Dallas Invents: 131 Patents Granted for Week of Jan. 8

Patents were granted for ROKA Sports’ new design for sport eyeglasses; Capital One’s methods for tracking objects; Drexel University’s method of predicting seizures; Sierra Smart Systems’s electric vehicle fleet charging system; Securus’ detection for a call anomaly using biometric identification; SMU’s method of treating a subject that is resistant to one or more drugs; and Uber’s design for a firearm grip.

An illustration from ROKA Sports' Patent No. D837871 shows a new design for sport eyeglasses. [Source image: USPTO]

Dallas Invents is a weekly look at U.S. patents granted with a connection to the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area. Listings include patents granted to local assignees and/or those with a North Texas inventor. Patent activity can be an indicator of future economic growth, as well as the development of emerging markets and talent attraction. By tracking both inventors and assignees in the region, we aim to provide a broader view of the region’s inventive activity. Listings are organized by Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC). 

THIS WEEK, BY THE NUMBERS
Week of Jan. 8, 2019 | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (19100) 

131 patents granted    Ranked No. 11 in patent production out of 250 metros


NO. OF PATENTS BY CLASSIFICATION


TOP 3 LOCAL ASSIGNEES (NO. OF PATENTS)

Texas Instruments Incorporated (Dallas) 17

Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano) 5

Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. (Fort Worth) 4

CPG Technologies, LLC (Italy) 3

Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson) 3

VCE IP Holding Company LLC (Richardson) 3

(UNASSIGNED 10)


TOP LOCAL INVENTORS (NO. OF PATENTS) 

Dianbo Fu (Plano) 2

Il Han Kim (Allen) 2

Joshua Lund (Dallas) 2

Jovan Hutton Pulitzer (Frisco) 2

Michael Linley Fripp (Carrollton) 2


FIRST SEEN 
Examples of companies that may be originating a patent in the region for the first time, according to Patent Index.

Creative Empowering Solutions
Patent No. 10178232
Method and apparatus for navigating an automated telephone system

Waviks
Patent No. 10176963
Method and apparatus for alignment of optical and charged-particle beams in an electron microscope


SPEED: APPLICATION TO ISSUE (NO. OF DAYS) 

163 days
Differential pressure switch operated downhole fluid flow control system
Patent No. 10174588
Assignee: Floway, Inc. (Allen)
Inventors: Liang Zhao (Allen), Xinqi Rong (Karamay,CN)

2,412 days
System and method of detecting and predicting seizures
Patent No: 10172567
Assignee: Drexel University (Philadelphia, PA)
Inventor: Dane Grasse (Richardson)


Don’t miss Dallas Invents: Sign up for the Dallas Innovates e-newsletter. Patent information is provided by Joe Chiarella, founder of patent analytics company Patent Index and publisher of The Inventiveness Index

For additional details on the patents granted below, search the USPTO Patent Full-Text and Image Database


UTILITY PATENTS

H U M A N   N E C E S S I T I E S

Production of ingenol, ingenol esters and/or tiglian-3-one derivatives by euphorbiaceae plant cell suspension cultures
Patent No. 10172306 

Inventor(s): David Alexander Ullisch (Hamburg, DE), Gilbert Gorr (Freiburg, DE), Harald Heckenmller (Hamburg, DE), Thomas Leibold (Delingsdorf, DE), Thomas Selge (Escheburg, DE), Yantree Devi Sankar-Thomas (Tornesch, DE)
Assignee(s): Phyton Holdings, LLC (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Wolf, Greenfield Sacks, P.C. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15559565 on 03/18/2016 (1026 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of producing Ingenol, Ingenol esters and/or Tiglian-3-one derivatives, the method comprising the steps of: (a) culturing plant cells obtained from a plant selected from the family Euphorbiaceae in a nutrient medium in a suspension cell culture, wherein the cells produce Ingenol, one or more Ingenol esters and/or one or more Tiglian-3-one derivatives; and (b) recovering the Ingenol, the one or more Ingenol esters and/or the one or more Tiglian-3-one derivatives produced in (a). The present invention further relates to a plant suspension cell culture, wherein the cells are obtained from a plant selected from the family Euphorbiaceae, and wherein the plant cells produce Ingenol and/or one or more Ingenol ester and/or one or more Tiglian-3-one derivatives.

[A61K] PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL, OR TOILET PURPOSES (devices or methods specially adapted for bringing pharmaceutical products into particular physical or administering forms A61J 3/00; chemical aspects of, or use of materials for deodorisation of air, for disinfection or sterilisation, or for bandages, dressings, absorbent pads or surgical articles A61L; soap compositions C11D)


Method and system of securing wearable equipment
Patent No. 10172436 

Inventor(s): Gary Burton (Melissa, TX), James Walter Exner (Plano, TX), Jim Dulaney (Euless, TX), Larry Hall (Richardson, TX), Robert V. Vanman (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): WatchGuard, Inc. (Allen, TX)
Law Firm: Winstead PC (Local + 2 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15794330 on 10/26/2017 (439 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method for attaching a device to a user includes securing a first plate to a user. The first plate can be secured to the user, for example, via one or more straps and/or a hook and loop fastener. The system and method further include securing a second plate to the first plate, wherein an article of the user”s clothing is sandwiched in between the first plate and the second plate. The first plate and second plate may be secured to each other by a magnetic connection, by engagement of a sliding pin that pierces a portion of the first plate and the second plate, or a combination of a magnetic connection and an engagement of a sliding pin.

[A45F] TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT; SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY [2006.01]


System equipment carriers and related methods
Patent No. 10172453 

Inventor(s): Alva B. Eaton (Nottingham Park, IL), Gerald Allan Bagni (Pembroke, MA), Samuel M. Marrs (Bradley, IL), Scott Daniel Redfern (Monroe, CT)
Assignee(s): VCE IP HOLDING COMPANY LLC (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Jenkins, Wilson, Taylor, Hunt P.A. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14193060 on 02/28/2014 (1775 days app to issue)

Abstract: System equipment carriers and related methods can include two side panels coupled together in a spaced apart relationship with respect to one another by a base panel to form an equipment carrier, the equipment carrier being configured to receive and support a plurality of individual component modules therein. In this configuration, the equipment carrier and the plurality of individual component modules received therein are configured to be positioned together within an equipment enclosure that is configured to receive individual component modules therein.

[A47B] TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE (jointing of furniture F16B 12/00)


System and method of detecting and predicting seizures
Patent No. 10172567 

Inventor(s): Dane Grasse (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): Drexel University (Philadelphia, PA)
Law Firm: Saul Ewing Arnstein Lehr LLP (4 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14122906 on 06/01/2012 (2412 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention describes systems and methods for predicting and detecting a seizure in a subject. The methods of the invention comprise measuring interneuron synchrony in terms of the coherence between interneuron action potentials and local field potential oscillations. In one embodiment, the detection of specific patterns of coherence, correlation and firing rate of interneurons predicts an upcoming seizures.

[A61B] DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION (analysing biological material G01N, e.g. G01N 33/48)


Portable stretching device
Patent No. 10172758 

Inventor(s): Curtis Downs (North Richland Hills, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15264770 on 09/14/2016 (846 days app to issue)

Abstract: A portable stretching device is provided having a gear housing and gear mechanism that move stretching poles in opposing rotational directions to provide a maximum stretching position.

[A63B] APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT (apparatus for passive exercising, massage A61H)


Inhibitors of multidrug resistance transporter P-glycoprotein
Patent No. 10172855 

Inventor(s): Courtney A. Follit (Dallas, TX), Frances K. Brewer (Waxahachie, TX), John G. Wise (Allen, TX), Pia D. Vogel (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Southern Methodist University (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Chalker Flores, LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15406036 on 01/13/2017 (725 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method of treating a subject that is resistant to one or more drugs by identifying a subject having one or more drug resistant cells; administering to the subject a pharmaceutically effective amount of an inhibitor compound, and contacting one or more drug resistant cells with the inhibitor compound to reduce the export of the inhibitor compound from the one or more drug resistant tumor cells and to block the transport of drug(s) from the one or more drug resistant cells.

[A61K] PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL, OR TOILET PURPOSES (devices or methods specially adapted for bringing pharmaceutical products into particular physical or administering forms A61J 3/00; chemical aspects of, or use of materials for deodorisation of air, for disinfection or sterilisation, or for bandages, dressings, absorbent pads or surgical articles A61L; soap compositions C11D)


Automated drug delivery systems
Patent No. 10173025 

Inventor(s): Brad Anthony Niese (Southlake, TX)
Assignee(s): IDTX SYSTEMS, INC. (Charleston, SC)
Law Firm: Myers Bigel, P.A. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14692299 on 04/21/2015 (1358 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system for delivering drug is provided. The system includes an adapter and a device. The adapter is configured to establish fluid communication with a gas conduit of a ventilator circuit. The device includes an actuation member and an actuator. The actuation member is configured to pivot. A canister containing drug is disposed between the adapter and the actuation member. The actuator is engaged to the actuation member such that the actuator selectively causes pivotal movement of the actuation member, causing the actuation member to apply pressure over the canister, thereby causing the canister to deliver drug into the adapter.

[A61M] DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY (introducing media into or onto the bodies of animals A61D 7/00; means for inserting tampons A61F 13/26; devices for administering food or medicines orally A61J; containers for collecting, storing or administering blood or medical fluids A61J 1/05); DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY (surgery A61B; chemical aspects of surgical articles A61L; magnetotherapy using magnetic elements placed within the body A61N 2/10); DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR [5]


Golf club having a reinforced ball striking plate
Patent No. 10173106 

Inventor(s): Byron C. Slaughter (Granbury, TX), David N. Franklin (Granbury, TX), William C. Knight (Granbury, TX)
Assignee(s): Kartsen Manufacturing Corporation (Phoenix, AZ)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15862416 on 01/04/2018 (369 days app to issue)

Abstract: A ball striking device includes a ball striking plate having a front surface configured to strike a ball and a rear surface opposite the front surface. The ball striking plate has a desired-contact region and a perimeter. One or more spoke-like reinforcement ribs may be located on the rear surface and may radiate away from the desired-contact region toward the perimeter. At least one of the spoke-like reinforcement ribs may be located in an upper-toe quadrant or in an upper-heel quadrant of the rear surface. One or more encircling reinforcement ribs may be located on the rear surface. The one or more encircling reinforcement ribs may be at least partially encircling the desired-contact region. A thickened portion of the ball striking plate may be positioned behind the desired-contact region of the ball striking plate. The ball striking device may be a golf club head.

[A63B] APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT (apparatus for passive exercising, massage A61H)


Golf club
Patent No. 10173116 

Inventor(s): Kevin R. Harper (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): Taylor Made Golf Company, Inc. (Carlsbad, CA)
Law Firm: Klarquist Sparkman, LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15615649 on 06/06/2017 (581 days app to issue)

Abstract: A golf club comprises a shaft, a club head, and a connection assembly that allows the shaft to be easily disconnected from the club head. In particular embodiments, the connection assembly includes a removable hosel sleeve that allows a shaft to be supported a desired predetermined orientation relative to the club head. In this manner, the shaft loft and/or lie angle of the club can be adjusted without resorting to traditional bending of the shaft. In another embodiment, the club head has an adjustable sole that can be adjusted upwardly and downwardly relative to the strike face of the club head, which is effective to adjust the face angle of the club head.

[A63B] APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT (apparatus for passive exercising, massage A61H)


Methods and systems for gamification
Patent No. 10173136 

Inventor(s): David Hancock (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): UNITED SERVICES AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION (USAA) (San Antonio, TX)
Law Firm: Perkins Coie LLP (17 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15466379 on 03/22/2017 (657 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods and systems described in this disclosure are directed at gamification. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to methods and systems for tracking actions taken by a user at predetermined gaming levels in a gaming application, the gaming application also facilitating users to interact with the gaming application in the form of questions and answers relating to topics in the military and armed forces. If the user is unable to provide a minimum number of correct responses to the questions presented, the gaming application displays actions that are to be performed by the user to continue playing the game. In some embodiments, a game is paused temporarily by a pause signal sent to the gaming application. The game resumes when a resume signal is sent to activate the gaming application.

[A63F] CARD, BOARD OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR [5]


Topical aqueous ophthalmic compositions containing a 1H-indole-1-carboxamide derivative and use thereof for treatment of ophthalmic disease
Patent No. 10174006 

Inventor(s): Malay Ghosh (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): NOVARTIS AG (Basel, CH)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 14292082 on 05/30/2014 (1684 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the provision of a multi-dose topical ophthalmic composition containing a 1H-indole-1-carboxamide and use thereof for treatment of ophthalmic disease. More specifically the present invention is directed to a multi-dose aqueous ophthalmic composition (e.g., a solution, a suspension, an emulsion or the like) containing a 1H-indole-1-carboxamide (e.g., N-(1-methyl-5-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)-5-((6-((methylamino)methyl)pyrimidin-4-yl)oxy)-1H-indole-1-carboxamide) and use thereof for treatment of an ophthalmic disease at the back of the eye such as age related macular degeneration (AMD).

[A61K] PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL, OR TOILET PURPOSES (devices or methods specially adapted for bringing pharmaceutical products into particular physical or administering forms A61J 3/00; chemical aspects of, or use of materials for deodorisation of air, for disinfection or sterilisation, or for bandages, dressings, absorbent pads or surgical articles A61L; soap compositions C11D)


Preparations of hydrophobic therapeutic agents, methods of manufacture and use thereof
Patent No. 10174071 

Inventor(s): Ritesh V. Thekkedath (Dombivli, IN), Shikha P. Barman (Bedford, MA), Thomas B. Leland (Bolton, MA), Thomas Cavanagh (New Canaan, CT), Tian Hao (Acton, MA)
Assignee(s): NICOX OPHTHALMICS, INC. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Arent Fox LLP (5 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15660470 on 07/26/2017 (531 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention further provides method of preparing nanocrystals of a hydrophobic therapeutic agent such as fluticasone or triamcinolone, pharmaceutical compositions (e.g., topical or intranasal compositions) thereof and methods for treating and/or preventing the signs and/or symptoms of disorders such as blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction or skin inflammation or a respiratory disease (e.g., asthma).

[A61K] PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL, OR TOILET PURPOSES (devices or methods specially adapted for bringing pharmaceutical products into particular physical or administering forms A61J 3/00; chemical aspects of, or use of materials for deodorisation of air, for disinfection or sterilisation, or for bandages, dressings, absorbent pads or surgical articles A61L; soap compositions C11D)


 

O P E R A T I O N S  &  T R A N S P O R T

Diaphragm pump with improved tank recirculation
Patent No. 10173183 

Inventor(s): Sidney Edward Lowe, Jr. (Moyock, NC)
Assignee(s): Flowserve Management Company (Irving, TX)
Law Firm: Dinsmore Shohl, LLP (5 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14848407 on 09/09/2015 (1217 days app to issue)

Abstract: An assembly made up of a pump, a container and an augmented fluid-recirculating system for increased working fluid agitation, and a method of agitating a liquid within a containeras well as dispensing such a liquid from the containerwhere the liquid has been subjected to such augmented agitation prior to such dispensing. The pump cooperates with the fluid-recirculating system that includes an eductor such that the liquid resident within the container may be recirculated in a manner to promote its own agitation. In addition, air or a related fluid may be passively introduced upstream of the pump such that it also may pass through the eductor. In one form, the assembly defines a closed-loop system such that the air or other gas already present in the container may be introduced selectively, while in another form, the assembly defines an open-loop system that retrieves air from a local external environment. In either case, the introduction of such air or related gas may be selective, thereby permitting an operator to dictate if such air should be recirculated. In addition, the use of a diaphragm pump helps avoid damage to the portions of the pump that are exposed to a mixed phase fluid flow made up of the air and recirculated liquid.

[B01F] MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING, DISPERSING (mixing paints B44D 3/06)


Transducer driver attenuating input current frequency at maximum mechanical output
Patent No. 10173243 

Inventor(s): Giovanni Frattini (Travaco Siccomario, IT), Maurizio Granato (Milan, IT), Roberto Massolini (Pavia, ,IT)
Assignee(s): Texas Instruments Incorporated (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15089752 on 04/04/2016 (1009 days app to issue)

Abstract: A transducer has an input and produces a mechanical output, wherein the magnitude of the mechanical output of the transducer is dependent on the frequency and magnitude of current at the input. A driver for the transducer includes a device having a transfer function associated with the device, the device having a device input and a device output, the device output being connectable to the input of the transducer and the device input being connectable to a power source. The device attenuates the current output at a frequency that causes a peak in the magnitude of the mechanical output of the transducer.

[B06B] GENERATING OR TRANSMITTING MECHANICAL VIBRATIONS IN GENERAL (for particular physical or chemical processes, see the relevant subclasses, e.g. B07B 1/40, B22C 19/06, B23Q 17/12, B24B 31/06, E01C 19/22; measurement of mechanical vibrations, including the combination of generation and measurement, G01H; systems using reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves G01S 15/00; generating seismic energy for prospecting G01V 1/02; control of mechanical vibrations G05D 19/00; methods or devices for transmitting, conducting or directing sound, in general G10K 11/00; synthesis of acoustic waves G10K 15/02; piezo-electric, electrostrictive or magnetostrictive elements H01L 41/00; motors with vibrating magnet, armature or coil H02K 33/00; motors using piezo-electric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction H02N 2/00; generation of electrical oscillations H03B; electromechanical resonators as resonant circuit elements H03H; loudspeakers, microphones, gramophone pick-ups or like acoustic electromechanical transducers H04R) [2]


Modular mandrel for monolithic composite fuselage
Patent No. 10173348 

Inventor(s): Felix Bednar (Laval, CA), Jacques Dionne (Saint-Andr-d”Argenteuil, CA), Richard Gingras (Montreal, CA), Sylvain Tessier (Fassett, CA)
Assignee(s): Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15264410 on 09/13/2016 (847 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a self-supporting, monolithic fuselage body, including engaging peripheral mandrel sections around at least one central mandrel section, placing uncured composite material on the mold surface, curing the composite material on the mold surface, and sliding the central mandrel section(s) out of engagement with the peripheral mandrel sections and disengaging the peripheral mandrel sections from the cured composite material without collapsing the mandrel sections. The peripheral mandrel sections each include a shape-retaining core of a thermally insulating material and an outer layer on an outer surface of the shape-retaining core. The outer layer has a coefficient of thermal expansion within the range of variation of that of the coefficient of thermal expansion of the composite material. A mandrel for layup and cure of a predetermined composite material in the manufacture of a monolithic fuselage is also discussed.

[B29C] SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING (making preforms B29B 11/00; making laminated products by combining previously unconnected layers which become one product whose layers will remain together B32B 37/00-B32B 41/00) [4]


Dispensing canister apparatus with thermochromic clip
Patent No. 10173492 

Inventor(s): Michael E. Quest (Arden, NC)
Assignee(s): TSI Products, Inc. (Arlington, TX)
Law Firm: The Van Winkle Law Firm (8 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15360416 on 11/23/2016 (776 days app to issue)

Abstract: A dispensing canister apparatus for controlled release of a stored fluid includes first and second thermochromic clips for providing a visual indication of the ambient air temperature; a hose member surrounding a channel and having first and second open ends, and the first open end being connected to the canister such that the channel is in fluid flow communication with the inner cavity; a control on the canister for selectively actuating the flow of the stored fluid from the inner cavity into the channel and through a coupler member at the second open end of the hose member; and wherein storage of the first thermochromic clip in the first receptacle positions the fastening member such that it obstructs movement of the control for actuating the flow of the stored fluid.

[B60H] ARRANGEMENTS OR ADAPTATIONS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING, OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES


Electric vehicle fleet charging system
Patent No. 10173544 

Inventor(s): Scott B. Hendrix (North Garden, VA), Walter M. Hendrix (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): Sierra Smart Systems, LLC (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15290804 on 10/11/2016 (819 days app to issue)

Abstract: An electric vehicle charging system comprises one or more system power and control modules (SPCM) and vehicle charging stations (VCS); wherein the SPCM distributes power from a power source to the VCS, and the VCS distributes power to one or more electric vehicles. Another electric vehicle charging system comprises an SPCM, VCS, a fleet management system (FMS) for monitoring and controlling the charging system, and a communications network for sharing information. A system for managing a plurality of electric vehicles comprises a plug-in module configured to collect and store information from an on-board diagnostics system of at least one of the plurality of electric vehicles, management software, a communications network, and a smart device software application for displaying system information. A computer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions for supporting a management system for a plurality of electric vehicles to extract, organize, and display information from the management system.

[B60L] PROPULSION OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES (arrangements or mounting of electrical propulsion units or of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion in vehicles B60K 1/00, B60K 6/20; arrangements or mounting of electrical gearing in vehicles B60K 17/12, B60K 17/14; preventing wheel slip by reducing power in rail vehicles B61C 15/08; dynamo-electric machines H02K; control or regulation of electric motors H02P); SUPPLYING ELECTRIC POWER FOR AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES (electric coupling devices combined with mechanical couplings of vehicles B60D 1/64; electric heating for vehicles B60H 1/00); ELECTRODYNAMIC BRAKE SYSTEMS FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL (control or regulation of electric motors H02P); MAGNETIC SUSPENSION OR LEVITATION FOR VEHICLES; MONITORING OPERATING VARIABLES OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRIC SAFETY DEVICES FOR ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES [4]


Lightweight headrests with suspension mesh and supporting frame
Patent No. 10173567 

Inventor(s): Ty Parker (Sanger, TX)
Assignee(s): Zodiac Seats US LLC (Gainesville, TX)
Law Firm: Kilpatrick Townsend Stockton LLP (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15319592 on 06/16/2015 (1302 days app to issue)

Abstract: Described are lightweight headrests with a perimeter frame [b]200[/b] with an open central region. The open central region is spanned by a suspension membrane [b]100[/b] held in tension. The suspension membrane provides support and cushioning functions to a passenger head without the need for internal structures or compression cushions. The perimeter frame of the headrest may have additional cross members spanning the rear portion of the headrest. These cross members may provide additional structure or locate attachment points for the headrest onto the seat.

[B60N] VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (furniture construction A47)


Top of rail applicator and method of using the same
Patent No. 10173700 

Inventor(s): Alejandro Medrano (Garland, TX), Bruce Robert Wise (Rockwall, TX), Dalton Lee Graham (Rockwall, TX), David Birdwell (Garland, TX), Kelvin Chiddick (Maple Ridge, TX), Kevin Ray Adkins (Rockwall, TX), Kyle Wilson (Garland,
Assignee(s): Whitmore Manufacturing, LLC (Rockwall, TX)
Law Firm: Jones Delflache LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14967264 on 12/11/2015 (1124 days app to issue)

Abstract: A top of rail (TOR) applicator has a bar positioned in a housing and an exit orifice on the upper portion of the bar for delivering a friction control composition to the crown of a railhead. The upper portion of the bar slopes away from the friction control composition exit orifice. The bar may be composed of an elastomer such as polyurethane. A passageway may extend from an inlet port to the exit orifice. The friction reduction composition is pumped into the inlet port, through the passageway to the exit orifice and then onto the crown of the railhead. The friction reduction composition may be thixotropic.

[B61K] OTHER AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT FOR RAILWAYS (energy-storing brakes B61H; protection of permanent way against weather influences E01B; rail cleaning, snow ploughs E01H)


Automated system for determining optimal train driving system parameters
Patent No. 10173703 

Inventor(s): Bradley Howard (Haslet, TX), Devon Robert Hall (Irving, TX), Keith Wesley Wait (Flower Mound, TX)
Assignee(s): NEW YORK AIR BRAKE, LLC (Watertown, NY)
Law Firm: Bond Schoeneck King, PLLC (4 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15223084 on 07/29/2016 (893 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system for optimizing the control of a train that includes an interface for receiving data representing a set of operational parameters for a train that will traverse a predetermined route. A server is interconnected to the interface and programmed to generate a plurality of scenarios using the same set of operational parameters but different control parameters. A simulator is programmed to perform a simulation of the operation of the train as described by the operation parameters and control parameters. The server is programmed to review the results of the simulation and score how closely the simulations achieved one or more performance metrics, thereby identifying which control parameters should be used by the train and allowing the control parameters to be transmitted to the train.

[B61L] GUIDING RAILWAY TRAFFIC; ENSURING THE SAFETY OF RAILWAY TRAFFIC (brakes or auxiliary equipment B61H, B61K; point or crossing construction E01B)


Tiltrotor aircraft having rotatable wing extensions
Patent No. 10173771 

Inventor(s): Nathan Gabriel Wu (Euless, TX), Steven Ray Ivans (Ponder, TX)
Assignee(s): Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Lawrence Youst PLLC (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15990610 on 05/26/2018 (227 days app to issue)

Abstract: A pylon assembly for a tiltrotor aircraft includes a fixed pylon having an outboard end. A rotor assembly is rotatably coupled to the fixed pylon and is operable to rotate between a a vertical takeoff and landing orientation and a forward flight orientation. The rotor assembly includes a proprotor operable to produce a slipstream. A wing extension is rotatably coupled to the outboard end of the fixed pylon. The wing extension is operable to rotate generally with the rotor assembly such that a minimal dimension of the wing extension remains in the slipstream of the proprotor.

[B64C] AEROPLANES; HELICOPTERS (air-cushion vehicles B60V)


Combined mode controller and display control unit
Patent No. 10173785 

Inventor(s): Joe Leachman (Keller, TX), Thomas B. Priest (Orange, CT)
Assignee(s): Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Lightfoot Alford PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15617804 on 06/08/2017 (579 days app to issue)

Abstract: A combined controller with a panel that has a face and a back, a case attached to the back of the panel. The face of the panel includes a plurality of first primary flight display inputs configured to receive physical inputs for the control of a first primary flight display; a plurality of second primary flight display inputs configured to receive physical inputs for the control of a second primary flight display; and a plurality of flight control inputs configured to receive physical inputs for the control of automated flight behavior.

[B64D] EQUIPMENT FOR FITTING IN OR TO AIRCRAFT; FLYING SUITS; PARACHUTES; ARRANGEMENTS OR MOUNTING OF POWER PLANTS OR PROPULSION TRANSMISSIONS IN AIRCRAFT


Food container with self-actuator
Patent No. 10173829 

Inventor(s): Andrew Sawyers (Hurst, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: Sheri Higgins Law (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15436087 on 02/17/2017 (690 days app to issue)

Abstract: A non-liquid food container device comprises: a container for housing the non-liquid food product; and an actuator, wherein the actuator is self-actuated to move the non-liquid food product through the container. The food product can be self-actuated through the container by applying a force to the actuator. The food product can be moved towards an opening in the container for consumption of the food product by a consumer.

[B65D] CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES


Elliptical reel for hose transport
Patent No. 10173860 

Inventor(s): Larry Edwin Guffee (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Kilpatrick Townsend Stockton LLP (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14902875 on 08/20/2013 (1967 days app to issue)

Abstract: An elliptical reel is provided. The elliptical reel can include one or more longitudinal support members about a longitudinal axis of the reel and on which hose can be wound for transport. A cross section of the longitudinal support members that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis defines an outline that has an elliptical shape.

[B65H] HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES


Fuel data collection unit with temperature compensation and over-fill prevention
Patent No. 10173884 

Inventor(s): David A. Conley (Desota, TX), Gerasimos A. Portocalis (Dallas, TX), Steven T. Jackson (Norcross, GA)
Assignee(s): QT TECHNOLOGIES (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Gardner Groff Greenwald Villanueva (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14734142 on 06/09/2015 (1309 days app to issue)

Abstract: A fueling data collection unit associated with a fuel transfer apparatus and for use with a system for managing fueling transactions of a fleet operator using fuel transfer apparatuses at one or more locations includes a fueling data interface module and a temperature compensation module. The temperature compensation module compensates for a volume variance of the fuel as a result of temperature variance from the standard temperature data to determine a volume correction factor at the measured fuel temperature, while the temperature compensation module uses the measured fuel temperature to determine a compensated, more accurate volume and/or mass of fuel dispensed through the fuel meter. In this way, the fuel data collection unit can accurately measure the volume and/or mass of fuel being delivered. This allows the provider and the recipient to more accurately sell/buy what was actually delivered and can avoid over-filling a fueling order.

[B67D] DISPENSING, DELIVERING, OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (cleaning pipes or tubes or systems of pipes or tubes B08B 9/02; emptying or filling of bottles, jars, cans, casks, barrels, or similar containers, not otherwise provided for B67C; water supply E03; pipe systems F17D; domestic hot-water supply systems F24D; measuring volume, volume flow, mass flow or liquid level, metering by volume G01F; coin-freed or like apparatus G07F) [5]


 

C H E M I S T R Y & M E T A L L U R G Y

Pro-neurogenic compounds
Patent No. 10172827 

Inventor(s): Jef K. De Brabander (Flower Mound, TX), Joseph M. Ready (Carrollton, TX), Steven L. McKnight (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Board of Regents of The University of Texas System (Austin, TX)
Law Firm: Greenberg Traurig, LLP (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14996596 on 01/15/2016 (1089 days app to issue)

Abstract: This invention relates generally to stimulating neurogenesis (e.g., post-natal neurogenesis, e.g., post-natal hippocampal neurogenesis) and protecting from neuron cell death.

[C07D] HETEROCYCLIC COMPOUNDS (macromolecular compounds C08) [2]


Production salt water recycle/disposal process
Patent No. 10173906 

Inventor(s): J. Keith Betts (Kemp, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15177131 on 06/08/2016 (944 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for recycling production salt water comprises receiving production salt water from an oil well. The production salt water is separated into separate streams of salt water and oil. The salt water is pre-heated to a temperature no less than 2 degrees Fahrenheit below the boiling point of the salt water. The pre-heated salt water is transferred to a separation tank, and the heated salt water is separated in the separation tank into steam and salt by boiling water.

[C02F] TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE (processes for making harmful chemical substances harmless, or less harmful, by effecting a chemical change in the substances A62D 3/00; separation, settling tanks or filter devices B01D; special arrangements on waterborne vessels of installations for treating water, waste water or sewage, e.g. for producing fresh water, B63J; adding materials to water to prevent corrosion C23F; treating radioactively-contaminated liquids G21F 9/04) [3]


Processes for producing an acetic acid product having low butyl acetate content
Patent No. 10173955 

Inventor(s): Mark O. Scates (Houston, TX), Yaw-Hwa Liu (Missouri City, TX)
Assignee(s): CELANESE INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION (Irving, TX)
Law Firm: Kilpatrick Townsend Stockton LLP (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15686356 on 08/25/2017 (501 days app to issue)

Abstract: A process for producing an acetic acid product having low butyl acetate content via a carbonylation reaction. The carbonylation reaction is carried out at a temperature from 100 to 300 C., a hydrogen partial pressure from 0.3 to 2 atm, and a metal catalyst concentration from 100 to 3000 wppm, based on the weight of the reaction medium. The butyl acetate concentration in the acetic acid product may be controlled by removing acetaldehyde from a stream derived from the reaction medium and/or by adjusting at least one of reaction temperature, hydrogen partial pressure, and metal catalyst concentration.

[C07C] ACYCLIC OR CARBOCYCLIC COMPOUNDS (macromolecular compounds C08; production of organic compounds by electrolysis or electrophoresis C25B 3/00, C25B 7/00)


 

F I X E D  C O N S T R U C T I O N S

Wellbore isolation devices with degradable slip assemblies with slip inserts
Patent No. 10174578 

Inventor(s): Michael Linley Fripp (Carrollton, TX), Zachary William Walton (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: McGuireWoods LLP (Local + 9 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14781936 on 06/30/2015 (1288 days app to issue)

Abstract: Downhole tools including a wellbore isolation device that provides a plurality of components including a mandrel, and a slip assembly comprising a plurality of slip elements including a slip wedge and a slip, wherein an element of the slip assembly is composed of a degradable metal material, and wherein the slip comprises a slip insert embedded therein, the slip insert having a compressive strength of greater than about 120,000 psi.

[E21B] EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING (mining, quarrying E21C; making shafts, driving galleries or tunnels E21D); OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS [5]


Fluid flow sensor
Patent No. 10174587 

Inventor(s): Zhao Liang (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Haynes and Boone, LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14417528 on 09/03/2013 (1953 days app to issue)

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for autonomously controlling fluid flow in a tubular in a wellbore. A fluid is flowed through an inlet passageway into a biasing mechanism. A fluid flow distribution is established across the biasing mechanism. The fluid flow distribution is altered in response to a change in the fluid characteristic over time. In response, fluid flow through a downstream sticky switch assembly is altered, thereby altering fluid flow patterns in a downstream vortex assembly. The method selects based on a fluid characteristic, such as viscosity, density, velocity, flow rate, etc. The biasing mechanism includes a semi-doughnut-shaped wall contour element formed along one side.

[E21B] EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING (mining, quarrying E21C; making shafts, driving galleries or tunnels E21D); OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS [5]


Differential pressure switch operated downhole fluid flow control system
Patent No. 10174588 

Inventor(s): Liang Zhao (Allen, TX), Xinqi Rong (Karamay, CN)
Assignee(s): Floway, Inc. (Allen, TX)
Law Firm: Lawrence Youst PLLC (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16048328 on 07/29/2018 (163 days app to issue)

Abstract: A downhole fluid flow control system includes a fluid control module having an upstream side, a downstream side and a main fluid pathway in parallel with a secondary fluid pathway each extending between the upstream and downstream sides. A valve element disposed within the main fluid pathway has open and closed positions. A viscosity discriminator including a viscosity sensitive channel forms at least a portion of the secondary fluid pathway. A differential pressure switch operable to open and close the valve element includes a first pressure signal from the upstream side, a second pressure signal from the downstream side and a third pressure signal from the secondary fluid pathway. The magnitude of the third signal is dependent upon the viscosity of the fluid flowing through the secondary fluid pathway such that the viscosity of the fluid operates the differential pressure switch, thereby controlling fluid flow through the main fluid pathway.

[E21B] EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING (mining, quarrying E21C; making shafts, driving galleries or tunnels E21D); OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS [5]


Magnetic spring booster for subsurface safety valve
Patent No. 10174589 

Inventor(s): James Dan Vick, Jr. (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: McGuireWoods LLP (Local + 9 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14395782 on 12/16/2013 (1849 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed is a subsurface safety valve with a magnetic booster feature. One disclosed safety valve includes a housing, a flow tube reciprocably disposed between an upper position and a lower position within the housing, a first magnetic element coupled to the housing, and a second magnetic element coupled to the flow tube and configured such that interaction of the first and second magnetic elements induces at least one of a first force on the flow tube when the flow tube is in the upper position and a second force on the flow tube when the flow tube is in the lower position.

[E21B] EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING (mining, quarrying E21C; making shafts, driving galleries or tunnels E21D); OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS [5]


In-line receiver and transmitter for downhole acoustic telemetry
Patent No. 10174610 

Inventor(s): Donald Kyle (Plano, TX), Gregory Thomas Werkheiser (Dallas, TX), Michael Linley Fripp (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Parker Justiss, P.C. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15124970 on 04/07/2014 (1737 days app to issue)

Abstract: An in-well type acoustic telemetry system includes an elongate tubular housing, an elongate transmitter in the tubular housing, and a receiver in the tubular housing. The transmitter is adapted to generate an output acoustic signal by linearly fluctuating along a transmitter axis in response to an electrical signal. The receiver is adapted to generate a second electrical signal by linearly fluctuating along a receiver axis that is parallel to or coincides with the transmitter axis.

[E21B] EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING (mining, quarrying E21C; making shafts, driving galleries or tunnels E21D); OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS [5]


Sealless downhole system with magnetically supported rotor
Patent No. 10174762 

Inventor(s): Kuo-Chiang Chen (Kennedale, TX)
Assignee(s): Upwing Energy, LLC (Cerritos, CA)
Law Firm: Fish Richardson P.C. (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15857493 on 12/28/2017 (376 days app to issue)

Abstract: An electric stator surrounds a rotor and is configured to cause the rotor to rotate or generate electricity in the electric stator when the rotor rotates. The electric stator is spaced from the rotor and defines a first annular fluid gap in-between that is in fluid communication with an outside environment exterior the electric machine. A radial bearing includes a first portion coupled to the rotor and a second portion coupled to the electric stator. The first portion is spaced from the second portion defining a second annular fluid gap in-between that is in fluid communication with the outside environment exterior the electric machine.

[E21B] EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING (mining, quarrying E21C; making shafts, driving galleries or tunnels E21D); OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS [5]


 

M E C H A N I C A L  E N G I N E E R I N G
LIGHTING | HEATING | WEAPONS | BLASTING

 

Device and method for controlling fluid flow over an optical instrument
Patent No. 10174772 

Inventor(s): Dustin Hamill (McKinney, TX), Kirk A. Miller (Dallas, TX), Mauricio A. Salinas (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): RAYTHEON COMPANY (Waltham, MA)
Law Firm: Lando Anastasi, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15381166 on 12/16/2016 (753 days app to issue)

Abstract: A device is provided for controlling fluid flow over a window of a movable optical instrument housing. The device includes a generally annular body having an inner peripheral edge configured to correspond to a peripheral edge of the window of the housing and an outer peripheral edge, an arcuate outer surface disposed between the inner peripheral edge and the outer peripheral edge, and a reduced width portion between the inner peripheral edge and the outer peripheral edge. The reduced width portion is configured to lower elevation torque. Other embodiments of the device and methods for controlling fluid flow are further disclosed.

[F15B] SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (motors, turbines, compressors, blowers, pumps F01-F04; fluid dynamics F15D; fluid clutches or brakes F16D; fluid springs F16F; fluid gearing F16H; pistons, cylinders, packing F16J; valves, taps, cocks, actuating-floats F16K; safety valves with auxiliary fluid operation of the main valve F16K 17/10; fluid-operating means for valves F16K 31/12; pipes, pipe joints F16L; lubricating F16N)


Pin release thermal valve
Patent No. 10174855 

Inventor(s): Mark A. Michnevitz (Frisco, TX), Nathan A. Quinn (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): Emerson Process Management Regulator Technologies Tulsa, LLC (Tulsa, OK)
Law Firm: Marshall, Gerstein Borun LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15364880 on 11/30/2016 (769 days app to issue)

Abstract: A valve includes a valve body forming a channel defining a fluid flow path from inlet to outlet ports of the valve body via a gallery disposed therebetween, an opening disposed in communication with the gallery, a valve assembly at least partially disposed through the opening and in the gallery, and a fusible element. A valve disc of the valve assembly moves between a first position spaced from a valve seat of the valve body and a second position contacting the valve seat. The fusible element is coupled to and at least partly supported by the valve assembly to maintain the valve assembly in the first position. The fluid flow path allows fluid to flow through the valve body in a first direction and a second, opposite direction. The fusible element fails when contacted by fluid traversing the fluid flow path in the second direction, allowing the valve disc to move to the second position.

[F16K] VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING


LED luminaire tiling with a lens array containing a plurality of lenslets
Patent No. 10174906 

Inventor(s): Oscar M. Lechuga (Aledo, TX), Richard N. Claytor (Arlington, TX)
Assignee(s): Fresnel Technologies Inc. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Fortkort Houston PC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13921193 on 06/18/2013 (2030 days app to issue)

Abstract: A light source is provided which comprises an LED array containing a plurality of LEDs, and a lens array containing a plurality of lenslets. The lens array is aligned with the LED array such that one lenslet is disposed over each LED, wherein each of said plurality of lenslets comprises at least first and second sublenslets having first and second respective optical centers, and wherein at least one of said first and second optical centers deviates from the geometric center of the lenslet.

[F21V] FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR [7]


Anti-theft air conditioner enclosure
Patent No. 10174956 

Inventor(s): Robert J. Stanton (Weatherford, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: Whitaker Chalk Swindle Schwartz PLLC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15409715 on 01/19/2017 (719 days app to issue)

Abstract: An anti-theft enclosure for protecting an outdoor air conditioning (A/C) unit is made up of an open framework of structural members which surround and protect the A/C unit. Individual steel panels are assembled to form a series of upstanding walls which are covered by a top panels and which together define the quasi-enclosed area surrounding the A/C unit. The tubing which makes up the steel panels is spaced to allow access to the enclosed area by a worker needing to access the A/C unit. The steel panels are joined with connecting and mating elements which facilitate easy and quick disassembling of the enclosure. The upright panels also have adjustable panel legs which can be extended and cemented into the ground for added stability and security.

[F24F] AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING (removing dirt or fumes from areas where they are produced B08B 15/00; vertical ducts for carrying away waste gases from buildings E04F 17/02; tops for chimneys or ventilating shafts, terminals for flues F23L 17/02)


Optimized dehumidification with HVAC systems
Patent No. 10174964 

Inventor(s): Peter Hrejsa (Frisco, TX), Rakesh Goel (Irving, TX)
Assignee(s): Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14947764 on 11/20/2015 (1145 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system comprising an air conditioning unit operable to run at a capacity level determined by a difference between a temperature set-point and an actual temperature of an environment. The system comprises a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, and a controller. The controller comprises a memory and a microprocessor. The controller is operable to operate the air conditioning unit in a normal mode and a tracking mode comprising operating the air conditioning unit at a reduced capacity comprising setting the temperature set-point of the air conditioning unit as a tracked actual temperature of the environment. The controller is operable to terminate the tracking mode if the actual temperature of the environment either rises above the first temperature value or drops below the second temperature value, or if the humidity level of the environment drops below the humidity threshold.

[F24F] AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING (removing dirt or fumes from areas where they are produced B08B 15/00; vertical ducts for carrying away waste gases from buildings E04F 17/02; tops for chimneys or ventilating shafts, terminals for flues F23L 17/02)


Multiple stage modulating gas fired heat exchanger
Patent No. 10174967 

Inventor(s): Bryan Smith (Carrollton, TX), Eric Perez (Hickory Creek, TX), John Tran (The Colony, TX), Steven Schneider (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Winstead PC (Local + 2 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14976354 on 12/21/2015 (1114 days app to issue)

Abstract: A modulating heating system includes a tube heat exchanger having a plurality of burners, a combustion air blower (CAB) having an exhaust vent connected with the plurality of burners, the CAB operable at a first speed and a second speed, a first valve connecting a fuel source to a first subset of the plurality of burners, and a second valve connecting a fuel source to a second subset of the plurality of burners, wherein the first and second valves each have a low fire rate and a high fire rate. The heat exchanger is operable through multiple heat stages at a constant fuel-air mixture.

[F24H] FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, IN GENERAL (heat-transfer, heat-exchange or heat-storage materials C09K 5/00; tube furnaces for thermal non-catalytic cracking C10G 9/20; devices, e.g. valves, for venting and aerating enclosures F16K 24/00; steam traps or like apparatus F16T; steam generation F22; combustion apparatus F23; domestic stoves or ranges F24B, F24C; domestic- or space-heating systems F24D; furnaces, kilns, ovens, retorts F27; heat-exchangers F28; electric heating elements or arrangements H05B)


Furnace, a high fire ignition method for starting a furnace and a furnace controller configured for the same
Patent No. 10174969 

Inventor(s): Glenn W. Kowald (Carrollton, TX), Hans J. Paller (Double Oak, TX)
Assignee(s): Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15481160 on 04/06/2017 (642 days app to issue)

Abstract: The disclosure provides a controller for a multistage gas furnace, a multistage gas furnace and computer readable medium for performing a method to operate a furnace. In one embodiment, the controller includes: (1) an interface configured to receive a heating call and (2) a corrosion reducer configured to ignite the gas furnace at a high fire operation based on if an indoor circulating fan of the gas furnace is active.

[F23Q] IGNITION (devices for igniting matches A24F; chemical igniters C06C 9/00); EXTINGUISHING DEVICES


Threat detection
Patent No. 10175030 

Inventor(s): Joshua Lund (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Sensors Unlimited, Inc. (Princeton, NJ)
Law Firm: Locke Lord LLP (Local + 12 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15457464 on 03/13/2017 (666 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of threat detection includes illuminating a scene with short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) illumination and receiving a return of the SWIR illumination reflected back from the scene. The method includes analyzing the return of the SWIR illumination to detect presence of man-made optics in the scene. Illuminating, receiving, and analyzing can be performed by a device, e.g., a rifle-mounted laser device.

[F41C] SMALLARMS, e.g. PISTOLS OR RIFLES (projecting missiles without use of explosive or combustible propellant charge F41B); ACCESSORIES THEREFOR [5]


 

P H Y S I C S

Responsive route guidance and identification system
Patent No. 10172760 

Inventor(s): Jennifer Hendrix (Waxahachie, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: Law Office of Jeff Williams PLLC (Local + 690 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15410410 on 01/19/2017 (719 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present application discloses a responsive route guidance and identification system for providing route guidance and real time communication to a user related to course corrections along a route to avoid potential obstacles. The system includes a portable electronic device is configured to receive data from a location application software and a sensor module. The data received is processed to generate a route. The sensor module is configured to detect objects or obstructions along the route. The location application software is configured to receive and provide layout data of a particular area to be traversed. The system may optionally include a terminal and one or more transmitters to assist with location and navigation inside a structure. Communication is manifested to the user through audible or sensory methods.

[G01C] MEASURING DISTANCES, LEVELS OR BEARINGS; SURVEYING; NAVIGATION; GYROSCOPIC INSTRUMENTS; PHOTOGRAMMETRY OR VIDEOGRAMMETRY (measuring liquid level G01F; radio navigation, determining distance or velocity by use of propagation effects, e.g. Doppler effect, propagation time, of radio waves, analogous arrangements using other waves G01S)


Rotor speed indication systems for rotorcraft
Patent No. 10173787 

Inventor(s): Aaron Thomas Halverson (Grapevine, TX), Erik John Oltheten (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Lawrence Youst PLLC (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15894880 on 02/12/2018 (330 days app to issue)

Abstract: A rotor speed indication system configured to communicate a rotor speed operating range for a twin engine rotorcraft having a rotor during one engine inoperable conditions. The rotor speed indication system includes a governing reference indicator located on a display and configured to communicate an upper operating range threshold. A droop reference indicator located on the display and configured to communicate a lower operating range threshold. A sensor configured to measure a current rotor speed of the rotor. A dynamic rotor speed indicator located on the display and configured to communicate the current rotor speed of the rotor such that when the dynamic rotor speed indicator is positioned between the governing reference indicator and the droop reference indicator on the display, the current rotor speed of the rotor is within the rotor speed operating range.

[G08B] SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS


Ultrasonic cement and casing thickness evaluation
Patent No. 10174604 

Inventor(s): Thomas J. Blankinship (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): Weatherford Technology Holdings, LLC (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Lewis Reese, PLLC (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15163105 on 05/24/2016 (959 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods and systems for logging a wellbore having a casing are described. Acoustic energy, typically ultrasonic acoustic energy, is used to stimulate reverberation of the casing at a harmonic (for example, the second or third harmonic) of the resonance frequency of the casing. One or more acoustic sensors are used to measure acoustic signals generated by the casing reverberation. Parameters of the casing are calculated based on the measured acoustic signals adjusted by an adjustment factor determined by the particular harmonic. The use of harmonics instead of the fundamental resonance frequency allows wellbores with casings having walls thicker than 0.625 inches to be logged.

[G01V] GEOPHYSICS; GRAVITATIONAL MEASUREMENTS; DETECTING MASSES OR OBJECTS; TAGS (means for indicating the location of accidentally buried, e.g. snow-buried, persons A63B 29/02) [6]


Geolocation using guided surface waves
Patent No. 10175048 

Inventor(s): James D. Lilly (Silver Spring, MD), James F. Corum (Morgantown, WV), Kenneth L. Corum (Plymouth, NH)
Assignee(s): CPG Technologies, LLC (Italy, TX)
Law Firm: Thomas Horstemeyer, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15239226 on 08/17/2016 (874 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are various approaches for determining positions of a navigation unit and correcting for errors. The navigation unit can receive a guided surface wave using a guided surface wave receive structure. The navigation unit can then determine a potential location of the guided surface wave receive structure. Finally, the navigation unit can determine an accuracy of the potential location based at least in part on a secondary data source.

[G01C] MEASURING DISTANCES, LEVELS OR BEARINGS; SURVEYING; NAVIGATION; GYROSCOPIC INSTRUMENTS; PHOTOGRAMMETRY OR VIDEOGRAMMETRY (measuring liquid level G01F; radio navigation, determining distance or velocity by use of propagation effects, e.g. Doppler effect, propagation time, of radio waves, analogous arrangements using other waves G01S)


Single transceiver ultrasonic flow meter having an array of transducer elements
Patent No. 10175077 

Inventor(s): Matthieu Chevrier (Freising, DE), Michael Weitz (Wangen, DE)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15050314 on 02/22/2016 (1051 days app to issue)

Abstract: Elements of a single beam-forming array of ultrasonic transducer elements are selectively activated to direct two or more ultrasonic beams to a series of acoustic mirrors mounted to or fabricated at known locations at an inside surface of the pipe. The ultrasonic beams traverse measurement path segments at known angles through a fluid flowing through the pipe before being received back at the single transducer array. Fluid flow velocity along the fluid flow path is calculated as a function of a difference in time-of-flight (TOF) along first and second ultrasonic beam paths after subtracting TOF components contributed by known-length non-measurement path segments. The difference in TOF results from an additive downstream fluid flow velocity vector component along a first measurement path segment and a subtractive upstream fluid flow velocity vector component along a second measurement path segment.

[G01F] MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW, OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME [5]


Encoder device and fluid meter comprised thereof
Patent No. 10175079 

Inventor(s): Franco Morosini (Talamona, IT), Gary Martin Lawlor (Talamona, IT), Giuseppe Triaca (Talamona, IT)
Assignee(s): Dresser, LLC (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Paul Frank + Collins P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14646829 on 06/06/2014 (1677 days app to issue)

Abstract: An encoder device and a fluid meter incorporating the encoder device is disclosed herein, wherein the fluid meter can embody a gas meter that monitors supply of gas to a consumer. The encoder device is configured to generate a signal with information that quantifies the supply of gas, for example, by associating the movement of a moveable element with a volume of fluid that flows through the gas meter The gas meter can include a metrological part with a housing that forms an interior space that wholly encloses the encoder device therein and can also be configured with an input/output member that conducts the signal from inside of the interior space to outside of the housing.

[G01F] MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW, OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME [5]


Liquid level gauge with removable indicator assembly
Patent No. 10175088 

Inventor(s): Benjamin Neal Lease (Flower Mound, TX), Herbert G. Ross, Jr. (Argyle, TX), Robert E. Hrncir (Irving, TX)
Assignee(s): Rochester Gauges, Inc. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15934049 on 03/23/2018 (291 days app to issue)

Abstract: An indicator assembly for determining a liquid level condition within a tank includes a dial assembly with a base and a lens or cover connected to the base. A channel is formed in the lens and a go-no-go protrusion projects into the channel. An actuator is located between the base and the cover and is movable in response to a change in liquid level in the tank. The indicator assembly also includes a sensor module for insertion into the channel. The sensor module has a housing with a sensor for determining movement of the actuator in response to a change in liquid level. A go-no-go cavity complementary in shape with the go-no-go protrusion is formed in the housing so that the sensor module can be fully inserted into the housing with the sensor aligned with the actuator for generating signals related to the liquid level condition.

[G01F] MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW, OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME [5]


Optical computing devices with birefringent optical elements
Patent No. 10175161 

Inventor(s): Neal Gregory Skinner (Lewisville, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Gilliam IP PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15791252 on 10/23/2017 (442 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are optical computing devices that employ birefringent optical elements configured for use in optical computing devices. One optical computing device includes a polarizer configured to generate at least x polarized light and y polarized light, a birefringent integrated computational element configured to optically interact with a substance and the polarizer, thereby generating optically interacted light, and at least one detector arranged to receive the optically interacted light and generate an output signal corresponding to a characteristic of the substance.

[G01N] INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES (measuring or testing processes other than immunoassay, involving enzymes or microorganisms C12M, C12Q)


Subsurface sensing using guided surface wave modes on lossy media
Patent No. 10175203 

Inventor(s): James F. Corum (Morgantown, WV), Kenneth L. Corum (Plymouth, NH)
Assignee(s): CPG TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (Italy, TX)
Law Firm: Thomas | Horstemeyer, LLP (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14848892 on 09/09/2015 (1217 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are various systems and methods for remote surface sensing using guided surface wave modes on lossy media. One system, among others, comprises a guided surface waveguide probe configured to launch a guided surface wave along a surface of a lossy conducting medium, and a receiver configured to receive backscatter reflected by a remotely located subsurface object illuminated by the guided surface wave. One method, among others, includes launching a guided surface wave along a surface of a lossy conducting medium by exciting a charge terminal of a guided surface waveguide probe, and receiving backscatter reflected by a remotely located subsurface object illuminated by the guided surface wave.

[G01N] INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES (measuring or testing processes other than immunoassay, involving enzymes or microorganisms C12M, C12Q)


Optical nanoprobing of integrated circuits
Patent No. 10175295 

Inventor(s): Mike Berkmyre (Princeton, TX), Vladimir A. Ukraintsev (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): FEI COMPANY (Hillsboro, OR)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15192976 on 06/24/2016 (928 days app to issue)

Abstract: Apparatus for electrical and optical nanoprobing at resolution beyond optical diffraction limit. Navigation microscope is configured for navigation to a region of interest. A probe spatial positioner supports a fork and an oscillating piezotube is attached to the free end of the fork and provides an output indicating of a distance to the sample. A single-mode optical fiber having a near-field transducer formed at an end thereof is attached to the oscillating piezotube such that the near-field transducer extends below the oscillating piezotube towards the sample. A photodetector is positioned to detect photons collected from the sample. The near-field transducer may be formed as a tapered section formed at the end of the single-mode optical fiber, a metallic coating formed at a tip of the tapered section, and an aperture formed in the metallic coating so as to expose the tip of the tapered section through the metallic coating.

[G01N] INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES (measuring or testing processes other than immunoassay, involving enzymes or microorganisms C12M, C12Q)


Systems and methods for northfinding
Patent No. 10175358 

Inventor(s): Andrew Struckhoff (Fort Worth, TX), Darius Coakley (Fort Worth, TX), James Sarette (Fort Worth, TX), Jason R. Lane (Fort Worth, TX), Tom Hardy (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): Elbit Systems of America, LLC (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, PC (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14817688 on 08/04/2015 (1253 days app to issue)

Abstract: An apparatus for target location is disclosed. The apparatus includes a housing, which includes a range sensor to generate range data, an image sensor to generate image data, an inertial sensor to generate inertia data, and a processor. The processor is configured to receive the image data from the image sensor and determine a first orientation of the housing and receive the inertia data from the inertial sensor and modify the first orientation based on the inertia data to produce a modified orientation of the housing.

[G01S] RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES


Audio request interaction system
Patent No. 10175939 

Inventor(s): James Lee Fortuna (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): NCR Corporation (Atlanta, GA)
Law Firm: Schwegman, Lundberg Woessner (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14719660 on 05/22/2015 (1327 days app to issue)

Abstract: A person can use a portable electronic device to electronically purchase or otherwise request a product, service or other deliverable related to audio programming to which the person is listening at the time they initiate the request. The request is fulfilled by a service that analyzes the audio content to identify the deliverable the person desires.

[G06F] ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING (computer systems based on specific computational models G06N)


System and method for pervasive software platform-based model driven architecture application generator
Patent No. 10175957 

Inventor(s): Qin Ye (Plano, TX), Robert DeAnna (Frisco, TX), Robert W. Peterson (Plano, TX), Thomas T. Wheeler (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): Open Invention Network, LLC (Durham, NC)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15784156 on 10/15/2017 (450 days app to issue)

Abstract: In developing applications for a plurality of node types, a meta-data definition of the application can be captured into an application definition module. The meta-data definition can describe the application for the plurality of node types. A code generation module can then automatically generate the application code for the plurality of node types. The code can be compiled per node type and the packaging necessary to deploy the application to the plurality of node types can also be automatically generated.

[G06F] ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING (computer systems based on specific computational models G06N)


Systems and methods for avoiding version conflict in a shared cloud management tool
Patent No. 10175976 

Inventor(s): Dirk N Milotz (San Jose, CA), Nilay B. Chheda (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): VCE IP Holding Company LLC (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Polsinelli PC (Local + 15 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14801363 on 07/16/2015 (1272 days app to issue)

Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure involve systems and methods for avoiding conflicts between versions of an editable binary file from a shared repository of system management files, workflows, and/or items. In particular, a computing environment may include a development tool for altering the item and a standby development tool that maintains the latest version of the item. The computing environment is configured to execute a pre-commit script or program that checks a version number of the edited item to a version number of the item maintained by the standby development tool such that changes made to the item are only committed when the item has not been edited or changed by another user to the shared repository. In this manner, conflicts between versions of the binary file may be avoided such that each user”s alterations to the file or item from the infrastructure management tool are properly committed.

[G06F] ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING (computer systems based on specific computational models G06N)


Method to control the number of active vector lanes for power efficiency
Patent No. 10175981 

Inventor(s): Duc Quang Bui (Grand Prairie, TX), Timothy David Anderson (University Park, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 14326928 on 07/09/2014 (1644 days app to issue)

Abstract: The vector data path is divided into smaller vector lanes. The number of active vector lanes is controllable on the fly by the programmer to match the requirements of the executing program, and inactive vector lanes are powered down by the CPU to increase power efficiency of the vector processor.

[G06F] ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING (computer systems based on specific computational models G06N)


System and method for multithreaded processing
Patent No. 10176014 

Inventor(s): Chen Tian (Union City, CA), Feng Ye (Mississauga, CA), Liya Chen (San Jose, CA), Ziang Hu (Union City, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14810205 on 07/27/2015 (1261 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for operating a multithread processing system is provided, including assigning, by a controller, a subset of a plurality of tasks to a plurality of threads during a time N, collecting, by the controller, data during the time N concerning the operation of the plurality of threads, analyzing, by the controller, the data to determine at least one condition concerning the operation of the plurality of threads during the time N, and adjusting, by the controller, a number of the plurality of threads available in time N+1 in accordance with the at least one condition.

[G06F] ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING (computer systems based on specific computational models G06N)


Memory controller
Patent No. 10176043 

Inventor(s): Chris Michael Brueggen (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15314902 on 07/01/2014 (1652 days app to issue)

Abstract: Example implementations relate to a memory controller. For example, an apparatus includes a data storage device and a memory controller coupled to the data storage device. The memory controller is to perform, during a memory scrubbing operation, a corrective action to correct an error associated with a data block stored in the data storage device. The memory control is to determine, during the memory scrubbing operation, whether the corrective action is successful. In response to a determination that the corrective action is a failed corrective action, the memory controller is to fix a hardware failure of the data storage device based on a type of the hardware failure.

[G06F] ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING (computer systems based on specific computational models G06N)


Methods, systems, and computer readable mediums for generating key performance indicator metric test data
Patent No. 10176075 

Inventor(s): Jared D. Juniel (Sachse, TX)
Assignee(s): VCE IP HOLDING COMPANY LLC (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Jenkins, Wilson, Taylor Hunt P.A. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15348242 on 11/10/2016 (789 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer readable mediums for generating key performance indicator (KPI) metric test data are disclosed. According to one method, the method includes receiving KPI parameter data associated with a KPI metric corresponding to a system element hosted by a computing system, generating KPI metric test data values for the KPI metric in accordance to a defined time period and a collection frequency interval specified by the KPI parameter data, and utilizing the KPI metric test data values to subject at least one of an interface layer or service logic of the computing system to a validation assessment.

[G06F] ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING (computer systems based on specific computational models G06N)


System for image intelligence exploitation and creation
Patent No. 10176249 

Inventor(s): James E. Taber (Garland, TX)
Assignee(s): Raytheon Company (Waltham, MA)
Law Firm: Burns Levinson, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14501703 on 09/30/2014 (1561 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system, and corresponding method, for retrieving image and metadata from multiple sources in response to a query received from an originator having a corresponding clearance level. The query is received through an interface and then any errors or ambiguities in the received query are determined and corrected to create a parsed query. A standardized query is created from the parsed query and has a system usable format including corresponding query processing limitations and the standardized query is stored for later processing. The standardized query comprises one or more terms not accessible to the originator. The stored standardized query is processed to collect resulting corresponding image and metadata information. The query results are presented to the originator if a corresponding clearance level of the query results is at or below the clearance level of the originator.

[G06F] ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING (computer systems based on specific computational models G06N)


Big data parser
Patent No. 10176273 

Inventor(s): Aamer Charania (Flower Mound, TX)
Assignee(s): Verizon Patent and Licensing Inc. (Basking Ridge, NJ)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 14470404 on 08/27/2014 (1595 days app to issue)

Abstract: Computer-readable media include computer-readable instructions. The computer readable instructions include a class definition for a first object and a class definition for a second object. The first object includes a buffer for storing first information that identifies fields; a first function for storing the first information in the buffer; and a second function for extracting values of the fields, identified by the first information stored in the buffer, from a portion of a log. The second object includes a third function for obtaining configuration information from a configuration file, wherein the configuration information includes the first information; storing the configuration information at a first memory location; and performing a process.

[G06F] ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING (computer systems based on specific computational models G06N)


Ordering optional constraints in a variational system
Patent No. 10176291 

Inventor(s): Douglas Joseph King (Peterborough, GB), Howard Charles Duncan Mattson (Cambridge, GB), Michael John Gibbens (Cambridge, GB)
Assignee(s): Siemens Product Lifecycle Management Software Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 13601132 on 08/31/2012 (2321 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods for product data management and corresponding systems and computer-readable mediums. A method includes receiving a CAD model in the data processing system, the CAD model a plurality of features and constraints, including optional constraints. The method includes receiving a user operation to manipulate a seed feature, and identifying a plurality of optional constraints corresponding to the user operation. The method includes sorting the optional constraints and applying a sorted optional constraint. The method includes performing the user operation according to the applied constraints to produce a modified CAD model and storing the modified CAD model.

[G06F] ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING (computer systems based on specific computational models G06N)


Textile matching using color and pattern recognition and methods of use
Patent No. 10176398 

Inventor(s): Terrence A. Carroll (The Colony, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: Franklin Associates International Inc (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15863977 on 01/08/2018 (365 days app to issue)

Abstract: Textile matching using color and pattern recognition and methods of use are provided herein. An example method includes analyzing an image ([b]305[/b]) of a first article of clothing to obtain color information and pattern information ([b]205[/b]-[b]230[/b]), comparing the color information and pattern information of the first article of clothing to color information and pattern information for a plurality of other articles of clothing (using Bayesian probability analysis to determine matched pairs, and providing a user with wardrobe suggestions using the matched pairs ([b]705[/b]-[b]740[/b]).

[G06K] RECOGNITION OF DATA; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS (printing per se B41J)


Store shelf imaging system and method
Patent No. 10176452 

Inventor(s): Charles D. Rizzolo (Fairport, NY), Daniel S. Hann (Williamson, NY), Dennis L. Venable (Marion, NY), Ethan Shen (Toronto, CA), Lee Anne S. Williams (Pittsford, NY), Peter Paul (Penfield, NY), Thomas F. Wade (Rochester, NY,
Assignee(s): Conduent Business Services LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Fay Sharpe LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15295306 on 10/17/2016 (813 days app to issue)

Abstract: A store profile generation system includes a mobile base and an image capture assembly mounted on the base. The assembly includes at least one image capture device for acquiring images of product display units in a retail environment. A control unit acquires the images captured by the at least one image capture device at a sequence of locations of the mobile base in the retail environment. The control unit extracts product-related data from the acquired images and generates a store profile indicating locations of products and their associated tags throughout the retail environment, based on the extracted product-related data. The store profile can be used for generating new product labels for a sale in an appropriate order for a person to match to the appropriate locations in a single pass through the store.

[G06K] RECOGNITION OF DATA; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS (printing per se B41J)


System and method for using a mobile device as an input device for surveys at a live event
Patent No. 10176486 

Inventor(s): Jovan Hutton Pulitzer (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15453226 on 03/08/2017 (671 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method is provided for interacting with audience members in an event, each of the potential attendees having available thereto a unique identifier. The method comprises creating, for an attendee, a unique ID (UID) on a mobile wireless device (MWD) by the steps of inputting to the MWD one of the unique identifiers, combining the obtained unique identifier with a UID time stamp at the time of creation of the UID; receiving with a server on a first wireless channel communications from the MWD; registering the UID at the physical location of the event; generating a visual query; displaying on the MWD response indicators; receiving at the server from the registered attendee a response, to the query over the first wireless channel; and storing in a database on the server the received response in association with the displayed query.

[G06Q] DATA PROCESSING SYSTEMS OR METHODS, SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL, SUPERVISORY OR FORECASTING PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL, SUPERVISORY OR FORECASTING PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR [2006.01]


System and method for determining and monitoring auto insurance incentives
Patent No. 10176530 

Inventor(s): Christopher E. Gay (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): STATE FARM MUTUAL AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE COMPANY (Bloomington, IL)
Law Firm: Marshall, Gerstein Borun LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15443936 on 02/27/2017 (680 days app to issue)

Abstract: A computer system or computer-implemented method may provide incentives to an insured customer for receiving sensor data indicating risk-reducing and risk-increasing behavior during the policy term. In-vehicle sensors or other devices may gather information about the vehicle and its use during the policy term and send the information to a back-end system for analysis. Based on this analysis, the back-end system may determine that the received information is indicative of risk-reducing or increasing behavior. Upon confirmation that the information indicates risk-reducing or increasing behavior, the back-end system may perform one or more actions defined by a set of rules to establish an incentive or disincentive for the customer corresponding to the behavior. For example, the system may modify the customer”s insurance policy data, send an e-mail, letter, gift card, coupon, points, or other incentive or disincentive for the customer based on the analysis.

[G06Q] DATA PROCESSING SYSTEMS OR METHODS, SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL, SUPERVISORY OR FORECASTING PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL, SUPERVISORY OR FORECASTING PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR [2006.01]


Systems and methods for tracking objects in an environment
Patent No. 10176593 

Inventor(s): Geoffrey Dagley (McKinney, TX), Jason Hoover (Grapevine, TX), Micah Price (Plano, TX), Qiaochu Tang (The Colony, TX), Stephen Wylie (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): Capital One Services, LLC (McLean, VA)
Law Firm: DLA Piper LLP US (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16029160 on 07/06/2018 (186 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems and methods for locating and/or tracking objects in an environment are discussed. The system may include non-visible light emitters and a camera and server system including an image geometry module configured to determine the location of an identified object in the environment. Objects may be identified based on a predefined frequency and/or pattern of pulses.

[G06T] IMAGE DATA PROCESSING OR GENERATION, IN GENERAL [2006.01]


Billing a rented third party transport including an on-board unit
Patent No. 10176646 

Inventor(s): Benjamin P. Robinson (Plano, TX), Sarath K. Balachandran (Irving, TX)
Assignee(s): ATS TOLLING LLC (Mesa, AZ)
Law Firm: Stoel Rives LLP (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14994524 on 01/13/2016 (1091 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system, method, and computer readable medium for toll service activation using an on-board unit in a third party transport comprises, a third party entity, a toll rental entity, and an on-board unit communicably coupled to the third party entity and to the toll rental entity, wherein the on-board unit, receives a position signal, initiates a toll service request, converts the position signal to a toll usage, and stores the position signal, the toll service request and the toll usage.

[G06Q] DATA PROCESSING SYSTEMS OR METHODS, SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL, SUPERVISORY OR FORECASTING PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL, SUPERVISORY OR FORECASTING PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR [2006.01]


Using degree of confidence to prevent false security system alarms
Patent No. 10176706 

Inventor(s): Shanen Leigh Pankrez (Grapevine, TX)
Assignee(s): THE ADT SECURITY CORPORATION (Boca Raton, FL)
Law Firm: Christopher Weisberg, P.A. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15725727 on 10/05/2017 (460 days app to issue)

Abstract: A device and method for analyzing an event at a premises is provided. In one embodiment the device includes a processor and a memory configured to store executable instructions, which when executed by the processor, cause the processor to receive first event data related to the event at the premises, receive verification data related to the event at the premises, analyze the first event data in conjunction with the verification data, generate, based on the analysis, an indication of a probability that the event is an alarm event, and initiate at least one action based on the indication.

[G08B] SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS


System and method for auditing and filtering digital audio files
Patent No. 10176822 

Inventor(s): Alan Brunton (Lewisville, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: Grable Martin Fulton PLLC (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15665356 on 07/31/2017 (526 days app to issue)

Abstract: A computerized method for filtering a digital audio file to generate an output audio file that induces optimal health and cognitive ability in a listener of a playback of the output audio file is described herein. The method includes the steps of identifying a plurality of target frequencies that span within an octave, identifying a plurality of mid-point frequencies that are situated at mid-points between any two adjacent target frequencies, applying a peaking filter to the digital audio file centered around the plurality of mid-point frequencies to produce highest frequency attenuation at the plurality of mid-point frequencies, and generating the output audio file.

[G10L] SPEECH ANALYSIS OR SYNTHESIS; SPEECH RECOGNITION; SPEECH OR VOICE PROCESSING; SPEECH OR AUDIO CODING OR DECODING [4]


Adjusting instruction delays to the latch path in DDR5 DRAM
Patent No. 10176858 

Inventor(s): David D. Wilmoth (Allen, TX), Jason M. Brown (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Micron Technology, Inc. (Boise, ID)
Law Firm: Fletcher Yoder, P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15691394 on 08/30/2017 (496 days app to issue)

Abstract: Memory devices may provide a communication interface that is configured to receive control signals, and/or address signals from user circuitry, such as a processor. The memory device may receive and process signals employing different signal paths that may have different latencies, leading to clock skews. Embodiments discussed herein the application are related to interface circuitry that may decrease certain response times of the memory device by adding delays that minimize the clock skews. For example, a delay in a control path, such as a chip select path, may allow reduction in a delay of an address path, and leading to a decrease of the access time of the memory device. Embodiments also disclose how training modes may be employed to further adjust the delays in the control and/or address paths to decrease access times during regular operation.

[G11C] STATIC STORES (information storage based on relative movement between record carrier and transducer G11B; semiconductor devices for storage H01L, e.g. H01L 27/108-H01L 27/11597; pulse technique in general H03K, e.g. electronic switches H03K 17/00)


Data strobe gating
Patent No. 10176862 

Inventor(s): Daniel B. Penney (Wylie, TX)
Assignee(s): Micron Technology, Inc. (Boise, ID)
Law Firm: Fletcher Yoder, P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15880994 on 01/26/2018 (347 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods and devices for gating an internal data strobe from an input buffer of a memory device. The gating function occurs after a write operation ceases but before an external controller stops driving an external data strobe that is used to generate the internal data strobe. The methods and devices use local counters to count how many pulses have occurred on the data strobe during a write operation. When the local counters indicate that an expected number of cycles for the write operation have elapsed, the local counters indicate that the write operation has completed. This indication causes gating circuitry to cut off the internal data strobe from writing circuitry.

[G11C] STATIC STORES (information storage based on relative movement between record carrier and transducer G11B; semiconductor devices for storage H01L, e.g. H01L 27/108-H01L 27/11597; pulse technique in general H03K, e.g. electronic switches H03K 17/00)


Unipolar magnetoelectric magnetic tunnel junction
Patent No. 10177303 

Inventor(s): Andrew Marshall (Dallas, TX), Nishtha Sharma (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): Board of Regents, The University of Texas System (Austin, TX)
Law Firm: Schott, P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15877806 on 01/23/2018 (350 days app to issue)

Abstract: A magneto-electric magnetic tunnel junction device (ME-MTJ) that permits direct driving of ME-MTJ devices by a prior ME-MTJ device is the unipolar magneto-electric magnetic tunnel junction (UMMTJ) device. The UMMTJ device enables full logic circuitry to be implemented without level shifting between each logic element.

[G11C] STATIC STORES (information storage based on relative movement between record carrier and transducer G11B; semiconductor devices for storage H01L, e.g. H01L 27/108-H01L 27/11597; pulse technique in general H03K, e.g. electronic switches H03K 17/00)


Control method for buck-boost power converters
Patent No. 10177661 

Inventor(s): Daoshen Chen (Allen, TX), Dianbo Fu (Plano, TX), Heping Dai (Plano, TX), Jinbo Huang (Guangzhou, CN), Liming Ye (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14739827 on 06/15/2015 (1303 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method comprises generating a first ramp signal and a second ramp signal for controlling a buck converter portion and a boost converter portion of a buck-boost converter respectively, comparing the first ramp signal and the second ramp signal to a control signal, controlling the buck converter portion using the comparing the first ramp signal to the control signal and the boost converter portion using the comparing the second ramp signal to the control signal, comparing a current flowing through the inductor to a current threshold and terminating a switching cycle based upon the comparing the current flowing through the inductor to the current threshold.

[G05F] SYSTEMS FOR REGULATING ELECTRIC OR MAGNETIC VARIABLES (regulating the timing or recurrence frequency of pulses in radar or radio navigation systems G01S; regulation of current or voltage, specially adapted for use in electronic time-pieces G04G 19/02; closed-loop systems for regulating non-electric variables by electric means G05D; regulating power supply of digital computers G06F 1/26; for obtaining desired operating characteristics of electromagnets with armatures H01F 7/18; regulating electric power distribution networks H02J; regulating the charging of batteries H02J 7/00; regulating of the output of static converters, e.g. switching regulators, H02M; regulation of the output of electric generators H02N, H02P 9/00; controlling transformers, reactors or choke coils H02P 13/00; regulating frequency response, gain, maximum output, amplitude or bandwidth of amplifiers H03G; regulating tuning of resonant circuits H03J; controlling generators of electronic oscillations or pulses H03L; regulating characteristics of transmission lines H04B; controlling electric light sources H05B 37/02, H05B 39/04, H05B 41/36; electric control of X-ray apparatus H05G 1/30) [5]


High resolution capture
Patent No. 10177747 

Inventor(s): Alexander Tessarolo (Lindfield, AU), Saya Goud Langadi (Bangalore, IN)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15274576 on 09/23/2016 (837 days app to issue)

Abstract: A high resolution capture circuit and integrated circuit chip are disclosed and include first and second capture delay lines and an oscillator delay line. The oscillator delay line includes N timing delay elements sequentially coupled in a ring to generate a first clock signal. The first and second capture delay lines each include M capture delay elements sequentially coupled to pass a received signal in a first direction along a first signal path and to pass a clock signal in a second direction opposite to the first direction along a second signal path. The first capture delay line uses the first clock signal and the second capture delay line uses an inverse of the first clock signal. Each capture delay element forms a flip-flop and provides a one-bit output. All delay elements have essentially identical timing and M is equal to either N or to N/2.

[G01R] MEASURING ELECTRIC VARIABLES; MEASURING MAGNETIC VARIABLES (indicating correct tuning of resonant circuits H03J 3/12)


System and method for using a mobile device as an input device for surveys at a live event
Patent No. 10178710 

Inventor(s): Jovan Hutton Pulitzer (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15601849 on 05/22/2017 (596 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method is provided for interacting with audience members in an event, each of the potential attendees having available thereto a unique identifier. The method comprises creating, for an attendee, a unique ID (UID) on a mobile wireless device (MWD) by the steps of inputting to the MWD one of the unique identifiers, combining the obtained unique identifier with a UID time stamp at the time of creation of the UID; receiving with a server on a first wireless channel communications from the MWD; registering the UID at the physical location of the event; generating a visual query; displaying on the MWD response indicators; receiving at the server from the registered attendee a response, to the query over the first wireless channel; and storing in a database on the server the received response in association with the displayed query.

[G06Q] DATA PROCESSING SYSTEMS OR METHODS, SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL, SUPERVISORY OR FORECASTING PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL, SUPERVISORY OR FORECASTING PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR [2006.01]


 

E L E C T R I C I T Y

Vehicle electronic mobile device systems
Patent No. 10175809 

Inventor(s): Ida T Mai-Krist (White Lake, MI)
Assignee(s): Toyota Motor Engineering Manufacturing North America, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Dinsmore Shohl LLP (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15177913 on 06/09/2016 (943 days app to issue)

Abstract: The vehicle electronic mobile device system includes an executable software program configured to lock down the tactile input of the electronic mobile device when the electronic mobile device is paired and the vehicle is in a vehicle operating condition. The vehicle electronic mobile device system includes a hands-free system. The executable software program is further configured to allow other functions of the electronic mobile device remain operative and incoming texts and phone calls are pushed through the hands-free system. Responses to the incoming texts and phone calls are transmitted from the driver to the electronic mobile device through the hands-free system. Accordingly, the vehicle electronic mobile device system discourages users from handling the electronic mobile device but allows the driver to maintain communications through the electronic mobile device by utilizing the hands-free system.

[H04M] TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION (circuits for controlling other apparatus via a telephone cable and not involving telephone switching apparatus G08)


Simultaneous operation of a networked device using multiple disparate networks
Patent No. 10175972 

Inventor(s): Kevin V. Nguyen (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Open Invention Network LLC (Durham, NC)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15358508 on 11/22/2016 (777 days app to issue)

Abstract: Performing at least one of transmitting a request for an update responsive to at least one of at least two applications executing on a network device via at least one available network connection, wherein the network device utilizes at least two network adapters and the first network adapter is configured for transmitting the request for the update, via a first network connection, and the second network adapter is configured for transmitting a confirmation request requesting the update, via a second network connection, wherein the second network connection is a faster data connection than the first network connection, and downloading the update for the at least two applications via the second network connection.

[H04L] TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION (arrangements common to telegraphic and telephonic communication H04M) [4]


Method and system for automated sequencing of vehicles in side-by-side drive-thru configurations via appearance-based classification
Patent No. 10176384 

Inventor(s): Aaron M. Burry (Ontario, NY), Edgar A. Bernal (Webster, NY), Orhan Bulan (Henrietta, NY), Yusuf Oguzhan Artan (Demetevler/Ankara, TR)
Assignee(s): Conduent Business Services, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Fay Sharpe LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15297572 on 10/19/2016 (811 days app to issue)

Abstract: This disclosure provides a method and system for automated sequencing of vehicles in side-by-side drive-thru configurations via appearance-based classification. According to an exemplary embodiment, an automated sequencing method includes computer-implemented method of automated sequencing of vehicles in a side-by-side drive-thru, the method comprising: a) an image capturing device capturing video of a merge-point area associated with multiple lanes of traffic merging; b) detecting in the video a vehicle as it traverses the merge-point area; c) classifying the detected vehicle associated with traversing the merge-point area as coming from one of the merging lanes; and d) aggregating vehicle classifications performed in step c) to generate a merge sequence of detected vehicles.

[H04N] PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION [4]


Method and apparatus for alignment of optical and charged-particle beams in an electron microscope
Patent No. 10176963 

Inventor(s): Gregory A. Magel (Dallas, TX), Thomas M. Moore (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Waviks, Inc. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15836390 on 12/08/2017 (396 days app to issue)

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for the alignment of a charged-particle beam with an optical beam within a charged-particle beam microscope, and to the focusing of the optical beam are disclosed. An embodiment includes a charged-particle beam microscope having one or more charged-particle beams, such as an electron beam, and one or more optical beams provided by an optical-beam accessory that is mounted in or on the charged-particle beam microscope. This accessory is integrated into a nanomanipulator system, allowing its focus location to be moved within the microscope. The apparatus includes a two-dimensional pixelated beam locator such as a CCD or CMOS imaging array sensor. The image formed by this sensor can then be used to manually, or automatically in an open or closed loop configuration, adjust the positioning of one or more charged-particle beams or optical beams to achieve coincidence of such beams or focus of one or more such beams.

[H01J] ELECTRIC DISCHARGE TUBES OR DISCHARGE LAMPS (spark-gaps H01T; arc lamps with consumable electrodes H05B; particle accelerators H05H)


Air cavity package
Patent No. 10177064 

Inventor(s): Anthony Chiu (Richardson, TX), Kevin J. Anderson (Plano, TX), Tarak A. Railkar (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Qorvo US, Inc. (Greensboro, NC)
Law Firm: Withrow Terranova, P.L.L.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15364752 on 11/30/2016 (769 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an air-cavity package, which includes a substrate, a base, and a semiconductor die. The substrate includes a substrate body, thermal vias extending through the substrate body, and a metal trace on a bottom side of the substrate body and separate from the thermal vias. The base includes a base body, a perimeter wall extending about a perimeter of the base body, and a signal via structure. Herein, the bottom side of the substrate body resides on the perimeter wall to form a cavity, and the signal via structure extends through the perimeter wall and is electrically coupled to the metal trace. The semiconductor die is mounted on the bottom side of the substrate body, exposed to the cavity, and electrically coupled to the metal trace. The thermal vias conduct heat generated from the semiconductor die toward a top side of the substrate body.

[H01L] SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (use of semiconductor devices for measuring G01; resistors in general H01C; magnets, inductors, transformers H01F; capacitors in general H01G; electrolytic devices H01G 9/00; batteries, accumulators H01M; waveguides, resonators, or lines of the waveguide type H01P; line connectors, current collectors H01R; stimulated-emission devices H01S; electromechanical resonators H03H; loudspeakers, microphones, gramophone pick-ups or like acoustic electromechanical transducers H04R; electric light sources in general H05B; printed circuits, hybrid circuits, casings or constructional details of electrical apparatus, manufacture of assemblages of electrical components H05K; use of semiconductor devices in circuits having a particular application, see the subclass for the application) [2]


Thyristor and thermal switch device and assembly techniques therefor
Patent No. 10177081 

Inventor(s): Koichiro Yoshimoto (Irving, TX)
Assignee(s): Littlefuse, Inc. (Chicago, IL)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15406065 on 01/13/2017 (725 days app to issue)

Abstract: A device may include a lead frame, where the lead frame includes a central portion, and a side pad, the side pad being laterally disposed with respect to the central portion. The device may further include a thyristor device, the thyristor device comprising a semiconductor die and further comprising a gate, wherein the thyristor device is disposed on a first side of the lead frame on the central portion. The device may also include a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) device electrically coupled to the gate of the thyristor device, wherein the PTC device is disposed on the side pad on the first side of the lead frame; and a thermal coupler having a first end connected to the thyristor device and a second end attached to the PTC device.

[H01L] SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (use of semiconductor devices for measuring G01; resistors in general H01C; magnets, inductors, transformers H01F; capacitors in general H01G; electrolytic devices H01G 9/00; batteries, accumulators H01M; waveguides, resonators, or lines of the waveguide type H01P; line connectors, current collectors H01R; stimulated-emission devices H01S; electromechanical resonators H03H; loudspeakers, microphones, gramophone pick-ups or like acoustic electromechanical transducers H04R; electric light sources in general H05B; printed circuits, hybrid circuits, casings or constructional details of electrical apparatus, manufacture of assemblages of electrical components H05K; use of semiconductor devices in circuits having a particular application, see the subclass for the application) [2]


Semiconductor device including support pillars on solder mask
Patent No. 10177128 

Inventor(s): Chih Chin Liao (Yuanlin Town, TW), Ning Ye (San Jose, CA), Sung Tan Shih (Taichung, TW), Suresh Kumar Upadhyayula (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14676628 on 04/01/2015 (1378 days app to issue)

Abstract: A semiconductor device, and a method of its manufacture, are disclosed. The semiconductor device includes a substrate having a solder mask. A plurality of pillar bases are formed on the solder mask, and a plurality of solder pillars are applied to the pillar bases. The plurality of solder pillars support one or more semiconductor die above the substrate and the number of solder pillars prevent stresses in the one or more semiconductor die which could otherwise damage the semiconductor die.

[H01L] SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (use of semiconductor devices for measuring G01; resistors in general H01C; magnets, inductors, transformers H01F; capacitors in general H01G; electrolytic devices H01G 9/00; batteries, accumulators H01M; waveguides, resonators, or lines of the waveguide type H01P; line connectors, current collectors H01R; stimulated-emission devices H01S; electromechanical resonators H03H; loudspeakers, microphones, gramophone pick-ups or like acoustic electromechanical transducers H04R; electric light sources in general H05B; printed circuits, hybrid circuits, casings or constructional details of electrical apparatus, manufacture of assemblages of electrical components H05K; use of semiconductor devices in circuits having a particular application, see the subclass for the application) [2]


Electrostatic discharge protection device for high voltage
Patent No. 10177136 

Inventor(s): Kyle C. Schulmeyer (Dallas, TX), Roger A. Cline (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15672813 on 08/09/2017 (517 days app to issue)

Abstract: A circuit for protecting against electrostatic discharge events has a semiconductor substrate ([b]200[/b]) of first conductivity embedding a first diode in a well ([b]260[/b]) of opposite second conductivity, the diode”s anode ([b]111[/b]) tied to an I/O pin-to-be-protected ([b]101[/b]) at a first voltage, and the first diode”s cathode ([b]112[/b]) connected to the first drain ([b]123[/b]) of a first MOS transistor in the substrate. The first MOS transistor”s first gate ([b]122[/b]) is biased to a second voltage smaller than the first voltage, thereby reducing the first voltage by the amount of the second voltage. In series with the first MOS transistor is a second MOS transistor with its second drain ([b]670[/b]) merged with the first source of the first MOS transistor, and its second source ([b]131[/b]), together with its second gate ([b]132[/b]), tied to ground potential ([b]140[/b]).

[H01L] SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (use of semiconductor devices for measuring G01; resistors in general H01C; magnets, inductors, transformers H01F; capacitors in general H01G; electrolytic devices H01G 9/00; batteries, accumulators H01M; waveguides, resonators, or lines of the waveguide type H01P; line connectors, current collectors H01R; stimulated-emission devices H01S; electromechanical resonators H03H; loudspeakers, microphones, gramophone pick-ups or like acoustic electromechanical transducers H04R; electric light sources in general H05B; printed circuits, hybrid circuits, casings or constructional details of electrical apparatus, manufacture of assemblages of electrical components H05K; use of semiconductor devices in circuits having a particular application, see the subclass for the application) [2]


Bipolar transistor including lateral suppression diode
Patent No. 10177140 

Inventor(s): Henry Litzmann Edwards (Garland, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15156590 on 05/17/2016 (966 days app to issue)

Abstract: A transistor includes an emitter of a first conductivity type, base of a second conductivity type, collector of the first conductivity type, and cathode of a lateral suppression diode. The emitter is disposed at a top surface of the transistor and configured to receive electrical current from an external source. The base is configured to conduct the electrical current from the collector to the emitter. The base is disposed at the top surface of the transistor and laterally between the emitter and the collector. The collector is configured to attract and collect minority carriers from the base. The cathode of the first conductivity type is surrounded by the base and disposed between the emitter and the collector, and the cathode is configured to suppress a lateral flow of the minority carriers from the base to the collector.

[H01L] SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (use of semiconductor devices for measuring G01; resistors in general H01C; magnets, inductors, transformers H01F; capacitors in general H01G; electrolytic devices H01G 9/00; batteries, accumulators H01M; waveguides, resonators, or lines of the waveguide type H01P; line connectors, current collectors H01R; stimulated-emission devices H01S; electromechanical resonators H03H; loudspeakers, microphones, gramophone pick-ups or like acoustic electromechanical transducers H04R; electric light sources in general H05B; printed circuits, hybrid circuits, casings or constructional details of electrical apparatus, manufacture of assemblages of electrical components H05K; use of semiconductor devices in circuits having a particular application, see the subclass for the application) [2]


Embedded orientation markers for imaging sensors
Patent No. 10177183 

Inventor(s): Joshua Lund (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Sensors Unlimited, Inc. (Princeton, NJ)
Law Firm: Locke Lord LLP (Local + 12 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15259479 on 09/08/2016 (852 days app to issue)

Abstract: An imaging sensor includes an imaging array with a plurality of pixels. A sub-set of the pixels are marker pixels configured to each provide a constant respective output value to embed an orientation and alignment marker in images produced with the imaging array. The marker pixels can be sparsely distributed across the imaging array.

[H01L] SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (use of semiconductor devices for measuring G01; resistors in general H01C; magnets, inductors, transformers H01F; capacitors in general H01G; electrolytic devices H01G 9/00; batteries, accumulators H01M; waveguides, resonators, or lines of the waveguide type H01P; line connectors, current collectors H01R; stimulated-emission devices H01S; electromechanical resonators H03H; loudspeakers, microphones, gramophone pick-ups or like acoustic electromechanical transducers H04R; electric light sources in general H05B; printed circuits, hybrid circuits, casings or constructional details of electrical apparatus, manufacture of assemblages of electrical components H05K; use of semiconductor devices in circuits having a particular application, see the subclass for the application) [2]


Metal thin film resistor and process
Patent No. 10177214 

Inventor(s): Abbas Ali (Plano, TX), Eric Beach (Tucson, AZ)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15357796 on 11/21/2016 (778 days app to issue)

Abstract: An integrated circuit with a metal thin film resistor with an overlying etch stop layer. A process for forming a metal thin film resistor in an integrated circuit with the addition of one lithography step.

[H01L] SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (use of semiconductor devices for measuring G01; resistors in general H01C; magnets, inductors, transformers H01F; capacitors in general H01G; electrolytic devices H01G 9/00; batteries, accumulators H01M; waveguides, resonators, or lines of the waveguide type H01P; line connectors, current collectors H01R; stimulated-emission devices H01S; electromechanical resonators H03H; loudspeakers, microphones, gramophone pick-ups or like acoustic electromechanical transducers H04R; electric light sources in general H05B; printed circuits, hybrid circuits, casings or constructional details of electrical apparatus, manufacture of assemblages of electrical components H05K; use of semiconductor devices in circuits having a particular application, see the subclass for the application) [2]


Analog capacitor on submicron pitch metal level
Patent No. 10177215 

Inventor(s): Bhaskar Srinivasan (Allen, TX), Corinne Ann Gagnet (Dallas, TX), Guru Mathur (Plano, TX), Shih Chang Chang (Allen, TX), Stephen Arlon Meisner (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15793690 on 10/25/2017 (440 days app to issue)

Abstract: A microelectronic device includes a capacitor having a lower plate of interconnect metal, a capacitor dielectric layer with a lower silicon dioxide layer, a silicon oxy-nitride layer, and an upper silicon dioxide layer, and an upper plate over the capacitor dielectric layer. The silicon oxy-nitride layer has an average index of refraction of 1.85 to 1.95 at a wavelength of 248 nanometers. To form the microelectronic device, the lower silicon dioxide layer, the silicon oxy-nitride layer, and the upper silicon dioxide layer are formed in sequence over an interconnect metal layer. The upper plate is formed, leaving the lower silicon dioxide layer, the silicon oxy-nitride layer, and at least a portion of the upper silicon dioxide layer over the interconnect metal layer. An interconnect mask is formed of photoresist over the upper plate and the silicon oxy-nitride layer, using the silicon oxy-nitride layer as an anti-reflection layer.

[H01L] SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (use of semiconductor devices for measuring G01; resistors in general H01C; magnets, inductors, transformers H01F; capacitors in general H01G; electrolytic devices H01G 9/00; batteries, accumulators H01M; waveguides, resonators, or lines of the waveguide type H01P; line connectors, current collectors H01R; stimulated-emission devices H01S; electromechanical resonators H03H; loudspeakers, microphones, gramophone pick-ups or like acoustic electromechanical transducers H04R; electric light sources in general H05B; printed circuits, hybrid circuits, casings or constructional details of electrical apparatus, manufacture of assemblages of electrical components H05K; use of semiconductor devices in circuits having a particular application, see the subclass for the application) [2]


Continuous crystalline gallium nitride (GaN) PN structure with no internal regrowth interfaces
Patent No. 10177247 

Inventor(s): Edward A. Beam, III (Plano, TX), Jinqiao Xie (Allen, TX), Xing Gu (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Qorvo US, Inc. (Greensboro, NC)
Law Firm: Withrow Terranova, P.L.L.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15681597 on 08/21/2017 (505 days app to issue)

Abstract: A precursor cell for a transistor having a foundation structure, a mask structure, and a gallium nitride (GaN) PN structure is provided. The mask structure is provided over the foundation structure to expose a first area of a top surface of the foundation structure. The GaN PN structure resides over the first area and at least a portion of the mask structure and has a continuous crystalline structure with no internal regrowth interfaces. The GaN PN structure comprises a drift region over the first area, a control region laterally adjacent the drift region, and a PN junction formed between the drift region and the control region. Since the drift region and the control region form the PN junction having no internal regrowth interfaces, the GaN PN structure has a continuous crystalline structure with reduced regrowth related defects at the interface of the drift region and the control region.

[H01L] SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (use of semiconductor devices for measuring G01; resistors in general H01C; magnets, inductors, transformers H01F; capacitors in general H01G; electrolytic devices H01G 9/00; batteries, accumulators H01M; waveguides, resonators, or lines of the waveguide type H01P; line connectors, current collectors H01R; stimulated-emission devices H01S; electromechanical resonators H03H; loudspeakers, microphones, gramophone pick-ups or like acoustic electromechanical transducers H04R; electric light sources in general H05B; printed circuits, hybrid circuits, casings or constructional details of electrical apparatus, manufacture of assemblages of electrical components H05K; use of semiconductor devices in circuits having a particular application, see the subclass for the application) [2]


Semiconductor device with fin and related methods
Patent No. 10177255 

Inventor(s): Nicolas Loubet (Guilderland, NY), Pierre Morin (Grenoble, FR)
Assignee(s): STMICROELECTRONICS, INC. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Seed IP Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15723152 on 10/02/2017 (463 days app to issue)

Abstract: A semiconductor device may include a substrate, a fin above the substrate and having a channel region therein, and source and drain regions adjacent the channel region to generate shear and normal strain on the channel region. A semiconductor device may include a substrate, a fin above the substrate and having a channel region therein, source and drain regions adjacent the channel region, and a gate over the channel region. The fin may be canted with respect to the source and drain regions to generate shear and normal strain on the channel region.

[H01L] SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (use of semiconductor devices for measuring G01; resistors in general H01C; magnets, inductors, transformers H01F; capacitors in general H01G; electrolytic devices H01G 9/00; batteries, accumulators H01M; waveguides, resonators, or lines of the waveguide type H01P; line connectors, current collectors H01R; stimulated-emission devices H01S; electromechanical resonators H03H; loudspeakers, microphones, gramophone pick-ups or like acoustic electromechanical transducers H04R; electric light sources in general H05B; printed circuits, hybrid circuits, casings or constructional details of electrical apparatus, manufacture of assemblages of electrical components H05K; use of semiconductor devices in circuits having a particular application, see the subclass for the application) [2]


Active material for rechargeable battery
Patent No. 10177404 

Inventor(s): Chen Ling (Ann Arbor, MI), Fuminori Mizuno (Ann Arbor, MI), Masaki Matsui (Tsu, JP), Nikhilendra Singh (Ypsilanti, MI), Timothy Sean Arthur (Ann Arbor, MI)
Assignee(s): Toyota Motor Engineering Manufacturing North America, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Dinsmore Shohl LLP (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13679616 on 11/16/2012 (2244 days app to issue)

Abstract: A magnesium-ion battery includes a first electrode including an active material and a second electrode. An electrolyte is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The electrolyte includes a magnesium compound. The active material includes tin.

[H01M] PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY [2]


Electrical connector assembly
Patent No. 10177500 

Inventor(s): Brock Dennison (Lewisville, TX), Jon Kenneth Lampert (Allen, TX), Seralaathan Hariharesan (Flower Mound, TX)
Assignee(s): TRAXXAS LP (McKinney, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15645867 on 07/10/2017 (547 days app to issue)

Abstract: An electrical connector is provided comprising a female member configured to couple with male member. The female member includes a female receptacle having an opening, and a female electrode is at least partially disposed within the female receptacle. A resilient member is configured to enhance electrical connection between the female electrode and a male connector electrode.

[H01R] ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS (switches, fuses H01H; coupling devices of the waveguide type H01P 5/00; switching arrangements for the supply or distribution of electric power H02B; installations of electric cables or lines, or of combined optical and electric cables or lines, or of auxiliary apparatus H02G; printed means for providing electric connections to or between printed circuits H05K)


Simultaneous multifrequency receive circuits
Patent No. 10177571 

Inventor(s): James D. Lilly (Silver Spring, MD), James F. Corum (Morgantown, WV), Joseph F. Pinzone (Cornelius, NC), Kenneth L. Corum (Plymouth, NH)
Assignee(s): CPG TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (Italy, TX)
Law Firm: Thomas Horstemeyer, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15847061 on 12/19/2017 (385 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are various receive circuits by which to receive a plurality of guided surface waves transmitted by a plurality of guided surface waveguide probes over a surface of a terrestrial medium according to various embodiments.

[H05K] PRINTED CIRCUITS; CASINGS OR CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF ELECTRIC APPARATUS; MANUFACTURE OF ASSEMBLAGES OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS (details of instruments or comparable details of other apparatus not otherwise provided for G12B; thin-film or thick-film circuits H01L 27/01, H01L 27/13; non-printed means for electric connections to or between printed circuits H01R; casings for, or constructional details of, particular types of apparatus, see the relevant subclasses; processes involving only a single technical art, e.g. heating, spraying, for which provision exists elsewhere, see the relevant classes)


Electrical charging devices and assemblies
Patent No. 10177584 

Inventor(s): William J. Warren (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: Carr Ferrell LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15788708 on 10/19/2017 (446 days app to issue)

Abstract: Electrical charging devices and assemblies are provided herein. An example apparatus includes an electronics tray including a forwardly disposed locking platform, an electronics assembly in sliding relationship with the electronics tray, the electronics assembly having locking members that mate with the forwardly disposed locking platform when the electronics assembly is translated forwardly, and a stabilizer that pivots downwardly when the electronics assembly is translated forwardly.

[H02J] CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY (power supply circuits for apparatus for measuring X-radiation, gamma radiation, corpuscular radiation or cosmic radiation G01T 1/175; electric power supply circuits specially adapted for use in electronic time-pieces with no moving parts G04G 19/00; for digital computers G06F 1/18; for discharge tubes H01J 37/248; circuits or apparatus for the conversion of electric power, arrangements for control or regulation of such circuits or apparatus H02M; interrelated control of several motors, control of a prime-mover/generator combination H02P; control of high-frequency power H03L; additional use of power line or power network for transmission of information H04B)


Input current extraction from inductor current in a voltage converter
Patent No. 10177644 

Inventor(s): Kushal D. Murthy (Bengaluru, IN), Muthusubramanian Venkateswaran (Bengaluru, IN), Preetam Tadeparthy (Bengaluru, IN), Vikram Gakhar (Bengaluru, IN)
Assignee(s): Texas Instruments Incorporated (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15729004 on 10/10/2017 (455 days app to issue)

Abstract: A voltage converter includes a high side power transistor coupled to an input voltage node and a low side power transistor coupled to the high side power transistor at a switch node. The switch node is configured to be coupled to an inductor. A slope detector circuit is configured to receive a signal indicative of a current through the inductor. The inductor current is a triangular waveform comprising a ramp-up phase and a ramp-down phase. The slope detector circuit also is configured to generate an output signal encoding when the inductor current is ramping up and when the inductor current is ramping down.

[H02M] APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; CONVERSION OF DC OR AC INPUT POWER INTO SURGE OUTPUT POWER; CONTROL OR REGULATION THEREOF (conversion of current or voltage specially adapted for use in electronic time-pieces with no moving parts G04G 19/02; systems for regulating electric or magnetic variables in general, e.g. using transformers, reactors or choke coils, combination of such systems with static converters G05F; for digital computers G06F 1/00; transformers H01F; connection or control of one converter with regard to conjoint operation with a similar or other source of supply H02J; dynamo-electric converters H02K 47/00; controlling transformers, reactors or choke coils, control or regulation of electric motors, generators or dynamo-electric converters H02P; pulse generators H03K) [5]


Methods and apparatus for adaptive timing for zero voltage transition power converters
Patent No. 10177658 

Inventor(s): Jeffrey Anthony Morroni (Parker, TX), Michael G. Amaro (Naperville, IL), Thomas Matthew LaBella (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15350697 on 11/14/2016 (785 days app to issue)

Abstract: Described examples include a method of controlling a power converter including executing a plurality of cycles. Each cycle includes turning on a first switch during a first period, the first switch coupled between a power supply and an output inductance; turning on a second switch during a second period, the second switch coupled between an output inductance and ground; turning on a third switch at a first time during the second period, the third switch coupled between the power supply and an auxiliary inductance; and turning on a fourth switch on at a third time after the second time, the fourth switch coupled the auxiliary inductance and ground. The second period ends at a third time period after the first time based on a later of an overlap time and a current through a switch connected to the second switch current handling terminal exceeding a threshold current.

[H02M] APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; CONVERSION OF DC OR AC INPUT POWER INTO SURGE OUTPUT POWER; CONTROL OR REGULATION THEREOF (conversion of current or voltage specially adapted for use in electronic time-pieces with no moving parts G04G 19/02; systems for regulating electric or magnetic variables in general, e.g. using transformers, reactors or choke coils, combination of such systems with static converters G05F; for digital computers G06F 1/00; transformers H01F; connection or control of one converter with regard to conjoint operation with a similar or other source of supply H02J; dynamo-electric converters H02K 47/00; controlling transformers, reactors or choke coils, control or regulation of electric motors, generators or dynamo-electric converters H02P; pulse generators H03K) [5]


LLC resonant frequency auto detection
Patent No. 10177673 

Inventor(s): Shanguang Xu (Plano, TX), Vaibhav Ramakant Desai (Plano, TX), Yitzhak Bolurian (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Texas Instruments Incorporated (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15803188 on 11/03/2017 (431 days app to issue)

Abstract: Generally speaking, a timing circuit helps determine diode conduction time of an LLC converter. In some examples, the circuit includes an LLC converter having a secondary side and a timing circuit, the timing circuit coupled to the LLC converter on the secondary side. The timing circuit includes a first branch, second branch, gate, and microprocessor. The gate is configured to receive an output of the first branch”s comparator and a blanking signal from the second branch. The microprocessor is configured to receive, from the gate, a signal and determine, based at least in part on the signal, a diode conduction time for the LLC converter.

[H02M] APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; CONVERSION OF DC OR AC INPUT POWER INTO SURGE OUTPUT POWER; CONTROL OR REGULATION THEREOF (conversion of current or voltage specially adapted for use in electronic time-pieces with no moving parts G04G 19/02; systems for regulating electric or magnetic variables in general, e.g. using transformers, reactors or choke coils, combination of such systems with static converters G05F; for digital computers G06F 1/00; transformers H01F; connection or control of one converter with regard to conjoint operation with a similar or other source of supply H02J; dynamo-electric converters H02K 47/00; controlling transformers, reactors or choke coils, control or regulation of electric motors, generators or dynamo-electric converters H02P; pulse generators H03K) [5]


Multi-level inverter
Patent No. 10177683 

Inventor(s): Dianbo Fu (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): HUAWEI TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD. (Shenzhen, CN)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15938193 on 03/28/2018 (286 days app to issue)

Abstract: A multi-level inverter includes a direct current input, a first bidirectional switch, a second bidirectional switch, a third capacitor, and an inverter. The direct current input includes a first capacitor and a second capacitor connected in series between positive and negative terminals of the direct current input power supply. The inverter includes a first switching tube, a second switching tube, a third switching tube, and a fourth switching tube that are connected in series co-directionally between the positive and negative terminals of the direct current input power supply. One terminal of the first bidirectional switch is connected to a connection point between the third switching tube and the fourth switching tube.

[H02M] APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; CONVERSION OF DC OR AC INPUT POWER INTO SURGE OUTPUT POWER; CONTROL OR REGULATION THEREOF (conversion of current or voltage specially adapted for use in electronic time-pieces with no moving parts G04G 19/02; systems for regulating electric or magnetic variables in general, e.g. using transformers, reactors or choke coils, combination of such systems with static converters G05F; for digital computers G06F 1/00; transformers H01F; connection or control of one converter with regard to conjoint operation with a similar or other source of supply H02J; dynamo-electric converters H02K 47/00; controlling transformers, reactors or choke coils, control or regulation of electric motors, generators or dynamo-electric converters H02P; pulse generators H03K) [5]


Switching converter with improved power density
Patent No. 10177685 

Inventor(s): Bin Gu (Sunnyvale, CA), Michael Douglas Seeman (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): Texas Instruments Incorporated (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15258242 on 09/07/2016 (853 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed examples include switching power converters, control methods and ripple filter circuits in which first and second switches are connected in series across first and second DC bus nodes, with an inductor connected to a switching node joining the first and second switches and a storage capacitor between the inductor and the second DC bus node. A control circuit operates the switches to alternately transfer ripple energy from a DC bus capacitor of the DC bus circuit through the inductor to the storage capacitor, and then to transfer ripple energy from the storage capacitor through the inductor to the DC bus capacitor to regulate the ripple voltage of the DC bus circuit, and the control circuit provides hysteretic control of the absolute value of the inductor current between a first value and a higher second value during transfer of ripple energy between the DC bus capacitor and the storage capacitor.

[H02M] APPARATUS FOR CONVERSION BETWEEN AC AND AC, BETWEEN AC AND DC, OR BETWEEN DC AND DC, AND FOR USE WITH MAINS OR SIMILAR POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; CONVERSION OF DC OR AC INPUT POWER INTO SURGE OUTPUT POWER; CONTROL OR REGULATION THEREOF (conversion of current or voltage specially adapted for use in electronic time-pieces with no moving parts G04G 19/02; systems for regulating electric or magnetic variables in general, e.g. using transformers, reactors or choke coils, combination of such systems with static converters G05F; for digital computers G06F 1/00; transformers H01F; connection or control of one converter with regard to conjoint operation with a similar or other source of supply H02J; dynamo-electric converters H02K 47/00; controlling transformers, reactors or choke coils, control or regulation of electric motors, generators or dynamo-electric converters H02P; pulse generators H03K) [5]


Current source noise cancellation
Patent No. 10177775 

Inventor(s): Eeshan Miglani (Chhindwara (M.P.), IN), Jagannathan Venkataraman (Bangalore, IN)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15927157 on 03/21/2018 (293 days app to issue)

Abstract: At least some embodiments are directed to a system that comprises a differential switch network comprising first and second output nodes, first and second transistors coupled to the network, and first and second resistors coupled to the first and second transistors. The DAC also comprises a voltage source coupled to the first resistor and a ground connection coupled to the second resistor. The DAC further includes a capacitor coupled to the first and second transistors and to the second resistor.

[H03M] CODING, DECODING OR CODE CONVERSION, IN GENERAL (using fluidic means F15C 4/00; optical analogue/digital converters G02F 7/00; coding, decoding or code conversion, specially adapted for particular applications, see the relevant subclasses, e.g. G01D, G01R, G06F, G06T, G09G, G10L, G11B, G11C, H04B, H04L, H04M, H04N; ciphering or deciphering for cryptography or other purposes involving the need for secrecy G09C) [4]


Echo cancellation
Patent No. 10177811 

Inventor(s): Hang Jin (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Cisco Technology, Inc. (San Jose, CA)
Law Firm: Merchant Gould P.C. (12 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15666628 on 08/02/2017 (524 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method is provided in one example and includes receiving a data signal, receiving an interference signal, wherein the interference signal is copied to create a reference data interference signal, combining the data signal and the interference signal to create a combined signal, using an analog echo cancellation engine on the combined signal to create an analog echo cancellation signal, and using a digital echo cancellation engine on the analog echo cancellation signal to create a data with echo cancellation signal. The data with echo cancellation signal can be communicated using a coaxial cable.

[H04L] TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION (arrangements common to telegraphic and telephonic communication H04M) [4]


Method to use a preamble with band extension in power line communications
Patent No. 10177814 

Inventor(s): Anuj Batra (Dallas, TX), Il Han Kim (Allen, TX), Tarkesh Pande (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 14816671 on 08/03/2015 (1254 days app to issue)

Abstract: Embodiments include methods of powerline communications using a preamble with band extension is provided. A method may include receiving a packet data unit PDU. Bit-level repetition is applied to at least a portion of the PDU to create a repeated portion. Interleaving is performed per a subchannel. Pilot tones are inserted in the interleaved portion. Each data tone is modulated with respect to a nearest one of the inserted pilot tones. The PDU is transmitted over a power line.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]


Minimum tone separation constrained MFSK scheme for ultrasonic communications
Patent No. 10177858 

Inventor(s): Anand Ganesh Dabak (Plano, TX), Il Han Kim (Allen, TX), Mehmet Ali Donmez (Champaign, IL), Timothy Mark Schmidl (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 14969330 on 12/15/2015 (1120 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of encoding a plurality of data signals is disclosed. The method includes selecting a set of M ultrasonic frequencies, wherein each of the M ultrasonic frequencies differs from an adjacent frequency by at least a first frequency spacing, and wherein M is a positive integer. An encoder receives the plurality of data signals. Each of the plurality of data signals is encoded by a respective set of Q of the M ultrasonic frequencies, wherein Q is a positive integer less than M. A minimum frequency separation between any pair of the Q ultrasonic frequencies of any respective set is greater than the first frequency spacing.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]


High data rate extension with bonding
Patent No. 10177871 

Inventor(s): Duane Remein (Raleigh, NC), Frank Effenberger (Colts Neck, NJ), Yuanqiu Luo (Cranbury, NJ)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15205930 on 07/08/2016 (914 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of fragmented packet transmission in a multiple-channel passive optical network (PON), comprising fragmenting, by a Gigabit-PON encapsulation method (GEM)/next generation-PON encapsulation method (XGEM) engine of a network element, data into a plurality of packet fragments; encapsulating, by the GEM/XGEM engine, the plurality of packet fragments into frames; scheduling, by a bonding block of the network element, transmission of the frames on a plurality of channels, wherein an order for transmitting the frames is based in part on channel availability; and transmitting, by a transmitter of the network element, the frames to a receiver on the plurality of channels according to the scheduling.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]


Small and seamless carrier detector
Patent No. 10177885 

Inventor(s): Masahiro Yoshioka (Allen, TX), Michael Snedeker (Tucson, AZ)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15794933 on 10/26/2017 (439 days app to issue)

Abstract: In a carrier detector, the simple latch is replaced with a pulse timer and reference control module which outputs logic high (H) when more than two consecutive toggled signals come within 1.5 baud periods and keeps logic high (H) until it misses a toggled signal for two baud periods. This carrier detector has a tolerance for a false detection which happens when the frequency shifts from lower to higher and the input amplitude level does not reach a detectable level. With this transition, the amplitude level at filter output becomes higher due to the transient response of the filter and eventually this would trigger the comparator for only one baud period. The deglitch circuit, however, ignores this clock edge in the carrier detector as provided herein.

[H04L] TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION (arrangements common to telegraphic and telephonic communication H04M) [4]


System and method for accurate reporting of fault for failed internet protocol-based calls
Patent No. 10177964 

Inventor(s): Anilkumar Kollipara (Allen, TX), James E. Wilson (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): NetScout Systems, Inc (Westford, MA)
Law Firm: Locke Lord LLP (Local + 12 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15491665 on 04/19/2017 (629 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method to identify a call end associated with a problem that caused failure of an internet protocol-based call. The method includes accessing a first call detail record (CDR) set including at least one CDR associated with a first call end of the failed call, determining from the first CDR set indicators of failure attribution of the failed call, determining whether fault for failure of the failed call is attributed to the first call end based on the indicators of failure attribution; outputting an indication that the fault is attributed to the first call end if it was determined that the fault is attributed to the first call end, and outputting the indication to indicate the first call end is acquitted of the fault if it was determined the fault is not attributed to the first call end.

[H04L] TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION (arrangements common to telegraphic and telephonic communication H04M) [4]


System for providing levels of security access to a process data network
Patent No. 10178105 

Inventor(s): Manu Jacob Kurian (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Bank of America Corporation (Charlotte, NC)
Law Firm: Moore Van Allen PLLC (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15050358 on 02/22/2016 (1051 days app to issue)

Abstract: Embodiments enable a system to determine, authorize, and adjust access, writing, retrieval, and validation rights of users and entities associated with one or more distributed block chain networks. The system is capable of receiving an authorization request from a user to conduct an action associated with the block chain distributed network, determine a security level associated with the user, and either authorize or screen the user from conducting the action based on the determined security level. The system may adjust the security level of the user by requesting and receiving additional authorization credentials from the user. Furthermore, the system may adjust the security level of one or more users based on security or functionality needs of the block chain distributed network.

[H04L] TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION (arrangements common to telegraphic and telephonic communication H04M) [4]


Systems and methods for automated retrieval, processing, and distribution of cyber-threat information
Patent No. 10178112 

Inventor(s): Nathan Weilbacher (Garland, TX)
Assignee(s): CAPITAL ONE SERVICES, LLC (McLean, VA)
Law Firm: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett Dunner LLP (9 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15832524 on 12/05/2017 (399 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for automated retrieval, processing, and/or distribution of cyber-threat information using a cyber-threat device. Consistent with disclosed embodiments, the cyber-threat device may receive cyber-threat information in first formats from internal sources of cyber-threat information using an accessing component of the cyber-threat device. The cyber-threat device may receive cyber-threat information second formats from external sources of cyber-threat information using an accessing component of the cyber-threat device. The cyber-threat device may process the received cyber-threat information in the first formats and the second formats into a standard format using a processing component of the cyber-threat device. The cyber-threat device may provide the processed items of cyber-threat information to a distributor using a distributing component of the cyber-threat device. The cyber-threat device may automatically report information concerning the processed items of cyber-threat information to a device of a user with a reporting component of the cyber-threat device.

[H04L] TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION (arrangements common to telegraphic and telephonic communication H04M) [4]


Systems and methods for detecting a call anomaly using biometric identification
Patent No. 10178224 

Inventor(s): John S. Hogg, Jr. (Bedford, TX)
Assignee(s): Securus Technologies, Inc. (Carrollton, TX)
Law Firm: Fogarty LLP (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15372793 on 12/08/2016 (761 days app to issue)

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed generally to use of biometric identification during a call for detecting an anomaly occurring in the call, such as a change in the parties participating on the call. Communication between parties of a call is monitored and biometric identification is performed using the communication. According to one exemplary embodiment, biometric prints, such as voice prints, face prints, etc., are obtained for parties that are authorized to participate on a call. The call is then monitored and biometric data (e.g., audio, video, etc.) captured from communication during the call is compared with the biometric prints of the authorized parties to detect changes in the parties participating on the call, such as a new, unauthorized party joining the call. Thus, a call processing system can detect anomalies occurring during monitored calls, such as three-way calling, a handoff of a call, etc.

[H04M] TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION (circuits for controlling other apparatus via a telephone cable and not involving telephone switching apparatus G08)


Contraband wireless communications device identification in controlled-environment facilities
Patent No. 10178225 

Inventor(s): Kelly S. Solid (Palm Bay, FL), Mark Baker (Palm Bay, FL)
Assignee(s): Securus Technologies, Inc. (Carrollton, TX)
Law Firm: Fogarty LLP (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15854536 on 12/26/2017 (378 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems and methods for identification of a controlled-environment facility resident in possession of a contraband communications device capture or otherwise accept managed access data and/or contraband communications device assessment data for contraband communications devices operating in the controlled-environment facility. Controlled-environment facility resident call data for each resident of the controlled-environment facility is gathered from the controlled-environment facility resident communications system. Correlations in the managed access data and/or assessment data with the controlled-environment facility resident communications system call data are analyzed to identify each resident of the controlled-environment facility in possession of a contraband communications device.

[H04M] TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION (circuits for controlling other apparatus via a telephone cable and not involving telephone switching apparatus G08)


Method and apparatus for navigating an automated telephone system
Patent No. 10178232 

Inventor(s): Shawn Storie (Wylie, TX), Susan Cheek (Kaufman, TX)
Assignee(s): Creative Empowering Solutions, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Pizarro Allen PC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14616462 on 02/06/2015 (1432 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method of navigating an automated telephone answering system (TAS) may include recording incoming and outgoing portions of a call with the TAS, separating the recording into a series of prompt-response segments, customizing at least one response, and storing the segments as a script for use in subsequent calls to the TAS.

[H04M] TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION (circuits for controlling other apparatus via a telephone cable and not involving telephone switching apparatus G08)


Method and system for video picture intra-prediction estimation
Patent No. 10178385 

Inventor(s): Akira Osamoto (Plano, TX), Hyung Joon Kim (McKinney, TX), Ranga Ramanujam Srinivasan (Bengaluru, IN)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15785236 on 10/16/2017 (449 days app to issue)

Abstract: Several systems and methods for intra-prediction estimation of video pictures are disclosed. In an embodiment, the method includes accessing four NN pixel blocks comprising luma-related pixels. The four NN pixel blocks collectively configure a 2N2N pixel block. A first pre-determined number of candidate luma intra-prediction modes is accessed for each of the four NN pixel blocks. A presence of one or more luma intra-prediction modes that are common among the candidate luma intra-prediction modes of at least two of the four NN pixel blocks is identified. The method further includes performing, based on the identification, one of (1) selecting a principal luma intra-prediction mode for the 2N2N pixel block and (2) limiting a partitioning size to a NN pixel block size for a portion of the video picture corresponding to the 2N2N pixel block.

[H04N] PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION [4]


Rate control algorithm for scalable video encoding with disposable P-frames
Patent No. 10178389 

Inventor(s): Sangseok Park (Flower Mound, TX)
Assignee(s): DIALOG CORPORATION (Montreal, Quebec, CA)
Law Firm: BainwoodHuang (Local + 4395 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15401243 on 01/09/2017 (729 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems and methods of performing rate control in scalable video encoders for use in videoconferencing, announcements, and live video streaming to multiple participant devices having diverse bandwidths, resolutions, and/or other device characteristics. The systems and methods can accommodate different target bit rates of the multiple participant devices by operating on scalable video bitstreams in a multi-layer video format, including a base layer having one or more reference video frames, and an enhancement layer having one or more disposable non-reference, predictive video frames. By adjusting the number of disposable non-reference, predictive video frames in the enhancement layer, as well as quantization parameters for the respective base and enhancement layers, the systems and methods can accommodate the different target bit rates for the respective participant devices, while enhancing the spatial and/or temporal qualities of the base and enhancement layers in the respective video bitstreams.

[H04N] PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION [4]


Aggregated region-based reduced bandwidth video streaming
Patent No. 10178414 

Inventor(s): Kulvir S. Bhogal (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION (Armonk, NY)
Law Firm: Lee Law, PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14883501 on 10/14/2015 (1182 days app to issue)

Abstract: An indication is received, from each of multiple content viewing devices used by multiple remote viewers, that each specifies a respective individual video content sub-area of interest within streamed video content viewed by each of the multiple remote viewers. An aggregated video content area of interest is defined that includes a combination of each individually-specified video content sub-area of interest within the streamed video content. Video content outside of the aggregated video content area of interest is designated as a region not of interest (RNOI) within the streamed video content. A transmission rate of image changes of video content within the RNOI is reduced within the streamed video content. Bandwidth consumed to transmit the streamed video content is reduced in relation to the reduced transmission rate of the image changes of the video content within the RNOI.

[H04N] PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION [4]


Method to auto-select media channel programs
Patent No. 10178436 

Inventor(s): Jian Wu (Mansfield, TX)
Assignee(s): INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION (Armonk, NY)
Law Firm: Cantor Colburn LLP (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14951745 on 11/25/2015 (1140 days app to issue)

Abstract: A computer-implemented method of selecting a media program includes continuously monitoring a plurality of media programs on available channels and analyzing, by a processor, a content of the programs. The content is compared to a set of user preferences and the programs are ranked based on the user preferences. An optimal program is selected based on the rankings and is switched to. A media system includes a media output device and a user interface. A controller is operably connected to the media output device and to the user interface. The controller includes a control system configured to monitor media programs on available channels and analyze a content of the media programs. The content is compared to a set of user preferences and the programs are ranked based on the user preferences. An optimal media program is selected based on the rankings and is switched to by the control system.

[H04N] PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION [4]


Ethernet fabric protection in a disaggregated OTN switching system
Patent No. 10178453 

Inventor(s): Iqbal Syed (Plano, TX), Richard Dunsmore (McKinney, TX), Rod Naphan (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): FUJITSU LIMITED (Kawasaki, JP)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15419649 on 01/30/2017 (708 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods and systems for Ethernet fabric protection in a disaggregated OTN switching system that include PIU modules each having multiple ports for OTN to Ethernet transceiving and an Ethernet fabric as a switching core are disclosed. An OTN over Ethernet module in each of the PIU modules may enable various OTN functionality to be realized using the Ethernet fabric which may include multiple Ethernet switches. A first PIU module may detect a fault condition on an Ethernet fabric plane of the Ethernet fabric. In response to the detection, the OTN switching system may transmit the fault condition to other PIU modules to redirect optical data unit traffic away from the fault on the Ethernet fabric plane.

[H04L] TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION (arrangements common to telegraphic and telephonic communication H04M) [4]


Location based network selection method for a mobile device
Patent No. 10178497 

Inventor(s): Edward Chao (Plano, TX), Malcolm M. Lorang (Dallas, TX), Mesut Guven (Allen, TX), Roger D. Linquist (Dallas, TX), Ronald Unger (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): T-Mobile USA, Inc. (Bellevue, WA)
Law Firm: Lee Hayes, PLLC (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15352314 on 11/15/2016 (784 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for connecting a mobile device with one of a plurality of wireless networks begins by initiating a network selection process of the mobile device with the plurality of wireless networks. A remote server determines a geographic position of the mobile device with respect to at least one of the plurality of wireless networks. The remote server selects one of a first network and a second network of the plurality of wireless networks responsive to the determined geographic position of the mobile device and an associated rule set stored at the remote server.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]


Relay-mode and direct-mode operations for push-to-talk-over-cellular (PoC) using WiFi-technologies
Patent No. 10178513 

Inventor(s): Brahmananda R. Vempati (Dallas, TX), Harisha M. Negalaguli (Richardson, TX), Krishnakant M. Patel (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): KODIAK NETWORKS, INC. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15435037 on 02/16/2017 (691 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method for relay-mode and direct-mode operations for Push-to-talk-over-Cellular (PoC) using WiFi technologies. One or more servers interface to a wireless communications network to perform advanced voice services for mobile units therein, wherein the advanced voice services include an instant two-way half-duplex voice call within a group of the mobile units comprising a PoC call session. Both the servers and the mobile units that use the advanced group services communicate with each other using control messages within the wireless communications network. At least one of the servers switches voice messages for the advanced group services between the mobile units across the wireless communications network. At least one of the servers manages the call session by acting as an arbitrator for the call session and by controlling the sending of the control messages and the voice messages to and from the mobile units. At least one of the mobile units performs Relay-Mode or Direct-Mode operations using WiFi communications for delivery of the control messages and the voice messages to and from others of the mobile units, thereby enabling the advanced voice services when access to the wireless communications network by the others of the mobile units is limited.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]


Optimizing MTC updates using MBMS
Patent No. 10178521 

Inventor(s): Sergio Aguirre (Southlake, TX)
Assignee(s): Verizon Patent and Licensing Inc. (Basking Ridge, NJ)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15865766 on 01/09/2018 (364 days app to issue)

Abstract: A base station may include logic configured to determine system throughput values for a plurality of modulation and coding schemes based on data throughput values and based on a number of user equipment (UE) devices serviced by the base station; determine a modulation and coding scheme, of the plurality of coding schemes, that is associated with a highest system throughput; and determine radio frequency (RF) conditions associated with the base station. The logic may further be configured to define a Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (MBMS) area based on the determined RF conditions and the selected modulation and coding scheme and provide an update to the UE devices serviced by the base station, wherein UE devices located within the defined MBMS area are sent the update using MBMS and UE devices located outside the defined MBMS area are sent the update using unicast.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]


Radio access network (RAN) cell site diagnostic test tool system and method
Patent No. 10178566 

Inventor(s): Ken Guttenfelder (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ) (Stockholm, SE)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15846072 on 12/18/2017 (386 days app to issue)

Abstract: A radio access network (RAN) cell site field test tool with a mobile application extension wherein a diagnostic function can be invoked automatically based on preconfigured event criteria or can be initiated remotely by a preregistered human or machine user. Example diagnostic functions may include the ability to test one or all the following functional/structural subsystems of a RAN cell site infrastructure comprising: fronthaul components, backhaul components, baseband components, GPS/location components, transceiver components, antenna components, enclosure/chassis components, internal monitoring components, cooling/AC and other ambient climate control components, environmental/regulatory compliance components, and power components.

[H04M] TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION (circuits for controlling other apparatus via a telephone cable and not involving telephone switching apparatus G08)


Method and apparatus for handover in heterogeneous cellular networks
Patent No. 10178596 

Inventor(s): Yi Song (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): BlackBerry Limited (Waterloo, Ontario, CA)
Law Firm: Fish Richardson P.C. (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15092274 on 04/06/2016 (1007 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method at a user equipment for handover from a serving cell to a target cell, the method sending a measurement report to the serving cell; and transmitting a reconfiguration complete message to the target cell; wherein the measurement report includes downlink timing measurements for the target cell. Further, a method at a source network element for handover of a user equipment from the source network element to a target network element, the method receiving a measurement report from the user equipment; sending a handover request to the target network element; receiving a handover request acknowledgement from the target network element, the handover request acknowledgement including a reconfiguration message and at least one downlink subframe in which an uplink grant is expected at the target network element for the user equipment; and forwarding the reconfiguration message and at least one downlink subframe to the user equipment.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]


Method and system for uplink HARQ and CSI multiplexing for carrier aggregation
Patent No. 10178651 

Inventor(s): Joon Beom Kim (Carrollton, TX), Zhijun Cai (Euless, TX)
Assignee(s): BlackBerry Limited (Waterloo, Ontario, CA)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13787479 on 03/06/2013 (2134 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating a user equipment (UE) in a wireless communications network, the method separately encoding and rate matching a first set of information bits and a second set of information bits; mapping and concatenating the encoded and rate matched first set of information bits with the encoded and rate matched second set of information bits, thereby creating a bit stream; and modulating and transmitting the bit stream.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]


System and methods for controlling out-of-network D2D communications
Patent No. 10178701 

Inventor(s): Anthony C. K. Soong (Plano, TX), Brian Classon (Palatine, IL), George Calcev (Hoffman Estates, IL), Mazin Ali Al-Shalash (Frisco, TX), Philippe Sartori (Plainfield, IL), Vipul Desai (Palatine, IL)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15675463 on 08/11/2017 (515 days app to issue)

Abstract: Embodiments are provided herein for determining a synchronizing master for device-to-device (D2D) communication in a cellular network environment. In an embodiment, a user equipment (UE) receives a discovery signal comprising a timing reference, and determines a transmitter of the discovery signal. In accordance with the determination of the transmitter of the discovery signal, the UE performs one of synchronizing to the timing reference in the discovery signal and transmitting a second discovery signal. The UE performs the synchronizing to the timing reference if the transmitter of the discovery is a cellular network. Alternatively, the UE transmits the second discovery signal upon determining that the transmitter of the discovery signal is a second UE that is out of coverage of a cellular network.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]


System and method for cell switching
Patent No. 10178702 

Inventor(s): Haibo Xu (Beijing, CN), Hao Bi (Lake Zurich, IL), Nathan Edward Tenny (Poway, CA), Xuelong Wang (Beijing, CN)
Assignee(s): FUTUREWEI TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15478908 on 04/04/2017 (644 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for operating a first distributed unit (DU) includes participating in a link layer context transfer with a second DU, establishing a user data path for a mobile device, the user data path connecting the mobile device with a centralized unit (CU) including a radio control protocol entity communicating with the mobile device, and storing first user data for the mobile device received from the CU and second user data for the mobile device received from the second DU. The method includes establishing a connection with the mobile device, sending the first user data and the second user data to the mobile device, and adapting the link layer context to operate in the first DU for exchanging data between the CU and the mobile device, wherein adapting the link layer context includes associating an uppermost protocol layer of the first DU with a lowest protocol layer of the CU.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]


Analog and digital dimming control for LED driver
Patent No. 10178727 

Inventor(s): Adrian Wang (San Jose, CA), Chien-Jen Su (Tainan, TW), Welton Shih (Taipei, TW)
Assignee(s): Diodes Incorporated (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15049590 on 02/22/2016 (1051 days app to issue)

Abstract: A control circuit includes an input terminal for receiving an input signal, which maybe either a digital input signal or an analog input signal, and the control circuit is configured to provide a digital control signal in response to the input signal. The control circuit may include a mode detection circuit for determining whether the input signal is a digital signal or an analog signal and providing a mode signal, a multiplexer circuit configured to select either a digital reference signal or an analog reference signal in response to the mode signal, and a comparator configured for comparing the input signal with the reference signal selected by the multiplexer to provide the PWM control signal.

[H05B] ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHTING NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR


Preventing shortened lifetimes of security keys in a wireless communications security system
Patent No. RE047200 (Reissue)

Inventor(s): Chi-Fong Ho (Hsin-Chu Hsien, TW), Richard Lee-Chee Kuo (Taipei, TW), Sam Shiaw-Shiang Jiang (Taipei, TW)
Assignee(s): L2 Mobile Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Fitch, Even, Tabin Flannery LLP (5 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14283801 on 05/21/2014 (1693 days app to issue)

Abstract: 23A wireless communications device has a first security key, a second security key, and established channels. Each established channel has a corresponding security count value, and utilizes a security key. At least one of the established channels utilizes the first security key. The second security key is assigned to a new channel. A first set is then used to obtain a first value. The first set has only security count values of all the established channels that utilize the second key. The first value is at least as great as the x most significant bits (MSB[subscript]x[/subscript]) of the greatest value in the first set. The MSB[subscript]x [/subscript]of the initial security count value for the new channel is set equal to the first value. If the first set is empty, then the initial security count is set to zero. Patent Class: N/A


DESIGN PATENTS

Rocker stool
Patent No. D837543 

Inventor(s): Charles A Patterson (Durango, CO), Charles Risdall (Plano, TX), Joe Ricchio (Long Beach, CA), Michael Risdall (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Smith System Manufacturing Company Inc. (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Winthrop Weinstine, P.A. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29592730 on 02/01/2017 (706 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A


Replaceable processing head for computer numerical control (CNC) machines
Patent No. D837845 

Inventor(s): Jason B. Jones (Fairview, TX), Peter Coates (Sutton Coldfield, GB)
Assignee(s): Hybrid Manufacturing Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 29649947 on 06/04/2018 (218 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A


Sport eyeglasses
Patent No. D837871 

Inventor(s): Jonathan McCann (Mansfield, TX), Mark Niiro (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): ROKA SPORTS, INC. (Austin, TX)
Law Firm: Wilson Sonsini Goodrich Rosati (11 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29616066 on 09/01/2017 (494 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A


Firearm grip
Patent No. D837926 

Inventor(s): David Christian (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Uber, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29597943 on 03/21/2017 (658 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

 

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As of June 12, 2018, unassigned patents with a local inventor may be included.

For additional details on patents granted, search the USPTO Patent Full-Text and Image Database

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R E A D   N E X T

  • North Texas has plenty to see, hear, and watch. Here are our editors' picks. Plus, you'll find more selections to "save the date."

  • Dallas-Fort Worth ranked No. 9 for patents out of 250 metros. Patents granted include: 7-Eleven's object tracking system, Accenture's cost of healthcare analytics platform, American Airlines' flight number optimization system, Deere's scouting system with an autonomous ground vehicle, Mavenir Networks' system for supporting low latency applications in a cloud RAN, Roka Sports' snap-in nose pads for eyewear, The Parking Genius' sensors capable of determining direction and speed of vehicle entering or leaving a lot, and Toyota's system for monitoring suspicious activity of a vehicle.

  • Dallas-Fort Worth ranked No. 9 for patents out of 250 metros. Patents granted include: Astrapi's methods of transmitting data using polynomial-based signals, AT&T's allocation and extraction of data for augmented reality for 6G or other next-gen network, Building Materials Investment Corp.'s moisture sensing roofing systems, COEVAC's automatic smoke/carbon monoxide evacuation system, IBM's cognitive intervention for voice recognition failure, Kioma's child safety seat, SanDisk Technologies' low latency data transfer, Shavelogic's shaving systems, USAA's recommendation engine for cost of a claim, and an unassigned virus immune computer system.

  • Dallas-Fort Worth ranked No. 11 for patents out of 250 metros. Patents granted include: Bank of America's authentication using blockchains, Dell's validation of data integrity through watermarking, Samsung's compensating for a movement of a sensor attached to a body of a user, SYNERGEN Technology Labs' baby monitor system sound and light delivery based on vitals,Toyota's parking meter monitoring and payment system, and Walmart's product recognition through multi-model image processing.

  • Dallas-Fort Worth ranked No. 11 for patents out of 250 metros. Patents granted include: Allied Bioscience's aqueous antimicrobial coatings, American Leather Operations convertible furniture, Caris Science's method for measuring the amount of at least one molecule in a bio sample, Siemens Industry Software 's environmental perception in autonomous driving STMicroelectronics' NFC antenna switch, Toyota's collaboorative robot hand bearing for high-torque tightening applications, and vSpatial's method for creating a collaborative virtual session.