Location History:
- Sykesville, MD (US) (1992)
- Street, MD (US) (1994)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1992-1994
Title: The Innovations of Stephen A. Wilkerson
Introduction
Stephen A. Wilkerson is an accomplished inventor based in Sykesville, MD (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of projectile technology, holding a total of 2 patents. His work focuses on enhancing the performance and accuracy of projectiles in various applications.
Latest Patents
Wilkerson's latest patents include a "Stabilization band/ring assembly for aligning a projectile in a gun tube" and a "Splined sabot." The stabilization assembly features a double ramped, saboted, kinetic energy design that automatically aligns a projectile within a gun tube. This innovative assembly incorporates an acceleration-activated device with a split centering ring, ensuring proper alignment during the initial phase of the projectile's motion. Additionally, it includes small protrusions or a continuous expandable ring that maintains the projectile's straight alignment throughout its passage in the gun tube. The assembly is adaptable for both smooth bore and rifled bore gun tubes.
The splined sabot patent presents an improved segmented double ramp sabot for launching sub-caliber projectiles. It consists of longitudinal ribs on both the forward and aft ramp sections, as well as between an obturating band seat and a conical borerider. The design ensures that the combined cross-sectional area of the double ramp segments and ribs is approximately equal to that of prior art, maintaining axial stiffness and uniform shear traction forces. Furthermore, the use of stiffer materials for the ribs enhances the transverse bending stiffness and overall performance, reducing in-bore vibration and shot dispersion while maximizing energy transfer to the projectile.
Career Highlights
Wilkerson is currently employed by the US Government as represented by the Secretary of the Army. His work has been instrumental in advancing military technology and improving the effectiveness of weaponry.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Wilkerson has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Robert P. Kaste and Bruce P. Burns. These partnerships have contributed to the development of innovative solutions in projectile technology.
Conclusion
Stephen A. Wilkerson's contributions to the field of projectile technology through his patents and work with the US Government highlight his expertise and dedication to innovation. His inventions continue to influence advancements in military applications and projectile performance.