capabilities of position sensing systems.
Collaborations
Rickenbach has collaborated with notable individuals such as Gilbert F. Perleberg and Ronald G. Boyer, contributing to the development of cutting-edge technologies in his field.
Conclusion