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 May 22, 2017 | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (19100)

79 patents granted Ranked No. 12 in patent production out of 250 metros

NO. OF PATENTS BY CLASSIFICATION

TOP LOCAL ASSIGNEES (NO. OF PATENTS)

Futurewei Technologies Inc. (Plano) 13
SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano) 6
Conduent Business Services LLC (Dallas) 4
ST MICROELECTRONICS INC. (Coppell) 3
Toyota Motor Engineering Manufacturing North America Inc. (Plano) 3
Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson) 2
NCH CORPORATION (Irving) 2

TOP LOCAL INVENTOR (NO. OF PATENTS)

Dianbo Fu (Plano) 2

SPEED: APPLICATION TO ISSUE (NO. OF DAYS)

133 days
Modular display panel
Inventor: William Y. Hall (Dallas)
Patent No. 9978294-B1
Assignee: ULTRAVISION TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Dallas)

2,385 days
Flush activated air freshener
Inventors: Douglas C. Saunders (Plainfield, IL), Duston E. A. Stutzman (Plainfield, IL), Michael J. Schuster (Joliet, IL)
Assignee: Danco, Inc. (Irving)
Patent No. 9976292-B1

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

Pressure-venting container
Patent No. 9974370

Inventor(s): Jack White (Alpharetta, GA), Lynn Winterton (Keller, TX)
Assignee(s): Better Vision Solutions LLC (Keller, TX)
Law Firm: Merchant Gould P.C. (12 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15355479 on 11/18/2016 (550 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system for releasing a contained volume of gas. The system has a base with a pressure-release vent positioned within a flex region and a seal to disengagably seal the pressure-release vent. The seal has a gas vent path that extends from the pressure-release vent. The contained volume of gas passes through the gas vent path to apply force against the flex region and disengage the seal from the pressure-release vent, allowing the gas to exit through the pressure-release vent.

[A45C] PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS

Instruments and methods for complete plantar plate repairs
Patent No. 9974537

Inventor(s): Jesse G. Moore (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): ARTHREX, INC. (Naples, FL)
Law Firm: Carlson, Gaskey Olds (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15437079 on 02/20/2017 (456 days app to issue)

Abstract: Surgical repair systems and techniques for plantar plate repairs. The surgical repair systems and methods reconstruct the plantar plate through a dorsal incision. The surgical repair system embodies a variety of instruments that provide visualization and access to the plantar plate using suture to complete the repair. The repair system may include some or all of the following instruments: a metatarsal head pusher employed in open surgical space, to move the ”capital fragment” in a controlled manner; a suture retriever instrument and a suture retriever funnel (sleeve); a suture passer such as a Mini Scorpion DX and accompanying needle, or a variety of shaped Micro Suture Lassos; a measuring guide; and a small joint distractor.

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

Devices and methods for removal of calculus
Patent No. 9974554

Inventor(s): Heather E. Beardsley (Arlington, TX), Jeffrey A. Cadeddu (Dallas, TX), Jeffrey C. Gahan (Dallas, TX), Jodi A. Antonelli (Dallas, TX), Margaret S. Pearle (Dallas, TX), Monica S. C. Morgan (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): The Board of Regents of the University of Texas System (Austin, TX)
Law Firm: Parker Highlander PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14844600 on 09/03/2015 (992 days app to issue)

Abstract: Devices and methods for removal of calculus (including for example, kidney stones) are disclosed. In an embodiment, a device for removal of kidney stones includes a substantially sealable pouch that can be inserted into the kidney for capturing a kidney stone. The pouch is also designed to permit fragmentation of the kidney stone inside the pouch, while preventing kidney stone fragments from escaping from the pouch. As a result, the likelihood of dispersing stone fragments during fragmentation of a large stone is greatly lessened.

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

Topical skin formulations
Patent No. 9974729

Inventor(s): Daniel Ramirez (Addison, TX), Edward Chadwick (Addison, TX), Geetha Kalahasti (Addison, TX), Milagros Sanchez (Addison, TX), Tiffany Carle (Addison, TX)
Assignee(s): Mary Kay Inc. (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP (Local + 12 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15219852 on 07/26/2016 (665 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to methods and compositions useful for application to skin and hair comprising saccharide isomerate, hydrolyzed algin, zinc sulfate, and a dermatologically acceptable vehicle, wherein the composition is capable of moisturizing and/or improving the appearance and/or condition of skin and/or hair.

[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)

Inhibitors of activin-like receptor kinases
Patent No. 9974784

Inventor(s): Jay Clemens Groppe (Lancaster, TX)
Assignee(s): The Texas AM University System (College Station, TX)
Law Firm: Winstead PC (Local + 2 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15003497 on 01/21/2016 (852 days app to issue)

Abstract: The claimed invention is directed to a method for screening a compound that binds to an allosteric site of ALK2, the method comprising screening for a compound that is capable of destabilizing the ALK2 protein. A further aspect of the invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of a disease in a vertebrate, said composition comprising at least one ALK receptor kinase inhibitor, and optionally a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, adjuvant and/or diluent.

Disinfecting methods and apparatus
Patent No. 9974871

Inventor(s): Michael R. Lopez (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Inikoa Medical, Inc. (Newark, CA)
Law Firm: Edell, Shapiro Finnan, LLC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15631650 on 06/23/2017 (333 days app to issue)

Abstract: According to one implementation an assembly is provided that includes an optical fiber having a length and an infusion shaft having a lumen in which at least a first portion of the length of the optical fiber resides. A hub that is connected to the infusion shaft has a channel that houses at least a second portion of the length of the optical fiber. T second portion of the length of the optical fiber is not held taut along at least a portion of the length of the channel.

[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]

Methods and apparatus to reduce biological carryover using induction heating
Patent No. 9974872

Inventor(s): Brad Weston (Frisco, TX), Jeffrey Mitchell (Little Elm, TX)
Assignee(s): Abbott Laboratories (Abbott Park, IL)
Law Firm: Hanley, Flight and Zimmerman, LLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15593955 on 05/12/2017 (375 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods and apparatus to reduce biological carryover using induction heating are disclosed herein. An example method includes washing an aspiration and dispense device. The example method includes generating an alternating electromagnetic field and introducing the aspiration and dispense device into the alternating electromagnetic field. In the example method, the washing is to occur prior to introducing the aspiration and dispense device into the alternating electromagnetic field. The example method includes inductively heating the aspiration and dispense device with the alternating electromagnetic field.

Breathing assistance apparatus
Patent No. 9974914

Inventor(s): Alastair Edwin McAuley (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Fisher Paykel Healthcare Limited (Auckland, , NZ)
Law Firm: Knobbe, Martens, Olson Bear, LLP (9 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14333134 on 07/16/2014 (1406 days app to issue)

Abstract: In one embodiment, a nasal cannula is shaped to fit within a user”s nares, where the nasal cannula includes at least one prong allowing high flow delivery of humidified gases and creates positive airway pressure in the patient”s airway. The prongs have angled ends such that, in use, gases flowing through the prongs are directed to the user”s nasal passages. The nasal cannula body is partially swivelling and preferably has a ball joint connector. In another embodiment the nasal cannula may have at least one flared end prong that preferably seals within a patient”s nare.

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

Implantable head mounted neurostimulation system for head pain
Patent No. 9974968

Inventor(s): Kenneth Lyle Reed (Dallas, TX), Robert Raymond Bulger (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Syntilla Medical LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Munck Wilson Mandala, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14717912 on 05/20/2015 (1098 days app to issue)

Abstract: An implantable head-mounted unibody peripheral neurostimulation system is provided for implantation in the head for the purpose of treating chronic head pain, including migraine. The system may include an implantable pulse generator (IPG) from which multiple stimulating leads may extend sufficient to allow for adequate stimulation over multiple regions of the head, preferably including the frontal, parietal and occipital regions. A lead may include an extended body, along which may be disposed a plurality of surface metal electrodes, which may be sub-divided into a plurality of electrode arrays. A plurality of internal metal wires may run a portion of its length and connect the IPG”s internal circuit to the surface metal electrodes. The IPG may include a rechargeable battery, an antenna, and an application specific integrated circuit. The IPG may be capable of functional connection with an external radiofrequency unit for purposes that may include recharging, diagnostic evaluation, and programming.

[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]

Systems and methods for enabling remote device users to wager on micro events of games in a data network accessible gaming environment
Patent No. 9978218

Inventor(s): Alfonso G. Chan (Colleyville, TX), Kermit D. Lopez (Albuquerque, NM), Luis M. Ortiz (Albuquerque, NM), Michael W. Shore (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Micro-Gaming Ventures, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Ortiz Lopez, PLLC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14205097 on 03/11/2014 (1533 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method and system for micro-betting. One or more micro-bets can be electronically placed with respect to one or more micro-events associated with an event during a round of micro-betting. One or more wages with respect to the micro-bet(s) can be managed and controlled during the round of micro-betting. The wager(s) can be managed and controlled remote from electronically placing the micro-bet(s) during the round of micro-betting. Additionally, a portion of a profit can be automatically obtained with respect to the round of micro-bets in exchange for the aforementioned managing and controlling of the wager(s) with respect to the micro-bet(s) during the round of micro-betting.

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

Simulated stone landscape edging apparatus
Patent No. 9974240

Inventor(s): Carl Dennis Lynch (Dallas, TX), Dan Thomas Brinner (Rockwell, TX)
Assignee(s): EZ Concepts LLC (Rowlett, TX)
Law Firm: Law Office of Sam Sokhansanj PLLC (Local + 689 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14713784 on 05/15/2015 (1103 days app to issue)

Abstract: A simulated stone or masonry apparatus for landscape, lawn, or garden edging or siding is disclosed. More specifically, the simulated stone edging can be made of a durable polymer material, easy to install and remove using ground penetrating metal stakes, lightweight, weatherproof, cost-effective, and provide a visual appeal of actual stone work. In one embodiment, the landscape edging apparatus can including one or more guides, a first flexible material having a first side and a second side, wherein the first side further includes a textured faux stone surface, wherein the second side includes one or more receiving members, and wherein the receiving members are configured to receive the guides.

[A01G] HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS, OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING (picking of fruits, vegetables, hops, or the like A01D 46/00; plant reproduction by tissue culture techniques A01H 4/00; devices for topping or skinning onions or flower bulbs A23N 15/08; propagating unicellular algae C12N 1/12; plant cell culture C12N 5/00)

Pet watering and feeding device
Patent No. 9974279

Inventor(s): David R. Veness (Fort Worth, TX), Melaney Northrop (Mansfield, TX), Michael D. Harper (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): DOSKOCIL MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC. (Arlington, TX)
Law Firm: Global IP Counselors, LLP (9 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13293915 on 11/10/2011 (2385 days app to issue)

Abstract: A nutrient dispensing device for animals includes an access basin and a support portion attached to the access basin. The dispensing device includes a ramp spanning between the access basin and the support portion. A storage tank is disposed on the support portion, and a first end of the ramp is located partially beneath an open end of the storage tank. The ramp also includes at least one shield attached along a portion of the ramp, and the shield resists contents stored in the storage tank from entering a region of the support portion.

[A01K] ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; CARE OF BIRDS, FISHES, INSECTS; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS

Oven having a rotating door
Patent No. 9974312

Inventor(s): Alex Wayne Johnson (Dallas, TX), Philip R. McKee (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): Ovention, Inc. (Milwaukee, WI)
Law Firm: Quarles Brady LLP (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15082562 on 03/28/2016 (785 days app to issue)

Abstract: An oven comprising a housing, a cavity located within the housing, and a rotator having a first food loading section and a second food loading section is disclosed. The cavity includes a single opening for loading a food item into the cavity. If one of the first food loading section and the second food loading section is located outside of said cavity, then the other of the first food loading section and the second food loading section is located within said cavity. A first cook setting of the oven when the first food loading section is within the cavity and a second cook setting of the oven when the second food loading section is within the cavity are independently controllable. The first food loading section and the second food loading section may be separated by a divider, which prevents heat from escaping from the cavity through the opening.

[A21B] BAKERS’ OVENS; MACHINES OR EQUIPMENT FOR BAKING (domestic baking equipment A47J 37/00; combustion apparatus F23; domestic stoves or ranges being wholly or partly ovens F24B, F24C)

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

Compact mechanical lumbar vehicle seating
Patent No. 9975460

Inventor(s): Brandon J. Vick (Milan, MI), Masroor Fahim (Canton, MI), Peter J. Moegling (Whitmore Lake, MI), Vikas Bhatia (South Lyon, MI)
Assignee(s): Toyota Motor Engineering Manufacturing North America, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Darrow Mustafa PC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15208594 on 07/12/2016 (679 days app to issue)

Abstract: A mechanical lumbar system for vehicle seating. The lumbar system may be compact in size so as to require a smaller space within vehicle seating. The lumbar system may be adjustable in 4-ways. The lumbar system may be adjustable in an in and out fashion so as to decrease and increase, respectively, the amount of lumbar support. The lumbar system may be adjustable vertically so as to allow the vertical position of the lumbar support to be moved to accommodate the occupant. The lumbar system may utilize a U-shaped lower bridge member that allows the motors to be positioned vertically higher in the seat back while also allowing the lumbar support to be positioned below the motors. The legs of the lower bridge may extend below the lower frame cross member in the vehicle seat.

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

Multi-purpose vehicle bed liner and deck topper
Patent No. 9975501

Inventor(s): Adam D. Holmstrom (Pinckney, MI), Scott L. Frederick (Brighton, MI), Scott P. Robison (Dexter, MI)
Assignee(s): Toyota Motor Engineering Manufacturing North America, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Darrow Mustafa PC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15611185 on 06/01/2017 (355 days app to issue)

Abstract: A multi-purpose bed liner and deck topper includes a shell that may be connected to a vehicle cargo bed. The shell is movable between a bed liner position and an inverted deck topper position. The shell includes a shell base and shell sidewalls extending from the shell base. A first shell endwall is detachably connected to a rear end of the shell and a second shell endwall is pivotably connected to a front end of the shell. The multi-purpose bed liner employs slide rails attached to the shell sidewalls and that are connectable to vehicle bed sidewalls to facilitate moving the shell between the bed liner position and the deck topper position. A pivot connector attached to the shell and pivotally connecting the shell to the slide rails enables the shell to be inverted when moving the shell between the bed liner position and the deck topper position.

[B60R] VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (fire prevention, containment or extinguishing specially adapted for vehicles A62C 3/07)

Form-fill-seal machine including a filling tube with at least a partially elliptical cross-section
Patent No. 9975653

Inventor(s): Eduard Edwards (Arlington, TX), Joseph Paul Sagel (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): Frito-Lay North America, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Carstens Cahoon, LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14753285 on 06/29/2015 (1058 days app to issue)

Abstract: An apparatus and method for reducing stress marks and pleats on a package. The apparatus includes the use of an elongated filling tube. The dimensions of the elongated filling tube reduce the stress on the film as it is being formed around the filling tube. Further, the dimensions of the elongated filling tube prevent the formation of pleats as the sealing jaws must travel a decreased distance to seal, and the filling tube cross section better resembles the final package.

[B65B] MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING (bundling and pressing devices for cigars A24C 1/44; devices for tensioning and securing binders adapted to be supported by the article or articles to be bound B25B 25/00; applying closure members to bottles, jars or similar containers B67B 1/00-B67B 6/00; concurrent cleaning, filling and closing of bottles B67C 7/00; emptying bottles, jars, cans, casks, barrels or similar containers B67C 9/00)

Reusable multi-purpose bag formed of nonwoven fibrous material
Patent No. 9975665

Inventor(s): Eric Grossman (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): Waterview Innovation, LLC (McKinney, TX)
Law Firm: Haynes and Boone, LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14851439 on 09/11/2015 (984 days app to issue)

Abstract: Described herein is a reusable, multi-purpose bag, comprising a flexible, resiliently deformable body comprising a first material and a second material. The first material has a first degradation temperature and an absorption ratio of at least two to one of absorbed water weight to bag weight. The first material forms an anterior panel and a posterior panel, and the anterior panel is coupled to the posterior panel to define a cavity therebetween. The second material has a second degradation temperature that is lower than the first degradation temperature, and at least a portion of the anterior panel is bonded to at least a portion of the posterior panel by the second material.

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

Remotely controlled and monitored followspot
Patent No. 9976731

Inventor(s): Dale Polansky (Duncanville, TX), Diane Miller (Grapevine, TX), Ian Clarke (Grapevine, TX)
Assignee(s): Production Resource Group, LLC (New Windsor, NY)
Law Firm: Law Office of Scott C Harris, Inc (Local + 689 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15583145 on 05/01/2017 (386 days app to issue)

Abstract: A remote follow spot system includes a remote controller that has separately movable parts that are movable in two orthogonal directions, and a display attached to one of said two separately movable parts. The display receives a video feed from a controlled light, that is controlled to move in the same directions as remote controller. The display hence shows the field of view where the light is pointing. In this way, an operator of the follow spot can control the light without physically being near the light.

[B60Q] ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL [4]

Crash attenuator
Patent No. RE046861 (Reissue)

Inventor(s): Brent S. Sindorf (Roseville, CA), John F. LaTurner (Carmichael, CA), Michael J. Buehler (Roseville, CA)
Assignee(s): Energy Absorption Systems, Inc. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Brinks Gilson Lione (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14742432 on 06/17/2015 (1070 days app to issue)

Abstract: A crash attenuator for decelerating an impacting vehicle includes a first end that can be releasably secured to a vehicle, and a second end that is longitudinally spaced from the first end. The second end includes an impact member that is movable in the longitudinal direction from a pre-impact position to an impact position. At least a pair of spaced deformable attenuator members extend in a longitudinal direction and have a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal ends are staggered downstream from the impact member in the pre-impact position. At least a portion of the deformable attenuator members are bent in a non-outboard direction as the impact member is moved from the pre-impact position to the impact position. Patent Class: N/A

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

Method of manufacturing calcium sulfonate greases using delayed addition of non-aqueous converting agents
Patent No. 9976101

Inventor(s): J. Andrew Waynick (Lantana, TX)
Assignee(s): NCH CORPORATION (Irving, TX)
Law Firm: Ross Barnes LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14990473 on 01/07/2016 (866 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of manufacturing an overbased calcium sulfonate grease comprising a reduced amount of overbased calcium sulfonate, water and at least one non-aqueous converting agent, where at least a portion of the non-aqueous converting agent is added after one or more delay periods relative to the addition of the water. A delay period may involve the period of time it takes to adjust the temperature of the mixture, a period of time during which the mixture is held at a temperature or within a range of temperatures, and multiples and any combination thereof. These calcium sulfonate greases have improved thickener yield and high dropping points compared to greases of substantially similar composition made without a delay between the additions of water and a non-aqueous converting agent, particularly when a poor quality overbased calcium sulfonate is used.

[C10M] LUBRICATING COMPOSITIONS (well drilling compositions C09K 8/02); USE OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES EITHER ALONE OR AS LUBRICATING INGREDIENTS IN A LUBRICATING COMPOSITION (mould release, i.e. separating, agents for metals B22C 3/00, for plastics or substances in a plastic state, in general B29C 33/56, for glass C03B 40/02; textile lubricating compositions D06M 11/00, D06M 13/00, D06M 15/00; immersion oils for microscopy G02B 21/33) [4]

Composition and method of manufacturing calcium sulfonate greases using alkali metal hydroxide and delayed addition of non-aqueous converting agents
Patent No. 9976102

Inventor(s): John A. Waynick (Lantana, TX)
Assignee(s): NCH Corporation (Irving, TX)
Law Firm: Ross Barnes LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15130422 on 04/15/2016 (767 days app to issue)

Abstract: An overbased calcium sulfonate grease composition and method of manufacture comprising added alkali metal hydroxide alone or in combination with (a) calcium hydroxyapatite and/or added calcium carbonate used as calcium containing bases for reacting with complexing acids) and/or (b) at least one delay period between the addition of water as a converting agent and addition of a portion of a non-aqueous converting agent. A delay period may involve the period of time it takes to adjust the temperature of the mixture, a period of time during which the mixture is held at a temperature or within a range of temperatures, and multiples and any combination thereof. These calcium sulfonate greases have improved thickener yield and high dropping points compared to greases made without added alkali metal hydroxide and delay between the additions of water and a non-aqueous converting agent, particularly when a poor quality overbased calcium sulfonate is used.

Methods and compounds useful in conditions related to repeat expansion
Patent No. 9976138

Inventor(s): David Corey (Dallas, TX), Dongbo Yu (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Carlsbad, CA)
Law Firm: Parker Highlander PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14342176 on 08/29/2012 (2092 days app to issue)

Abstract: Described are compounds and methods useful for the treatment and investigation of diseases and disorders associated with expanded repeat-containing RNA molecules.

[C07H] SUGARS; DERIVATIVES THEREOF; NUCLEOSIDES; NUCLEOTIDES; NUCLEIC ACIDS (derivatives of aldonic or saccharic acids C07C, C07D; aldonic acids, saccharic acids C07C 59/105, C07C 59/285; cyanohydrins C07C 255/16; glycals C07D; compounds of unknown constitution C07G; polysaccharides, derivatives thereof C08B; DNA or RNA concerning genetic engineering, vectors, e.g. plasmids, or their isolation, preparation or purification C12N 15/00; sugar industry C13) [2]

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

Flush activated air freshener
Patent No. 9976292

Inventor(s): Douglas C. Saunders (Plainfield, IL), Duston E. A. Stutzman (Plainfield, IL), Michael J. Schuster (Joliet, IL)
Assignee(s): Danco, Inc. (Irving, TX)
Law Firm: Thomas |Horstemeyer, LLP (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13293486 on 11/10/2011 (2385 days app to issue)

Abstract: Various systems and methods are provided for flush activated air freshening. In one embodiment, a method includes sensing the initiation of a flush of a toilet system and discharging aerosol in response to sensing the initiation of the flush. In another embodiment, an air freshener assembly for a toilet system includes a control valve coupled to an aerosol cartridge and a spray control configured to activate the control valve to discharge aerosol from the aerosol cartridge in response to initiation of a flush of the toilet system. In another embodiment, a toilet system includes means for initiating a flush of a toilet, means for sensing initiation of the flush, and means for discharging aerosol in response to sensing the initiation of the flush.

[E03D] WATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR

Tall skylight dome with sun shade and diffusing partial cap to strengthen dome to capture low sun elevation angle light
Patent No. 9976308

Inventor(s): David Gelbaum (Cosa Mesa, CA)
Assignee(s): Entech Solar Inc (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Duane Morris LLP (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15612843 on 06/02/2017 (354 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present subject matter comprises a simple, passive skylight dome with relatively tall partially vertical sides comprising partially transparent material which diffuses the transmitted light, and a mostly opaque sun shade near the top of the relatively tall partially vertical sides. The partially vertical sides are able to better intercept sunlight from low sun elevation angles than conventional horizontal skylights. The mostly opaque sun shade is able to block sunlight from high sun elevation angles to prevent such sunlight from entering the building below the dome. By enhancing the collection of low-sun-elevation-angle light, the subject matter improves the daylight performance of the skylight early and late in the day, and all day in the winter months. By reducing the collection of high-sun-elevation-angle light, the subject matter reduces the solar heat gain near solar noon in the summer months, thereby reducing air conditioning loads and related costs.

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

Horizontal cable rail barrier
Patent No. 9976320

Inventor(s): Kevin T. Burt (Dallas, TX), Matthew Carlyle Sherstad (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): FORTRESS IRON, LP (Garland, TX)
Law Firm: Foley Lardner LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14684882 on 04/13/2015 (1135 days app to issue)

Abstract: A barrier panel is formed of a first vertical rail member and a second vertical rail member mounted to and extending between top and bottom rail members. At least one vertical support member is also mounted to and extends between the top and bottom rail members. The first and second vertical rail members include first and second openings, respectively, spaced apart along their lengths. Horizontal cables are mounted to and extend between the first vertical rail member and second vertical rail member. A first end of each horizontal cable is secured within one of the first openings in the first vertical rail member and a second end of each horizontal cable is secured within an opposite one of the second openings in the second vertical rail member. Each cable further passes through an additional opening provided in the vertical support member (which is positioned between the first and second vertical rail members).

[E04H] BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL (foundations E02D) [4]

Method and system for directing control lines along a travel joint
Patent No. 9976361

Inventor(s): Phillip T. Thomas (The Colony, TX), Tyson Eiman (Frisco, TX), William M. Richards (Flower Mound, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14355113 on 02/21/2013 (1916 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method and system for installing one or more control lines on a travel joint is disclosed. A control line coil is arranged along a travel joint. An inner mandrel is coupled to an upper bushing and a lower bushing. The control line coil is wrapped along the outer surface of the inner mandrel. The control line coil comprises a first portion located proximate the upper bushing, a second portion located proximate to the lower bushing and a straight length control line extending between the first portion and the second portion. The first distal end of the straight length control line is coupled to the upper bushing and the second distal end of the straight length control line is coupled to the lower bushing.

[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]

Cable system control using fluid flow for applying locomotive force
Patent No. 9976367

Inventor(s): Jason D. Dykstra (Carrollton, TX), Mehdi Mazrooee (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14888812 on 06/17/2013 (1800 days app to issue)

Abstract: Controlling cable ([b]30[/b]) tension and tool ([b]34[/b]) position in a well ([b]16[/b]) may include controlling either or both of tool position and cable tension independently by regulating reel ([b]335[/b]) angle and flow rate of a fluid pumped over the tool. Thus, despite physical interdependency of tool position and cable tension, the tool may be controlled such that its position is changed while cable tension remains constant, or its position is held constant while cable tension is changed. In addition, actual downhole tool position, cable tension, and other actual values may be estimated using an observer.

Wellbore isolation device with slip assembly
Patent No. 9976379

Inventor(s): Daniel Lee Schmidt (Dallas, TX), Matt Brian Roseman (Lancaster, TX)
Assignee(s): HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Polsinelli PC (Local + 15 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15128377 on 09/22/2015 (973 days app to issue)

Abstract: A wellbore isolation device comprising a tubular body comprising a downhole component having an external surface and a first inner bore formed therein, and an uphole component having a sloped external surface and a second inner bore formed therein, wherein the sloped external surface of the uphole component has at least one first protrusion, a plurality of slips disposed about the external surface of the tubular body between the uphole component and the downhole component, each of the plurality of slips comprising at least one sloped surface having at least one second protrusion, and an outer surface facing away from the external surface of the tubular body, the outer surface having one or more gripping protrusions, wherein the at least one sloped surface of each of the slip abuts the sloped external surface of the uphole component, wherein the three components provide a central inner bore.

Expandable tie back seal assembly
Patent No. 9976395

Inventor(s): Richard Paul Noffke (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Haynes and Boone LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14424610 on 08/28/2012 (2093 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus and methods for completing a wellbore, using expandable tubular to form a sealed connection. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention relate to forming a seal between a radially expanded tubular and a receptacle, wherein annular-shaped, radially extending protrusions are present between the tubular and the receptacle to form a durable sealed connection therebetween.

Erosion resistant baffle for downhole wellbore tools
Patent No. 9976401

Inventor(s): Matthew James Merron (Carrollton, TX), Zachary William Walton (Coppell, TX)
Assignee(s): HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Haynes and Boone, LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15021751 on 10/21/2013 (1674 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a seat assembly for use in wellbore servicing systems, comprising a cylindrical baffle with an annular shaped seat with an upward facing seat for receiving an obturator, the seat defining a central passageway. Erosion resistance rings are placed inside of and in front the baffle to protect the baffle and seat from erosion cause by treatment fluids and solids passing through the servicing system.

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

Hybrid foil bearings having integrated gas flow paths
Patent No. 9976595

Inventor(s): Daejong Kim (Arlington, TX)
Assignee(s): Board of Regents, The University of Texas System (Austin, TX)
Law Firm: Thomas | Horstemeyer, LLP (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15237916 on 08/16/2016 (644 days app to issue)

Abstract: In one embodiment, a hybrid foil bearing includes a bearing sleeve, multiple inner foils provided within the sleeve, the foils having gas outlets from which pressurized gas can be injected into an interior of the bearing, and integrated gas flow paths that radially extend through the bearing sleeve and deliver the gas to the gas outlets.

[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]

Liquid line charge compensator
Patent No. 9976785

Inventor(s): Eric Berg (The Colony, TX), Ian Burmania (Rockwall, TX), Mark Olsen (Carrollton, TX), Rakesh Goel (Irving, TX)
Assignee(s): Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Winstead PC (Local + 2 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14279043 on 05/15/2014 (1468 days app to issue)

Abstract: An apparatus for reducing discharge pressure includes a compensator reservoir and a compensator line. The compensator line connects the compensator reservoir and a liquid line. The liquid line connects an outdoor heat exchanger and an indoor heat exchanger of a reversible HVAC system. The compensator line includes a connection to the compensator reservoir and a connection to the liquid line. A first expansion device is disposed in the liquid line and configured to only act on refrigerant flowing towards the outdoor heat exchanger. A second expansion device disposed in the liquid line and configured to only act on refrigerant flowing towards the indoor heat exchanger. The compensator is operable to receive refrigerant, driven by pressure, from the HVAC system, and further operable to allow refrigerant to flow back into the HVAC system.

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

P H Y S I C S

Assembly for measuring temperature of materials flowing through tubing in a well system
Patent No. 9976409

Inventor(s): Christopher Michael McMillon (Wylie, TX), Robert Mitchell Neely (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Kilpatrick Townsend Stockton LLP (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14504134 on 10/01/2014 (1329 days app to issue)

Abstract: An assembly for measuring a temperature of a fluid flowing through a tubing section is provided. The assembly can include the tubing section that can include a reduced-width portion. The reduced-width portion can traverse a circumference of the tubing section. The assembly can also include a temperature measurement component in thermal communication with an inner diameter of the tubing section. A temperature of a fluid flowing through the tubing section can be detected using the temperature measurement component.

[G01K] MEASURING TEMPERATURE; MEASURING QUANTITY OF HEAT; THERMALLY-SENSITIVE ELEMENTS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR (radiation pyrometry G01J 5/00)

Mobile device and method for determining a handling condition thereof
Patent No. 9976841

Inventor(s): Navid Nader (Plano, TX), Ping Shi (San Diego, CA), Robert McCarthy (Escondido, CA), Vijayakumar Krishnamurthy (San Marcos, CA), Vinh Vo (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14143957 on 12/30/2013 (1604 days app to issue)

Abstract: A mobile device for determining a handling condition of the mobile device and a method of use thereof. One embodiment of the mobile device includes: at least one left capacitive proximity sensor disposed on a left side of the mobile device and operable to detect a hold condition, at least one right capacitive proximity sensor disposed on a right side of the mobile device and operable to detect a hold condition, an accelerometer disposed in the mobile device and operable to detect an orientation of the mobile device, an ambient light proximity sensor disposed in the mobile device and operable to detect a proximity of a user”s head, and a processor operable to execute an application configured to gain access to and employ the hold condition, the orientation, and the proximity of the user”s head to determine a handling condition.

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

Method and apparatus for filtering a rectified voltage
Patent No. 9977455

Inventor(s): Dianbo Fu (Plano, TX), Heping Dai (Plano, TX), Liming Ye (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15198056 on 06/30/2016 (691 days app to issue)

Abstract: A configurable impedance circuit includes a controller that senses a rectified voltage and generates a first and second control signals based on a comparison of the rectified voltage to at least one threshold voltage. The configurable impedance circuit also includes a filter for filtering the rectified voltage that couples a plurality of capacitors in series to the rectified voltage in a first configuration based on the first control signal and couples the plurality of capacitors in parallel to the rectified voltage in a second configuration based on the second control signal.

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

Video buttons for a stage lighting console
Patent No. 9977501

Inventor(s): Charles Reese (Grapevine, TX), James Bornhorst (Desoto, TX), Michael Snyder (Southlake, TX)
Assignee(s): Production Resource Group, LLC (New Windsor, NY)
Law Firm: Law Office of Scott C Harris, Inc (Local + 689 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15156929 on 05/17/2016 (735 days app to issue)

Abstract: Video buttons controlling stage lights. Each of the buttons includes a video part, which displays either video or an image that previews the function that is carried out by the button when it is pressed. The buttons can be full-color buttons that show full color videos. An array of buttons can be grouped together, so that the array can operate in different modes, one of which in which the array shows an overall display, and another of which in which the array shows a single function per button. Different technologies including analog switches, touch screens, and the like can be used.

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

Detection of a sequential command stream
Patent No. 9977623

Inventor(s): Judah Gamliel Hahn (Ofra, , IL), Lilia Brechman (Hod Hasharon, , IL), Noga Deshe (Ra”anana, , IL), Sebastien A. Jean (Boise, ID), Yan Nosovitsky (Herzliya, , IL), Yaron Zamir (Rishon Lezion, , IL)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Toler Law Group, PC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14884637 on 10/15/2015 (950 days app to issue)

Abstract: A data storage device includes a non-volatile memory and a controller coupled to the non-volatile memory. The controller is configured to receive a first command from an access device, the first command associated with a first logical block address (LBA). The controller is also configured to, after receiving the first command, receive a second command and a third command from the access device. The second command is associated with a second LBA that precedes the first LBA, the third command is associated with a third LBA that succeeds the first LBA. The controller is further configured to determine that the first command, the second command, and the third command correspond to a sequential command stream.

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

Storage module and method for configuring the storage module with memory operation parameters
Patent No. 9977628

Inventor(s): Mrinal Kochar (San Jose, CA), Shmoolik Yosub (Naharia, , IL), Yong Huang (San Jose, CA), Yong Peng (Milpitas, CA)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Brinks Gilson Lione (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14254354 on 04/16/2014 (1497 days app to issue)

Abstract: A storage module and method for configuring the storage module with memory operation parameters are provided. In one embodiment, a storage module is provided comprising a memory and a controller. The controller is configured to receive a selection of one of a plurality of sets of memory operation parameters stored in the storage module and perform at least one of a read operation and a write operation on the memory in accordance with the selected set of memory operation parameters.

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

Method and apparatus of processing information in an environment with multiple devices and resources
Patent No. 9977633

Inventor(s): Margarita Khafizova (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Open Invention Network LLC (Durham, NC)
Law Firm: Haynes Boone, LLP (Local + 10 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15583515 on 05/01/2017 (386 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed that provide processing data associated with a job request. In one example, the job request may be a printer job to print a particular document based on predefined settings. The data processing operation may include determining at least one job specific resource available to fulfill the job request, and performing at least one of a prioritization computation, a job specific requirement computation, and a geographical determination computation. Additional operations may include selecting at least one appropriate device to fulfill the job request based on the at least one computation operation and the at least one available job specific resource, and processing and completing the job using the at least one appropriate device based on the at least one computation.

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

Probabilistic matching for dialog state tracking with limited training data
Patent No. 9977778

Inventor(s): Julien Perez (Grenoble, , FR), William Radford (Rockdale, , AU)
Assignee(s): Conduent Business Services, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Fay Sharpe LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15342590 on 11/03/2016 (565 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method for dialog state tracking employ an ontology in which a set of values are indexed by slot. A segment of a dialog is processed to detect mentions. Candidate slot values are extracted from the ontology, based on the detected mentions. The candidate slot values are ranked. A dialog state is updated, based on the ranking of the candidate slot values, which may be conditioned on the output of a temporal model, which predicts whether the value of the slot has been instantiated, modified, or is unchanged.

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

Matching co-referring entities from serialized data for schema inference
Patent No. 9977817

Inventor(s): Matthias Gall (Saint Martin d”Hres, , FR), Nikolaos Lagos (Grenoble, , FR)
Assignee(s): Conduent Business Services, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Fay Sharpe LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14518361 on 10/20/2014 (1310 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method provide for identifying coreference from serialized data coming from different services. The method includes generating a tree structure from serialized data. The serialized data includes responses to queries from the different services. The responses each identify a hierarchical relationship between a respective set of objects. Nodes of the tree structure each have a name corresponding to a respective one of the objects. The tree structure is traversed in a breadth first manner and, for each node in the tree structure, a respective pairwise similarity is computed with each of the other nodes of the tree structure. The computed pairwise similarity is compared with a threshold to identify co-referring nodes that refer to a same entity. The threshold is a function of a depth of the node in the tree structure.

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

Method and system for detecting the occurrence of an interaction event via trajectory-based analysis
Patent No. 9977970

Inventor(s): Daniel S. Hann (Williamson, NY), Edgar A. Bernal (Webster, NY), Michael C. Mongeon (Walworth, NY), Robert P. Loce (Webster, NY), Wencheng Wu (Webster, NY)
Assignee(s): Conduent Business Services, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Fay Sharpe LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15196753 on 06/29/2016 (692 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and system for detecting an interaction event between two or more objects in a surveillance area, via the application of heuristics to trajectory representations of the static or dynamic movements associated with the objects. According to an exemplary embodiment, trajectory interaction features (TIFs) are extracted from the trajectory representations and heuristics are applied to the TIFs to determine if an interaction event has occurred, such as a potential illegal drug deal involving two or more pedestrians.

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

Traffic light detection using multiple regions of interest and confidence scores
Patent No. 9977975

Inventor(s): Danil V. Prokhorov (Canton, MI), Katsuhiro Sakai (Ann Arbor, MI), Michael J. Delp (Ann Arbor, MI), Xue Mei (Ann Arbor, MI)
Assignee(s): Toyota Motor Engineering Manufacturing North America, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Darrow Mustafa PC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15240112 on 08/18/2016 (642 days app to issue)

Abstract: Described herein is a device for traffic light detection. The device comprises a memory and a traffic light detection module. The memory may store information, the information comprising first traffic light data of a first traffic light and second traffic light data of a second traffic light. The traffic light detection module may receive an image comprising a first candidate and a second candidate; determine a first region of interest based, at least in part, on the first traffic light data, the first region of interest comprising the first candidate; determine a second region of interest based, at least in part, on the second traffic light data, the second region of interest comprising the second candidate; and determine a confidence score for a first state of the first candidate, the confidence score based, at least in part, on a spatial relationship factor between the first candidate and the second candidate.

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

Automated systems for reducing computational loads in the mass execution of analytical models using scale-out computing
Patent No. 9978038

Inventor(s): Ajmal Karuthakantakath (Flower Mound, TX), Chandra Dhandapani (Dallas, TX), Fredrick Crable (Allen, TX), Gurmeet Singh (Irving, TX), Nicholas Dolle (Mckinney, TX), Raman Bajaj (Frisco, TX), Sanjiv Yajnik (Dallas, TX),
Assignee(s): Capital One Services, LLC (McLean, VA)
Law Firm: Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett Dunner, LLP (9 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15709231 on 09/19/2017 (245 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed embodiments provide systems and techniques for mass execution of analytical models across multiple dimensions of client, collateral, deal structure, third party, and other data relevant to predicting optimal decisions in real-time. In some embodiments, disclosed systems and techniques increase decisioning speed through the reduction of computational loads on disclosed decisioning systems. Further disclosed systems and techniques may scale-out analytical modeling computations through, among other technological solutions, advanced execution environments that are asynchronous and non-blocking in nature so as to allow the execution of a plurality of analytical models in parallel and optimizing the results.

[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]

Method and system for recommending one or more vehicles for one or more requestors
Patent No. 9978111

Inventor(s): Koyel Mukherjee (Bangalore, , IN), Narayanan Unny Edakunni (Bangalore, , IN), Pallavi Manohar (Thane, , IN), Sharmistha Jat (Pune, , IN)
Assignee(s): CONDUENT BUSINESS SERVICES, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Jones Robb PLLC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14687035 on 04/15/2015 (1133 days app to issue)

Abstract: The disclosed embodiments illustrate methods and systems for recommending one or more vehicles, commuting on a predefined route, for one or more requestors. The method includes determining a first additional distance traversable by each vehicle apart from the predefined route to accommodate each requestor. Further, a graph comprising a first set of nodes representing the one or more requestors, and a second set of nodes representing the one or more vehicles, is generated. Thereafter, a mapping between the first set of nodes and the second set of nodes is determined based on the first additional distance. The mapping corresponds to an allocation of a requestor to a vehicle such that an additional distance traversable by the vehicle is less than an additional distance traversable by remaining vehicles apart from the predefined route. Thereafter, the one or more vehicles are recommended for the one or more requestors based on the mapping.

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

Modular display panel
Patent No. 9978294

Inventor(s): William Y. Hall (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): ULTRAVISION TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15866294 on 01/09/2018 (133 days app to issue)

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to integrated modular display panels. In one embodiment, modular display panel includes a a shell with a first thermally conductive material, a printed circuit board disposed in the shell, and a plurality of LEDs attached to a first side of the printed circuit board. A driver circuit is disposed in the shell and coupled to the plurality of LEDs from a second side of the printed circuit board. The panel further includes a power supply unit for powering the LEDs. The printed circuit board are disposed between the power supply unit and the plurality of LEDs. A second thermally conductive material is disposed between the power supply unit and an outer back side of the panel. A protective structure is disposed over the first side of the printed circuit board, where a display side of the panel, opposite the outer back side, is waterproof.

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

Techniques for reducing read disturb in partially written blocks of non-volatile memory
Patent No. 9978456

Inventor(s): Abhijeet Manohar (Karnataka, , IN), Anubhav Khandelwal (Mountain View, CA), Chris Avila (Saratoga, CA), Cynthia Hsu (Fremont, CA), Dana Lee (Saratoga, CA), Daniel Tuers (Kapaa, HI), Gautam Dusija (Milipitas, CA), Henry
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Stoel Rives LLP (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14543660 on 11/17/2014 (1282 days app to issue)

Abstract: Techniques are presented to reduce the amount of read disturb on partially written blocks of NAND type non-volatile memory, both for when determining the last written word line in a block and also for data read. In both cases, non-selected word lines that are unwritten or, in the case of finding the last written word line, may be unwritten are biased with a lower read-pass voltage then is typically used. The result of such reads can also be applied to an algorithm for finding the last written word by skipping a varying number of word lines. Performance in a last written page determination can also be improved by use of shorter bit line settling times than for a standard read.

[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)

Partial soft bit read
Patent No. 9978462

Inventor(s): Abhijeet Manohar (Bangalore, , IN), Idan Alrod (Herzeliya, , IL), Muralitharan Jayaraman (Bangalore, , IN), Narendhiran Chinnaanangur Ravimohan (Bangalore, , IN)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Toler Law Group, PC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14927088 on 10/29/2015 (936 days app to issue)

Abstract: A data storage device includes a non-volatile memory and a controller coupled to the non-volatile memory. The controller includes an error correction coding (ECC) decoder. The non-volatile memory is configured to sense hard bit data and soft bit data corresponding to multiple ECC codewords from a word line of the non-volatile memory and to sense soft bit data for the multiple ECC codewords. The soft bit data includes sub codes for each of the multiple ECC codewords. The non-volatile memory is configured to send less than all of the sensed soft bit sub codes to the ECC decoder.

HVAC controller that provides multiple types of proportional motor control signals, an HVAC system that includes the same and a proportional control signal circuit
Patent No. 9979343

Inventor(s): Darko Hadzidedic (Carrollton, TX), Jimmie Curry (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Winstead PC (Local + 2 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14667168 on 03/24/2015 (1155 days app to issue)

Abstract: The disclosure provides a proportional control signal circuit (PCSC), an HVAC controller employing the same and an HVAC system including the HVAC controller. In one embodiment, the PCSC includes: (1) a signal input configured to receive a pulse width modulated signal, (2) a control input configured to receive an integration signal, (3) a signal output and (4) control circuitry, coupled to the signal input, the control input and the signal output, configured to provide either the pulse width modulated signal or a DC signal to the signal output based on the integration signal.

[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)

Methods and apparatus to collect distributed user information for media impressions and search terms
Patent No. 9979544

Inventor(s): Madhusudhan Reddy Alla (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): The Nielsen Company (US), LLC (New York, NY)
Law Firm: Hanley, Flight and Zimmerman, LLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15472040 on 03/28/2017 (420 days app to issue)

Abstract: An example method to monitor usage of a device includes collecting first and second identifiers based on use of an application that does not employ cookies, the first identifier identifying at least one of the device or a user of the device to a first database proprietor, and the second identifier identifying the at least one of the device or the user of the device to a second database proprietor; sending the first identifier to a first server associated with the first database proprietor, sending the second identifier to a second server associated with the second database proprietor; and sending to a data collection server at least one of a media identifier indicative of media accessed via the application at the device or a search term used via the application at the device.

System and method for managing images over a communication network
Patent No. 9979683

Inventor(s): Dale F. McIntyre (Honeoye Falls, NY), Kenneth Parulski (Rochester, NY)
Assignee(s): Monument Peak Ventures, LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Ascenda Law Group, PC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14104018 on 12/12/2013 (1622 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method for creating an electronic icon containing information unique to a particular user including information allowing access with respect to a particular digital media file having the icon associated therewith over a communication network by a third party.

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

Local internet with quality of service (QoS) egress queuing
Patent No. 9979698

Inventor(s): Lance Arnold Visser (Dallas, TX), Russell Wiant (Carrollton, TX), Son Thanh Tran (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): iPhotonix (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14749163 on 06/24/2015 (1063 days app to issue)

Abstract: Local internet functionality may allow host devices positioned in branch office locations to securely communicate outgoing internet traffic directly over the internet. Local internet functionality may also allow said host devices to securely receive incoming internet traffic through the creation and tracking of local internet sessions. Local internet functionality is achieved by forwarding egress internet traffic over a local internet virtual pathway extending to a WAN interface/port of a local host device. The WAN interface/port is configured to communicate traffic received over the local internet virtual pathway directly over the internet, while communicating all other egress traffic over secure tunnels of the virtual edge router. The WAN interface/port is further configured to monitor outgoing local internet traffic to create and track local internet sessions.

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

System for managing security and access to resource sub-components
Patent No. 9979718

Inventor(s): Manu Jacob Kurian (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): BANK OF AMERICA CORPORATION (Charlotte, NC)
Law Firm: Moore Van Allen PLLC (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15152317 on 05/11/2016 (741 days app to issue)

Abstract: A means for managing security and access to resources associated with blocks/sub-components of a distributed validating network, such as a blockchain network. Tags are created that can be applied to blocks so that a designated entity/user can locate the block though presentation of keywords associated with the tag. Additionally, a security token is generated that is assigned or otherwise provided to the designated entity/user which is configured to grant the designated entity access to resources in the block. Further, logic may be defined and applied to either the tag, the block and/or the security token that provides control over the access granted to the designated entities/users. The logic may define the period of time for which a designated entity/user is granted access to the block and/or the block”s resources or the logic may define an amount of access granted to the designated entity/user.

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

Method and apparatus for processing a RTCWEB authentication
Patent No. 9979722

Inventor(s): Li Li (Bridgewater, NJ), Wu Chou (Basking Ridge, NJ)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14978147 on 12/22/2015 (882 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems and methods of processing a real-time communication in web-browsers (RTCWEB) authentication by a first server are disclosed. These include receiving a message from a first user equipment including a first identity of a first user, a first fingerprint of the first user equipment and a first signature generated from a first Identity provider (IdP), sending a call offer message including the first identity, the first fingerprint and the first signature to a second server associated with a second user equipment, receiving from the second server a first challenge message that request an authentication for the first identity, and redirecting the first user equipment to access the second server.

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

Image processing device and method
Patent No. 9979981

Inventor(s): Kazushi Sato (Kanagawa, , JP)
Assignee(s): Velos Media, LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Nixon Vanderhye P.C. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15337602 on 10/28/2016 (571 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention relates to an image processing device and method, which realize improvement in encoding efficiency for color difference signals and reduction in address calculations for memory access. In a case where a block size of orthogonal transform is 44, and a macroblock of luminance signals is configured of four 44 pixel blocks appended with 0 through 1, the four luminance signal blocks are corresponded with one color difference signal 44 block appended with C. At this time, there exist four motion vector information of mv[subscript]0[/subscript], mv[subscript]1[/subscript], mv[subscript]2[/subscript], and mv[subscript]3[/subscript], as to the four luminance signal blocks. The motion vector information mv[subscript]c [/subscript]of the one color difference signal 44 block is calculated by averaging processing using these four motion vector information. The present invention can be applied to an image encoding device which performed encoding based on the H.264/AVC format, for example.

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

E L E C T R I C I T Y

Systems and methods for automated detection of application vulnerabilities
Patent No. 9977904

Inventor(s): Bhavani Thuraisingham (Dallas, TX), David Sounthiraraj (Richardson, TX), Garrett Greenwood (Richardson, TX), Justin Sahs (Richardson, TX), Latifur Khan (Plano, TX), Zhiqiang Lin (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Board of Regents, The University of Texas System (Austin, TX)
Law Firm: Thomas|Horstemeyer, LLP (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14629876 on 02/24/2015 (1183 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for performing automatic, large-scale analysis mobile applications to determine and analyze application vulnerability. The disclosed systems and methods include identifying potentially vulnerable applications, identifying the application entry points that lead to vulnerable behavior, and generating smart input for text fields. Thus, a fully automated framework is implemented to run in parallel on multiple emulators, while collecting vital information.

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

Method for making semiconductor device with stacked analog components in back end of line (BEOL) regions
Patent No. 9978683

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: 15785931 on 10/17/2017 (217 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for making a semiconductor device may include forming a first dielectric layer above a semiconductor substrate, forming a first trench in the first dielectric layer, filling the first trench with electrically conductive material, removing upper portions of the electrically conductive material to define a lower conductive member with a recess thereabove, forming a filler dielectric material in the recess to define a second trench. The method may further include filling the second trench with electrically conductive material to define an upper conductive member, forming a second dielectric layer over the first dielectric layer and upper conductive member, forming a first via through the second dielectric layer and underlying filler dielectric material to the lower conductive member, and forming a second via through the second dielectric layer to the upper conductive member.

[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]

Three-dimensional memory device with electrically isolated support pillar structures and method of making thereof
Patent No. 9978766

Inventor(s): Kota Funayama (Yokkaichi, , JP), Naohiro Hosoda (Yokkaichi, , JP), Takeshi Kawamura (Yokkaichi, , JP), Yoko Furihata (Yokkaichi, , JP)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: The Marbury Law Group PLLC (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15347101 on 11/09/2016 (559 days app to issue)

Abstract: A first tier structure including a first alternating stack of first insulating layers and first sacrificial material layers is formed over a substrate. First support openings and first memory openings are formed through the first tier structure. A dielectric material portion providing electrical isolation from the substrate is formed in each first memory openings. A second tier structure including a second alternating stack of second insulating layers and second sacrificial material layers is formed the first tier structure. Second support openings and second memory openings are formed through the second tier structure above the first support openings and the first memory openings. Memory stack structures are formed in inter-tier openings formed by adjoining the first and second memory openings. The dielectric material portions provide electrical isolation between the substrate and the vertical semiconductor layers formed within support pillar structures to prevent or reduce electrical shorts to the substrate through the support pillar structures.

Method of making three-dimensional semiconductor memory device having laterally undulating memory films
Patent No. 9978768

Inventor(s): Jiyin Xu (Yokkaichi, , JP), Ryoichi Honma (Yokkaichi, , JP), Syo Fukata (Yokkaichi, , JP)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: The Marbury Law Group PLLC (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15196714 on 06/29/2016 (692 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes forming a stack of alternating layers comprising insulating layers and spacer material layers over a substrate, forming a memory opening through the stack, forming a layer stack including a memory material layer, a tunneling dielectric layer, and a first semiconductor material layer in the memory opening, forming a protective layer over the first semiconductor channel layer, physically exposing a semiconductor surface underneath the layer stack by anisotropically etching horizontal portions of the protective layer and the layer stack at a bottom portion of the memory opening, removing a remaining portion of the protective layer selective to the first semiconductor channel layer, and forming a second semiconductor channel layer on the first semiconductor channel layer.

Methods for varied strain on nano-scale field effect transistor devices
Patent No. 9978833

Inventor(s): Mark S. Rodder (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD. (, , KR)
Law Firm: Renaissance IP Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15289951 on 10/10/2016 (589 days app to issue)

Abstract: A semiconductor device and a method to form the semiconductor device are disclosed. An n-channel component of the semiconductor device includes a first horizontal nanosheet (hNS) stack and a p-channel component includes a second hNS stack. The first hNS stack includes a first gate structure having a plurality of first gate layers and at least one first channel layer. A first internal spacer is disposed between at least one first gate layer and a first source/drain structure in which the first internal spacer has a first length. The second hNS stack includes a second gate structure having a plurality of second gate layers and at least one second channel layer. A second internal spacer is disposed between at least one second gate layer and a second source/drain structure in which the second internal spacer has a second length that is greater than the first length.

System and method for a mobile antenna with adjustable resonant frequencies and radiation pattern
Patent No. 9979096

Inventor(s): Chun Kit Lai (La Jolla, CA), Ning Ma (San Diego, CA), Wee Kian Toh (San Diego, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13971628 on 08/20/2013 (1736 days app to issue)

Abstract: Embodiments are provided for an efficient antenna design and operation method to adjust or add frequency bands at mobile devices using the available limited antenna size. The embodiments include electrically coupling to the antenna elements at a mobile or radio device a tuning stub or element through a printed circuit board (PCB) or a metal chassis. The PCB is placed between the antenna elements and the tuning stub and is connected to the antenna elements. The tuning stub, e.g., at a corner of the PCB, is connected or disconnected via a switch from the PCB, and hence the antenna elements, to shift the radiation of the antenna at different frequencies and also provide an additional mode of radiation. The tuning stub can also be switched to vary the radiation pattern of the antenna.

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

Expanding lattice notch array antenna and method of fabrication
Patent No. 9979097

Inventor(s): Joseph P. Nipper (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Raytheon Company (Waltham, MA)
Law Firm: Daly, Crowley, Mofford Durkee, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15071457 on 03/16/2016 (797 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed toward methods for forming an expanding lattice notch array antenna that includes a plurality of notch antenna elements extending from a surface of a base plate. The properties and dimensions of the notch antenna elements can be manipulated in order to provide an expanding notch array antenna whereby an area of a base portion of the array is different from an area of a top portion of the array, without increasing an overall height of the notch array antenna. The method includes coupling a first plurality of notch elements to a first surface of a base plate in a first orientation, expanding a second plurality of notch elements from a first state to a second state and coupling the second plurality of notch elements in the second state to the first surface of the base plate in a second orientation.

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

Surgical instrument motor with increased number of wires per phase set and increased fill factor and corresponding manufacturing method
Patent No. 9979247

Inventor(s): Vikram A. Garadi (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): Medtronic Xomed, Inc. (Jacksonville, FL)
Law Firm: Harness Dickey (8 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14534794 on 11/06/2014 (1293 days app to issue)

Abstract: A motor for a surgical instrument includes a rotor and a stator. The rotor includes a shaft and a magnet. The stator includes (i) a cavity in which the rotor is disposed, and (ii) a coil assembly. The coil assembly includes multiple phase sets. The phase sets include multiple sets of wires. Each of the phase sets includes multiple coils and corresponds to a respective one of the sets of wires. The coils in each of the phase sets are at respective positions about the rotor. One of the sets of wires includes at least three wires. The stator causes the rotor to axially rotate a surgical tool of the surgical instrument based on current received at the sets of wires.

[H02K] DYNAMO-ELECTRIC MACHINES (dynamo-electric relays H01H 53/00; conversion of DC or AC input power into surge output power H02M 9/00)

Inverter apparatus
Patent No. 9979291

Inventor(s): Dianbo Fu (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15335339 on 10/26/2016 (573 days app to issue)

Abstract: An inverter apparatus is provided for converting direct current to alternating current. The inverter apparatus includes a boost converter coupled between a power source and a bypass circuit, and a power inverter coupled between the bypass circuit and a load to generate an output voltage. The output voltage is powered by the power source directly via the bypass circuit without activating the boost converter when the output voltage is smaller than a threshold voltage. The output voltage is powered by the power source boosted by the boost converter when the output voltage is larger than the threshold voltage. High efficiency is achieved by bypassed the boost converter.

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

Elliptic directional filters for a combiner circuit
Patent No. 9979371

Inventor(s): Huairen Yi (Somerset, NJ), Zhengxiang Ma (Summit, NJ)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15448502 on 03/02/2017 (446 days app to issue)

Abstract: An elliptic combiner circuit filters a first and second signal in a first and second frequency band. A first resonator is coupled to a first input via a first capacitor and a second input via a second capacitor. A second resonator is coupled to a first and second signal path, coupled to the first and second input, via a third and a fourth capacitor. A first inductor is coupled between the first and third capacitors, and between the second and fourth capacitors. A third resonator is coupled to the first and second signal paths via a fifth, sixth, and seventh capacitors. A fourth resonator is coupled to the first signal path and a terminated port via an eighth, ninth and tenth capacitors. A second inductor is coupled between the fifth and eighth capacitors, and between the seventh and tenth capacitors. An output outputs the first and second signals.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]

Digital to analog converter apparatus, system, and method with quantization noise that is independent of an input signal
Patent No. 9979445

Inventor(s): Arkady Molev Shteiman (Basking Ridge, NJ), Xiao-Feng Qi (Westfield, NJ)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Zilka-Kotab, PC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15212151 on 07/15/2016 (676 days app to issue)

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are provided for affording digital to analog converter (DAC) quantization noise that is independent of an input signal. In operation, an input signal for a DAC is received. Further, a particular signal is added to the input signal for the DAC, such that an output signal of the DAC includes quantization noise that is independent of the input signal (e.g. includes white noise, etc.), as a result of the particular signal being added to the input signal for the DAC.

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

Radio frequency distribution network for a split beam user specific tilt antenna
Patent No. 9979447

Inventor(s): Huairen Yi (Somerset, NJ), Leonard Piazzi (Denville, NJ), Zhengxiang Ma (Summit, NJ)
Assignee(s): FUTUREWEI TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14987513 on 01/04/2016 (869 days app to issue)

Abstract: A RF distribution network for split beam antennas is disclosed. The split beam antennas may include four-column cross-polarized user specific tilt antennas implemented in a 4T4R or 4T8R system. A RF distribution network may provide transmit signals from transmitters to antennas while also providing receive signals from the antennas. A RF distribution network may include 180 6.9 dB combiners coupled to the antennas and also coupled 90 hybrids. A 180 6.9 dB combiner may include a transmission network with transmission lines in a 4T4R system. Alternatively, a 180 6.9 dB combiner may include a transmission network with transmit and receive filters in a 4T8R system. The transmission network couples the transmit filter and two filters by at least three /4 transmission lines. A transmission network provides isolation between two receive signal paths and, at the same time, provides power splitting of transmitter power to two duplexed transmit signal paths.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]

Exploiting frequency diversity on a sub-band basis for optical transmission performance enhancement
Patent No. 9979490

Inventor(s): Frank Effenberger (Colts Neck, NJ), Xiang Liu (Marlboro, NJ)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14711208 on 05/13/2015 (1105 days app to issue)

Abstract: An optical data transmission method comprising partitioning an optical signal into a plurality of frequency sub-bands, generating a signal frequency mapping that rearranges the plurality of frequency sub-bands, choosing a plurality of frequency components based on the signal frequency mapping to form a set of frequency components, and transmitting the set of frequency components using frequency diversity transmission. An optical data receiving method comprising obtaining a signal frequency mapping for an original signal, receiving an optical signal that comprises a plurality of frequency sub-bands, re-arranging the plurality of frequency sub-bands using the signal frequency mapping to generate a restored original signal, and processing the restored original signal to recover an original data sequence.

[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)

Single network interface for multiple interface virtual network functions
Patent No. 9979639

Inventor(s): Farhad P. Sunavala (San Ramon, CA), Mark Xiang-Quan Huang (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): FUTUREWEI TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14811683 on 07/28/2015 (1029 days app to issue)

Abstract: A virtual network function includes network interface via a single client network interface coupled to a network functions infrastructure. The network interface is provided using a virtual network function abstraction layer in the form of an implementation of a virtual network function in a virtual machine nested within a second virtual machine having a virtual switch. Routing between any number of ports on the virtual network function and a single network interface is enabled by providing a virtual interface in the switch mapped to each network interface needed by the virtual network function. Data from a client network via the network interface for the infrastructure is routed to the proper virtual network function interface in the virtual switch.

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

Hardware and software methodologies for creating and managing portable service function chains
Patent No. 9979645

Inventor(s): Li Ll (Bridgewater, NJ), Tao Cai (Shenzhen, , CN)
Assignee(s): FUTUREWEI TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14596546 on 01/14/2015 (1224 days app to issue)

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure describe a self-contained service function network layer between a chain (e.g., a logical chain or service function chain) and a substrate network. Embodiments of the present disclosure further provide techniques for constructing logical chains for service function networks using chain tables, organizing chain tables using application program interfaces (APIs), deploying service function networks to substrate networks, routing packets through a service function network and a substrate network, and inserting, deleting, re-routing, moving and substituting service functions in logical chains.

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

Caller-identity based security
Patent No. 9979705

Inventor(s): Naveen Narayan (Flower Mound, TX)
Assignee(s): International Business Machines Corporation (Armonk, NY)
Law Firm: Schmeiser, Olsen Watts, LLP (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14863598 on 09/24/2015 (971 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method, digital telephone and computer-readable medium for providing a user identity-based secure channel between the digital telephone and a service provider. At the service provider, an encrypted voice transmission from a digital telephone is decrypted. The voice transmission was encrypted at the digital telephone by using a user voice encryption key that was created in the digital telephone. The user voice encryption key was created at the digital telephone by inputting a telephone identifier and a called telephone number into a public encryption key algorithm that is supplied by the service provider. By decrypting the encrypted voice transmission, the service provider is able to extract the voice transmission, the telephone identifier, and the called telephone number, thus allowing the service provider to route the voice transmission to an appropriate answering party at the service provider.

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

Single SSID and dual-SSID enhancements
Patent No. 9979710

Inventor(s): George A. Vlantis (Sunnyvale, CA), Liwen Chu (San Ramon, CA)
Assignee(s): STMICROELECTRONICS, INC. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Seed IP Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13685308 on 11/26/2012 (2003 days app to issue)

Abstract: A wireless local area network system establishes a PASSPOINT connection between a mobile station and a hotspot using an enhanced single SSID method or an enhanced dual SSID method. In the dual SSID method, an access point associates and authenticates a mobile device to a secondary SSID of the access point during enrollment and provisioning. After enrollment, the access point authenticates the mobile station to a primary SSID of the access point using the credential that the mobile station received from an online sign-up (”OSU”) server in connection with the secondary SSID. In the single SSID method, an access point performs two levels of authentication. During authentication, communications are limited to an 802.1x controlled port running on the mobile station and access point. After a first authentication, communications between the OSU server and the mobile station are unblocked. After the second authentication, all traffic from the mobile station is unblocked.

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

System and method for secure provisioning of out-of-network user equipment
Patent No. 9979730

Inventor(s): Marcus Wong (Greenbrook, NJ), Zhibi Wang (Woodridge, IL)
Assignee(s): FUTUREWEI TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14928901 on 10/30/2015 (935 days app to issue)

Abstract: The disclosure relates to technology for provisioning out-of-network user equipment with a network relay in a communications network. The network relay device receives an authentication key request message from user equipment including a user equipment identity and an authentication server identity, and communicates the authentication key request message to an authentication server having the authentication server identity. The network relay device communicates a relay authentication key response received from the authentication server to the user equipment such that a secure communication is established between the user equipment and the network. A relay authentication key is generated during establishment of the secure communication between the user equipment and authentication server, and a session with the user equipment is authenticated using a session key generated by the user equipment based on the relay authentication key. The user equipment is the authenticated with the network relay device and provisioned.

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

Contact center system and method for advanced outbound communications to a contact group
Patent No. 9979823

Inventor(s): Theodore Wallace Mitchell (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): GENESYS TELECOMMUNICATIONS LABORATORIES, INC. (Daly City, CA)
Law Firm: Lewis Roca Rothgerber Christie LLP (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15250323 on 08/29/2016 (631 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for managing outbound communications for a contact center includes: detecting, by a processor associated with the contact center, a trigger for transmitting outbound messages to a customer of the contact center, determining, by the processor, a notification strategy for the customer in response to the detected trigger, identifying, by the processor, a contact group designated for the customer, initiating, by the processor, first and second conversations with respectively first and second contacts in the contact group for transmitting first and second outbound communications according to the notification strategy, monitoring, by the processor, progress of the first and second conversations, and modifying, by the processor, a state of the second conversation with the second contact based on the progress of the first conversation with the first contact.

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

Method and apparatus of supporting wireless femtocell clusters
Patent No. 9980153

Inventor(s): Christopher Martin Edward Osborn (Allen, TX), Kyungsik Choi (Plano, TX), Seong Ju Seo (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Open Invention Network, LLC (Durham, NC)
Law Firm: Haynes and Boone, LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15284191 on 10/03/2016 (596 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of operating a femtocell network cluster is disclosed. One example method of operating the femtocell network cluster may include certain operations, such as, selecting a master femtocell access point among various femtocell access points operating on the femtocell network cluster and updating a master table to include the master femtocell access point in the master table neighbor list. Other operations may include transmitting the master table to each of the femtocell access points informing them of the identity of the master femtocell access point. The tables may be maintained by all of the femtocell access points operating on the network.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Combined base transceiver station and base station controller data call and quality of service
Patent No. 9980170

Inventor(s): Hyeon Bong Park (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Open Invention Network, LLC (Durham, NC)
Law Firm: Haynes and Boone, LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13707208 on 12/06/2012 (1993 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system, method, and computer readable medium for determining a data call rate comprises determining if a supplemental channel (SCH) should be allocated, if the SCH should be allocated, potentially altering the data rate, requesting an SCH allocation at a current data rate or the altered data rate, and receiving a response to the request with the current data rate, the altered data rate, or a further altered data rate.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Power efficient PS-Poll
Patent No. 9980219

Inventor(s): George A. Vlantis (Sunnyvale, CA), Liwen Chu (San Ramon, CA)
Assignee(s): STMicroelectronics, Inc. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Seed Intellectual Property Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15808592 on 11/09/2017 (194 days app to issue)

Abstract: A IEEE 802.11 Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) system of an access point (AP) and one or more stations (STAs) reduces power consumption and increases battery life of power efficient low power STAs by decreasing the amount of time that a power efficient low power STA remains in an awake state. After indicating power efficient low power operation during association with an AP supporting such operation, the power efficient low power STA may enter the doze state from the time that the power efficient low power STA sends a PS-Poll until the power efficient low power STA receives the buffered DATA frame from the AP. While implementing the power efficient PS-Poll method, the AP can send the buffered DATA frame to the STA SIFS after the AP sends an ACK to the received PS-Poll from the STA.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

System and method for interference coordination in wireless communications systems
Patent No. 9980270

Inventor(s): Lili Zhang (Beijing, , CN), Richard Stirling-Gallacher (San Diego, CA)
Assignee(s): FUTUREWEI TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14657494 on 03/13/2015 (1166 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for reducing interference at a first transmission point (TP) includes receiving a blanking bitmap from a second TP, the blanking bitmap includes an indicator of an interval of time when transmissions occurring on a transmission beam originating from the second TP are adjusted to reduce interference to the first TP, and scheduling communications for a user equipment (UE) served by the first TP in accordance with the blanking bitmap.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

DESIGN PATENTS

Abdominal Exercise Wheel
Patent No. D818544

Inventor(s): Reuben A. Miller (McKinney, TX), Shane Hernandez (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): XYSTUS, LLC (Carrollton, TX)
Law Firm: Carstens Cahoon, LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29568726 on 06/21/2016 (700 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

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Dallas Invents: 79 Patents Granted for Week of May 22

Patents granted include Micro-Gaming Ventures’ system for micro-betting, Toyota’s device for traffic light detection, Syntilla Medical’s implantable head-mounted neurostimulation system for head pain, and IBM’s caller identity-based security.

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