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 July 7, 2020 | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (19100)

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

NO. OF PATENTS BY CLASSIFICATION

TOP LOCAL ASSIGNEES (NO. OF PATENTS)

Texas Instruments Inc. (Dallas) 22
True Velocity IP Holdings (Garland) 9
Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano) 6
Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. (Fort Worth) 5
SanDisk Technologies LLC (Addison) 5
Toyota Motor Engineering Manufacturing North America, Inc. (Plano) 3
Geodynamics Inc. (Millsap) 2
Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson) 2

UNASSIGNED 11

TOP LOCAL INVENTORS (NO. OF PATENTS)

Lonnie Burrow (Carrollton) 9
Christopher William Overton (Richardson) 6
Andrew Rosek (Rockwall) 3
Clinton D. Bunch (Keller) 3
Jimmie Sloan (Porter) 3
Joshua A. Bunch (Keller) 3
Kyle Thomas Cravener (Watauga) 3
Michael Edward Godart (Rockwall) 3
Tyler Lee Boss (Rockwall) 3
Dennis Roessler (Ft. Worth) 2

SPEED: APPLICATION TO ISSUE (NO. OF DAYS)

161 days
Systems for updating listings
Patent No. 10706452-B1
Assignee: Capital One Services, LLC (McLean, VA)
Inventors: Avid Ghamsari (Frisco), Geoffrey Dagley (McKinney), Micah Price (The Colony), Qiaochu Tang (Frisco)

2,757 days
Adaptive loop filtering (ALF) for video coding
Patent No. 10708622-B2
Assignee: Texas Instruments Inc. (Dallas)
Inventors” Madhukar Budagavi (Plano), Minhua Zhou (PlanoS)

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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

Portable light and insect extermination device
Patent No. 10701923

Inventor(s): Gregory Lee Horne (Euless, TX)
Assignee(s): Alliance Sports Group, L.P. (Grand Prairie, TX)
Law Firm: Thorpe North Western LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16448945 on 06/21/2019 (382 days app to issue)

Abstract: A combination lighting apparatus and insect extermination device is disclosed having a housing with an upper section and a lower section separated by a first aperture. A light source is disposed in the upper section. An electrical grid and negative pressure source are disposed in the lower section. A power source is coupled to the light source, the electric grid, and the pressure source. A second aperture is located in the lower section after the electric grid, wherein air is propagated inward through the first aperture, through the electrical grid and out the second aperture.

[A01M] CATCHING, TRAPPING OR SCARING OF ANIMALS (appliances for catching swarms or drone-catching A01K 57/00; fishing A01K 69/00-A01K 97/00; biocides, pest repellants or attractants A01N); APPARATUS FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF NOXIOUS ANIMALS OR NOXIOUS PLANTS

System and method for providing lighting effects in toilet seat
Patent No. 10702107

Inventor(s): Chengdong Wu (Allen, TX), Merle Edwards (Sheboygan Falls, WI)
Assignee(s): Topseat International, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15597669 on 05/17/2017 (1147 days app to issue)

Abstract: A toilet seat assembly includes a toilet seat, a toilet lid, and one or more hinges pivotally coupling the toilet seat and toilet lid. At least one of the toilet seat and the toilet lid includes a light source, a power source configured to power the light source, and a controller configured to control operation of the light source. The light source can include an electroluminescent (EL) light source or a side emitting fiber optic cable.

[A47K] SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (connecting to water supply or waste pipe, sinks E03C; water-closets E03D); TOILET ACCESSORIES (cosmetic equipment A45D)

Dual amplitude modulation and polarization frequency modulation as well as compensation for noninvasive glucose monitoring
Patent No. 10702197

Inventor(s): Daniel T. Grunden (Addison, TX)
Assignee(s): The Texas AM University System (College Station, TX)
Law Firm: Winstead PC (Local + 2 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15656146 on 07/21/2017 (1082 days app to issue)

Abstract: An embodiment relates generally to an improved method and apparatus for modulating the amplitude and rotation of the plane of polarization of linearly polarized light for multiple uses but primarily as part of a noninvasive glucose monitoring system. As compared to previous monitoring systems, an embodiment provides faster monitoring while maintaining or even reducing noise and minimizing system complexity. Embodiments described herein address these concerns with a modulation and compensation approach that both uses a single high speed device and also modulation of the lasers.

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

Prick test single use sterile vial and method
Patent No. 10702203

Inventor(s): Jovan Hutton Pulitzer (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): ROCA Medical Ltd. (London, , GB)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15428045 on 02/08/2017 (1245 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for producing prick test single use sterile vials for use in a prick test is provided. The method comprises providing at least one allergen source including therewithin allergen extract, providing a plurality of single dose vials, connecting a tube to the at least one allergen source, connecting a metering device to the tube, drawing by the tube an amount of the allergen extract from one of the at least one allergen source, receiving the amount of allergen extract at the metering device, and dispensing by the metering device a volume of allergen extract into one of the plurality of single dose vials.

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

Reduction tool
Patent No. 10702324

Inventor(s): Matthew Geoffrey Marek (Plano, TX), Ronald Litke (Sandy Hook, CT), Scott Reed (Winchester, CT), Spencer Shore (Hamden, CT), Viorel Mocanu (Lewisville, TX)
Assignee(s): OsteoMed LLC (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15444028 on 02/27/2017 (1226 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems, tools, and screws for reducing a bone fracture are disclosed. In embodiments, the system comprises: a screw, a driver, a sleeve comprising a longitudinal bore configured to enable insertion of the driver through the sleeve, a locking mechanism configurable into a first state that locks the sleeve to the driver and a second state that unlocks the sleeve from the driver, and a retaining sleeve coupled to a first end of the driver and configured to couple to the screw. In the first state, the sleeve applies a compressive force while distal threads of the screw are driven into the bone while retaining proximal threads of the screw in the sleeve. After a desired compression is achieved, the locking mechanism is configured to the second state, allowing the proximal threads of the screw to be driven into the bone while maintaining application of the compressive force to the bone.

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

Vertebral implant, device for vertebral attachment of the implant and instrumentation for implantation thereof
Patent No. 10702391

Inventor(s): Paul Henry Cho (Colleyville, TX)
Assignee(s): LDR Medical, S.A.S. (Sainte-Savine, , FR)
Law Firm: Schwegman Lundberg Woessner, P.A. (11 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15309197 on 05/06/2015 (1889 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vertebral implant, in particular for corpectomy, to a device for attaching a vertebral implant and to implantation instrumentation, the implant including at least one first body ([b]2[/b]) and at least one second body ([b]3[/b]) each having at least one face having shapes and dimensions mating those of at least one face of another body ([b]3, 2[/b]) and forming mutual fitting means, in order to allow assembling of said bodies ([b]2, 3[/b]) by sliding along a sliding axis and, on the other hand, at least one locking means ([b]4[/b]) retained in at least one of the bodies ([b]2, 3[/b]) and at least one abutment portion of which is laid out for passing from a so-called open position, allowing sliding for the assembling of said bodies ([b]2, 3[/b]), to a so-called closed position, locking said bodies ([b]2, 3[/b]) assembled together by the contact between at least said abutment portion and at least one abutment ([b]42, 43[/b]) of at least one of said bodies ([b]2, 3[/b]), said abutment ([b]42, 43[/b]) being oriented not parallel to the sliding axis and said abutment portion passing from the open position to the closed position elastically by flexure or torsion.

[A61F] FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, E.G. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS (dental prosthetics A61C) [2006.01]

Methods for treating skin irritation
Patent No. 10702549

Inventor(s): Cary Schockemoehl (Fort Worth, TX), Gerard Dibello (Fort Worth, TX), Mark Sampson (Fort Worth, TX), Svetlana Panicheva (Fort Worth, TX), Vadim Panichev (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): URGO US, INC. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Morgan, Lewis Bockius LLP (13 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16173691 on 10/29/2018 (617 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention provides a stabilized hypohalous acid solution (or formulation thereof), which may be conveniently packaged for sale, or stored for later use on demand. The invention further provides methods of making the stabilized hypohalous acid solutions, as well as methods of use for disinfecting mammalian tissue, including wounds and burns, and treating skin irritations, among other uses.

[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)

Multi-level play equipment
Patent No. 10702729

Inventor(s): Michael Browning, Jr. (Grapevine, TX)
Assignee(s): UATP IP, LLC (Grapevine, TX)
Law Firm: Decker Jones PC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15926303 on 03/20/2018 (840 days app to issue)

Abstract: A play apparatus has plural types of elevated equipment, namely a ropes course and a zip coaster. Both types of elevated equipment have respective user safety supports that extend along the respective equipment and receive a safety harness worn by a user. The user need not change safety harnesses to use the different types of equipment. The entry and exit locations for the elevated equipment are in a common area elevated above the ground. A third type of equipment, namely an obstacle course, is located under and above the common area.

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

Compounds which activate estrogen receptors and compositions and methods of using the same
Patent No. 10703698

Inventor(s): Philip Shaul (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): Board of Regents of the University of Texas System (Austin, TX), The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois (Urbana, IL)
Law Firm: Michael Best Friedrich LLP (10 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16067676 on 01/06/2017 (1278 days app to issue)

Abstract: Provided are compounds of formulae provided herein. The compounds may include pathway-preferential estrogens (PaPEs) derivatives with tissue-selective activities. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds, as well as methods of treating a disease or condition including administering the compounds. The disease or condition may include postmenopausal symptoms, cardiovascular disease, stroke, vascular disease, bone disease, metabolic disease, arthritis, osteoporosis, obesity, vasomotor/hot flush, cognitive decline, cancer including breast cancer.

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

Vehicle collision mitigation
Patent No. 10703361

Inventor(s): Danil V. Prokhorov (Canton, MI)
Assignee(s): Toyota Motor Engineering Manufacturing North America, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Darrow Mustafa PC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15622677 on 06/14/2017 (1119 days app to issue)

Abstract: A device and method for mitigating a vehicle collision are disclosed. The device and method include monitoring for an object within a vehicle travel path that includes a heightened travel hazard level. Upon detecting the object within the vehicle travel path, a closing distance rate, relative to the object, is compared with a closing threshold. When the closing distance rate compares unfavorably with the closing threshold, a secondary vehicle travel path based on the closing distance rate is determined, producing a determined secondary vehicle travel path. A command data output is generated for transmission to autonomously engage the determined secondary vehicle travel path.

[B60W] CONJOINT CONTROL OF VEHICLE SUB-UNITS OF DIFFERENT TYPE OR DIFFERENT FUNCTION; CONTROL SYSTEMS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR HYBRID VEHICLES; ROAD VEHICLE DRIVE CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR PURPOSES NOT RELATED TO THE CONTROL OF A PARTICULAR SUB-UNIT [2006.01]

Drive-by-wire control systems and methods for steering a marine vessel
Patent No. 10703456

Inventor(s): Brad E. Taylor (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Brunswick Corporation (Mettawa, IL)
Law Firm: Andrus Intellectual Property Law, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15877041 on 01/22/2018 (897 days app to issue)

Abstract: A drive-by-wire control system for steering a propulsion device on a marine vessel includes a steering wheel that is manually rotatable and a steering actuator that causes the propulsion device to steer based upon rotation of the steering wheel. The system further includes a resistance device that applies a resistance force against rotation of the steering wheel, and a controller that controls the resistance device to vary the resistance force based on at least one sensed condition of the system.

[B63H] MARINE PROPULSION OR STEERING (propulsion of air-cushion vehicles B60V 1/14; peculiar to submarines, other than nuclear propulsion, B63G; peculiar to torpedoes F42B 19/00)

Folding spindle and bearing assembly in a folding rotor blade assembly
Patent No. 10703460

Inventor(s): Jared Mark Paulson (Fort Worth, TX), Kyle Thomas Cravener (Watauga, TX), Tyler Wayne Baldwin (Keller, TX)
Assignee(s): Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15845967 on 12/18/2017 (932 days app to issue)

Abstract: A folding rotor blade assembly for a tiltrotor aircraft comprising a rotor blade pivotally connected to a grip with dual concentric blade bolts having a common central axis providing a pivotal axis inboard of an outboard bearing. A folding spindle connects the outboard bearing to an outboard tip of a yoke. The outboard bearing and the spindle fold with the rotor blade relative to the yoke. In use, the compact folded arrangement of the rotor blades reduces folded aircraft dimensions in response to ever increasing restricted storage space parameters.

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

Blade fold method and apparatus for a tilt rotor hub
Patent No. 10703461

Inventor(s): Glenn Shimek (Kennedale, TX), Kyle Thomas Cravener (Watauga, TX)
Assignee(s): Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15963516 on 04/26/2018 (803 days app to issue)

Abstract: A folding rotor blade assembly for an aircraft a yoke, an inboard beam coupled to the yoke, an inboard centrifugal force bearing coupled to the inboard beam, a grip coupled to the inboard beam, an outboard bearing housing coupled to the grip, and a rotor blade pivotally coupled to the grip by a blade fold bolt that is positioned outboard of the outboard bearing housing.

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

Vibration isolation device mounting system
Patent No. 10703465

Inventor(s): Maurice Griffin (Euless, TX), Michael Smith (Colleyville, TX)
Assignee(s): BELL HELICOPTER TEXTRON INC. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Chalker Flores, LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15942030 on 03/30/2018 (830 days app to issue)

Abstract: A mounting system for a vibration isolation device comprises a support structure having an opening disposed therein, the opening having a concave recess; a thin elastomeric component attached to a surface of the concave recess; and a spherical elastomeric bearing disposed in the opening and attached to the thin elastomeric component, the spherical elastomeric bearing having a beveled upper portion, a middle portion and a beveled lower portion configured to engage the vibration isolation devices.

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

Propulsor hub weight element and balancing method
Patent No. 10703466

Inventor(s): Ron William Waldo (North Richland Hills, TX)
Assignee(s): SIKORSKY AIRCRAFT CORPORATION (Stratford, CT)
Law Firm: Cantor Colburn LLP (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15568658 on 05/17/2016 (1512 days app to issue)

Abstract: A propulsor hub is provided and includes a casing including an inner annular part and blade-connection parts extending outwardly from the inner annular part, a liner having inner and outer opposed radial ends, the liner being disposed about a corresponding one of the blade-connection parts with the inner radial end thereof at a distance from the inner annular part and a weighted element securely disposed about the corresponding one of the blade-connection parts to abut the outer radial end of the liner.

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

Compact folding yoke with flexible yoke arms in a folding rotor blade assembly
Patent No. 10703469

Abstract: A folding yoke comprising a center yoke pivotally connected to separate foldable flexible yoke arms permits rotor blade fold about a single through bolt connection inboard of a set of bearings. In use, the compact folded arrangement of the rotor blades reduces folded aircraft dimensions in response to ever increasing restricted storage space parameters.

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

System and method for rotorcraft autorotation entry assist
Patent No. 10703470

Inventor(s): Luke Dafydd Gillett (Grapevine, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXTRON INNOVATIONS INC. (Providence, RI)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15892558 on 02/09/2018 (879 days app to issue)

Abstract: A rotorcraft including a main rotor, flight controls connected to the main rotor, a plurality of engines connected to the main rotor and operable to drive the main rotor, a main rotor revolutions per minute (RPM) sensor, and a monitoring system operable to determine an engine failure of the plurality of engines. The monitoring system is further operable to engage an automated autorotation entry assist process in response to at least determining the engine failure and according to the measured main rotor RPM, where the automated autorotation entry assist process comprises the monitoring system generating one or more rotor RPM related commands according to at least a target main rotor RPM and the measured main rotor RPM, where the automated autorotation entry assist process further comprises controlling the one or more flight controls according to the one or more rotor RPM related commands.

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

Anti-torque control using matrix of fixed blade pitch motor modules
Patent No. 10703471

Inventor(s): Carlos Fenny (Fort Worth, TX), Erik John Oltheten (Fort Worth, TX), Thomas Dewey Parsons (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): BELL HELICOPTER TEXTRON INC. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Chalker Flores, LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15458525 on 03/14/2017 (1211 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention includes an a plurality of first variable speed motors arranged in a first matrix pattern and mounted on a tail boom of the helicopter; one or more fixed pitch blades attached to each of the plurality of first variable speed motors; and wherein a speed of one or more of the plurality of first variable speed motors is varied to provide an anti-torque thrust.

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

Main rotor blade cuff bond fixture
Patent No. 10703509

Inventor(s): David Littlejohn (Haslet, TX), Scott Oren Smith (Bedford, TX), Sven Roy Lofstrom (Irving, TX)
Assignee(s): SIKORSKY AIRCRAFT CORPORATION (Stratford, CT)
Law Firm: Cantor Colburn LLP (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15232235 on 08/09/2016 (1428 days app to issue)

Abstract: A bond fixture including a plurality of supports mounted about a surface. At least one of the plurality of supports includes a vertical member and a hand crank operable to adjust a position of the vertical member. A first fixture is disposed at an end of the bond fixture and is movable relative to the surface. The first fixture includes a base and a support extending from the base. A second fixture includes a first member and a second member movably coupled. A fastener extending between the first member and the second member controls relative movement of the first member and the second member to define an opening there between. Each of the first member and the second member includes a plate having a heater formed therein.

[B64F] GROUND OR AIRCRAFT-CARRIER-DECK INSTALLATIONS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR USE IN CONNECTION WITH AIRCRAFT; DESIGNING, MANUFACTURING, ASSEMBLING, CLEANING, MAINTAINING OR REPAIRING AIRCRAFT, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; HANDLING, TRANSPORTING, TESTING OR INSPECTING AIRCRAFT COMPONENTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR

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

C5-substituted carbapenem antibiotics, compositions containing such compounds, and methods of use in treatment of [i]Mycobacterium tuberculosis [/i]and non-tubercular mycobacteria
Patent No. 10702501

Inventor(s): John D. Buynak (Dallas, TX), Kyle Rohde (Orlando, FL), Maha Alqurafi (Dallas, TX), Noora M. S. A. Al-Kharji (Richardson, TX), Rashmi Gupta (Lake Mary, FL), Thu Q. Nguyen (North Richland Hills, TX), Weirui Chai (Chicago, I
Assignee(s): Southern Methodist University (Dallas, TX), University of Central Florida Research Foundation, Inc. (Orlando, FL)
Law Firm: Chalker Flores, LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16006374 on 06/12/2018 (756 days app to issue)

Abstract:

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

Flame-retardant materials and systems
Patent No. 10703975

Inventor(s): Alan M. Gilbert (Mckinney, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15664463 on 07/31/2017 (1072 days app to issue)

Abstract: A flame-retardant composition has a plurality of particles with at least one porosity therein, a flame retardant gas occupying the porosity, and a matrix material in which said particles are dispersed. A sealant applied to at least a portion of the particles, wherein the sealant substantially prevents the gas from escaping the porosities. The matrix is a flame-retardant composition adapted to be applied to various surfaces. The matrix may also function as the sealant. The sealant is formed of a material that will break down and release the gas in the presence of water or flame or other selected conditions. The sealant may be a polymer material. This solves the problem of applying flame-retardant qualities to various surfaces.

[C09K] MATERIALS FOR APPLICATIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; APPLICATIONS OF MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR

Asphalt blow still with sectionalized columns
Patent No. 10703980

Inventor(s): Denis Muki Tibah (Waxahachie, TX)
Assignee(s): Building Materials Investment Corporation (Wilmington, DE)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15716997 on 09/27/2017 (1014 days app to issue)

Abstract: It has been discovered that the efficiency of asphalt blow stills can be improved by sectionalizing the blow still with perforated plates at various heights within the blow still. The perforated plates which contain a multitude of holes act to reduce air bubble size and improve the dispersion of the air bubbles throughout the asphalt flux. This increases the total surface area per unit volume of the air bubbles and promotes a faster processing time. The perforated plates also increase the contact time between the air bubbles and the asphalt flux which further results in improved efficiency and reduced blow times. This is beneficial because faster processing times can be achieved resulting in more efficient use of equipment, higher levels of productivity, lower energy requirements, cost savings, reduce blow loss, and reduced thermal history to which the asphalt is exposed.

[C10C] WORKING-UP TAR, PITCH, ASPHALT, BITUMEN; PYROLIGNEOUS ACID

Lin28/let-7 crystal structures, purification protocols, and molecular probes suitable for screening assays and therapeutics
Patent No. 10704049

Inventor(s): Yunsun Nam (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): PRESIDENT AND FELLOWS OF HARVARD COLLEGE (Cambridge, MA)
Law Firm: Nixon Peabody LLP (8 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15984109 on 05/18/2018 (781 days app to issue)

Abstract: The invention provides compositions and methods for regulating microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis. The invention also relates to compositions and methods for treating or preventing cancer in a subject in need thereof.

[C12N] MICROORGANISMS OR ENZYMES; COMPOSITIONS THEREOF (biocides, pest repellants or attractants, or plant growth regulators containing microorganisms, viruses, microbial fungi, enzymes, fermentates, or substances produced by, or extracted from, microorganisms or animal material A01N 63/00; medicinal preparations A61K; fertilisers C05F); PROPAGATING, PRESERVING, OR MAINTAINING MICROORGANISMS; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING; CULTURE MEDIA (microbiological testing media C12Q 1/00) [3]

Method and system for electroplating a MEMS device
Patent No. 10704156

Inventor(s): Donald Charles Abbott (Chartley, MA), Kathryn Ann Schuck (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15383994 on 12/19/2016 (1296 days app to issue)

Abstract: In described examples, a method for electroplating a semiconductor device includes: forming a metal foil; forming an inert anode support; attaching the metal foil to the inert anode support to form an anode; forming a cathode using a semiconductor substrate; immersing the anode and the cathode within an electrolyte solution; forming a circuit with a current source, the anode and the cathode; generating a current through the circuit; and electroplating a metal from the electrolyte solution onto the semiconductor substrate.

[C25D] PROCESSES FOR THE ELECTROLYTIC OR ELECTROPHORETIC PRODUCTION OF COATINGS; ELECTROFORMING (manufacturing printed circuits by metal deposition H05K 3/18); JOINING WORKPIECES BY ELECTROLYSIS; APPARATUS THEREFOR (anodic or cathodic protection C23F 13/00; single-crystal growth C30B) [6]

F I X E D C O N S T R U C T I O N S

Method for lifting and supporting a new slab foundation with hydraulic jacks
Patent No. 10704252

Inventor(s): Benjamin S. Marshall (Arlington, TX), Frederick S. Marshall (Arlington, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: Bracewell LLP (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15883155 on 01/30/2018 (889 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for lifting and supporting above ground a concrete slab foundation employing hydraulic jacks includes installing piers in the ground, each with a pier extension protruding above ground. A lifting assembly is placed over each pier extension, the lifting assembly having a lift sleeve and upward extending lifting members. Then the slab foundation is poured, bonding a portion of the lifting assembly in concrete. After the slab foundation hardens, a jack is positioned on top of the pier extension, and lifting arms of the jack engage the lifting members. The jack is actuated to exert an upward force on the lifting assembly to lift the slab foundation above the ground. Then, the lift sleeve is rigidly secured to the pier extension, allowing the jack and lifting arms to be removed.

[E04B] GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS (border constructions of openings in walls, floors, or ceilings E06B 1/00)

Wedge device for leveling tiles and clip set for use of same
Patent No. 10704271

Inventor(s): Clinton D. Bunch (Keller, TX), Joshua A. Bunch (Keller, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: Griggs Bergen LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16707801 on 12/09/2019 (211 days app to issue)

Abstract: A wedge device for leveling tiles and a clip set for use of the same are disclosed. In one embodiment of the wedge device, the wedge device includes a body having an attachment end, a penetrating edge, a top, and a bottom. The attachment end is coupled to a backstop member and the penetrating edge is configured to penetrate the clip member. The body includes an inclined plane tapering from the attachment end to the penetrating edge. A line-of-sight opening extends along a longitudinal axis of the body to provide visibility through the body from the top to the bottom.

[E04F] FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS (windows, doors E06B)

Device for leveling and aligning tiles and method for leveling and aligning tiles
Patent No. 10704274

Abstract: A device for leveling and aligning tiles and method for leveling and aligning tiles are disclosed. In one embodiment, the leveling device includes a body and two spaced and parallel strip members extending transversely from the body. Each of the spaced and parallel strip members extend to the front and rear of the body. Two opposing lateral open windows are formed in the body. A breakaway section is defined along the body. A wedge device is provided for penetrating one or more of the two opposing lateral open windows and exerting a force on the tiles for leveling them relative to each other.

[E04F] FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS (windows, doors E06B)

Device for leveling and aligning tiles and method for leveling and aligning tiles
Patent No. 10704275

[E04F] FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS (windows, doors E06B)

Wirelessly actuated cover for a structure
Patent No. 10704294

Inventor(s): Thomas E. Byrd (Grand Prairie, TX), Thomas Hiromoto (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Lockheed Martin Corporation (Bethesda, MD)
Law Firm: Withrow Terranova, PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15489222 on 04/17/2017 (1177 days app to issue)

Abstract: A cover is configured to selectively engage with a portion of a structure in response to receiving a wireless electrical power signal at a receiver antenna of the cover from a wireless power source located in an outside environment, to separate a first environment on a first side of the cover from a second environment on a second side of the cover opposite the first side. In response to wirelessly receiving the electrical power signal, a fastening subassembly of the cover changes from a secured mode configured to inhibit opening a cover body with respect to the structure, to an unsecured mode configured to facilitate opening the cover body with respect to the structure. This in turn allows the cover to be matingly engaged with a portion of the structure to form a smooth continuous surface, without any exposed fasteners on the exterior side of the cover.

[E06B] FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES, OR LIKE ENCLOSURES, IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES (shades or blinds for greenhouses A01G 9/22; curtains A47H; lids for car boots or bonnets B62D 25/10; sky-lights E04B 7/18; sunshades, awnings E04F 10/00)

Device and method for opening and stopping a toe valve
Patent No. 10704357

Inventor(s): Dennis Roessler (Ft. Worth, TX), John Hardesty (Fort Worth, TX), Kevin George (Cleburne, TX)
Assignee(s): GEODYNAMICS, INC. (Millsap, TX)
Law Firm: Patent Portfolio Builders PLLC (4 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16105144 on 08/20/2018 (687 days app to issue)

Abstract: A downhole tool for connecting an interior of a casing to a formation, the downhole tool including an inner housing extending along a longitudinal axis X; an outer housing that encloses the inner housing and forms first and second chambers; a piston that separates the first and second chambers; a port that fluidly communicates an outside and inside of the downhole tool; and a stopping mechanism that prevents the piston from opening the port. The piston interrupts the fluid communication between the outside and inside the downhole tool.

[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]

Device and method for opening and stopping a toe valve
Patent No. 10704358

Abstract: A downhole tool for connecting an interior of a casing to a formation, the downhole tool including an inner housing extending along a longitudinal axis X; an outer housing that encloses the inner housing and forms first to fourth chambers; a first piston that separates the first and second chambers; a second piston that separates the third and fourth chambers; a port that is configured to fluidly communicate an outside and inside of the downhole tool; and a stopping mechanism that prevents the second piston from opening the port. The second piston is positioned to separate the port into an outer portion and an inner portion to interrupt a fluid communication between the outside and inside of the downhole tool.

Flow control system for use in a subterranean well
Patent No. 10704359

Inventor(s): Michael L. Fripp (Carrollton, TX), Stephen M. Greci (Little Elm, TX), Thomas J. Frosell (Irving, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Chamberlain Hrdlicka (5 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15767634 on 10/17/2017 (994 days app to issue)

Abstract: A flow control system for use in a subterranean well includes a flow chamber comprising an inlet and an outlet that is configured to receive a fluid, and a flow restriction member positioned and movable within the flow chamber. The flow restriction member is configured to restrict fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet of the flow chamber based upon a density of the fluid.

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

Articulating joint and system for conveying fluid flow
Patent No. 10704717

Inventor(s): Jayson D. Denham (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): National Oilwell Varco, L.P. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16060505 on 12/09/2016 (1306 days app to issue)

Abstract: An articulating joint for conveying fluid flow includes first and second conduit members forming a fluid flow path therethrough. An annular member is disposed about the outer surface of the first conduit member and has an outer surface forming a convex partial sphere. A retainer is disposed about the first conduit member and has a seal-retaining ring coupled to the second conduit member. An annular seal is disposed between the seal-retaining ring and the partial sphere to retain fluid in the flow path. A drilling mud return line includes a first such articulating joint, and may include a second articulating joint connected end-to-end to the first articulating joint.

[F16L] PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL

HVAC systems and methods with improved heating element control
Patent No. 10704805

Inventor(s): Hermon Alan Boyd (Red Oak, TX), Joe Powell (Garland, TX), Lee Nelson (Portland, OR)
Assignee(s): Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Hubbard Johnston, PLLC (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14453565 on 08/06/2014 (2162 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems, tools, and methods are presented that enable a circuit to introduce a random time delay before actuating a relay to start or stop a supply of electrical power to a heating element of a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. In one instance, the circuit includes a time-delay switch electrically connected to the relay. The time-delay switch has a random time delay before entering a closed state or open state. The relay is operable to start and stop a supply of electrical power to the heating element in response to the switch entering, respectively, the closed state and the open state. Other systems, tools and methods are presented.

[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)

Liquid transfer pump cycle
Patent No. 10704816

Inventor(s): Carl T. Crawford (Hickory Creek, TX), Robert B. Uselton (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Winstead PC (Local + 2 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15426200 on 02/07/2017 (1246 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of initiating a low-energy cooling mode using a controller of an HVAC system includes measuring a temperature of ambient air proximal to a condenser coil and determining whether the temperature of the ambient air proximal the condenser coil is less than a temperature threshold. If the temperature of the ambient air is less than the temperature threshold, the HVAC system is configured to operate in a low-energy cooling mode. In the low-energy cooling mode, the controller opens a first bypass valve to allow a refrigerant to bypass a compressor and the compressor is powered off. The HVAC system is operated until a cooling demand has been met.

[F25B] REFRIGERATION MACHINES, PLANTS, OR SYSTEMS; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS (heat-transfer, heat-exchange or heat-storage materials, e.g. refrigerants, or materials for the production of heat or cold by chemical reactions other than by combustion C09K 5/00; pumps, compressors F04; use of heat pumps for domestic or space-heating or for domestic hot-water supply F24D; air-conditioning, air-humidification F24F; fluid heaters using heat pumps F24H)

Multi-piece polymer ammunition cartridge nose
Patent No. 10704869

Inventor(s): Christopher William Overton (Richardson, TX), Lonnie Burrow (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): TRUE VELOCITY IP HOLDINGS, LLC (Garland, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15856450 on 12/28/2017 (922 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention provides a polymer nose for a polymeric ammunition cartridge having a generally cylindrical neck having a projectile aperture at a first end, a shoulder comprising a shoulder top connected to the generally cylindrical neck opposite a shoulder bottom, a nose junction positioned around the shoulder bottom, a skirt connected circumferentially about the nose junction to extend away from the shoulder bottom, wherein the nose junction and the skirt are adapted to mate to a base junction in a cartridge.

[F42B] EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING; FIREWORKS; AMMUNITION (explosive compositions C06B; fuzes F42C; blasting F42D) [5]

Multi-piece polymer ammunition cartridge
Patent No. 10704870

Abstract: The present invention provides polymeric ammunition having a generally cylindrical neck having a projectile aperture at a first end, an outer shoulder surface that extends from the generally cylindrical neck, an outer shoulder angle defined by the outer shoulder surface, an inner shoulder surface on the inside of the polymer nose opposite the outer shoulder surface, an inner shoulder angle defined by the outer shoulder surface, a skirt surface extending from the inner shoulder surface, a skirt angle defined by the skirt surface, and a nose junction that extends from the outer shoulder surface to the skirt surface, wherein the nose junction is adapted to mate to a polymer cartridge.

[F42B] EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING; FIREWORKS; AMMUNITION (explosive compositions C06B; fuzes F42C; blasting F42D) [5]

Multi-piece polymer ammunition cartridge
Patent No. 10704871

Inventor(s): Christopher William Overton (Richardson, TX), Lonnie Burrow (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): True Velocity IP Holdings, LLC (Garland, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15886355 on 02/01/2018 (887 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention provides polymeric ammunition cartridge having a generally cylindrical neck having a projectile aperture at a first end, an outer shoulder surface that extends from the generally cylindrical neck, an outer shoulder angle defined by the outer shoulder surface, an inner shoulder surface on the inside of the polymer nose opposite the outer shoulder surface, an inner shoulder angle defined by the outer shoulder surface, a skirt surface extending from the inner shoulder surface, a skirt angle defined by the skirt surface and a nose junction that extends from the outer shoulder surface to the skirt surface, wherein the nose junction is adapted to mate to a polymer cartridge.

[F42B] EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING; FIREWORKS; AMMUNITION (explosive compositions C06B; fuzes F42C; blasting F42D) [5]

Polymer ammunition and cartridge having a convex primer insert
Patent No. 10704872

Abstract: The present invention provides a primer insert for a polymer ammunition cartridge comprising: a top surface; a bottom surface opposite the top surface; a coupling element that extends from the bottom surface, wherein the coupling element comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface, wherein the interior surface comprises: a convex transition region that transitions from the bottom surface to a second segment wherein the transition region has an overall convex shape; a first segment extending from the second segment and terminates at a tip, wherein the first segment has a first segment distance from 0.06 to 0.14 inches and the second segment has a second segment distance from 0.05 to 0.15 inches, wherein the second segment has a second segment angle from +3 to 3 degrees relative to the first segment angle and the first segment has a first segment angle from +6 to 6 degrees from perpendicular to the top surface; a primer recess in the top surface that extends toward the bottom surface; a primer flash aperture positioned in the primer recess through the bottom surface; and a flash aperture groove in the primer recess and positioned around the primer flash aperture and adapted to receive a polymer overmolding through the primer flash aperture.

[F42B] EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING; FIREWORKS; AMMUNITION (explosive compositions C06B; fuzes F42C; blasting F42D) [5]

One piece polymer ammunition cartridge having a primer insert and methods of making the same
Patent No. 10704876

Inventor(s): Andrew Rosek (Rockwall, TX), Jimmie Sloan (Porter, TX), Lonnie Burrow (Carrollton, TX), Michael Edward Godart (Rockwall, TX), Tyler Lee Boss (Rockwall, TX)
Assignee(s): True Velocity IP Holdings, LLC (Garland, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16110232 on 08/23/2018 (684 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention provides a single piece polymer ammunition cartridge and polymer ammunition and methods of forming a single piece polymer ammunition cartridge and polymer ammunition.

[F42B] EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING; FIREWORKS; AMMUNITION (explosive compositions C06B; fuzes F42C; blasting F42D) [5]

One piece polymer ammunition cartridge having a primer insert and methods of making the same
Patent No. 10704877

[F42B] EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING; FIREWORKS; AMMUNITION (explosive compositions C06B; fuzes F42C; blasting F42D) [5]

One piece polymer ammunition cartridge having a primer insert and method of making the same
Patent No. 10704878

Inventor(s): Andrew Rosek (Rockwall, TX), Jimmie Sloan (Porter, TX), Lonnie Burrow (Carrollton, TX), Michael Edward Godart (Rockwall, TX), Tyler Lee Boss (Rockwall, TX)
Assignee(s): TRUE VELOCITY IP HOLDINGS, LLC (Garland, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16519669 on 07/23/2019 (350 days app to issue)

[F42B] EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, e.g. FOR BLASTING; FIREWORKS; AMMUNITION (explosive compositions C06B; fuzes F42C; blasting F42D) [5]

Polymer ammunition and cartridge having a convex primer insert
Patent No. 10704879

Abstract: The present invention provides a primer insert for a polymer ammunition cartridge comprising: a top surface; a bottom surface opposite the top surface; a coupling element that extends from the bottom surface, wherein the coupling element comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface, wherein the interior surface comprises: a convex transition region that transitions from the bottom surface to a second segment wherein the transition region has an overall convex shape; a first segment extending from the second segment and terminates at a tip, wherein the first segment has a first segment distance from 0.02 to 0.18 inches and the second segment has a second segment distance from 0.02 to 0.18 inches, wherein the second segment has a second segment angle from +3 to 3 degrees relative to the first segment angle and the first segment has a first segment angle from +6 to 6 degrees from perpendicular to the top surface; a primer recess in the top surface that extends toward the bottom surface; a primer flash aperture positioned in the primer recess through the bottom surface; and a flash aperture groove in the primer recess and positioned around the primer flash aperture and adapted to receive a polymer overmolding through the primer flash aperture.

[F42C] AMMUNITION FUZES (blasting cartridge initiators F42B 3/10; chemical aspects C06C); ARMING OR SAFETY MEANS THEREFOR (filling fuzes F42B 33/02; fitting or extracting primers in or from fuzes F42B 33/04; containers for fuzes F42B 39/30) [5]

Polymer ammunition and cartridge having a convex primer insert
Patent No. 10704880

Abstract: The present invention includes a primer insert for a polymer ammunition cartridge comprising: a top surface; a bottom surface opposite the top surface; a coupling element that extends from the bottom surface, wherein the coupling element comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface, wherein the interior surface comprises: a convex transition region that transitions from the bottom surface to a second segment wherein the transition region has an overall convex shape; a first segment extending from the second segment and terminates at a tip, wherein the first segment has a first segment distance from 0.06 to 0.14 inches and the second segment has a second segment distance from 0.05 to 0.15 inches, wherein the second segment has a second segment angle from +3 to 3 degrees relative to the first segment angle and the first segment has a first segment angle from +6 to 6 degrees from perpendicular to the top surface; a primer recess in the top surface that extends toward the bottom surface; a primer flash aperture positioned in the primer recess through the bottom surface; and a flash aperture groove in the primer recess and positioned around the primer flash aperture and adapted to receive a polymer overmolding through the primer flash aperture.

P H Y S I C S

Tracking position and movement using a magnetic field
Patent No. 10704929

Inventor(s): Fathollah Memarzanjany (Dallas, TX), Minjie Zheng (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Ommo Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Henry Patent Law Firm PLLC (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16202300 on 11/28/2018 (587 days app to issue)

Abstract: In a general aspect, a position tracking system includes a sphere magnet that produces a magnetic field in a space. A magnetic field control system is configured to change the magnetic field by rotating the sphere magnet through a time-series of rotations over a time period. A position marker includes a magnetic field sensor that is configured to measure the magnetic field in the space during the time period. A data processing apparatus is configured to determine the position of the position marker based on magnetic field measurements obtained by the magnetic field sensor in the space during the time period.

[G01D] MEASURING NOT SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR A SPECIFIC VARIABLE; ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEASURING TWO OR MORE VARIABLES NOT COVERED BY A SINGLE OTHER SUBCLASS; TARIFF METERING APPARATUS; TRANSFERRING OR TRANSDUCING ARRANGEMENTS NOT SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR A SPECIFIC VARIABLE; MEASURING OR TESTING NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR

Apparatus to confirm correct meter sizing
Patent No. 10704946

Inventor(s): Jerry Potter (Mansfield, TX), Scott H. Seehoffer (Uniontown, PA)
Assignee(s): Master Meter, Inc. (Mansfield, TX)
Law Firm: The Webb Law Firm (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15091155 on 04/05/2016 (1554 days app to issue)

Abstract: A meter register of the type having a sealed register body, and a member adapted to measure liquid flow through the meter and an antenna mounted within the register body is improved by providing a microprocessor adapted to have a calculated water meter maximum flow rate and a minimum flow rate defined as the meter flow rate range. The member co-acts with the microprocessor to determine flow rate, and the microprocessor is adapted to forward a signal to the antenna when the flow rate of the meter is outside, or within, the meter flow rate range, and the antenna transmits the signal to the water utility that the meter is not properly sized, or is properly sized, respectively.

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

Fluorescence based global fuel analysis method
Patent No. 10705018

Inventor(s): Anahita Kyani (Plano, TX), Olusola Soyemi (Little Elm, TX)
Assignee(s): Authentix, Inc. (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16234928 on 12/28/2018 (557 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of fuel analysis comprising subjecting a fuel sample comprising a fuel marker and a fuel matrix to fluorescence spectroscopy to generate a measured emission spectrum comprising a first spectral component (type and amount of marker in sample), a second spectral component (spectral perturbation), and a third spectral component (matrix fluorescence); deconvoluting the measured emission spectrum to yield a deconvoluted measured emission spectrum (first and second spectral components) via removal of third spectral component; decoupling the deconvoluted measured emission spectrum to yield a corrected emission spectrum (first spectral component) via a projection function which orthogonally projects the deconvoluted measured emission spectrum onto a subspace devoid of the second spectral component; and determining the amount of fuel marker in the fuel sample from the corrected emission spectrum. The method of fuel analysis comprises temperature corrections.

[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)

Absolute speed detector
Patent No. 10705105

Inventor(s): Devin L. Kautz (Melissa, TX), Mahendra Mandava (Richardson, TX), Robert E. Jordan (Addison, TX), Robert S. Gammenthaler (Princeton, TX), Russell D. Kautz (The Colony, TX), Steven F. Hocker (Gardner, KS)
Assignee(s): APPLIED CONCEPTS, INC. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Jackson Walker LLP (Local + 3 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15793623 on 10/25/2017 (986 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system determines absolute speed of a moving object. In AM, time of flight data over a time period is processed to determine ranges between the system and the moving object. The system performs linear regression analysis on the collected ranges to calculate the radial velocity. The system measures angular swivel rate of the system to determine tangential velocity. From the radial velocity and tangential velocity, the absolute speed can be calculated by taking the square root of the addition of the square of the radial velocity and square of the tangential velocity. In MM, the system calculates object distance, i.e. distance in the direction of travel, by subtracting the square of a pre-determined perpendicular distance L, perpendicular to the direction of travel, from a square of line-of-sight distance R, and taking square root of the result. Absolute speed is determined by calculating the slope of modified linear regression curve-fit.

[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

Force deflection and resistance testing system and method of use
Patent No. 10705120

Inventor(s): Jack Lewis (Royse City, TX), Lynwood Adams (Rockwall, TX)
Assignee(s): MODUS TEST, LLC (Cumming, GA)
Law Firm: BrownWinick Law Firm (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16181846 on 11/06/2018 (609 days app to issue)

Abstract: A testing system for electrical interconnects having a removable device under test printed circuit board (DUT PCB) that electrically connects with the electrical testing components of the system. A removable top plate is placed on top of the DUT PCB and is locked in place by a plurality of locking posts that selectively connect to cam surfaces in the top plate that pull the top plate down sandwiching the DUT PCB between the top plate and the electrical testing components of the system. An actuator is also presented that presses the device under test into the electrical interconnect at increments where tests are performed on one, some or all of the contact points of the electrical interconnect. This information is then analyzed and graphed to assist with determine the optimum force and/or height to use during actual use.

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

Modular test assembly
Patent No. 10705136

Inventor(s): Abdallah Obidat (Santa Clara, CA), Florent Boico (Oakland, CA), William Gauspohl (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16148505 on 10/01/2018 (645 days app to issue)

Abstract: A test assembly includes multiple circuit boards. Each board includes multiple pairs of contacts configurable to address the respective circuit board, an instrument, first and second headers at opposing edges of the respective board. Each pin of a first header electrically connects through the board to a corresponding pin of a second header. Each board includes first and second input/output (I/O) terminals at opposing edges of the respective board, the first I/O terminal electrically connects through the board to the second I/O terminal. A relay on the board permits the board”s instrument to be activated. Each of the circuit boards mechanically and electrically connects to another circuit board through a jumper cable connecting the first header of one circuit board to the second header of another circuit board and through a conductive member electrically connecting the first I/O terminal of one board to the second I/O terminal of another board.

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

Highly sensitive, low power fluxgate magnetic sensor integrated onto semiconductor process technologies
Patent No. 10705159

Inventor(s): Byron J R Shulver (Kilmacolm, , GB), Dok Won Lee (Mountain View, CA), Erika Lynn Mazotti (San Martin, CA), Neil Gibson (Largs, , GB), Ricky Alan Jackson (Richardson, TX), Thomas Dyer Bonifield (Dallas, TX), William David Fren
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16502317 on 07/03/2019 (370 days app to issue)

Abstract: An integrated fluxgate device has a magnetic core disposed over a semiconductor substrate. A first winding is disposed in a first metallization level above and a second metallization level below the magnetic core, and is configured to generate a first magnetic field in the magnetic core. A second winding is disposed in the first and second metallization levels and is configured to generate a second magnetic field in the magnetic core. A third winding is disposed in the first and second metallization levels and is configured to sense a magnetic field in the magnetic core that is the net of the first and second magnetic fields.

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

Three-dimensional time-of-flight sensors for a transportation system
Patent No. 10705191

Inventor(s): Chang Myung Ryu (San Jose, CA), Frederic Morestin (Santa Clara, CA), Xiaoyong Yang (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): STMICROELECTRONICS, INC. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Seed IP Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15721413 on 09/29/2017 (1012 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining space occupancy and performing volumetric measurement of a transportation system using a time-of-flight (TOF) sensor array are provided. In the method and apparatus, the TOF sensor array, which is mounted in a transportation system and includes a plurality of TOF sensors, outputs a plurality of distance measurements made by the plurality of TOF sensors, respectively. In the method and apparatus, a map of one or more objects positioned in the transportation system is generated based on the plurality of distance measurements. The map is output for display to a user by a display.

Optical sensor arrangement
Patent No. 10705211

Inventor(s): Dan Jacobs (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): ams AG (Unterpremstaetten, , AT)
Law Firm: Fish Richardson P.C. (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16069158 on 01/12/2017 (1272 days app to issue)

Abstract: An optical proximity sensor arrangement comprises a first sensor unit with a first emitter and a first detector and a second sensor unit with a second emitter and/or a second detector. The first detector is configured to detect light being emitted by the first emitter and, if applicable, by the second emitter, and being at least partially reflected. If applicable, the second detector is configured to detect light being emitted by the first emitter and being at least partially reflected. A distance between the first emitter and the first detector is, if applicable, less than a distance between the first detector and the second emitter and, if applicable, less than a distance between the first emitter and the second detector.

Hard multi-coat on optical article
Patent No. 10705260

Inventor(s): William Eagerton (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Essilor International (Charenton-le-Pont, , FR)
Law Firm: Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16062780 on 12/16/2016 (1299 days app to issue)

Abstract: An optical device and method for manufacturing the optical device is provided. The optical device comprises an optical article having a substrate, a primer layer, and a hard multi-coat (HMC). The HMC comprises at least one layer. At least one of the layers, the substrate, and the HMC comprises at least one carbon allotrope that is absorbed by diffusion. The method of manufacturing involves combining and organic solvent and deionized water to form a solution, mixing into the solution at least one carbon allotrope, applying sonication to the solution an optical article comprising at least one of a substrate, a primer layer on the substrate, and a HMC, immersing and then withdrawing the optical article from the solution, withdrawing the optical article from the solution, and evaporating excess liquid from the solution.

[G02B] OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS, OR APPARATUS (G02F takes precedence; optical elements specially adapted for use in lighting devices or systems thereof F21V 1/00-F21V 13/00; measuring-instruments, see the relevant subclass of class G01, e.g. optical rangefinders G01C; testing of optical elements, systems, or apparatus G01M 11/00; spectacles G02C; apparatus or arrangements for taking photographs or for projecting or viewing them G03B; sound lenses G10K 11/30; electron and ion “optics” H01J; X-ray “optics” H01J, H05G 1/00; optical elements structurally combined with electric discharge tubes H01J 5/16, H01J 29/89, H01J 37/22; microwave “optics” H01Q; combination of optical elements with television receivers H04N 5/72; optical systems or arrangements in colour television systems H04N 9/00; heating arrangements specially adapted for transparent or reflecting areas H05B 3/84) [7]

Multispectral interference coating with diamond-like carbon (DLC) film
Patent No. 10705273

Inventor(s): Shu-Chung Chiao (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): RAYTHEON COMPANY (Waltham, MA)
Law Firm: Lando Anastasi, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15935675 on 03/26/2018 (834 days app to issue)

Abstract: Multispectral optical interference coatings and methods. In one example, an optical element includes a substrate having a first surface and a second surface disposed opposite the first surface, a first multi-layer dielectric film disposed on the first surface of the substrate and constructed and arranged to transmit light in a first band of wavelengths, a second multi-layer dielectric film disposed on the second surface of the substrate and constructed and arranged to transmit light in a second band of wavelengths, the first and the second bands of wavelengths at least partially overlapping, and a bilayer diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating disposed on the first multi-layer dielectric film, the bilayer DLC coating including a first layer and a second layer, the first layer having a modulus of elasticity of a first value, and the second layer disposed on the first layer and having a modulus of elasticity of a second value that is greater than the first value.

Systems and methods for responsively adaptable virtual environments
Patent No. 10705596

Inventor(s): Veena Somareddy (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): Neurolofical Rehabilitation Virtual Reality, LLC (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15975451 on 05/09/2018 (790 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods and systems for providing virtual environments that are responsively adaptable to users” characteristics. Embodiments provide for identifying a virtual action to be performed by a virtual representation of a patient within a virtual environment. The virtual action corresponds to a physical action by a physical limb of the patient in the real-world. In embodiments, the virtual action is required to be performed to a first target area within the virtual environment. Embodiments determine that the patient has at least one limitation that limits the patient performing the physical action. A determination of whether the patient has performed the physical action to at least a physical threshold associated is made. The virtual environment is caused to adapt in order to allow the virtual action to be performed in response to the determination that the patient has performed the physical action to the physical threshold.

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

Methods, systems, and computer program product for implementing real-time or near real-time classification of digital data
Patent No. 10705796

Inventor(s): Timothy B. Doyle (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): INTUIT INC. (Mountain View, CA)
Law Firm: DLA Piper LLP (US) (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15499048 on 04/27/2017 (1167 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are techniques for classifying inquiries in real-time or nearly real-time. These techniques identify or generate a data model that receives and determine one or more classes for the inquiry in real-time or nearly real-time at least by applying a hierarchical set of rules in the data model to the inquiry. A hierarchical class data structure at least by storing and indexing the one or more classes based in part or in whole upon a hierarchical structure of the one or more classes in a non-transitory computer memory.

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

Method for securely configuring an information system
Patent No. 10705855

Inventor(s): Jacob Minnis (Plano, TX), Mickey J. Malone, II (Rowlett, TX)
Assignee(s): FORCEPOINT LLC (Austin, TX)
Law Firm: Jackson Walker LLP (Local + 3 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15826281 on 11/29/2017 (951 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems, method, and non-transitory computer readable storage medium are provided for configuring an information computing machine during execution of a kernel image. The system can create a file system from a base file system image in system memory of the computing system, apply configuration files from a bundle image to the file system in memory, copy files from a persistent file system stored in the storage resource to memory, validate the files from the persistent file system, and apply validated files to the file system in memory. The base file system image and bundle image can be verified by comparing a signed hash of the image with a hash generated by the initial file system and checking the hash signature against a public certificate included in the initial filesystem. The system can further execute /sbin/init and start application services.

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

Identifying system failures by accessing prior troubleshooting information
Patent No. 10705903

Inventor(s): Prabir Majumder (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Dell Products L.P. (Round Rock, TX)
Law Firm: Terrile, Cannatti Chambers (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15879750 on 01/25/2018 (894 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system, method, and computer-readable medium for performing a system failure identification operation, comprising: receiving information regarding a device a repair depot; performing a depot triage process on the device, the depot triage recording possible causal factors contributing to failure of the device; determining suspected failures associated with the device based upon symptoms exhibited by the device; and, correlating the suspected failures with commodities for use in repairing the device.

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

User space data storage management
Patent No. 10705952

Inventor(s): Brian W. O”Krafka (Austin, TX), Johann George (Sunnyvale, CA), Manavalan Krishnan (Fremont, CA), Ramesh Chander (Bangalore, , IN), Vishal Kanaujia (Bangalore, , IN)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Loza Loza, LLP (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15157371 on 05/17/2016 (1512 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems, methods, and/or devices are used to store metadata in a storage system. In one aspect, a first user space module sends a logical memory request to a memory management module of a kernel space module. The logical memory request includes data and metadata. A second user space module obtains the metadata of the logical memory request. A storage engine of the second user space module determines, in accordance with the obtained metadata, a location in non-volatile memory for the data. A second user space module generates a physical memory request including an indication of the non-volatile memory for the data. The second user space module transmits the physical memory request to the kernel space memory management module.

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

Application defined multi-tiered wear-leveling for storage class memory systems
Patent No. 10705953

Inventor(s): Chaohong Hu (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15909582 on 03/01/2018 (859 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method implemented by a memory device, comprising obtaining, by a processor coupled to a memory, a wear-leveling policy from an application executable at the memory device, wherein the wear-leveling policy indicates a memory size by which to perform wear-leveling within an instance, wherein the instance comprises an address range assigned to the application in the memory of the memory device, obtaining, by a processor, a request to access the instance, and performing, by the processor, wear-leveling on a plurality of memory cells within the instance according to the wear-leveling policy.

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

Content management system and method for managing ad-hoc collections of content
Patent No. 10706033

Inventor(s): David Alan Stiles (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): Open Text SA ULC (Halifax, , CA)
Law Firm: Sprinkle IP Law Group (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15789690 on 10/20/2017 (991 days app to issue)

Abstract: A content management system is provided that allows users to create collections of content for management or delivery purposes by assigning content items to labels. Labels can be persisted in the system as managed objects separate from content objects. Because the labels may be separate managed objects from the content, the labels can be implemented in a manner that does not change the content items or disrupt the lifecycle of the content.

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

Systems and methods to optimize multi-version support in indexes
Patent No. 10706036

Inventor(s): Guogen Zhang (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15475990 on 03/31/2017 (1194 days app to issue)

Abstract: System and method embodiments are provided for multi-version support in indexes in a database. The embodiments enable substantially optimized multi-version support in index and avoid backfill of commit log sequence number (LSN) for a transaction identifier (TxID). In an embodiment, a method in a data processing system for managing a database includes determining with the data processing system whether a record is deleted according to a delete indicator in an index leaf page record corresponding to the record; and determining with the data processing system, when the record is not deleted, whether the record is visible according to a new record indicator in the index leaf page record and according to a comparison of a system commit TxID at the transaction start with a record commit TxID obtained from the index leaf page record.

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

Search systems and methods utilizing search based user clustering
Patent No. 10706107

Inventor(s): Todd Russell Poston (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Open Text SA ULC (Halifax, , CA)
Law Firm: Sprinkle IP Law Group (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15991521 on 05/29/2018 (770 days app to issue)

Abstract: Embodiments of search systems that leverage the search or access activities of a core group of users to improve search functionality and performance of such search systems are disclosed. Specifically, embodiments may utilize users” search activity to generate clusters of users and associated labels for those clusters. These clusters can be leveraged during a search to generate suggestions for a user conducting the search.

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

Off-board hours-of-service (”HOS”) processing
Patent No. 10706125

Inventor(s): Thomas N. Flies (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): OMNITRACS, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Arent Fox, LLP (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15891027 on 02/07/2018 (881 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices for providing hour-of-service (”HOS”) calculations via a web based host server instead of on an onboard mobile device. In the various embodiments, an onboard vehicle recording device and driver-carried mobile devices may operate independently. The onboard vehicle recording device and driver-carried mobile device(s) may exchange information independently with a host server rather than exchanging information together onboard the vehicle.

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

Methods, systems, and articles of manufacture for protecting data in an electronic document using steganography techniques
Patent No. 10706160

Inventor(s): Deepankar Mohapatra (The Colony, TX)
Assignee(s): INTUIT INC. (Mountain View, CA)
Law Firm: DLA Piper LLP (US) (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15687143 on 08/25/2017 (1047 days app to issue)

Abstract: Various aspects described herein are directed to methods and systems that preprocess an electronic document or some data therein and conceal sensitive data in the electronic document by applying steganography to the data associated with one or more fonts. A steganography map is generated or updated to include steganography information about applying steganography to the data. Cryptography may be applied to the steganography map; and the electronic document may be transformed into a different document format.

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

Secure convolutional neural networks (CNN) accelerator
Patent No. 10706349

Inventor(s): Chaitanya Ghone (Pune, , IN), Deepak Poddar (Bangalore, , IN), Mihir Narendra Mody (Karnataka, , IN), Veeramanikandan Raju (Bangalore, , IN)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15730316 on 10/11/2017 (1000 days app to issue)

Abstract: A Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) based-signal processing includes receiving of an encrypted output from a first layer of a multi-layer CNN data. The received encrypted output is subsequently decrypted to form a decrypted input to a second layer of the multi-layer CNN data. A convolution of the decrypted input with a corresponding decrypted weight may generate a second layer output, which may be encrypted and used as an encrypted input to a third layer of the multi-layer CNN data.

[G06N] COMPUTER SYSTEMS BASED ON SPECIFIC COMPUTATIONAL MODELS [7]

Vehicle and drone management system
Patent No. 10706381

Inventor(s): Stephen P. Simon (Sparks, MD), Wesley M. Mays (Coppell, TX)
Assignee(s): Omnitracs, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Arent Fox LLP (5 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15642027 on 07/05/2017 (1098 days app to issue)

Abstract: The disclosure provides a system and method of delivering packages. The system may include a plurality of land vehicles that transport a plurality of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to locations within a distance of delivery destinations. The system may determine, based on a number of packages to be delivered to destinations in a geographical area, a number of land vehicles to carry the packages to within a UAV round-trip range of each of the destinations. The system may allocate the number of packages to the number of land vehicles. The system may determine a route for each land vehicle that brings the land vehicle within the UAV round-trip range of each destination. The system may dispatch the UAVs carrying the packages from the land vehicle at dispatch locations along the respective route.

[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]

Automatically communicating user device data to a transaction computing system
Patent No. 10706411

Inventor(s): Krishna Doddamane (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Google LLC (Mountain View, CA)
Law Firm: Dority Manning, P.A. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14945275 on 11/18/2015 (1693 days app to issue)

Abstract: Automatically communicating information related to a user computing device from a central computing system to a transaction computing system prior to initiation of a transaction between the user computing device and the transaction computing system comprises a digital wallet application and a central computing system. A digital wallet application receives a beacon signal from a transaction computing system indicating the specific identification of the terminal with which the user intends to conduct a transaction. The user computing device communicates the terminal identification to the central computing system. The central computing system communicates customer data, such as loyalty information and offers, to the transaction computing system associated with the terminal. The transaction computing system communicates the customer data to the terminal. When the user taps the user computing device to initiate the transaction, the terminal provides any benefits associated with the customer data.

Systems for updating listings
Patent No. 10706452

Inventor(s): Avid Ghamsari (Frisco, TX), Geoffrey Dagley (McKinney, TX), Micah Price (The Colony, TX), Qiaochu Tang (Frisco, 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: 16774356 on 01/28/2020 (161 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present disclosure provides systems and methods for creating and updating vehicle listings using crowdsourced images. An exemplary embodiment of the disclosed systems and methods includes at least one processor and at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium containing instructions. The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system to perform operations. The operations include communicating with a listing system to create a listing for a vehicle and receiving, from an identification application executing on a mobile device distinct from the listing system, an identifier for the vehicle and an image of the vehicle. The operations further include identifying the listing using the received identifier, determining one or more parameters associated with an image quality for the received image, and updating the listing for the vehicle to include the received image based on the determined one or more parameters for the received image.

Image compression/decompression in a computer vision system
Patent No. 10706492

Inventor(s): Ankit Ajmani (Ambala, , IN), Hrushikesh Tukaram Garud (Parbhani, , IN), Mihir Narendra Mody (Bangalore, , IN), Soyeb Noormohammed Nagori (Bangalore, , IN)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15695266 on 09/05/2017 (1036 days app to issue)

Abstract: A computer vision system is provided that includes a camera capture component configured to capture an image from a camera, a memory, and an image compression decompression engine (ICDE) coupled to the memory and configured to receive each line of the image, and compress each line to generate a compressed bit stream. To compress a line, the ICDE is configured to divide the line into compression units, and compress each compression unit, wherein to compress a compression unit, the ICDE is configured to perform delta prediction on the compression unit to generate a delta predicted compression unit, compress the delta predicted compression unit using exponential Golomb coding to generate a compressed delta predicted compression unit, and add the compressed delta predicted compression unit to the compressed bit stream.

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

Subtraction algorithm for detection of tumors
Patent No. 10706539

Inventor(s): Bryan D. Anderson (Mckinney, TX), John L. Tomich (Coppell, TX), Lauren G. Hatchell (Dallas, TX), Raymond Samaniego (Prosper, TX), Tuan T Tran (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): RAYTHEON COMPANY (Waltham, MA)
Law Firm: Lewis Roca Rothgerber Christie LLP (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16102449 on 08/13/2018 (694 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method for detecting tumors. Three-dimensional scans of a patient are performed with penetrating radiation, before and/or after the injection of a contrast agent. Raw density arrays are formed from the scans. The median density within an organ is calculated and subtracted from each of the raw density arrays, to form offset arrays. The offset arrays are subtracted pairwise and the differences are summed to form a discriminator array.

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

Systems and methods for extending detachable automobile sensor capabilities for environmental mapping
Patent No. 10706619

Inventor(s): Scott L. Frederick (Brighton, MI), Scott P. Robison (Dexter, MI)
Assignee(s): Toyota Motor Engineering Manufacturing North America, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Darrow Mustafa PC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16128728 on 09/12/2018 (664 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems, methods, and other embodiments described herein relate to a manner of extending the use of originally-equipped automotive vehicle sensors to environmental mapping. In one embodiment, a method includes acquiring sensor data from a vehicle-equipped detachable sensor of an environment around a non-automotive entity when the vehicle-equipped detachable sensor is mounted to the non-automotive entity. The vehicle-equipped detachable sensor is capable of sensing a portion of an environment around an automotive vehicle and configured to communicate with a computing device. The vehicle-equipped detachable sensor is also structured to be detached from the automotive vehicle and mounted to the non-automotive entity. Further, the method includes receiving a mapping request from the computing device. The method also includes, in response to the mapping request, building a map, from the acquired sensor data, of an area traveled by the non-automotive entity.

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

Augmented reality systems and methods for vehicle inspection
Patent No. 10706633

Inventor(s): Jason Schell (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Toyota Motor Engineering Manufacturing North America, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Dinsmore Shohl LLP (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16212004 on 12/06/2018 (579 days app to issue)

Abstract: An augmented reality inspection system includes a computing device having a processor and a non-transitory computer readable memory, a camera and display device communicatively coupled to the computing device, and a machine-readable instruction set stored in the non-transitory computer readable memory. The machine-readable instruction set causes the augmented reality inspection system to capture an image of a portion of a vehicle with the camera, compare the image of the portion of the vehicle to an image of an acceptable vehicle configuration, determine whether features within the image of the portion of the vehicle matches at least one acceptable vehicle configuration based on the image of the acceptable vehicle configuration, and in response to determining that the features does not match at least one acceptable vehicle configuration, present on the display device a highlighted portion identifying the features within the image of the portion of the vehicle that does not match.

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

Mobile scanning system for processing non-machinable, undeliverable-as-addressed mail
Patent No. 10706639

Inventor(s): Abdul Hamid Salemizadeh (Burleson, TX), Hongjian Li (Coppell, TX), Stanley W. Sipe (North Richland Hills, TX)
Assignee(s): Siemens Logistics LLC (DFW Airport, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15984447 on 05/21/2018 (778 days app to issue)

Abstract: A mail piece processing apparatus and related method. A mail piece processing apparatus includes a base, a table connected to the base by a vertical member, a camera mounted above the table and positioned to take an image of a mail piece on the table, and a data processing system. The data processing system is configured to receive the image of the mail piece from the camera; determine address information and address information of the mail piece according to the image; determine a disposition result for the mail piece according to the image; and cause a label to be printed for the mail piece according to the disposition result.

[G07B] TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; TAXIMETERS; ARRANGEMENTS OR APPARATUS FOR COLLECTING FARES, TOLLS OR ENTRANCE FEES AT ONE OR MORE CONTROL POINTS; FRANKING APPARATUS

Removable and reusable protective envelope to display document
Patent No. 10706751

Inventor(s): Britt Hawrylak (Fort Worth, TX), Matthew Hawrylak (Fort Worth, TX), Ray M. Hawrylak (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): ACCELERATED PRODUCTIONS, INC. (Smithfield, VA)
Law Firm: Patent Law of Virginia, PLLC (Local + 121 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16595112 on 10/07/2019 (274 days app to issue)

Abstract: A device for displaying a document comprises a front planar sheet and a rear planar sheet, each sheet having three edges that are coterminous with and permanently affixed to a corresponding edge of the other sheet, thereby forming an envelope having three sealed edges and an open end; an adhesive strip affixed to either the front sheet or the rear sheet and positioned across the open end between the front and rear sheets to selectively seal the open end; and a first corner seal and a second corner seal, each extending onto but not all the way through the adhesive strip on opposite ends of the open end. When the open end is sealed, the device is waterproof.

[G09F] DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS

Display system having module display panel with circuitry for bidirectional communication
Patent No. 10706770

Inventor(s): William Y. Hall (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): ULTRAVISION TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14720544 on 05/22/2015 (1873 days app to issue)

Abstract: A modular display panel includes a plastic housing having a recess, a printed circuit board disposed in the recess, a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) attached to the printed circuit board, a transparent potting compound overlying the LEDs, a driver circuit attached to the printed circuit board, and a heat sink disposed between a back side of the housing and the printed circuit board. The heat sink thermally contacts the back side of the housing and the printed circuit board. The panel also includes a power supply and a network interface controller.

[G09G] ARRANGEMENTS OR CIRCUITS FOR CONTROL OF INDICATING DEVICES USING STATIC MEANS TO PRESENT VARIABLE INFORMATION (arrangements for transferring data between digital computers and displays G06F 3/14; static indicating arrangements comprising an association of a number of separate sources or light control cells G09F 9/00; static indicating arrangements comprising integral associations of a number of light sources H01J, H01K, H01L, H05B 33/12; scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission, details thereof H04N 1/00) [5]

Communicating announcements
Patent No. 10706845

Inventor(s): Mahesh Rajagopalan (Irving, TX)
Assignee(s): Amazon Technologies, Inc. (Seattle, WA)
Law Firm: Pierce Atwood LLP (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15709037 on 09/19/2017 (1022 days app to issue)

Abstract: Techniques for synchronizing communication across devices are described. A system receives an input command corresponding to an announcement and sends data representing the announcement to devices of the system. The system receives responses from the devices and causes the device that originated the announcement to output content corresponding to the responses.

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

Charge pump supply oscillator
Patent No. 10706896

Inventor(s): John E. Riley (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): Micron Technology, Inc. (Boise, ID)
Law Firm: Fletcher Yoder, P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16178007 on 11/01/2018 (614 days app to issue)

Abstract: A memory device includes a plurality of memory cells and first circuitry coupled the plurality of memory cells, wherein the first circuitry is configured to perform a memory operation on at least one memory cell of the plurality of memory cells. The memory device also includes a charge pump coupled to the first circuitry, wherein the charge pump comprises a pump oscillator configured to generate an oscillator signal having only pulses with a width above a predetermined threshold pulse width and a pump core configured to receive the oscillator signal and a first electrical power signal at a first voltage, generate a second electrical power signal at a second voltage based upon the oscillator signal and the first voltage.

[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)

Non-volatile semiconductor memory device adapted to store a multi-valued data in a single memory cell
Patent No. 10706919

Inventor(s): Jian Chen (San Jose, CA), Tomoharu Tanaka (Yokohama, , JP)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Banner Witcoff, Ltd. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16268726 on 02/06/2019 (517 days app to issue)

Abstract: A non-volatile semiconductor memory device includes an electrically data rewritable non-volatile semiconductor memory cell and a write circuit for writing data in the memory cell, the write circuit writing a data in the memory cells by supplying a write voltage Vpgm and a write control voltage VBL to the memory cell, continuing the writing of the data in the memory cell by changing the value of the write control voltage VBL in response to an advent of a first write state of the memory cell and inhibiting any operation of writing a data to the memory cell by further changing the value of the write control voltage VBL to Vdd in response to an advent of a second write state of the memory cell.

Multi-state programming in memory device with loop-dependent bit line voltage during verify
Patent No. 10706941

Inventor(s): Ching-Huang Lu (Fremont, CA), Vinh Diep (San Jose, CA), Zhengyi Zhang (Mountain View, CA)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16371289 on 04/01/2019 (463 days app to issue)

Abstract: Techniques are described for programming memory cells with reduced widening of the threshold voltage distributions. Bit line voltages are adjusted during verify tests for memory cells assigned to the upper data state in a pair of adjacent data states which are concurrently verified. An elevated bit line voltage is applied and then stepped up in successive program loops. A lower, fixed bit line voltage is used for verifying the lower data state in the pair of adjacent data states. In one option, the step size increases progressively over the program loops. In another option, the minimum level of the elevated bit line voltage is lower for higher data states. In another option, the minimum level of the elevated bit line voltage is set as a function of data states, program-erase cycles and/or temperature.

Apparatus and system for verifying accomplishment of an activity which utilitizes penalties or accountability fees to encourage performance of an activity
Patent No. 10706962

Inventor(s): Charles Dix (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15885892 on 02/01/2018 (887 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system for monitoring the accomplishment of an activity of a user. The system includes an activity monitoring system for monitoring the accomplishment of an assigned physical activity of the user. The activity monitoring system includes data storage and an activities compiler for storing information associated with the assigned physical activity for the user of the system. The system also includes an interactive communication and verification (ICV) apparatus which accumulates information related to the accomplishment of the assigned activity. The ICV apparatus sends the accumulated information to the activity monitoring system. The activity monitoring system stores a predefined activity parameter and penalty/accountability fee assessment. The activities compiler compiles the accumulated information received from the user and determines if the assigned physical activity is performed based on the predefined activity parameter. If the physical activity is not correctly performed, the compiler assesses the penalty/accountability fee assessment. NULL

Source side program, method, and apparatus for 3D NAND
Patent No. 10707226

Inventor(s): Brian Murphy (San Jose, CA), Lito De La Rama (San Jose, CA), Xiang Yang (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Dickinson Wright PLLC (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16453268 on 06/26/2019 (377 days app to issue)

Abstract: A source side programming method and system are provided. A bad trigger block, of a plurality of blocks of a memory array, may be detected by determining a threshold voltage distribution of a drain side select gate of a block and determining whether the distribution is abnormal. If the distribution is abnormal, the block is a bad trigger block which may cause a failure in another block. IF the block is a bad trigger block, source side programming is performed on at least one word line of the bad trigger block by applying a non-zero voltage to at least one source side word line of the bad trigger block via a source side line.

Fiber optic local convergence points for multiple dwelling units
Patent No. RE048082 (Reissue)

Inventor(s): Terry Dean Cox (Fort Worth, TX), Thomas Shaw Liggett (Keller, TX)
Assignee(s): Corning Optical Communications LLP (Hickory, NC)
Law Firm: Pepper Hamilton LLP (8 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15715694 on 09/26/2017 (1015 days app to issue)

Abstract: There are provided fiber optic local convergence points (”LCPs”) adapted for use with multiple dwelling units (”MDUs”) that facilitate relatively easy installation and/or optical connectivity to a relatively large number of subscribers. The LCP includes a housing mounted to a surface, such as a wall, and a cable assembly with a connector end to be optically connected to a distribution cable and a splitter end to be located within the housing. The splitter end includes at least one splitter and a plurality of subscriber receptacles to which subscriber cables may be optically connected. The splitter end of the cable assembly of the LCP may also include a splice tray assembly and/or a fiber optic routing guide. Furthermore, a fiber distribution terminal (”FDT”) may be provided along the subscriber cable to facilitate installation of the fiber optic network within the MDU. Patent Class: N/A

E L E C T R I C I T Y

Advanced gameplay system
Patent No. 10702768

Inventor(s): Carey Leigh Lotzer (Sachse, TX)
Assignee(s): OPEN INVENTION NETWORK LLC (Durham, NC)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16452404 on 06/25/2019 (378 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention enhances the player”s gameplay visual, feedback and other experiences by taking advantage of optical adapters, feedback mechanics, advancements in theatrical audio, frame rate throttle, meta-file object framework for storage and retrieval, calibration advancements, vocal command enhancements, voice object lookups, facial/body scan, color/clothing coordination, party or celebration capabilities, noise cancellation, interactive object placement, heart rate monitor, pan-tilt-zoom camera advances, cooperative gameplay advances and programming advancements.

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

Semiconductor sawing method and system
Patent No. 10703016

Inventor(s): Chi-Hung Chen (New Taipei, , TW), Hung-Yu Wang (New Taipei, , TW), Tung-Mei Tien (New Taipei, , TW)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16013926 on 06/20/2018 (748 days app to issue)

Abstract: In one instance, a method of manufacturing an integrated circuit includes a method for dicing a semiconductor wafer that includes disposing the semiconductor wafer on a moveable cutting table, cutting the semiconductor wafer, and ejecting a clearing fluid across an exposed side of the semiconductor wafer, with full coverage across the semiconductor wafer, at least during the cutting of the semiconductor wafer. The ejecting clearing fluid is ejected to form a layer or membrane of fluid that clears or reduces other fluids from the exposed side or surface of the semiconductor wafer. Other aspects are presented.

[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]

System and method for energy monitoring
Patent No. 10707038

Inventor(s): Anton Brauchle (Mering, , DE), Horst Diewald (Freising, , DE), Johann Zipperer (Unterschleissheim, , DE), Peter Weber (Allershausen, , DE)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 14020184 on 09/06/2013 (2496 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring energy use in an electronic device. In one embodiment, an energy monitoring system includes a processor and an energy monitor module. The energy monitor module includes instructions that when executed cause the processor to receive values of measured parameters of a pulse signal that controls the switching of energy to an energy storage device in a switch mode power supply that provides power to an electronic device. The instructions also cause the processor to determine, based on the values of measured parameters, attributes of operation of the electronic device powered by the energy source during an interval corresponding to the measured parameters. The instructions further cause the processor to generate, based on the attributes of operation, a control signal that causes the electronic device to change the loading of the power supply by the electronic device.

[H01H] ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES (contact cables H01B 7/10; electrolytic self-interrupters H01G 9/18; emergency protective circuit arrangements H02H; switching by electronic means without contact-making H03K 17/00)

Current handling in legs and anchors of RF-switch
Patent No. 10707039

Inventor(s): Richard L. Knipe (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): Cavendish Kinetics, Inc. (San Jose, CA)
Law Firm: Withrow Terranova, P.L.L.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15771038 on 11/14/2016 (1331 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a mechanism for making the anchor of the MEMS switch more robust for current handling. The disclosure includes a modified leg and anchor design that allows for larger currents to be handled by the MEMS switch.

Dry etch process landing on metal oxide etch stop layer over metal layer and structure formed thereby
Patent No. 10707089

Inventor(s): Michael Hans Enzelberger-Heim (Munich, , DE), Reiner Port (Freising, , DE), Sebastian Meier (Munich, , DE)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15936434 on 03/27/2018 (833 days app to issue)

Abstract: A microelectronic device includes a metal layer on a first dielectric layer. An etch stop layer is disposed over the metal layer and on the dielectric layer directly adjacent to the metal layer. The etch stop layer includes a metal oxide, and is less than 10 nanometers thick. A second dielectric layer is disposed over the etch stop layer. The second dielectric layer is removed from an etched region which extends down to the etch stop layer. The etched region extends at least partially over the metal layer. In one version of the microelectronic device, the etch stop layer may extend over the metal layer in the etched region. In another version, the etch stop layer may be removed in the etched region. The microelectronic device is formed by etching the second dielectric layer using a plasma etch process, stopping on the etch stop layer.

3D stacked integrated circuits having functional blocks configured to provide redundancy sites
Patent No. 10707197

Inventor(s): Tony M. Brewer (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Micron Technology, Inc. (Boise, ID)
Law Firm: Greenberg Traurig (27 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16218901 on 12/13/2018 (572 days app to issue)

Abstract: A three-dimensional stacked integrated circuit (3D SIC) that can have at least a first 3D XPoint (3DXP) die and, in some examples, can have at least a second 3DXP die too. In such examples, the first 3DXP die and the second 3DXP die can be stacked. The 3D SIC can be partitioned into a plurality of columns that are perpendicular to each of the stacked dies. In such examples, when a first column of the plurality of columns is determined as failing, data stored in the first column can be replicated to a second column of the plurality of columns. Also, for example, when a part of a first column of the plurality of columns is determined as failing, data stored in the part of the first column can be replicated to a corresponding part of a second column of the plurality of columns.

Three-dimensional memory device having bonding structures connected to bit lines and methods of making the same
Patent No. 10707228

Inventor(s): Jian Chen (Menlo Park, CA), Jixin Yu (Milpitas, CA), Johann Alsmeier (San Jose, CA), Tae-Kyung Kim (San Jose, CA), Yan Li (Milpitas, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: The Marbury Law Group PLLC (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16284502 on 02/25/2019 (498 days app to issue)

Abstract: Three-dimensional memory devices in the form of a memory die includes an alternating stack of insulating layers and electrically conductive layers located over a substrate, and memory stack structures extending through the alternating stack, in which each of the memory stack structures includes a memory film and a vertical semiconductor channel contacting an inner sidewall of the memory film. Bit lines are electrically connected to an end portion of a respective one of the vertical semiconductor channels. Bump connection via structures contact a top surface of a respective one of the bit lines, in which each of the bump connection via structures has a greater lateral dimension along a lengthwise direction of the bit lines than along a widthwise direction of the bit lines. Metallic bump structures of another semiconductor die contact respective ones of the bump connection via structures to make respective electrical connections between the two dies.

Three-dimensional memory device including composite word lines and multi-strip select lines and method for making the same
Patent No. 10707233

Inventor(s): Fei Zhou (Milpitas, CA), Raghuveer S. Makala (Campbell, CA), Zhixin Cui (Nagoya, , JP)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: The Marbury Law Group, PLLC (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16362857 on 03/25/2019 (470 days app to issue)

Abstract: An alternating stack of insulating layers and sacrificial material layers is formed over a substrate. Memory stack structures are formed through the alternating stack. Drain-select-level trenches through an upper subset of the sacrificial material layers, and backside trenches are formed through each layer of the alternating stack. Backside recesses are formed by removing the sacrificial material layers. A first electrically conductive material and a second electrically conductive material are sequentially deposited in the backside recesses and the drain-select-level trenches. Portions of the second electrically conductive material and the first electrically conductive material may be removed by at least one anisotropic etch process from the drain-select-level trenches to provide drain-select-level electrically conductive layers as multiple groups that are laterally spaced apart and electrically isolated from one another by cavities within the drain-select-level trenches.

LOCOS with sidewall spacer for different capacitance density capacitors
Patent No. 10707296

Inventor(s): Henry Litzmann Edwards (Garland, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16156827 on 10/10/2018 (636 days app to issue)

Abstract: An integrated circuit (IC) includes a first capacitor, a second capacitor, and functional circuitry configured together with the capacitors for realizing at least one circuit function in a semiconductor surface layer on a substrate. The capacitors include a top plate over a LOCal Oxidation of Silicon (LOCOS) oxide, wherein a thickness of the LOCOS oxide for the second capacitor is thicker than a thickness of the LOCOS oxide for the first capacitor. There is a contact for the top plate and a contact for a bottom plate for the first and second capacitors.

High voltage galvanic isolation device
Patent No. 10707297

Inventor(s): Byron Lovell Williams (Plano, TX), Jeffrey Alan West (Dallas, TX), Thomas D. Bonifield (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16178065 on 11/01/2018 (614 days app to issue)

Abstract: A microelectronic device contains a high voltage component having a high voltage node and a low voltage node. The high voltage node is isolated from the low voltage node by a main dielectric between the high voltage node and low voltage elements at a surface of the substrate of the microelectronic device. A lower-bandgap dielectric layer is disposed between the high voltage node and the main dielectric. The lower-bandgap dielectric layer contains at least one sub-layer with a bandgap energy less than a bandgap energy of the main dielectric. The lower-bandgap dielectric layer extends beyond the high voltage node continuously around the high voltage node. The lower-bandgap dielectric layer has an isolation break surrounding the high voltage node at a distance of at least twice the thickness of the lower-bandgap dielectric layer from the high voltage node.

Surround gate vertical field effect transistors including tubular and strip electrodes and method of making the same
Patent No. 10707314

Inventor(s): Chao Feng Yeh (Yokkaichi, , JP), Hisakazu Otoi (Yokkaichi, , JP), Jongsun Sel (Los Gatos, CA), Seje Takaki (Yokkaichi, , JP)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: The Marbury Law Group, PLLC (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15720490 on 09/29/2017 (1012 days app to issue)

Abstract: A stack including doped semiconductor strips, a one-dimensional array of gate electrode strips, and a dielectric matrix layer is formed over a substrate. A two-dimensional array of openings is formed through the dielectric matrix layer and the one-dimensional array of gate electrode strips. A two-dimensional array of tubular gate electrode portions is formed in the two-dimensional array of openings. Each of the tubular gate electrode portions is formed directly on a respective one of the gate electrode strips. Gate dielectrics are formed on inner sidewalls of the tubular gate electrode portions. Vertical semiconductor channels are formed within each of the gate dielectrics by deposition of a semiconductor material. A two-dimensional array of vertical field effect transistors including surrounding gate electrodes is formed.

Method of forming metal contacts in the barrier layer of a group III-N HEMT
Patent No. 10707323

Inventor(s): Hiroshi Yamasaki (Richardson, TX), Masahiro Iwamoto (Oita, , JP), Shoji Wada (Plano, TX), Yoshikazu Kondo (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16420713 on 05/23/2019 (411 days app to issue)

Abstract: Metal contact openings are etched in the barrier layer of a group III-N HEMT with a first gas combination that etches down into the barrier layer, and a second gas combination that etches further down into the barrier layer to a depth that lies above the top surface of a channel layer that touches and lies below the barrier layer.

Group IIIA-N HEMT with a tunnel diode in the gate stack
Patent No. 10707324

Inventor(s): Chang Soo Suh (Allen, TX), Dong Seup Lee (McKinney, TX), Jungwoo Joh (Allen, TX), Naveen Tipirneni (Plano, TX), Sameer Prakash Pendharkar (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16456040 on 06/28/2019 (375 days app to issue)

Abstract: One example provides an enhancement-mode High Electron Mobility Transistor (HEMT) includes a substrate, a Group IIIA-N active layer over the substrate, a Group IIIA-N barrier layer over the active layer, and at least one isolation region through the barrier layer to provide an isolated active area having the barrier layer on the active layer. A gate stack is located between source and drain contacts to the active layer. A tunnel diode in the gate stack includes an n-GaN layer on an InGaN layer on a p-GaN layer located on the barrier layer.

Power MOSFET with metal filled deep source contact
Patent No. 10707344

Inventor(s): Frank Baiocchi (Allentown, PA), Furen Lin (Chengdu, , CN), Ho Lin (Chengdu, , CN), Lark Liu (Chengdu, , CN), Peter Lin (Chengdu, , CN), Tianping Lv (Chengdu, , CN), Yunlong Liu (Chengdu, , CN)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15817488 on 11/20/2017 (960 days app to issue)

Abstract: A planar gate power MOSFET includes a substrate having a semiconductor surface doped a first conductivity type, a plurality of transistor cells (cells) including a first cell and at least a second cell each having a gate stack over a body region. A trench has an aspect ratio of 3 extending down from a top side of the semiconductor surface between the gate stacks providing a source contact (SCT) from a source doped a second conductivity type to the substrate. A field plate (FP) is over the gate stacks that provides a liner for the trench. The trench has a refractory metal or platinum-group metal (PGM) metal filler within. A drain doped the second conductivity type is in the semiconductor surface on a side of the gate stacks opposite the trench.

Carbon electrode and lithium ion hybrid capacitor comprising same
Patent No. 10707488

Inventor(s): Rex Gerald Sheppard (Decatur, TX), Troy Scoggins (Decatur, TX)
Assignee(s): ENTEGRIS, INC. (Billerica, MA)
Law Firm: Entegris, Inc. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15620141 on 06/12/2017 (1121 days app to issue)

Abstract: A carbon material is described, having utility for fabricating an electrode of an electrochemical energy device, wherein the carbon material includes a particulate carbon having a particle size d[subscript]50 [/subscript]in a range of from 1 to 15 m, a bulk density in a range of from 0.3 g/cc to 1.2 g/cc, a surface area as measured by nitrogen BET surface area determination at 25 C. that does not exceed 10 m[superscript]2[/superscript]/g, and an impurity content of less than 3000 ppm by weight, based on weight of the carbon material. Such carbon material may be utilized in amorphous or graphitic form in an electrode of an electrochemical energy device, such as a negative electrode of a lithium-ion battery or a lithium-ion hybrid capacitor.

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

System and method for adaptive aperture tunable antenna
Patent No. 10707562

Inventor(s): Navid Nader (San Diego, CA), Ping Shi (San Diego, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14861744 on 09/22/2015 (1750 days app to issue)

Abstract: An antenna”s resonance frequency is detuned when a part of a human body approaches or contacts the antenna and consequently results in efficiency loss. The antenna may be tuned by changing its total load capacitance such that the antenna”s total load capacitance falls within a reference capacitance range of a reference capacitance, where the antenna can operate at or near its pre-determined operating resonance frequency. A tunable capacitor may be coupled to the antenna for tuning the total load capacitance of the antenna.

[H01Q] AERIALS (radiators or aerials for microwave heating H05B 6/72)

Integrated signal loss detection in Raman amplified fiber spans or other fiber spans
Patent No. 10707638

Inventor(s): Wayne S. Pelouch (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): Neptune Subsea IP Limited (London, , GB)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15810387 on 11/13/2017 (967 days app to issue)

Abstract: An apparatus includes multiple ports configured to be coupled to multiple optical fibers and to transmit first optical signals and receive second optical signals over the optical fibers. The apparatus also includes a signal source configured to generate a first additional optical signal for inclusion with the first optical signals. The apparatus further includes a signal detector configured to detect a second additional optical signal included with the second optical signals. In addition, the apparatus includes a switch configured to selectively couple the signal source to one of the ports. The switch is configured to couple the signal source to different ones of the ports in different configurations of the switch.

[H01S] DEVICES USING STIMULATED EMISSION

Battery charger
Patent No. 10707689

Inventor(s): Yevgen Barsukov (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16026222 on 07/03/2018 (735 days app to issue)

Abstract: A battery charger can include a charger controller configured to determine a total charge time that characterizes a time needed to charge a battery, the total charge time being based on a received state of charge (SOC) of the battery that characterizes a present SOC of the battery. The charger controller can also be configured to determine a charging start time for the battery based on a predetermined full charge time and the total charge time.

[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)

Pulse width modulation technique with time-ratio duty cycle computation
Patent No. 10707842

Inventor(s): Paul Vulpoiu (Allen, TX), Rakesh Raja (Allen, TX), Sudhir Nagaraj (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Texas Instruments Incorporated (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15791026 on 10/23/2017 (988 days app to issue)

Abstract: An analog signal-to-pulse width modulation (PWM) converter includes a ramp generator generating a ramp signal and a comparator circuit comparing the ramp signal to a first voltage, a second voltage, and an analog input signal. A duty cycle calculation circuit generates a first control signal to the ramp generator to generate the ramp signal. Based on signals from the comparator circuit, the duty cycle calculation circuit calculates the ratio of the time it takes for the ramp signal to exceed the analog input signal from when the ramp signal exceeds the first voltage to the time it takes for the ramp signal to exceed the second voltage from when the ramp signal exceeds the first voltage. A PWM signal generator generates a PWM output signal based on the ratio calculated by the duty cycle calculation circuit.

[H03K] PULSE TECHNIQUE (measuring pulse characteristics G01R; modulating sinusoidal oscillations with pulses H03C; transmission of digital information H04L; discriminator circuits detecting phase difference between two signals by counting or integrating cycles of oscillation H03D 3/04; automatic control, starting, synchronisation or stabilisation of generators of electronic oscillations or pulses where the type of generator is irrelevant or unspecified H03L; coding, decoding or code conversion, in general H03M) [4]

Methods and apparatus to improve switching conditions in a closed loop system
Patent No. 10707857

Inventor(s): David Wayne Evans (Bentonville, AR), Kavitha Rapolu (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16353853 on 03/14/2019 (481 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, systems and articles of manufacture are disclosed to improve switching conditions in a closed loop system. An example device includes a first switch adapted to be coupled to a first node, a second switch adapted to be coupled to a second node, a capacitor including a first terminal and a second terminal, wherein the first terminal is coupled the first switch, and wherein the second terminal is coupled to the second switch, a first multiplier coupled to the first terminal and to the second terminal, wherein the first multiplier is adapted to be coupled to at least a third node and a fourth node, and a second multiplier coupled to the first terminal and to the second terminal.

Bus driver with rise/fall time control
Patent No. 10707867

Inventor(s): Deep Banerjee (Bengaluru, , IN), Lokesh Kumar Gupta (Bengaluru, , IN), Somshubhra Paul (Bengaluru, , IN)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15834599 on 12/07/2017 (943 days app to issue)

Abstract: A driver includes an open drain output transistor, a capacitor, a first current source, and first and second transistors. Upon assertion of a transmit signal to turn on the first transistor, a controller asserts a second control signal to turn on the second transistor responsive to a voltage of the capacitor being less than a threshold voltage of the open drain output transistor to thereby increase the gate voltage for the open drain output transistor at a first time rate. The controller deasserts the second control signal to turn off the second transistor responsive to the capacitor voltage exceeding the threshold voltage. Responsive to the capacitor”s voltage exceeding the threshold, the first current source charges the capacitor to further increase the gate voltage at a second time rate that is smaller than the first time rate.

Adaptive noise cancellation
Patent No. 10707881

Inventor(s): Ahmed R. Fridi (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: Roberts Calderon Safran Cole, P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16440179 on 06/13/2019 (390 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a structure including an adaptive noise canceller circuit which is configured to suppress noise in a feedback sigma-delta modulator circuit and provide real-time tracking of a noise cancellation signal.

[H03L] AUTOMATIC CONTROL, STARTING, SYNCHRONISATION, OR STABILISATION OF GENERATORS OF ELECTRONIC OSCILLATIONS OR PULSES (of dynamo-electric generators H02P) [3]

Interpolation digital-to-analog converter (DAC)
Patent No. 10707892

Inventor(s): Jun Zhang (Shanghai, , CN)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16423426 on 05/28/2019 (406 days app to issue)

Abstract: A integrated circuit device includes digital-to-analog converter (DAC) circuitry including a resistor DAC that includes a resistor-two-resistor DAC configured to receive a first sub-word that includes a most significant bit (MSB) of a digital input signal and to output an analog output signal representative of the first sub-word, a resistor ladder configured to receive the analog output signal and a second sub-word that includes an intermediate significant bit (ISB) of the digital input signal and to generate an analog interpolated signal. The resistor ladder includes a plurality of resistor elements connected in series with one another to define a plurality of tap nodes, wherein a respective tap node is arranged between every two adjacent ones of the resistor elements, and a switching circuit having plurality of switches, wherein each switch is configured to selectively connect a respective one of the tap nodes to an output of the resistor ladder to generate the analog interpolated signal.

[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]

Systems and methods for focusing beams with mode division multiplexing
Patent No. 10707945

Inventor(s): Nima Ashrafi (Plano, TX), Roger D. Linquist (Dallas, TX), Solyman Ashrafi (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): NxGen Partners IP, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16259148 on 01/28/2019 (526 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system for focusing an orbital angular momentum (OAM) multiplexed beam comprising OAM signal processing circuitry for generating an OAM multiplexed signal. The OAM multiplexed signal includes a plurality of data streams each having a unique orbital angular momentum applied thereto and multiplexed together within the OAM multiplexed signal. Each unique orbital angular momentum has a beam helicity value greater than l=2. An antenna array control circuit controls transmission of the multiplexed OAM signal from each of a plurality of antennas in an antenna array toward a focus point located below the ground as a transmission beam to cause the transmitted OAM multiplexed signals to converge at the focus point below the ground at substantially a same time to overcome a divergence of the transmitted plurality of OAM multiplexed signals caused by the beam helicity value of greater than l=2 for each of the unique orbital angular momentum.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]

Adaptive channel estimation for power optimization for narrow band systems
Patent No. 10708002

Inventor(s): Yang Li (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Apple Inc. (Cupertino, CA)
Law Firm: Fay Kaplun Marcin, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16050957 on 07/31/2018 (707 days app to issue)

Abstract: A device, system and method for determining when to initiate certain operations associated with received data. The method is performed at a device connected to a network. The method includes estimating a first number of repetitions of a subframe which is associated with a likelihood that the device will successfully perform an operation based on the subframe. The method further includes delaying initiating the operation for the subframe until a received number of repetitions of the subframe is greater than or equal to the first number of repetitions.

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

Method and apparatus for reference signals in wireless system
Patent No. 10708028

Inventor(s): Boon Loong Ng (Plano, TX), Hao Chen (Allen, TX), Young-Han Nam (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (Suwon-si, , KR)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15913730 on 03/06/2018 (854 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of user equipment (UE) is provided. The method comprises receiving, from a base station (BS), configuration information indicating one or more of first sets of CSI-RS configuration parameters; determining channel state information-reference signal (CSI-RS) resources per frequency in a wireless communication system including a plurality of cells; and determining the first sets of CSI-RS configuration parameters for the cells, respectively, each of the first sets of CSI-RS configuration parameters including a physical cell identifier for the respective cell.

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

Method of generating reference signal in wireless communication system
Patent No. 10708030

Inventor(s): Daewon Lee (Anyang-si, , KR), Minseok Noh (Anyang-si, , KR), Seung Hee Han (Anyang-si, , KR)
Assignee(s): Optis Cellular Technology, LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Nixon Vanderhye P.C. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16031711 on 07/10/2018 (728 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of generating a reference signal includes acquiring a base sequence and acquiring a reference signal sequence with a length N from the base sequence. Good PAPR/CM characteristics of the reference signal can be kept to enhance performance of data demodulation or uplink scheduling.

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

Quantum resistant blockchain with multi-dimensional quantum key distribution
Patent No. 10708046

Inventor(s): Solyman Ashrafi (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): NxGen Partners IP, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16673447 on 11/04/2019 (246 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system for generating a blockchain comprises first circuitry for receiving a first group of data. Blockchain processing circuitry generates a blockchain for a plurality of groups of data. The blockchain processing circuitry generates the blockchain by generating a first nonce for a first block of the blockchain. The blockchain processing circuitry performs a first hash using the first group of data and the first nonce as an input to a hash function to generate a first digital signature for the first block as an output. The hash function uses encryption based on quantum key distribution using N-state qudits where N is greater than 2. The block chain processing circuitry receives a second group of data and generates a second nonce for a second block of the blockchain. A second hash is performed using the second group of data, the second nonce and the first digital signature to generate a second digital signature for the second block as an output. The hash function uses encryption based on the quantum key distribution using N-state qudits where N is greater than 2.

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

Traffic engineering service mapping
Patent No. 10708083

Inventor(s): Dhruv Dhody (Bangalore, , IN), Haomian Zheng (Shenzhen, , CN), Ricard Vilalta (Barcelona, , ES), Young Lee (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16657405 on 10/18/2019 (263 days app to issue)

Abstract: A customer network controller (CNC) including a processor and a memory. The processor is configured to use a virtual private network (VPN)-specific service model for a VPN service and map the VPN-specific service model to one or more traffic engineering (TE)-specific parameters. The memory is coupled to the processor and configured to store a mapping between a VPN identification (ID) of the VPN service corresponding to the VPN-specific service model and a tunnel ID of either an existing TE tunnel or newly-established TE tunnel for the VPN service. The existing TE tunnel or the newly established TE tunnel satisfies the one or more TE-specific parameters.

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

Managing a network element operating on a network
Patent No. 10708118

Inventor(s): William Charles Easttom (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): OPEN INVENTION NETWORK LLC (Durham, NC)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16182594 on 11/06/2018 (609 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are an apparatus and method of managing network elements operating on a network. One example method may include transmitting a request to receive at least one activity parameter of a network element operating on the network and monitoring the at least one activity parameter of the network element. The method may include determining whether a usage value of the at least one activity parameter exceeds a predetermined threshold usage value and transmitting a corrective function message to the network element responsive to determining that the usage value of the at least one activity parameter exceeds the predetermined threshold value. The method may further include performing a corrective function to reduce the usage value of the at least one activity parameter.

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

Systems and methods for virtual shelf management of disaggregated network elements
Patent No. 10708141

Inventor(s): Daniel Berger (Allen, TX), David Terwilliger (Garland, TX), Maitreya Mukhopadhyay (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Fujitsu Limited (Kawasaki, , JP)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16110675 on 08/23/2018 (684 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of commissioning a tributary blade in a disaggregated network system, including assigning a port ID to a port of an MCU, mapping to a port map a virtual slot ID to the port ID, receiving a registration request from a tributary blade, and assigning the virtual slot ID to the tributary blade. Disclosed is a method of determining whether a mis-cabling condition exists, including determining the whether a virtual slot ID is mapped to a port ID in a port map. Disclosed is a disaggregated network system including an MCU, a first and second tributary blade coupled to the MCU at a first and second port. The MCU is operable to assign a first and second virtual slot ID to the first and second tributary blades. The MCU is operable to map a first and second virtual slot ID to a first and second port ID.

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

Systems and methods for user defined network enabled content filtering
Patent No. 10708228

Inventor(s): Joseph Dorsey, Jr. (Allen, TX), Shahab Azmoudeh (Dallas, TX), Victor Nilson (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): ATT Intellectual Property I, L.P. (Atlanta, GA), ATT Mobility II LLC (Atlanta, GA)
Law Firm: BakerHostetler (Local + 4395 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15683956 on 08/23/2017 (1049 days app to issue)

Abstract: A content filtering system and method includes receiving in a network device in a network from a user device, a user selected set of rules identifying a set of URLs to be blocked. The set of rules are loaded into the network device. The network device receives from the user device a request to access a specified URL. A determination is made at the network device whether the specified URL is in the user selected set of rules. If the specified URL is in the user selected set of rules, then the specified URL is blocked.

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

Encrypted push message viewing system
Patent No. 10708238

Inventor(s): David Joseph Robertson (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): ZixCorp Systems, Inc. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15617351 on 06/08/2017 (1125 days app to issue)

Abstract: According to certain embodiments, a system is operable to receive a message intended for a recipient. The system is further operable to generate first and second push envelopes comprising first and second encrypted copies of the message, respectively. The push envelopes also comprise executable code that facilitates decrypting the message. The system is operable to associate the first and second push envelopes with a message index that uniquely identifies the message. The system is operable to communicate the first push envelope to the recipient and to communicate the second push envelope to a viewing system.

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

Circuit-switched and multimedia subsystem voice continuity
Patent No. 10708311

Inventor(s): Kaniz Mahdi (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): Ericsson AB (Stockholm, , SE)
Law Firm: Withrow Terranova, PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14300470 on 06/10/2014 (2219 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention moves service control, including call control, for a user element from a cellular network to a multimedia subsystem (MS), such as the Internet Protocol (IP) Multimedia Subsystem (IMS). Call control is provided by the MS irrespective of whether the user element is using cellular or WLAN access for the call. Call control for originating and terminating calls in the CS or MS as well as transferring calls between a circuit-switched subsystem (CS) and MS is anchored at a continuity control function (CCF) in the MS. All call signaling for the call is passed through the CCF. The CCF is a service provided in the user element”s home MS and anchors the user element”s active CS calls and MS sessions to enable active roaming across the CS and MS.

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

Hybrid distributed communication
Patent No. 10708314

Inventor(s): Paul Miller (Derry, NH)
Assignee(s): GENBAND US LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Haynes and Boone, LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15851353 on 12/21/2017 (929 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method includes establishing a connection between a physical signaling module and a physical media module, the physical signaling module configured to establish a connection between two communication endpoints, the physical media module configured to transfer media between the two communication endpoints. The method further includes establishing a connection between the physical signaling module and a media Virtual Network Function (VNF) module, the media VNF module running in a cloud-based environment, the media VNF module configured to transfer media between the two communication endpoints.

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

System and method for managing media content
Patent No. 10708351

Inventor(s): James Cansler (Rockwall, TX)
Assignee(s): Lyft, Inc. (San Francisco, CA)
Law Firm: FisherBroyles LLP (Local + 20 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16030823 on 07/09/2018 (729 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a media distribution system having a controller to identify a plurality of media presentation devices of a user of the media distribution system, identify one or more distribution preferences supplied by the user for distributing media content to the plurality of media presentation devices, receive media content from one of a plurality of media sources of the user, determine a media content type from the received media content, and distribute the received media content to one or more of the plurality of media presentation devices according to the one or more distribution preferences and the media content type. The one or more distribution preferences comprise in part media content distribution arrangements assigned by the user between the plurality of media sources of the user and the plurality of media presentation devices of the user. Other embodiments are disclosed.

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

Artificial intelligence based hierarchical service awareness engine
Patent No. 10708363

Inventor(s): Hang Shi (Fremont, CA), Yinghua Ye (Los Gatos, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Schwegman Lundberg Woessner, P.A. (11 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16101092 on 08/10/2018 (697 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for recognition of an application in communication traffic flow in a network using an artificial intelligence (AI) based hierarchical service awareness engine. A decode equivalent class (DEC) can be used to provide information on the application. A DEC corresponds to a class of traffic that is mapped to an artificial intelligence (AI) model associated with parameters related to the class of traffic. DEC information can be fed to an AI model set and an inference model can be derived from a AI model of the AI model set corresponding to a DEC. The inference model can be provided to a gateway of the network to recognize a specific application of a service in communication flows. In various embodiments, in training the AI models, the gateway can provide DEC information for the AI model set from classifying flows of data traffic received from the network into DECs.

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

Mobile device transportation mode management device, system and method
Patent No. 10708413

Inventor(s): Mahaveer Jain (Santa Clara, CA), Mahesh Chowdhary (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): STMICROELECTRONICS, INC. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Seed IP Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16703692 on 12/04/2019 (216 days app to issue)

Abstract: A portable device includes one or more memories and travel mode control circuitry coupled to the one or more memories. The travel mode control circuitry, in operation, monitors motion data and temperature data to detect a first travel state of the device. When the first travel state of the device is detected, motion data and pressure data are monitored to detect a transition from the first travel state to a second travel state of the device. When the transition to the second travel state of the device is detected, one or more control signals are generated to cause the device to enter a first travel mode of operation.

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

Systems and methods for identification and action on attempted controlled-environment facility resident communications with internet-protocol phone numbers
Patent No. 10708415

Inventor(s): Isaac Parampottil (Coppell, TX)
Assignee(s): Securus Technologies, Inc. (Carrollton, TX)
Law Firm: Fogarty LLP (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15936662 on 03/27/2018 (833 days app to issue)

Abstract: A controlled-environment facility communications management system, and/or the like, receives an indication of an electronic communication request with a telephone number initiated by, or to, a resident of a controlled environment facility. The controlled-environment facility communications management system, and/or the like, accesses a line information database and determines, based on the contents of the line information database, whether the telephone number is an Internet Protocol (IP) telephone number. The controlled-environment facility communications management system, and/or the like, takes action with respect to the electronic communication in response to identification of the telephone number as an IP telephone number.

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

Methods and apparatus to control satellite equipment
Patent No. 10708554

Inventor(s): Liang Zhang (Beijing, , CN), Weibing Jing (Beijing, , CN), Xianhui Dong (Beijing, , CN)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16055753 on 08/06/2018 (701 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, systems, and articles of manufacture are disclosed to enable Digital Satellite Equipment Control (DiSEqC) communication between an antenna and a processor. An example apparatus includes a receiver to be coupled to an antenna by a cable and configured to bidirectionally communicate with the antenna via a communication signal having a periodic waveform, wherein the receiver further includes a low dropout regulator (LDO) pass transistor to be coupled to the cable and configured to generate a current signal based on the periodic waveform of the communication signal, a current envelope detector circuit coupled to the LDO pass transistor configured to generate a voltage signal based on the current signal, and a processor. The processor is coupled to the current envelope detector circuit and configured to process the voltage signal generated by the current envelope detector.

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

Bidirectional weighted intra prediction
Patent No. 10708583

Inventor(s): Jiali Fu (Shenzhen, , CN), Shan Gao (Shenzhen, , CN), Shan Liu (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16053204 on 08/02/2018 (705 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of coding implemented by a decoding device. The method includes receiving a bitstream from an encoding device, parsing the bitstream to determine whether a directional prediction mode or a non-directional prediction mode is signaled, using non-directional intra prediction to generate an image when the non-directional prediction mode is signaled, parsing a distance-weighted directional intra prediction (DWDIP) flag from the bitstream when the directional prediction mode is signaled to determine whether the DWDIP flag has a first value or a second value, using distance-weighted directional intra prediction to generate the image when the DWDIP flag has the first value, using directional intra prediction to generate the image when the DWDIP flag has the second value, and displaying, on a display of an electronic device, the image generated.

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

Reduced complexity coefficient transmission for adaptive loop filtering (ALF) in video coding
Patent No. 10708603

Inventor(s): Madhukar Budagavi (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16144446 on 09/27/2018 (649 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for adaptive loop filtering is provided that includes determining a coefficient value for each coefficient position of an adaptive loop filter, applying the adaptive loop filter to at least a portion of a reconstructed picture using the coefficient values, and entropy encoding coefficient values into a compressed bit stream using predetermined short binary codes, wherein the short binary code used depends on the coefficient position of the coefficient value.

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

Encoder and decoder and methods thereof for encoding/decoding a picture of a video sequence
Patent No. 10708613

Inventor(s): Jonatan Samuelsson (Stockholm, , SE), Rickard Sjberg (Stockholm, , SE)
Assignee(s): Velos Media, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Grable Martin Fulton PLLC (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15628005 on 06/20/2017 (1113 days app to issue)

Abstract: An object of the embodiments is to achieve an improved reference picture handling. That is achieved by taking into account whether the reference pictures in the decoded picture buffer are long-term reference pictures or short-term reference pictures when determining how they should be marked when the information of the reference picture set is received. The reference pictures are marked as ”used for short-term reference” or ”used for long-term reference” in the Decoded Picture Buffer (DPB) depending on whether they are included as short-term pictures or long-term pictures in the RPS of a current picture.

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

Adaptive loop filtering (ALF) for video coding
Patent No. 10708622

Inventor(s): Madhukar Budagavi (Plano, TX), Minhua Zhou (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 13720995 on 12/19/2012 (2757 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for adaptive loop filtering of a reconstructed picture in a video encoder is provided that includes determining whether or not sample adaptive offset (SAO) filtering is applied to the reconstructed picture, and using adaptive loop filtering with no offset for the reconstructed picture when the SAO filtering is determined to be applied to the reconstructed picture.

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

Control of wireless fidelity access for 5G or other next generation network
Patent No. 10708835

Inventor(s): Mark Austin (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): ATT INTELLECUTUAL PROPERTY I, L.P. (Atlanta, GA)
Law Firm: Amin, Turocy Watson, LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15854099 on 12/26/2017 (924 days app to issue)

Abstract: Techniques for facilitating cellular or wireless fidelity access point selection are provided. In one example herein a method is provided comprising receiving, by a mobile device comprising a processor, first radio load data associated with a predicted radio load of a first channel of a first wireless device. Based on a first condition associated with the first radio load being determined to have been satisfied, the method can facilitate, by the mobile device, receiving second radio load data, indicative of a current radio load, from a second wireless device. Additionally, in response to a second condition associated with the current radio load being determined to have been satisfied, the method can utilize, by the mobile device, a second channel of the second wireless device for a communication.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Backhaul selection in a wireless network
Patent No. 10708845

Inventor(s): Muhammad Gill (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Charter Communications Operating, LLC (St. Louis, MO)
Law Firm: Armis IP Law, LLC (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 16103662 on 08/14/2018 (693 days app to issue)

Abstract: According to one configuration, an example communication system includes a primary wireless station, multiple candidate wireless stations, and a remote network. The primary wireless station is in communication with one or more of the multiple candidate wireless stations. During operation, when the primary wireless station needs to provide one or more communication devices access to a remote network, the primary wireless station monitors presence of the multiple candidate wireless stations. Each of the multiple candidate wireless stations is available to support a wireless backhaul link from the primary wireless station to a remote (such as a core) network. The primary wireless station is operable to select an appropriate candidate wireless station amongst the multiple candidate wireless stations. Via the selected candidate wireless station, the primary wireless station establishes a backhaul link to the remote network.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Quasi co-location identification of reference symbol ports for coordinated multi-point communication systems
Patent No. 10708852

Inventor(s): Boon Loong Ng (Dallas, TX), Jianzhong Zhang (Plano, TX), Young-Han Nam (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 16140237 on 09/24/2018 (652 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses indicate and identify quasi co-located reference signal ports. A method of identifying by a UE includes identifying, from downlink control information, a CSI-RS port that is quasi co-located with a DM-RS port assigned to the UE. The method includes identifying large scale properties for the assigned DM-RS port based on large scale properties for the CSI-RS port. The method includes performing channel estimation and/or time/frequency synchronization using the identified large scale properties for the DM-RS port. Another method for identifying by a UE includes identifying, from downlink control information, a CRS port that is quasi co-located with a CSI-RS port configured for the UE. The method includes identifying large scale properties for the configured CSI-RS port based on large scale properties for the CRS port. The method includes performing channel estimation and/or time/frequency synchronization using the identified large scale properties for the CSI-RS port.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Methods and apparatus for efficient wakeup of wireless device
Patent No. 10708859

Inventor(s): Asaf Even-Chen (Rehovot, , IL), Avi Baum (Giva”t Shmuel, , IL), Oran Naftali (Petah Tikvah, , IL), Yuval Jakira (Tel Aviv, , IL)
Assignee(s): TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INCORPORATED (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 15362358 on 11/28/2016 (1317 days app to issue)

Abstract: In a described example, an integrated circuit includes an input coupled to receive a plurality of beacon frames, the beacon frames include an indication of data transmissions available for a device that includes the integrated circuit. The integrated circuit also includes a controller configured to compare the plurality of beacon frames to determine a plurality of bytes prior to the indication of data transmission available that is present in each of the plurality of beacon frames and is configured to provide a signal indicating a low power mode in which the device does not receive transmissions and to provide a signal indicating a wake mode at a selected time before transmission of the plurality of bytes in a subsequent beacon transmission.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

DESIGN PATENTS

Luggage wheel assembly
Patent No. D889128

Inventor(s): Robert S. Patrick (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Shark Wheel, Inc. (Lake Forest, CA)
Law Firm: Cionca IP Law P.C. (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29658173 on 08/11/2018 (696 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Strap wrapping tool
Patent No. D889225

Inventor(s): Joshua A. Brown (Farmersville, TX), Kenneth Tallent (Melissa, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: Schneider IP Law LLC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29647259 on 05/11/2018 (788 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Vehicle roof fairing
Patent No. D889336

Inventor(s): Jeffrey P. Smith (Prosper, TX), Kunjithapadam Raghavendran (Denton, TX), Victor Garcia (Aubrey, TX)
Assignee(s): PACCAR Inc (Bellevue, WA)
Law Firm: Seed IP Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29622499 on 10/17/2017 (994 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Tire
Patent No. D889388

Inventor(s): Limin Jiang (Coppell, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: Braxton Perrone, PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29648643 on 05/23/2018 (776 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Battery
Patent No. D889394

Inventor(s): Stephen Douglas Galbraith (Waynesburg, PA)
Assignee(s): Belluscura LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Panitch Schwarze Belisario Nadel LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29649546 on 05/31/2018 (768 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Wheel for a model vehicle
Patent No. D889565

Inventor(s): Jory Sprowl (Wolfe City, TX)
Assignee(s): TRAXXAS LP (McKinney, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 29646942 on 05/08/2018 (791 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Wheel for a model vehicle
Patent No. D889566

Inventor(s): Adam Cole Ewing (McKinney, TX), Jory Sprowl (Honey Grove, TX), Kent Poteet (Lucas, TX), Otto Karl Allmendinger (Rowlett, TX)
Assignee(s): TRAXXAS LP (McKinney, TX)
Law Firm: No Counsel
Application No., Date, Speed: 29678359 on 01/28/2019 (526 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Nasal insert
Patent No. D889647

Inventor(s): Thomas D. Smith (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): UNASSIGNED
Law Firm: Goldstein Law Offices, P.C. (4 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29669014 on 11/05/2018 (610 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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