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 April 24, 2018 | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (19100)

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

NO. OF PATENTS BY CLASSIFICATION

TOP LOCAL ASSIGNEES (NO. OF PATENTS)

SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano) 8
Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano) 6
STMICROELECTRONICS, INC. (Coppell) 3
Conduent Business Services, LLC (Dallas) 2

TOP LOCAL INVENTORS (NO. OF PATENTS)

Michael Scott Burnett (McKinney) 4
Jeffrey J. Albertsen (Plano) 3
Aris Papasakellariou (Dallas) 2
Min-Hsuan Tsai (Grapevine) 2

SPEED: APPLICATION TO ISSUE (NO. OF DAYS)

286 days
Nutraceutical containing an oxygen-enabled composition
Patent No. 9950006-B2
Assignee: BAYLOR UNIVERSITY (Waco)
Inventors: John W Woodmansee, Jr. (Frisco), Robert A Woodmansee (Plano)

2,451 days
Location-based novelty index value and recommendation system and method
Patent No. 9955292-B2
Assignee: Nokia Corporation
Inventor: Roman Kikta (Dallas)

Don’t miss Dallas Invents: Sign up for the Dallas Innovates e-newsletter. Patent information is provided by Joe Chiarella, founder of patent analytics company Patent Index and publisher of The Inventiveness Index. For additional details on the patents granted below, search the USPTO Patent Full-Text and Image Database.

UTILITY PATENTS

H U M A N N E C E S S I T I E S

Medical face shield
Patent No. 9949517

Inventor(s): Edward Ray Howard (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Encompass Group, LLC (McDonough, GA)
Law Firm: Baker Donelson (Local + 58 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15013478 on 02/02/2016 (812 days app to issue)

Abstract: A medical face shield ([b]10[/b]) is disclosed having a flexible front plate or shield ([b]11[/b]), a foam forehead pad ([b]21[/b]), and a flexible, stretchable headband ([b]22[/b]). The front shield has a viewing window ([b]25[/b]) which is positioned to be directly in front of a person”s eyes wearing the face shield. The viewing window is surrounded by a translucent, peripheral margin, frame, or window surrounding portion ([b]27[/b]) which provides an anti-glare characteristic or capability to the margin.

[A41D] OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES (eye or ear protectors A61F 9/00, A61F 11/00; sweating suits A61H 36/00)

Quick assembly grill and method
Patent No. 9949594

Inventor(s): Bin Lin (Shanghai, , CN), Guolong Chen (Yangjiang, , CN), Liang Shen (Shanghai, , CN), Lu Liang (Yangjiang, , CN), Randall L. May (Plano, TX), Wenguan Su (Yangjiang, , CN), Zhi Bing Gu (Kunshan, , CN)
Assignee(s): LightStar Corporation (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Sheppard, Mullin, Richter Hampton LLP (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14968732 on 12/14/2015 (862 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention is embodied in a grill configured for quick assembly, a method of partially pre-assembling the grill for shipping from the factory in a container, and a method of assembling the grill when removed from the shipping container. The grill comprises a firebox assembly for mounting on a cart assembly, the cart assembly having first and second support assemblies and at least one linking member interconnecting them. A hinge or pivot in the mid-portion of the linking member divides it into first and second linking member portions, and the opposite ends of the linking member portions are pivotally connected by hinges or the like to the first and second support assemblies. The linking member holds the first and second support assemblies together in a partially pre-assembled state, and the pivotal connections of the linking member portions allow the two assemblies to be folded for packaging in a shipping container. When removed from the container, the pivotal connections of the linking member portions allow the first and second support assemblies to be unfolded, with the linking member holding the two support assemblies in approximately the proper position with respect to each other and to the firebox assembly for assembly of the grill, thus allowing for easier and quicker grill assembly by one person. Alternatively, the linking member can itself be a support assembly with the first and second support assemblies pivotally attached to opposite ends of the linking me

[A47J] KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES [6]

Nutraceutical containing an oxygen-enabled composition
Patent No. 9950006

Inventor(s): John W Woodmansee, Jr. (Frisco, TX), Robert A Woodmansee (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): BAYLOR UNIVERSITY (Waco, TX)
Law Firm: Culhane Meadows PLLC (Local + 4 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15648312 on 07/12/2017 (286 days app to issue)

Abstract: A composition of chlorine-free poly-oxygenated aluminum hydroxide that comprises a clathrate containing oxygen gas molecules and a nutraceutical. In one embodiment, the poly-oxygenated aluminum hydroxide has particles having a diameter of 212 m or less. The nutraceutical may include one or more of a protein, vitamin, fiber, mineral and electrolytes. The composition may be in a powder or fluid form.

[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)

Devices and methods for the prevention and treatment of neuromas
Patent No. 9950099

Inventor(s): Mario I. Romero-Ortega (Coppell, TX), Rafael Granja-Vasquez (Arlington, TX)
Assignee(s): Board of Regents, The University of Texas System (Austin, TX)
Law Firm: Smith Moore Leatherwood LLP (4 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14768826 on 02/18/2014 (1526 days app to issue)

Abstract: In one aspect, nerve growth inhibition devices are described herein. In some embodiments, a nerve growth inhibition device described herein comprises a tube having a proximal end and a distal end. A matrix material is disposed in the tube, and the matrix material comprises one or more microchannels. The proximal end of the tube comprises an opening operable to receive nerve tissue, the distal end of the tube is sealed, and the microchannels of the matrix material extend from the proximal end of the tube toward the distal end of the tube.

[A61L] METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION, OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS, OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS, OR SURGICAL ARTICLES (preservation of bodies or disinfecting characterised by the agent employed A01N; preserving, e.g. sterilising, food or foodstuffs A23; preparations for medical, dental or toilet purposes A61K) [4]

Wound care method and system with one or both of vacuum-light therapy and thermally augmented oxygenation
Patent No. 9950148

Inventor(s): Tony Quisenberry (Highland Village, TX)
Assignee(s): ThermoTek, Inc. (Flower Mound, TX)
Law Firm: Winstead PC (Local + 2 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14062428 on 10/24/2013 (1643 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system for treatment of a wound area of a patient including a first treatment pad comprising a plurality of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) for cleaning and exposing a wound area to ultraviolet light, a second treatment pad comprising removal ports for exposing the wound area to a negative pressure, and a control unit interoperably connected to the first and second treatment pads for providing a negative pressure and the ultraviolet light to the wound area.

[A61N] ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY (measurement of bioelectric currents A61B; surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body A61B 18/00; anaesthetic apparatus in general A61M; incandescent lamps H01K; infra-red radiators for heating H05B) [6]

Golf club head or other ball striking device
Patent No. 9950218

Inventor(s): David N. Franklin (Granbury, TX), John T. Stites (Weatherford, TX), Robert Boyd (Flower Mound, TX)
Assignee(s): NIKE, Inc. (Beaverton, OR)
Law Firm: Banner Witcoff, Ltd. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14539604 on 11/12/2014 (1259 days app to issue)

Abstract: A head for a ball striking device, such as a golf club head, includes a face member having a face with a striking surface configured for striking a ball and a rear surface opposite the striking surface, a weight member connected to the face member behind the rear surface of the face member, and a resilient member positioned between the weight member and the face member. The resilient member is connected to the rear surface of the face member to connect the weight member to the face member. The resilient member is compressible to permit energy and/or momentum to be transferred between the weight member and the face member through the resilient member during impact, including an off-center impact on the striking surface. Momentum transferred from the weight member to the face member during an off-center impact may reduce energy loss and twisting of the face on impact.

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

Aerodynamic golf club head
Patent No. 9950221

Inventor(s): Jeffrey J. Albertsen (Plano, TX), Michael Scott Burnett (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): TAYLOR MADE GOLF COMPANY, INC. (Carlsbad, CA)
Law Firm: Gallagher Dawsey Co., LPA (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15334790 on 10/26/2016 (545 days app to issue)

Abstract: An aerodynamic golf club head producing reduced aerodynamic drag forces via the curvature of a crown section. At least a portion of the crown section may be composed of low density materials, including nonmetallic materials.

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

Golf club having sole stress reducing feature
Patent No. 9950222

Abstract: A golf club incorporating a club head having a stress reducing feature located at least partially on the sole.

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

Golf club head having a stress reducing feature with aperture
Patent No. 9950223

Inventor(s): Bryan Seon (Garland, TX), Jeffrey T. Halstead (Plano, TX), Justin Girard (Dallas, TX), Michael Scott Burnett (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): TAYLOR MADE GOLF COMPANY, INC. (Carlsbad, CA)
Law Firm: Gallagher Dawsey Co., LPA (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15437835 on 02/21/2017 (427 days app to issue)

Abstract: A golf club incorporating a stress reducing feature, including an aperture, located at least partially on the sole of the club head. The location and size of the stress reducing feature and aperture, and their relationship to one another, play a significant role in selectively improving the performance of the golf club.

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

Aerodynamic golf club head
Patent No. 9950224

Inventor(s): Jeffrey J. Albertsen (Plano, TX), Michael Scott Burnett (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): TAYLOR MADE GOLF COMPANY, INC (Carlsbad, CA)
Law Firm: Gallagher Dawsey Co., LPA (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15456630 on 03/13/2017 (407 days app to issue)

Abstract: An aerodynamic golf club head with a low center of gravity and producing reduced aerodynamic drag forces. The club head has crown section attributes that impart beneficial aerodynamic properties.

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

Rotatable seat clamps for rail clamp
Patent No. 9951904

Inventor(s): John R. Fossez (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): Stryker Corporation (Kalamazoo, MI)
Law Firm: Lerner, David, Littenberg, Krumholz Mentlik, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15074384 on 03/18/2016 (767 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a clamp attachable to a support rail of a hospital bed, for example. The clamp includes a body, first and second arms coupled to the body, wherein the first and second arms are moveable towards and away from one another. The clamp further includes at least one seat clamp member pivotably coupled to at least one of the first and second arms. The clamp is attached to the support rail when the at least one seat clamp member contacts the support rail and the first and second arms are in a clamped position.

[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]

Interactive helmet system and method
Patent No. 9949516

Inventor(s): David Pickett (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Joshua RD Technologies, LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Klemchuk LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15225514 on 08/01/2016 (631 days app to issue)

Abstract: An interactive helmet system and method for reducing brain injuries may provide a helmet and at least one inflatable air pouch. The at least one inflatable air pouch may remain in an active position and may pressurize or further inflate in response to an impact with a surface. Over a predetermined time period, the at least one inflatable air pouch may not depressurize and may instantly pressurize or further inflate. The at least one inflatable air pouch may have an air pouch pressure that increases to a higher pressure and may protect users from brain injury at high impact forces.

[A41D] OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES (eye or ear protectors A61F 9/00, A61F 11/00; sweating suits A61H 36/00)

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

Microfluidic assembly and methods of forming same
Patent No. 9950511

Inventor(s): Christopher Brincat (Swieqi, , MT), Ivan Ellul (Zurrieq, , MT), Simon Dodd (West Linn, OR)
Assignee(s): STMICROELECTRONICS, INC. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Seed Intellectual Property Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15277825 on 09/27/2016 (574 days app to issue)

Abstract: One or more embodiments are directed to a microfluidic assembly that includes an interconnect substrate coupled to a microfluidic die. In one embodiment, the microfluidic die includes a ledge with a plurality of bond pads. The microfluidic assembly further includes an interconnect substrate having an end resting on the ledge proximate the bond pads. In another embodiment, the interconnect substrate abuts a side surface of the ledge or is located proximate the ledge. Conductive elements couple the microfluidic die to contacts of the interconnect substrate. Encapsulant is located over the conductive elements, the bond pads, the contacts.

[B41J] TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS (composing B41B; printing on special surfaces B41F; laundry marking B41K; erasers, rubbers or erasing devices B43L 19/00; fluid media for correction of typographical errors by coating C09D 10/00; recording the results of measuring G01; recognition or presentation of data, marking record carriers in digital fashion, e.g. by punching, G06K; franking or ticket-printing and issuing apparatus G07B; electric keyboard switches, in general H01H 13/70, H03K 17/94; coding in connection with keyboards or like devices, in general H03M 11/00; receivers or transmitters for transmission of digital information H04L; transmission or reproduction of documents, or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission, H04N 1/00; printing mechanisms specially adapted for apparatus, e.g. cash registers, weighing machines, producing records of their own performance, see the relevant subclasses)

Vehicle hood assemblies including a reinforcement strap and vehicles including the same
Patent No. 9950744

Inventor(s): Aaron R. Steinhilb (Milan, MI), Jeremiah T. Hammer (Ann Arbor, MI)
Assignee(s): Toyota Motor Engineering Manufacturing North America, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Dinsmore Shohl LLP (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15079433 on 03/24/2016 (761 days app to issue)

Abstract: A vehicle hood assembly includes a hood outer panel, a hood inner panel coupled to and positioned below the hood outer panel in a vehicle vertical direction, where at least a portion of the hood inner panel is spaced apart from the hood outer panel in the vehicle vertical direction such that the hood outer panel and the hood inner panel define a gap between the hood outer panel and the hood inner panel, and a reinforcement strap coupled to at least one of the hood outer panel and the hood inner panel, the reinforcement strap including a base portion and a rippled portion that extends outward from the base portion in the vehicle vertical direction.

[B62D] MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS (steering, or guiding on a desired track, of agricultural machines or implements A01B 69/00; wheels, castors, axles, increasing wheel adhesion B60B; vehicle tyres, tyre inflation or tyre changing B60C; connections between vehicles of a train or the like B60D; vehicles for use on rail and road, amphibious or convertible vehicles B60F; suspension arrangements B60G; heating, cooling, ventilating or other air treating devices B60H; windows, windscreens, non-fixed roofs, doors or similar devices, protective coverings for vehicles not in use B60J; propulsion plant arrangements, auxiliary drives, transmissions, controls, instrumentation or dashboards B60K; electric equipment or propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles B60L; power supply for electrically-propelled vehicles B60M; passenger accommodation not otherwise provided for B60N; adaptations for load transportation or to carry special loads or objects B60P; arrangement of signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor, for vehicles in general B60Q; vehicles, vehicle fittings or vehicle parts, not otherwise provided for B60R; servicing, cleaning, repairing, supporting, lifting, or manoeuvring, not otherwise provided for B60S; brake arrangements, brake control systems or parts thereof B60T; air-cushion vehicles B60V; motorcycles, accessories therefor B62J, B62K; testing of vehicles G01M)

Method and system for homogenous thermoplastic seat back assembly
Patent No. 9950797

Inventor(s): William H. Maslakow (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Reliant Worldwide Plastics, LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Braxton Perrone, PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14703208 on 05/04/2015 (1086 days app to issue)

Abstract: A seat back assembly that includes a composite seat back cover. The composite seat back cover includes at least one composite layer, that includes a layer of reinforcing fibers and a thermoplastic layer surrounding the reinforcing fibers. The thermoplastic layer is coextensive with the layer of reinforcing fibers. In various embodiments, the seat back includes a seat back frame. The seat back frame includes a side rail, a top rail main section, and a top rail cap. The side rail, the top rail main section, and the top rail cap are fused to each other by a homogenous chemical bond. A homogenous chemical bond is formed between the seat back cover and the seat back frame creating a unitary seat back assembly.

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

Method for applying labels to cable or conduit
Patent No. 9950826

Inventor(s): Mark D. Bennett (Bonham, TX), Stephen S. Griffin (McKinney, TX), William T. Bigbee, Jr. (Melissa, TX)
Assignee(s): Encore Wire Corporation (McKinney, TX)
Law Firm: Warren Rhoades LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15083154 on 03/28/2016 (757 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for applying labels to a cable or conduit with a known circumference, the method including supplying at least one label, wherein the at least one label has a known label height, the label height is greater than the known circumference of the cable or conduit, and the label has a bottom, middle, and top portions, providing at least one tamping device, tamping the middle portion of the at least one label to the cable or conduit with the at least one tamping device, wherein the middle portion of the at least one label adheres to the cable or conduit, providing a guide shoe assembly, pressing the top portion of the at least one label against the cable or conduit with the guide shoe assembly, and pressing the bottom portion of the at least one label against the cable or conduit with the guide shoe assembly, wherein the top portion of the at least one label and the bottom portion of the at least one label overlap after pressed onto the cable or conduit. Further, wherein the step of providing a guide shoe assembly includes providing at least one guide shoe connected to a support mount and providing a rounding member.

[B65C] LABELLING OR TAGGING MACHINES, APPARATUS, OR PROCESSES (nailing or stapling in general B25C, B27F; processes for applying decalcomanias B44C 1/16; applying labels for packaging purposes B65B; labels, name-plates G09F)

Roll lifting assemblies, systems, and methods
Patent No. 9950906

Inventor(s): Jason N. Knapp (Savannah, GA), John A. Ramsey (Richmond Hill, GA)
Assignee(s): Building Materials Investment Corporation (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Baker McKenzie LLP (Local + 5 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14204695 on 03/11/2014 (1505 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present disclosure relates, according to some embodiments, to roll lifting assemblies, systems, and methods for lifting, handling, and/or maneuvering rolled material. According to some embodiments, a roll lifting system may be configured to move a single roll and/or to concurrently move two or more rolls. For example, a roll lifting system may comprise a translocation apparatus and/or a lift assembly.

[B66C] CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES (rope, cable, or chain winding mechanisms, braking or detent devices therefor B66D; specially adapted for nuclear reactors G21)

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

Method of forming alkoxylated fluoroalcohols
Patent No. 9950978

Inventor(s): Thomas Joseph Martin (Mansfield, TX)
Assignee(s): TYCO FIRE SECURITY GMBH (, , CH)
Law Firm: Perkins Coie LLP (17 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14613222 on 02/03/2015 (1176 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of forming an alkoxylated fluoroalcohol is accomplished by providing a boron compound having or providing at least one boron-oxygen bond and an iodine source. The boron compound and iodine source are combined with reactants of a fluoroalcohol and an alkylene oxide in the presence of a base. The reactants are allowed to react to form an alkoxylated fluoroalcohol reaction product.

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

Composite graphene structures
Patent No. 9951436

Inventor(s): Richard Stoltz (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): GARMOR INC. (Orlando, FL)
Law Firm: Chalker Flores, LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14353760 on 10/23/2012 (2009 days app to issue)

Abstract: Graphene has been used in nanocomposites as constituents/doping in plastics or epoxy providing dramatic enhancement of the mechanical properties but have not progressed past the laboratory level novelty. This invention can provide a graphene based composite structure with a density less that 1.9 g/cm[superscript]3 [/superscript]for a fiber, yarn, rope or cable and a density less that 1.5 g/cm[superscript]3 [/superscript]for a sheet both structure have tensile and shear strength greater than either Aluminum or Steel; thus providing a graphene material that is both much lighter and stronger.

[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

Low angle bottom circulator shaped charge
Patent No. 9951589

Inventor(s): Shane Matthew Wilson (Waxahachie, TX)
Assignee(s): Hunting Titan, Inc. (Pampa, TX)
Law Firm: Arnold Saunders, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15314419 on 05/29/2015 (1061 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and apparatus for reducing over penetration of a tubular with a shaped charge.

[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]

Bypass plunger
Patent No. 9951591

Inventor(s): Garrett Boyd (Godley, TX)
Assignee(s): Flowco Production Solutions, LLC (Spring, TX)
Law Firm: Whitaker Chalk Swindle Schwartz PLLC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14796548 on 07/10/2015 (1019 days app to issue)

Abstract: A minimum parts bypass plunger includes a main shaft or pushrod extending through a hollow plunger body that incorporates flow passages formed in the adjacent surfaces of the pushrod or the internal bore of the plunger body. The pushrod is retained within the plunger body by respective head and tail pieces or caps that are locked to the plunger body by 360 degree crimps around the head and tail pieces. A one piece clutch is supported in the head piece. The pushrod, has an integral valve head that closes the flow passages when seated against a seat in the plunger body.

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

Centrifugal pump impellor with novel balancing holes that improve pump efficiency
Patent No. 9951786

Inventor(s): Edouard Morlac (Saint Marcel, , FR), Kariem Elebiary (South Pasadena, CA), Mark O”Sullivan (Phillipsburg, NJ), Scott Judge (Bethlehem, PA)
Assignee(s): Flowserve Management Company (Irving, TX)
Law Firm: Maine Cernota Rardin (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15355241 on 11/18/2016 (522 days app to issue)

Abstract: A centrifugal pump impellor includes balancing holes that reduce axial thrust while minimizing the loss of pump efficiency. In one general aspect, the balancing holes penetrate the rear shroud between the blades, and are angled in both axial and rotational directions so as to direct the leakage fluid approximately parallel to the primary process fluid, so that it causes minimal interference with the primary fluid flow. In a second general aspect, the balancing holes extend from the rear cavity within the impellor blades and through the leading edges of the blades, thereby entering the primary flow in locations where the process fluid is almost static relative to the blades. This minimizes the impact on the flow of the process fluid past the blades, and thereby minimizes the loss of pump efficiency caused by the balance holes. In embodiments, each blade leading edge includes a plurality of balancing hole outlets.

[F04D] NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS (engine fuel-injection pumps F02M; ion pumps H01J 41/12; electrodynamic pumps H02K 44/02)

Elastomeric spherical bearing assembly and structural member incorporating the same
Patent No. 9951808

Inventor(s): Frank B. Stamps (Colleyville, TX), Peter H. Kintzinger (Grapevine, TX), Peter Q. Romano (Fort Worth, TX), Stephen R. Johnston (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Lightfoot Alford PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14481177 on 09/09/2014 (1323 days app to issue)

Abstract: A bearing assembly can include a top retainer; a middle retainer having a first concave spherical surface; a bottom retainer having a second concave spherical surface; a spherical ball member; and an elastomeric member coupled to the first concave spherical surface, the second concave spherical surface, and an outer surface of the spherical ball member.

[F16C] SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; MECHANICAL MEANS FOR TRANSMITTING MOVEMENT IN A FLEXIBLE SHEATHING; ELEMENTS OF CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; PIVOTS; PIVOTAL CONNECTIONS; ROTARY ENGINEERING ELEMENTS OTHER THAN GEARING, COUPLING, CLUTCH OR BRAKE ELEMENTS; BEARINGS [5]

Pipe couplers and methods
Patent No. 9951896

Inventor(s): Harvey E. Svetlik (Grand Prairie, TX)
Assignee(s): Georg Fischer Central Plastics LLC (Shawnee, OK)
Law Firm: Bachman LaPointe, P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14594614 on 01/12/2015 (1198 days app to issue)

Abstract: A pipe coupler for coupling a first pipe to a second pipe comprises: a body; a first flange and a second flange; and a gasket. The body, first flange, second flange, and gasket are dimensioned to have an assembled condition. The gasket, first flange, and second flange are coaxial. The gasket is axially sandwiched between an inboard face of the first flange and an inboard face of the second flange. The body encircles the gasket, first flange, and second flange and has a first portion axially outboard of the first flange and a second portion axially outboard of the second flange.

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

P H Y S I C S

Assessing alignment of top and bottom ends of TSVs and characterizing microfabrication process
Patent No. 9952041

Inventor(s): Rajiv Roy (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Rudolph Technologies, Inc. (Wilmington, MA)
Law Firm: Dicke, Billig Czaja, PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14762613 on 01/23/2014 (1552 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for characterizing a microfabrication process and the product thereof is described. A substrate having TSV”s formed therein is assessed by determining the geometries and positions of the top and bottom ends of a TSV. Individual TSV”s as well as the entire pattern of TSV”s formed in a substrate may be assessed.

[G01B] MEASURING LENGTH, THICKNESS OR SIMILAR LINEAR DIMENSIONS; MEASURING ANGLES; MEASURING AREAS; MEASURING IRREGULARITIES OF SURFACES OR CONTOURS

Method for accurate measurement of leaky capacitors using charge based capacitance measurements
Patent No. 9952268

Inventor(s): Sharad Saxena (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): PDF Solutions, Inc. (San Jose, CA)
Law Firm: Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP (9 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15269851 on 09/19/2016 (582 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are methods for measuring capacitance in presence of leakage in integrated circuits. In particular, it teaches a method of measuring leaky capacitors using charge based capacitance measurement (CBCM) technique taking into account parasitic resistance. Fast and accurate measurement of capacitances allows the estimation of a number of technology parameters like: gate-dielectric thickness, gate critical dimension, trench depth in a damascene metallization process, height of a fin in a Fin FET device etc.

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

Optical image stabilization synchronization of gyroscope and actuator drive circuit
Patent No. 9952445

Inventor(s): Chih-Hung Tai (Dallas, TX), Felix Kim (Plano, TX), Mark A. Lysinger (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): STMICROELECTRONICS, INC. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Seed IP Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14920249 on 10/22/2015 (915 days app to issue)

Abstract: Various embodiments provide an optical image stabilization circuit that synchronizes its gyroscope and drive circuit using gyroscope data ready signals and gyroscope reset signals. In response to a gyroscope data ready signal, the optical image stabilization circuit synchronously obtains position measurements of a camera lens when power drive signals are not transitioning from one power level to another power level, and synchronously transitions the power drive signals simultaneously with gyroscope reset signals. By synchronizing the gyroscope and the drive circuit, the gyroscope and other onboard sensing circuits are isolated from noise generated by the drive circuit.

[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]

Pilot operated fluid regulators having a reset apparatus and related methods
Patent No. 9952605

Inventor(s): Daniel Gunder Roper (Lucas, TX), Douglas James Scheffler (McKinney, TX), Harold Joe McKinney (Durant, OK), James Lyman Griffin, Jr. (McKinney, TX), Jason Daniel Journey (Fairview, TX)
Assignee(s): EMERSON PROCESS MANAGEMENT REGULATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (McKinney, TX)
Law Firm: Hanley, Flight Zimmerman, LLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14867955 on 09/28/2015 (939 days app to issue)

Abstract: Fluid regulator systems having reset apparatus and methods are described herein. A fluid regulator system includes a fluid regulator including a loading chamber and a supply chamber. The supply chamber is in fluid communication with a supply fluid. The system includes a first fluid control device having a loading inlet and a loading outlet. The loading inlet receives a loading fluid from a loading fluid source and the loading outlet is in fluid communication with the loading chamber. The first fluid control device controls fluid flow between the loading fluid source and the loading chamber. A second fluid control device includes a vent inlet and a vent outlet. The vent inlet is in fluid communication with the loading outlet and the loading chamber and the vent outlet is in fluid communication with a vent. The second fluid control device to control fluid flow between the loading chamber and the vent.

[G05D] SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING OR REGULATING NON-ELECTRIC VARIABLES (for continuous casting of metals B22D 11/16; valves per se F16K; sensing non-electric variables, see the relevant subclasses of G01; for regulating electric or magnetic variables G05F)

Hardware apparatus and method for multiple processors dynamic asymmetric and symmetric mode switching
Patent No. 9952650

Inventor(s): Anthony Mazzola (Ramona, CA), Tongzeng Yang (San Diego, CA), Wei Chen (San Diego, , CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Schwegman Lundberg Woessner, P.A. (10 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14516314 on 10/16/2014 (1286 days app to issue)

Abstract: A processing system with multiple processors is switchable between two modes of operation dynamically: symmetrical multi-processing (SMP) and asymmetrical multi-processing (ASMP). The system uses certain criteria to determine when to switch to improve the power consumption or performance. A controller enables control and fast-switching between the two modes. Upon receipt of a switching command to switch between SMP and ASMP, a series or sequence of actions are performed to control voltage supplies and CPU/memory clocks to the multiple processors and cache memory.

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

Adaptive storage reliability management
Patent No. 9952781

Inventor(s): Evan Orme (Lindon, UT), James G. Peterson (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14531891 on 11/03/2014 (1268 days app to issue)

Abstract: A storage controller identifies a storage location within a storage division that corresponds to a high error rate. In response, the storage controller may refresh data stored on the storage division by relocating data from the storage division and/or initializing (e.g., erasing) the storage division. In some embodiments, the storage division is selectively refreshed by relocating data from the storage location(s) having high error rates, while deferring a full relocation of other data from the storage division. The storage division may be selectively refreshed based on reliability characteristics of the storage division, such as the remaining data retention time calculated for the storage division.

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

Multichip dual write
Patent No. 9952784

Inventor(s): Rohit Hassan Sathyanarayan (Bangalore, , IN), Vinay Sandeep (Bangalore, , IN)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Foley Lardner LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14645102 on 03/11/2015 (1140 days app to issue)

Abstract: Identical data is written to multiple nonvolatile memory chips connected to a memory bus by sending address information to a first nonvolatile memory chip and a second nonvolatile memory chip, selecting the first and second nonvolatile memory chips, while the first nonvolatile and second nonvolatile memory chips are both selected, sending user data over the memory bus to the first and second nonvolatile memory chips in parallel, and programming the user data in the first nonvolatile memory chip and the second nonvolatile memory chip in parallel.

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

Methods, systems, and computer readable media for storage device workload detection using power consumption
Patent No. 9952792

Inventor(s): Gadi Vishne (Petach-Tikva, , IL), Judah Gamliel Hahn (Ofra, , IL), Nir Amir (Beit Hashmonai, , IL)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15051254 on 02/23/2016 (791 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer readable media for storage device workload detection using power consumption are disclosed. One aspect of the subject matter described herein includes a storage device. The storage device includes non-volatile storage. The storage device further includes a device controller for controlling access to the non-volatile storage. A power management controller separate from the device controller senses an indication of power used by at least one of the non-volatile storage and the device controller, compares the sensed indication of power to at least one threshold, and, in response to a predetermined relationship between the sensed indication of power and the at least one threshold, signals the device controller of a workload state of the storage device.

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

Data protection for cold storage system
Patent No. 9952927

Inventor(s): Xiaogang Zhu (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15007953 on 01/27/2016 (818 days app to issue)

Abstract: A data storage apparatus comprising a plurality of data storage devices configured to store data blocks, and one or more protection devices configured to store protection blocks, wherein the data devices and the protection devices are associated by a plurality of stripes, wherein each stripe comprises a memory block on each data device or protection device, and wherein each protection block in a protection device comprises a value for reconstructing storage blocks in the same stripe, and a controller configured to select a data device, store data blocks sequentially to the memory blocks in the selected data devices, store protection blocks in the protection devices for each updated stripe, read data blocks from a selected data device, and reconstruct damaged storage devices. It operates a cold storage system with less power consumption, low component wear, and flexible in capacity expansion.

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

First read solution for memory
Patent No. 9952944

Inventor(s): Alon Eyal (Zichron Yaacov, , IL), Eran Sharon (Rishon Lezion, , IL), Evgeny Mekhanik (Rehovot, , IL), Idan Alrod (Herzliya, , IL), Liang Pang (Fremont, CA)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15333440 on 10/25/2016 (546 days app to issue)

Abstract: Techniques are provided for improving the accuracy of read operations of memory cells, where the threshold voltage of a memory cell can shift depending on when the read operation occurs. A memory cell is sensed by discharging a sense node into a bit line and detecting an amount of discharge at two sense times relative to a trip voltage. A bit of data is stored in first and second latches based on the two sense times, to provide first and second pages of data. The pages are evaluated using parity check equations and one of the pages which satisfies the most equations is selected. In another option, word line voltages are grounded and then floated to prevent coupling up of the word line. A weak pulldown to ground can gradually discharge a coupled up voltage of the word lines.

[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)

Method for improving mixed random performance in low queue depth workloads
Patent No. 9952978

Inventor(s): Rodney Brittner (San Jose, CA), Satish B. Vasudeva (Fremont, CA), Steven Sprouse (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Morgan, Lewis Bockius LLP (13 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14677662 on 04/02/2015 (1118 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems, methods and or devices are used to enable improving mixed random performance in low queue depth workloads in a storage device (e.g., comprising a plurality of non-volatile memory units, such as one or more flash memory devices). In one aspect, the method includes (1) maintaining a write cache corresponding to write commands from a host, (2) determining a workload in accordance with commands from the host, (3) in accordance with a determination that the workload is a non-qualifying workload, scheduling a regular flush of the write cache, and (4) in accordance with a determination that the workload is a qualifying workload, scheduling an optimized flush of the write cache.

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

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) system data extraction, loading, and directing
Patent No. 9953070

Inventor(s): Joel David Thorson (Owasso, OK), Prashanth Krishnan Padmanabhan (Hyderabad, , IN), Richard Ruel Kenneth Hankins (Keller, TX)
Assignee(s): Simply Data Now Inc. (Southlake, TX)
Law Firm: Law Office of Sam Sokhansanj PLLC (Local + 687 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14883528 on 10/14/2015 (923 days app to issue)

Abstract: An enterprise resource planning (ERP) system data extraction, directing, and loading (EDL) method, system, application, and computer program is disclosed having a Data Export Workbench (DEW) application and Data Integrator (DI) application operating within an ERP system environment. The EDL method and system can use existing hardware systems to quickly and efficiently extract, direct, and load any user requested data from an ERP system to predefined and controlled destinations that can be widely accessed by one or more users.

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

Selecting and presenting representative frames for video previews
Patent No. 9953222

Inventor(s): Min-Hsuan Tsai (Grapevine, TX)
Assignee(s): Google LLC (Mountain View, CA)
Law Firm: Byrne Poh LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14848216 on 09/08/2015 (959 days app to issue)

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for selecting representative frames for videos is provided. The method includes receiving a video and identifying a set of features for each of the frames of the video. The features including frame-based features and semantic features. The semantic features identifying likelihoods of semantic concepts being present as content in the frames of the video. A set of video segments for the video is subsequently generated. Each video segment includes a chronological subset of frames from the video and each frame is associated with at least one of the semantic features. The method generates a score for each frame of the subset of frames for each video segment based at least on the semantic features, and selecting a representative frame for each video segment based on the scores of the frames in the video segment. The representative frame represents and summarizes the video segment.

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

System and method for computer-assisted improvement of business intelligence ecosystem
Patent No. 9953279

Inventor(s): J. Lynn Moore, Jr. (Lucas, TX), Jeremy D. Siler (Dallas, TX), Lance W. Hankins (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Motio, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Ferguson Braswell Fraser Kubasta PC (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13657753 on 10/22/2012 (2010 days app to issue)

Abstract: In various implementations, improvement of a business intelligence ecosystem may include analyzing component(s) of a business intelligence ecosystem, identifying candidate improvements, applying at least a portion of candidate improvements, and/or verifying effects of the candidate improvements. Candidate improvements for business intelligence artifact(s), underlying data sources, BI environment configurations, metadata models, and/or computing resources may be analyzed and identified.

[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]

Time tracking device and method
Patent No. 9953303

Inventor(s): David Hess (Dallas, TX), Rocky Cherry (Carrollton, TX), Zack Cherry (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): ZR Investments, LLC (Carrollton, TX)
Law Firm: Suiter Swantz pc llo (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14788158 on 06/30/2015 (1029 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method to manage employee time at a set of job sites. A time management system comprises a server in communications with a database in which a set of job site data is stored. An employee device application is installed on a set of employee devices. The set of employee devices are in communication with the server through the employee device application. The set of employee devices collect a set of time punch data and a set of photos from the set of employees at check-in events and check-out events. The set of time punch data and the set of photos are sent to the server and stored in the database with the set of job site data. A supervisor management application is installed on a set of supervisor devices to monitor the set of job site data, validate photos and activate employee devices.

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

System, method, and computer-readable storage medium for payment of online purchases via a portable computing device
Patent No. 9953314

Inventor(s): Abiel Jaquez (Plano, TX), Alexander Muse (Dallas, TX), John Boyd (Denton, TX), Kevin Henry Clark (Denton, TX), Rylan Barnes (Plano, TX), Scott Gordon Roberts (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): SHOPSAVVY., INC. (New York, NY)
Law Firm: Stroock Stroock Lavan, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13649704 on 10/11/2012 (2021 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system, method, and computer-readable storage medium for enabling an individual to use a purchase-proxy mechanism to conduct a financial transaction from a computing device with an online merchant, whereby the individual is enabled to use stored personal data, such as financial account information and fulfillment information, without having to store the personal data with the online merchant. The system, method, and computer-readable storage medium furthermore enable an individual to change a payment and/or fulfillment option at the time of purchase with minimal inconvenience.

Extensibility for sales predictor (SPE)
Patent No. 9953331

Inventor(s): Krishna Murty Mulukutla (Coppell, TX)
Assignee(s): ORACLE INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION (Redwood Shores, CA)
Law Firm: Vista IP Law Group, LLP (5 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15362764 on 11/28/2016 (512 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and systems for implementing extensibility in sales prediction engines. An extensibility framework may be used to modify the metadata schema of the data used by the sales prediction engine to account for extended attributes and entities. The sales prediction engine is also modified to recognize the extended attributes and entities so that a user will be able to create new rules and train new models based on the extended attributes and entities.

Systems and methods for a home area recommender
Patent No. 9953383

Inventor(s): Bradly Jay Billman (Celina, TX)
Assignee(s): United Services Automobile Association (USAA) (San Antonio, TX)
Law Firm: Fish Richardson P.C. (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15459135 on 03/15/2017 (405 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed herein are a method, system, and computer-readable storage medium with instructions for recommending locations to a user. Preferred criteria may be selected by the user, for example, or a third party, and provide objective or subjective information that the user is seeking in a location. Embodiments may include compiling objective information with the location and comparing the objective information to preferred criteria. A user”s profile may be compared to another person”s profile, where the other person”s profile is associated to the location. A location may be recommended to the user if the objective information correlates to the preferred criteria and if the other person”s profile correlates to the user”s profile. Subjective information associated with the location may be provided to the user along with the recommended location. Furthermore, a location may be recommended to the user if the subjective information correlates to the preferred criteria.

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

Portable occupancy detection methods, systems and processor-readable media
Patent No. 9953464

Inventor(s): David P. Cummins (Washington, DC), Johannes M. Frings (Roswell, GA), Kenneth J. Mihalyov (Webster, NY), Matthew T. Darst (Chicago, IL), Vincent Ronald Chastain (Buford, GA), Yao Rong Wang (Webster, NY)
Assignee(s): Conduent Business Services, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Ortiz Lopez, PLLC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14037490 on 09/26/2013 (1671 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods, systems and processor-readable media for portable parking occupancy detection. One or more cameras can be provided on a portable mast for capturing video on parking of a street. Optional attachments to the portable mast can include stabilization base and/or a set of guy ropes for further stabilizing the mast. A power unit can be utilized for delivering power to the system. A video capturing/processing unit either captures and records the video from the camera(s) for offline processing of parking occupancy or processes the videos on-site. Optionally, a wireless communication unit for transmitting either video or processed parking occupancy data to a central location can be employed.

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

System and method for conducting a game including a computer-controlled player
Patent No. 9953491

Inventor(s): Fredrik A. Dahl (Loerenskog, , NO)
Assignee(s): Brain Games, L.C. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Munck Wilson Mandala, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15293593 on 10/14/2016 (557 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method for conducting a game between at least one live player and at least one computer-controlled player includes executing a training program between at least two agents to generate probability weights correlating actions or meta-actions representing a set or sequenced set of actions with a probability that the action or meta-action will produce a game outcome meeting a specified criterion or specified criteria. A game is conducted in which at least one live player plays against at least one computer-controlled player in which the computer-controlled player selects actions at one or more of the decision nodes in the game based, at least in part, on the probability weights.

[G07F] COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS (coin sorting G07D 3/00; coin testing G07D 5/00) [7]

Device for multiple disc load and unload with a plurality of telescopic sections
Patent No. 9953677

Inventor(s): Jiafeng Zhu (San Ramon, CA), Masood Mortazavi (San Jose, CA), Xiaogang Zhu (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15400683 on 01/06/2017 (473 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a storage and transfer apparatus for mass transfer of a plurality of data discs to trays of a plurality stacked disc drives. The storage and transfer apparatus may store a plurality of discs with the disc hold pins retracted and the telescopic sections collapsed over each other. In such a configuration, the stored discs may lie in contact with each other. The storage and transfer apparatus may transfer the plurality of discs to the trays of the plurality of stacked disc drives with the discs holding pins extended and the telescopic sections extended relative to each other.

[G11B] INFORMATION STORAGE BASED ON RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN RECORD CARRIER AND TRANSDUCER (recording measured values in a way that does not require playback through a transducer G01D 9/00; recording or playback apparatus using mechanically marked tape, e.g. punched paper tape, or using unit records, e.g. punched or magnetically marked cards G06K; transferring data from one type of record carrier to another G06K 1/18; circuits for coupling output of reproducer to radio receiver H04B 1/20; gramophone pick-ups or like acoustic electromechanical transducers or circuits therefor H04R)

Spin orbit torque MRAM memory cell with enhanced thermal stability
Patent No. 9953692

Inventor(s): Ching Hwa Tsang (Sunnyvale, CA), Goran Mihajlovic (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15485049 on 04/11/2017 (378 days app to issue)

Abstract: An in-plane SOT MRAM non-volatile memory cell has enhanced thermal stability due to coercive pinning provided by an adjacent antiferromagnetic layer that has a thickness that is less than a minimum critical thickness needed to provide exchange bias.

Volatile memory device employing a resistive memory element
Patent No. 9953697

Inventor(s): Alper Ilkbahar (San Jose, CA), Tanmay Kumar (Pleasanton, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: The Marbury Law Group PLLC (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15251818 on 08/30/2016 (602 days app to issue)

Abstract: A volatile resistive memory device includes a resistive memory element including a barrier material portion and a charge-modulated resistive memory material portion. The barrier material portion includes a material selected from germanium and a silicon-germanium alloy, and the charge-modulated resistive memory material portion includes a non-filamentary, electrically conductive metal oxide. The resistive memory device may be a volatile eDRAM device. In operation, reading a resistance state of the resistive memory element does not disturb the resistance state of the charge-modulated resistive memory material portion.

NAND structure with tier select gate transistors
Patent No. 9953717

Inventor(s): Jagdish Sabde (Fremont, CA), Jayavel Pachamuthu (San Jose, CA), Peter Rabkin (Cupertino, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15292548 on 10/13/2016 (558 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems and methods for improving performance of a non-volatile memory by utilizing one or more tier select gate transistors between different portions of a NAND string are described. A first memory string tier may comprise a first set of memory cell transistors that may be programmed to store a first set of data and a second memory string tier may comprise a second set of memory cell transistors that are arranged above the first set of transistors and that may be programmed to store a second set of data. Between the first set of memory cell transistors and the second set of memory cell transistors may comprise a tier select gate transistor in series with the first set of memory cell transistors and the second set of memory cell transistors. The tier select gate transistor may comprise a programmable transistor or a non-programmable transistor.

Collaborative sign-on
Patent No. 9954846

Inventor(s): Daniel J. Butterfield (Flower Mound, TX), Gregory P. Fitzpatrick (Keller, TX), Tsz S. Cheng (Grand Prairie, TX)
Assignee(s): INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION (Armonk, NY)
Law Firm: Cuenot, Forsythe Kim, LLC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14691248 on 04/20/2015 (1100 days app to issue)

Abstract: An authentication approval request can be received by a first system from a second system. The first system can determine whether the user is required to be logged into at least a second online account hosted by at least a third system unrelated to the second system in order to approve the authentication request. If the user is required to be logged into at least the second online account in order to approve the authentication request, the first system can determine whether the user presently is logged into at least the second online account in at least one presently active user session. If the user presently is logged into at least the second online account in at least one presently active user session, the first system can communicate to the second system a response indicating that the user is approved for authentication with the second system.

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

Industrial data analytics in a cloud platform
Patent No. 9954972

Inventor(s): Stephen Thomas Nawalaniec (Southlake, TX)
Assignee(s): Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. (Mayfield Heights, OH)
Law Firm: Amin, Turocy Watson, LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15214583 on 07/20/2016 (643 days app to issue)

Abstract: Cloud-aware industrial devices feed robust sets of data to a cloud-based data analyzer that executes as a service in a cloud platform. In addition to industrial data generated or collected by the industrial devices, the devices can provide device profile information to the cloud-based analyzer that identifies the device and relevant configuration information. The industrial devices can also provide customer data identifying an owner of the industrial devices, contact information for the owner, active service contracts, etc. The cloud-based data analyzer leverages this information to perform a variety of custom analytics on the data and generate reports or notifications catered to the particular industrial assets” optimal performance and business goals of the owner”s industrial enterprise, as well as perform real-time decision making and control.

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

Location-based novelty index value and recommendation system and method
Patent No. 9955292

Inventor(s): Roman Kikta (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Nokia Corporation (Espoo, , FI)
Law Firm: Ditthavong Steiner, P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13205347 on 08/08/2011 (2451 days app to issue)

Abstract: The invention is a system and method for computing a result for a location, wherein the result indicates how novel it is for a wireless device to occupy a specific location. After determining the location of a wireless device through various means, a Novelty Index Value (NIV) is calculated for the location, and the NIV is then stored into a database. The NIV may then be subsequently used by application programs to compute a desired result from the NIV. Multiple users may utilize and/or share the same NIV values. The NIV may also be used to alter the configuration of a wireless device as well. A recommendation system is also disclosed, wherein user context is utilized along with NIV values to compute particular results for a user.

Multi-path mitigation in rangefinding and tracking objects using reduced attenuation RF technology
Patent No. 9955301

Inventor(s): Felix Markhovsky (Saratoga, CA), Truman Prevatt (Brooksville, FL)
Assignee(s): POLTE CORPORATION (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Baker Hostetler LLP (15 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15017327 on 02/05/2016 (809 days app to issue)

Abstract: An autonomous system with no Customer Network Investment is described, wherein the system is configurable to operate on in a band in addition to the LTE band. Such system allows the definition of hybrid operations to accommodate the positioning reference signals (PRS) of LTE and already existing reference signals. The system can operate with PRS, with other reference signals such as cell-specific reference signals (CRS), or with both signal types. As such, the system provides the advantage of allowing network operator(s) to dynamically choose between modes of operation depending on circumstances, such as network throughput and compatibility.

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

E L E C T R I C I T Y

System and method of data reduction for cellular M2M transmissions from energy management systems
Patent No. 9952613

Inventor(s): Iftekhar Hasan (Richardson, TX), Kevin Nelson (Wylie, TX), Richard K. Baugh (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Entouch Controls Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Frost Brown Todd, LLC (Local + 4 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14668302 on 03/25/2015 (1126 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method for reducing the data transmitted from an energy management system is described. The system and method include a critical event evaluator receiving data from a plurality of data sources, where the critical event evaluator monitors the data for critical events requiring immediate transmission to a monitoring center. A schedule comb and a delta comb receive the data from the plurality of data sources, the schedule comb operable to reduce the data according to data schedule rules stored in a data definition database and the delta comb reduce the data by eliminating data values that have not changed since a previous transmission. The schedule comb and delta comb produce a reduced data set. A queue stores the reduced data set, which is transmitted when the queue reaches a trigger size or a critical event is found.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Vertical gate-all-around TFET
Patent No. 9953983

Inventor(s): John H. Zhang (Altamont, NY)
Assignee(s): STMICROELECTRONICS, INC. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Seed Intellectual Property Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15482610 on 04/07/2017 (382 days app to issue)

Abstract: A vertical tunneling FET (TFET) provides low-power, high-speed switching performance for transistors having critical dimensions below 7 nm. The vertical TFET uses a gate-all-around (GAA) device architecture having a cylindrical structure that extends above the surface of a doped well formed in a silicon substrate. The cylindrical structure includes a lower drain region, a channel, and an upper source region, which are grown epitaxially from the doped well. The channel is made of intrinsic silicon, while the source and drain regions are doped in-situ. An annular gate surrounds the channel, capacitively controlling current flow through the channel from all sides. The source is electrically accessible via a front side contact, while the drain is accessed via a backside contact that provides low contact resistance and also serves as a heat sink. Reliability of vertical TFET integrated circuits is enhanced by coupling the vertical TFETs to electrostatic discharge (ESD) diodes.

[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]

Mid-plane word line switch connection for CMOS under three-dimensional memory device and method of making thereof
Patent No. 9953992

Inventor(s): Hiroyuki Ogawa (Nagoya, , JP), James Kai (Santa Clara, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: The Marbury Law Group PLLC (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15611220 on 06/01/2017 (327 days app to issue)

Abstract: A three-dimensional memory array device can include mid-plane terrace regions between a pair of memory array regions. The electrically conductive layers of the three-dimensional memory array device continuously extend between the pair of memory array regions through a connection region, which is provided adjacent to the mid-plane terrace regions. Contact via structures contacting the electrically conductive layers can be provided in the mid-plane terrace regions, and through-memory-level via structures that extend through the alternating stack and connected to underlying lower metal interconnect structures and semiconductor devices can be provided through the mid-plane terrace region and/or through the connection region. Upper metal interconnect structures can connect the contact via structures and the through-memory-level via structures.

Current mode regulator
Patent No. 9954448

Inventor(s): Amer H. Atrash (Plano, TX), David Briggs (Plano, TX), Ross E. Teggatz (Plano, TX), Wayne T. Chen (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): TRIUNE SYSTEMS, LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Jackson Walker LLP (Local + 3 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15155909 on 05/16/2016 (708 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are advances in the arts with novel and useful current mode regulators. Circuits, systems, and methods for current mode regulation include a primary side for receiving an input signal and a secondary for outputting an output signal. A regulator spans the primary and secondary sides in a configuration by which the input signal may be rectified and thereafter provided to the output node as an output signal. A current monitor is provided at the output node for comparing the output signal to a reference. A communication link is included for providing feedback to the primary side of the regulator for use in regulating the signal.

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

Integrated circuit comprising fractional clock multiplication circuitry
Patent No. 9954489

Inventor(s): Farshid Aryanfar (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Rambus Inc. (Sunnyvale, CA)
Law Firm: Park, Vaughan, Fleming Dowler LLP (4 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15632045 on 06/23/2017 (305 days app to issue)

Abstract: Circuitry capable of performing fractional clock multiplication by using an injection-locked oscillator is described. Some embodiments described herein perform fractional clock multiplication by periodically changing the injection location, from a set of injection locations, where the injection signal is injected and/or by periodically changing a phase, from a set of phases, of the injection signal that is injected into the ILO.

[H03B] GENERATION OF OSCILLATIONS, DIRECTLY OR BY FREQUENCY-CHANGING, BY CIRCUITS EMPLOYING ACTIVE ELEMENTS WHICH OPERATE IN A NON-SWITCHING MANNER; GENERATION OF NOISE BY SUCH CIRCUITS (generators specially adapted for electrophonic musical instruments G10H; masers or lasers H01S; generation of oscillations in plasma H05H)

System and method for abstracting wavelength-switched optical network traffic engineering topology in SDN control hierarchy
Patent No. 9954611

Inventor(s): Haomian Zheng (Shenzhen, , CN), Wei Wang (Beijing, , CN), Young Lee (Plano, TX), Yufei Wang (Holmdel, NJ)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15382242 on 12/16/2016 (494 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method including determining, for each reachable source-destination (S-D) node pair, a maximal number of optical channel (OCh) paths available for source-destination node pair connections and determining, if a preselected latency threshold is specified, for all available OCh paths a maximal number of paths satisfying the preselected latency threshold. The available OCh paths are reported to a Multi-Domain Service coordinator (MDSC).

[H04J] MULTIPLEX COMMUNICATION (peculiar to transmission of digital information H04L 5/00; systems for the simultaneous or sequential transmission of more than one television signal H04N 7/08; in exchanges H04Q 11/00)

Method and device for processing HARQ feedback in a mobile communication system
Patent No. 9954652

Inventor(s): Aris Papasakellariou (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (Suwon-si, , KR)
Law Firm: Jefferson IP Law, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15354376 on 11/17/2016 (523 days app to issue)

Abstract: A device and method for handling HARQ feedback in a mobile communication system are disclosed. The HARQ feedback handling method includes: analyzing a control message from a base station to recognize presence of HARQ feedback relationships between downlink carriers and uplink carriers; determining an uplink carrier (a downlink carrier) to support HARQ feedback in response to downlink traffic (uplink traffic) sent through a downlink carrier (an uplink carrier); and sending (receiving) HARQ feedback through the determined uplink carrier (downlink carrier).

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Dynamic adaptive streaming over hypertext transfer protocol as hybrid multirate media description, delivery, and storage format
Patent No. 9954717

Inventor(s): Alexander Giladi (Princeton, NJ)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13940097 on 07/11/2013 (1748 days app to issue)

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a memory, and a processor coupled to the memory and configured to obtain a Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) (DASH) Media Presentation Description (MPD) from an HTTP server, wherein the MPD describes a media presentation as a combination of an HTTP source and a non-HTTP source. A computer program product comprising computer executable instructions stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium such that when executed by a processor, cause a network element (NE) to receive a Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) (DASH) Media Presentation Description (MPD) from an HTTP server; and dynamically switch between a HTTP source and a non-HTTP source of the media presentation described according to the MPD.

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

Systems and methods of specifying service level criteria
Patent No. 9954747

Inventor(s): Ashish Rajput (Irving, TX), Guy Briggs (Coppell, TX), Lalit Pant (Irving, TX), Michael C. Rieser (Allen, TX), Michael G. Christiansen (Plano, TX), Palanisamy A. Gounder (Irving, TX), S Sridhar (Irving, TX), Shamika S.
Assignee(s): International Business Machines Corporation (Armonk, NY)
Law Firm: CRGO Law (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14533372 on 11/05/2014 (1266 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods, systems, and articles of manufacture to generate file transfer monitoring criteria are disclosed. An example method obtains a file transfer log file from a first network entity and obtains from the transfer log file file transfer metadata that is associated with file transfer activity between the first network entity and a second network entity. The file transfer metadata is used to generate a file transfer monitoring criterion that is associated with selectively monitoring the file transfer activity between the first network entity and the second network entity. Service level criteria associated with the file transfer event is automatically updated based on the file transfer monitoring criterion.

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

System and method for enhanced data protection
Patent No. 9954832

Inventor(s): Brandon Hart (Dallas, TX), Charles Burgess (Cedar Park, TX), Cody Pollet (Austin, TX), Courtney Roach (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): Encryptics, LLC (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Winstead PC (Local + 2 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15136142 on 04/22/2016 (732 days app to issue)

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method of secure network transmission is performed by a computer system. The method includes encrypting a payload via a first symmetric key and encrypting the first symmetric key via a second symmetric key. The method further includes encrypting an author header comprising the encrypted first symmetric key and a recipient list via a third symmetric key, wherein the recipient list comprises at least one recipient. The method also includes encrypting the third symmetric key via a public asymmetric key associated with an authentication server. Furthermore, the method includes transmitting the encrypted author header and the encrypted third symmetric key to the authentication server for use in recipient-initiated pre-access authentication. In addition, the method includes transmitting the encrypted payload and the second symmetric key over a computer network to the at least one recipient.

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

Distinguish valid users from bots, OCRs and third party solvers when presenting CAPTCHA
Patent No. 9954841

Inventor(s): Erez Azaria (Gedera, , IL), Omri Schwartz (Elyahin, , IL), Shay Rapaport (Kfar Saba, , IL)
Assignee(s): FIREBLADE HOLDINGS, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Browdy and Neimark, PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15292723 on 10/13/2016 (558 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method and system of administering a CAPTCHA challenge comprising: providing a CAPTCHA challenge to the client computer, the CAPTCHA challenge comprising an image and browser code for displaying the image, the image comprising a character string in which a first sub string smaller than said character string corresponds to a solution to the CAPTCHA challenge and a second substring smaller than said character string corresponds to extra characters not part of the solution, displaying the image on the client computer wherein only the first substring is visible in the browser, receiving a response from the client computer, comparing the response with the second substring, and determining, if the response includes the second substring, that the client computer used a CAPTCHA bot or relay.

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

Online secure transaction verification system proxy server and method
Patent No. 9954860

Inventor(s): Christopher D. Wood (Kanata, , CA), Greg Wetmore (Nepean, , CA), Michael Holtstrom (Ottawa, , CA), Murray McCulligh (Ottawa, , CA), Roland Thomas Lockhart (Kanata, , CA), Serge Jean Maurice Mister (Ottawa, , CA)
Assignee(s): Entrust, Inc. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Faegre Baker Daniels LLP (9 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14208193 on 03/13/2014 (1503 days app to issue)

Abstract: In one example, a proxy server acts as a gateway to a website and modifies the traffic between a web browser on a user device and the website server, as necessary to request protection by providing step-up authentication and/or transaction verification. The proxy server blocks transactions when protection is required but has not occurred (either because the authentication was not proper or due to the detection of another problem). Associated methods and systems are also provided.

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

Device lock while in motion
Patent No. 9955001

Inventor(s): Eming Saung (San Jose, CA), John Ying (Los Altos, CA), Yi Zheng (Cupertino, CA)
Assignee(s): McAfee, LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Patent Capital Group (Local + 6 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15511303 on 08/25/2015 (973 days app to issue)

Abstract: In an example, a mobile device is configured to automatically lock when a detector, such as a GPS receiver, determines that the device is in motion above a certain speed threshold, such as 10 mph. Additional detectors may be used to determine whether the device is operated by the user or by a passenger, so that intelligent decisions can be made about whether to lock the device. During the lock, certain selected apps such as a GPS navigation system or music player may be enabled, with limited controls as appropriate. In some cases, hands-free operations may be available. The mobile device may also be configured to provide an automated response to incoming calls and messages.

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

System and method for utilizing customer data in a communication system
Patent No. 9955004

Inventor(s): Christopher M. Lyman (Los Angeles, CA)
Assignee(s): Fonality, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Dentons US LLP (Local + 12 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15170903 on 06/01/2016 (692 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems and methods for utilizing customer data in a communication system are provided. In exemplary embodiments, customer records at a customer data warehousing system are accessed. Customer data from the customer records are extracted and associated with a customer identifier. The customer data is then stored to an indexed database, the extracted customer data being indexed according to the identifier. When an incoming communication is received, the communication system will determine a communication identifier of the incoming communication. A lookup and matching process is then performed using the communication identifier in the indexed customer information database. If a matching customer identifier is found, associated customer data may be retrieved and used to provide enhanced communication system services including communication routing and customer data alerts.

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

Prescriptive analytics for customer satisfaction based on agent perception
Patent No. 9955009

Inventor(s): Benjamin Vincent Hanrahan (Grenoble, , FR), Francois Ragnet (Venon, , FR), Stefania Castellani (Meylan, , FR), Yves Hoppenot (Notre-Dame-de Mesage, , FR)
Assignee(s): Conduent Business Services, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Ortiz Lopez, PLLC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14510602 on 10/09/2014 (1293 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods and systems determining customer satisfaction in a work environment via prescriptive analytics. Self-reported data related to the perception of an agent with respect to customer satisfaction in a work environment (e.g., a call center) can be collected via an interface (e.g., an agent dashboard) that allows the agent to enter the self-reported data regarding the customer satisfaction. The self-reported data can then be correlated with an actual customer satisfaction score associated with the agent to derive data indicative of an interaction between the agent and a customer(s). Feedback data can then be provided via the interface indicating a correctness of the self-reported data based on correlating the self-reported data with the actual customer satisfaction score.

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

Systems and methods for providing access to available agent
Patent No. 9955011

Inventor(s): Bradly J. Billman (Celina, TX)
Assignee(s): United Services Automobile Association (USAA) (San Antonio, TX)
Law Firm: Kane Kessler, P.C. (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15293970 on 10/14/2016 (557 days app to issue)

Abstract: The availability of one or more agents of an institution to communicate with a user may be determined and reported to the user. Information pertaining to whether at least one of a plurality of agents is available to communicate with a user is determined. A number of selectable agent characteristics is provided to the user. A selection of at least two of a plurality of the selectable agent characteristics is received from the user, as is a priority ordering of the selectable agent characteristics. A call is established between the user and the at least one of a plurality of agents based on the information and the priority ordering. Call volume statistics may be provided to the user and may be used to determine when an agent is most likely unavailable and/or most likely available.

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

Obtaining camera device image data representing an event
Patent No. 9955061

Inventor(s): Jeffrey Lynn Edgington (Keller, TX), Lee A. Carbonell (Flower Mound, TX), Pandian Mariadoss (Allen, TX), Tsz Shing Cheng (Grand Prairie, TX)
Assignee(s): International Business Machines Corporation (Armonk, NY)
Law Firm: Heslin Rothenberg Farley Mesiti, P.C. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15227535 on 08/03/2016 (629 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods, computer program products, and systems are presented and can include for instance: determining a location of interest; and obtaining image data from one or more camera device about the location of interest.

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

Using captured high and low resolution images
Patent No. 9955071

Inventor(s): Aaron T. Deever (Pittsford, NY)
Assignee(s): Monument Peak Ventures, LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Ascenda Law Group, PC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15497074 on 04/25/2017 (364 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method produces an improved high resolution image. This method includes capturing low resolution images and a high resolution image and combining the low resolution images to provide an aggregate low resolution image. The method further includes reducing the resolution of the high resolution image to provide an image representative of a low resolution image at a low resolution setting of the image capture device; interpolating the representative low resolution image to provide an interpolated high resolution image; and calculating a residual image from the high resolution image and the interpolated high resolution image. The method also includes combining the representative low resolution image and the aggregate low resolution image to provide a final low resolution image and using the final low resolution image and the residual image to provide the improved high resolution image.

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

Image decoder, image decoding method, image encoder, and image encode method
Patent No. 9955171

Inventor(s): Takeshi Tsukuba (Sakai, , JP), Yasuaki Tokumo (Sakai, , JP)
Assignee(s): VELOS MEDIA, LLC. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Nixon Vanderhye P.C. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15583774 on 05/01/2017 (358 days app to issue)

Abstract: A prediction set determining section selects a prediction set from a prediction set group including a plurality of prediction sets having different combinations of prediction modes corresponding to different prediction directions. Further, a prediction mode determining section selects a prediction mode from the prediction set thus selected. An entropy encoding section encodes the prediction set thus selected, the prediction mode thus selected, and residual data between an input image and a predicted image formed on the basis of the prediction set and the prediction mode. This allows an image encoding device to carry out predictions from more various angles, thereby improving prediction efficiency.

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

Identifying transitions within media content items
Patent No. 9955193

Inventor(s): Min-hsuan Tsai (Grapevine, TX)
Assignee(s): Google LLC (Mountain View, CA)
Law Firm: Foley Lardner LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14634044 on 02/27/2015 (1152 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for identifying transitions within media content items. In one implementation, a processing device process a first media content item, the first media content item being associated with a transition, to identify one or more characteristics associated with the transition. The processing device processes a second media content item to identify at least one of the one or more characteristics at a chronological interval of the second media content item. The processing device receives a sponsored content item. The processing device provides, during a presentation of the second media content item, the sponsored content item at the chronological interval.

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

Commercial television-interfacing dongle and system and method for use of same
Patent No. 9955211

Inventor(s): Bill Fang (Plano, TX), Vanessa Ogle (Fairview, TX)
Assignee(s): Enseo, Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Griggs Bergen LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15138532 on 04/26/2016 (728 days app to issue)

Abstract: A commercial television-interfacing dongle and system and method for use of the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a wireless transceiver is located within a housing, which also interconnectively includes a television input, television output, a processor, memory, a control interface, and a universal serial bus (USB) interface. The control interface and the USB interface connect to the commercial television. The commercial television interfacing dongle may establish a pairing with a proximate wireless-enabled interactive programmable device having a display and receive and process virtual remote control functionality input instructions from the proximate wireless-enabled interactive programmable device. Following receipt and processing of the virtual remote control functionality input instructions, the commercial television-interfacing dongle sends a command to the commercial television via a commercial television control protocol.

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

Method and system for providing communication services
Patent No. 9955223

Inventor(s): Steven M. Belz (Sunnyvale, TX)
Assignee(s): ATT Intellectual Property I, L.P. (Atlanta, GA)
Law Firm: Guntin Gust, PLC (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14949400 on 11/23/2015 (883 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a device including a base station communicatively coupled to a communication system, and a communicative device communicatively coupled to the base station for providing voice communication services to a user, wherein the communicative device serves as a proxy to make telephone calls on behalf of a set-top box presenting media services to a presentation device. Other embodiments are disclosed.

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

Systems and methods for device provisioning
Patent No. 9955293

Inventor(s): David J. McCall (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Intel Corporation (Santa Clara, CA)
Law Firm: Eversheds Sutherland (US) LLP (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14614162 on 02/04/2015 (1175 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to computer-implemented systems and methods for device provisioning. The method may include receiving, by a computer, a selection instructions to detect wireless devices. The computer may include one or more processors, a radio transceiver, and a microphone. The method may also include identifying, by the radio transceiver, a plurality of wireless devices. Additionally, the method may include transmitting, by the radio transceiver to the wireless devices, respective requests for inaudible audio signal transmission. The method may also include receiving, by the microphone, a first inaudible audio signal from a first wireless device of the plurality of wireless devices. Further still, the method may include determining, based at least in part on the first inaudible audio signal, that the first wireless device is located in the same room as the user device.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Method and system for battery energy savings for carrier aggregation
Patent No. 9955463

Inventor(s): Jun Li (Richardson, TX), Yiping Wang (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): BlackBerry Limited (Waterloo, Ontario, , CA)
Law Firm: Fish Richardson P.C. (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13666489 on 11/01/2012 (2000 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method at a user equipment having a scheduling carrier and at least one scheduled carrier, the method receiving, at a first subframe from the scheduling carrier, a downlink control indication containing a downlink assignment for the user equipment on the scheduled carrier; and turning on a receiver of the user equipment for the scheduled carrier at a future downlink subframe based on the downlink assignment. Further, a method, at a scheduling cell having a scheduling carrier, for scheduling downlink data reception on a scheduled carrier, the method setting a time skew for the scheduled carrier such that a data transmission start time for a subframe at the scheduled carrier is greater than a blind latency decode time on the scheduling carrier.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Adaptation of control signaling transmissions to variations in respective resources
Patent No. 9955466

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for a User Equipment (UE) to receive a first type of a Physical Downlink Control CHannel (PDCCH) or a second type of a PDCCH in a Transmission Time Interval (TTI) are provided whereby the first type of PDCCH and the second type of PDCCH convey respective Downlink Control Information (DCI) formats containing Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) bits scrambled with a Radio Network Temporary Identifier (RNTI). The method includes receiving by the UE a first bitmap associated with a number of TTIs equal to the first bitmap size, wherein each element of the first bitmap indicates whether a TTI is of a first type or of a second type, decoding by the UE only PDCCH of the first type if the TTI is of the first type, and decoding by the UE only PDCCH of the second type if the TTI is of the second type.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

System and method for transport block size design for multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) in a wireless communications system
Patent No. RE046810 (Reissue)

Inventor(s): Ying Jin (Shanghai, , CN), Yufei Blankenship (Kildeer, IL)
Assignee(s): FUTUREWEI TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14856224 on 09/16/2015 (951 days app to issue)

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method for transmitting information includes processing a downlink transport channel to generate a transport block (TB) having a TB size. The TB size is selected by selecting a modulation and coding scheme index (I[subscript]TBS[/subscript]) and a physical resource block index (N[subscript]PRB[/subscript]). The TB size for the selected I[subscript]TBS [/subscript]and N[subscript]PRB [/subscript]is selected so that an effective code rate at an user equipment (UE) does not exceed a specified threshold. The effective code rate is defined as a number of downlink (DL) information bits including TB cyclic redundancy check (CRC) bits and code block CRC bits divided by a number of physical channel bits on Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH). The transport block is mapped to multiple spatial layers. The number of spatial layers N is greater than or equal to three. The multiple spatial layers are transmitted to the UE. Patent Class: N/A

DESIGN PATENTS

Decorative light base
Patent No. D816263

Inventor(s): Chih-Hao Shen (Yunlin County, TX), Lio Yenwei Chang (Lewisville, TX)
Assignee(s): Gemmy Industries Corp. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Venable LLP (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29607096 on 06/09/2017 (319 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

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Dallas Invents: 79 Patents Granted for Week of April 24

Patents granted include Joshua RD Technologies’ interactive helmet system, ShopSavvy’s storage medium for payment of online purchases via a portable computing device, Baylor University’s nutraceutical with an oxygen-enabled composition and USAA’s home area recommender.

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Week of April 24, 2018 | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (19100)

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Dallas Invents: 79 Patents Granted for Week of April 24

Patents granted include Joshua RD Technologies’ interactive helmet system, ShopSavvy’s storage medium for payment of online purchases via a portable computing device, Baylor University’s nutraceutical with an oxygen-enabled composition and USAA’s home area recommender.

THIS WEEK, BY THE NUMBERS Week of April 24, 2018 | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (19100)

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