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 March. 20, 2018 | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (19100)

92 patents granted Ranked No. 9 in patent production out of 250 metros

NO. OF PATENTS BY CLASSIFICATION

TOP LOCAL ASSIGNEES (NO. OF PATENTS)

Futurewei Technologies Inc. (Plano) 10
SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano) 9
STMicroelectronics Inc. (Coppell) 4
CPG TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (Italy) 2
EMERSON PROCESS MANAGEMENT REGULATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (McKinney) 2
Encore Wire Corporation (McKinney) 2
FedEx Supply Chain Logistics Electronics Inc. (Fort Worth) 2
Frito-Lay North America Inc. (Plano) 2

TOP LOCAL INVENTORS (NO. OF PATENTS)

Ashish Bansal (Frisco) 2
Adam Broski (Dallas) 2
Chad Woelfle (Farmers Branch) 2
Dianbo Fu (Plano) 2
John Voss (Allen) 2

SPEED: APPLICATION TO ISSUE (NO. OF DAYS)

232 days
Basketball trophy candle
Inventor: John Voss (Allen)
Design Patent No. D0813426-S1
Assignee: Voss Solo 401k Trust (Allen)

4,212 days
Methods, apparatus and computer systems that enable hardware module use rights owned by one server to be claimed for use by another server in a common share group
Patent No. 9922198
Inventor: Francisco J. Romero (Plano)
Assignee: Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP (Houston)

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

Systems and methods for physiological signal enhancement and biometric extraction using non-invasive optical sensors
Patent No. 9918666

Inventor(s): Mehrdad Nourani (Plano, TX), Rasoul Yousefi (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): The Board of Regents, The University of Texas System (Austin, TX)
Law Firm: Schultz Associates, P.C. (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14595866 on 01/13/2015 (1162 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method for signal processing to remove unwanted noise components including: (i) wavelength-independent motion artifacts such as tissue, bone and skin effects, and (ii) wavelength-dependent motion artifact/noise components such as venous blood pulsation and movement due to various sources including muscle pump, respiratory pump and physical perturbation. Disclosed are methods, analytics, and their uses for reliable perfusion monitoring, arterial oxygen saturation monitoring, heart rate monitoring during daily activities and in hospital settings and for extraction of physiological parameters such as respiration information, hemodynamic parameters, venous capacity, and fluid responsiveness. The system and methods disclosed are extendable to include monitoring platforms for perfusion, hypoxia, arrhythmia detection, airway obstruction detection and sleep disorders including apnea.

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

Ankle tibia plates
Patent No. 9918761

Inventor(s): Brian Carpenter (Ft. Worth, TX), Douglas W. Miller (Dallas, TX), Gregory Pomeroy (Cape Elizabeth, ME), John Early (Dallas, TX), Michael E. Brage (Laguna Woods, CA)
Assignee(s): OsteoMed LLC (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP (Local + 12 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15356445 on 11/18/2016 (487 days app to issue)

Abstract: Implant devices for the internal fixation of fractured bones, and more particularly to ankle plates for the tibia bone are disclosed and include an anterolateral tibia plate having an L-shaped body including a proximal portion defining a longitudinal axis, and a distal portion defining a traverse axis, and having a support bridge connected between the proximal portion and the distal portion. Implant devices disclosed also include an anterior tibia plate having an elongated first portion, a second portion that widens outward with respect to the elongated first portion, and a plurality of removable tabs attached to the outer edge of the second portion. Implant devices disclosed also include a medial tibia plate having an elongated shaft with a proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion is configured to extend proximate to a base of medial malleolus, and has a curvature with respect to a longitudinal axis defined by the elongated shaft. The distal portion may include a plurality of removable tabs. The removable tabs may be disposed to define an opening between the removable tabs to orient a bone fastener into a bone.

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

Stable three-phased emulsions
Patent No. 9918912

Inventor(s): Amit Patel (Euless, TX)
Assignee(s): Mary Kay Inc. (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP (Local + 12 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15000850 on 01/19/2016 (791 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed is a water-in-silicone emulsion comprising a discontinuous water phase, a continuous silicone phase, and a silicone polyglucoside containing emulsifier, wherein the discontinuous water phase does not include a salt.

[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)

Connectors to secure multiple rails in a server rack
Patent No. 9924611

Inventor(s): Hoainam James Tonthat (Greenville, TX), James Whitney Wilson (Nevada, TX), William Beene (Commerce, TX)
Assignee(s): Innovation First Inc. (Greenville, TX)
Law Firm: Much Shelist, P.C. (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14712957 on 05/15/2015 (1040 days app to issue)

Abstract: A connector assembly for securing multiple rails in a computer rack system, the rack system having at least four racks positioned on separate corners to form a front, rear and two sides of a rack frame, and wherein each rack has a plurality of rack openings. The connector assembly comprising two pair of front and rear connectors, each pair being secured to the rack frame against one of the sides defined thereby, and wherein each pair of front and rear connectors are configured to secure thereto a plurality of rails. In addition, each connector, of the front and rear connectors, includes a base plate extending from a top to a bottom, and the base plate of each connector being configured to secure to a plurality of rails.

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

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

Microfluidic system with single drive signal for multiple nozzles
Patent No. 9919334

Inventor(s): Dana Gruenbacher (Fairfield, OH), Dave Hunt (San Diego, CA), Faiz Sherman (Mason, OH), Joe Scheffelin (San Diego, CA), Matt Giere (San Diego, CA), Simon Dodd (West Linn, OR)
Assignee(s): STMicroelectronics Inc. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Seed IP Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14975540 on 12/18/2015 (823 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a microfluidic die that includes a plurality of heaters above a substrate, a plurality of chambers and nozzles above the heaters, a plurality of first contacts coupled to the heaters, and a plurality of second contacts coupled to the heaters. The plurality of second contacts are coupled to each other and coupled to ground. The die includes a plurality of contact pads, a first signal line coupled to the plurality of second contacts and to a first one of the plurality of contact pads, and a plurality of second signal lines, each second signal line being coupled to one of the plurality of first contacts, groups of the second signal lines being coupled together to drive a group of the plurality of heaters with a single signal, each group of the second signal lines being coupled to a remaining one of the plurality of contact pads.

[B05B] SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES (spray-mixers with nozzles B01F 5/20; processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces by spraying B05D) [2]

Container-securing device
Patent No. 9919642

Inventor(s): John Llewellyn (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): Bluewater Resources LLC (Cotulla, TX)
Law Firm: D. Tiller Law PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15284339 on 10/03/2016 (533 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method for securing a container to a transport surface is disclosed. The system includes a capture member and a locking member. The locking member is configured to be attached to the surface and to securely engage one end of the capture member. The capture member includes one end configured to securely engage the locking member and a second end configured to securely engage the container. The locking member is optionally configured to require a key to disengage the capture member from the locking member. The method includes attaching the locking member to the surface, disposing a container on the surface next to the locking member, and positioning the capture member such that it securely engages the locking member at one end and securely engages the container at the other end, and thereby secures the container to the surface.

[B60P] VEHICLES ADAPTED FOR LOAD TRANSPORTATION OR TO TRANSPORT, TO CARRY, OR TO COMPRISE SPECIAL LOADS OR OBJECTS (vehicles with special provisions for transporting patients or disabled persons, or their personal conveyances A61G 3/00)

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

Anti-microbial coating and method to form same
Patent No. 9918475

Inventor(s): Craig Grossman (Point Roberts, WA), Daniel Moros (New York, NY)
Assignee(s): ALLIED BIOSCIENCE, INC. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Snell Wilmer LLP. (5 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15041974 on 02/11/2016 (768 days app to issue)

Abstract: An anti-microbial coating formulation consisting essentially of triethanolamine and a silane.

[C09D] COATING COMPOSITIONS, e.g. PAINTS, VARNISHES OR LACQUERS; FILLING PASTES; CHEMICAL PAINT OR INK REMOVERS; INKS; CORRECTING FLUIDS; WOODSTAINS; PASTES OR SOLIDS FOR COLOURING OR PRINTING; USE OF MATERIALS THEREFOR (cosmetics A61K; processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials to surfaces, in general, B05D; staining wood B27K 5/02; glazes or vitreous enamels C03C; natural resins, French polish, drying-oils, driers, turpentine, per se, C09F; polishing compositions other than French polish, ski waxes C09G; adhesives or use of materials as adhesives C09J; materials for sealing or packing joints or covers C09K 3/10; materials for stopping leaks C09K 3/12; processes for the electrolytic or electrophoretic production of coatings C25D) [5]

Method and apparatus for making hybrid crude oils and fuels
Patent No. 9920257

Inventor(s): Delmar Guenther (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Clean Global Energy Inc. (Lewiston, ID)
Law Firm: Seed IP Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15150132 on 05/09/2016 (680 days app to issue)

Abstract: A simplified process is provided for creating hybrid crude oils and hybrid crude fractions with characteristics superior to the original. The process uniquely combines gases with crude oil or crude fractions in an effervescent turbulent manner at low temperatures and pressures and without the further aid of catalysts. The process breaks large chain hydrocarbons into smaller chain hydrocarbons, molecularly combines carbon, hydrogen, and/or hydrocarbon molecules from the gases with and into hydrocarbon molecules of the crude or crude fraction, and separates contaminants and impurities.

[C10G] CRACKING HYDROCARBON OILS; PRODUCTION OF LIQUID HYDROCARBON MIXTURES, e.g. BY DESTRUCTIVE HYDROGENATION, OLIGOMERISATION, POLYMERISATION (cracking to hydrogen or synthesis gas C01B; cracking or pyrolysis of hydrocarbon gases to individual hydrocarbons or mixtures thereof of definite or specified constitution C07C; cracking to cokes C10B); RECOVERY OF HYDROCARBON OILS FROM OIL-SHALE, OIL-SAND, OR GASES; REFINING MIXTURES MAINLY CONSISTING OF HYDROCARBONS; REFORMING OF NAPHTHA; MINERAL WAXES [6]

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

Syntactic foam frac ball and methods of using same
Patent No. 9920585

Inventor(s): Michael L. Fripp (Carrollton, TX), Zachary R. Murphree (Dallas, TX), Zachary W. Walton (Coppell, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14272240 on 05/07/2014 (1413 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of servicing a wellbore comprising providing a flowable component comprising syntactic foam, communicating the flowable component into a wellbore, and allowing the flowable component to be removed from the wellbore.

[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]

Stuffing box leak containment apparatus
Patent No. 9920586

Inventor(s): Christopher Joe White (Oklahoma, OK), Darrel B. Fruit (Oklahoma City, OK), Darrel G. Fruit (Chickasha, OK), Jack G. Brewer (Chickasha, OK), Jerry Douglas Leopold (Yukon, OK), Steven L. Shroyer (Redondo Beach, CA), William
Assignee(s): Anti-Pollution Technology, L.P. (Frisco, TX)
Law Firm: McAfee Taft (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14322766 on 07/02/2014 (1357 days app to issue)

Abstract: An apparatus for containing leaks from a stuffing box on a wellhead production assembly, the apparatus comprises a containment vessel consisting of two half shells that are joined below the stuffing box. Additionally, the apparatus comprises a transparent lid having an upper opening to receive a polished rod extending from the stuffing box. The lid is secured to the containment vessel in a liquid tight manner such that the stuffing box is substantially isolated from the environment so that any leaks originating from the stuffing box will be contained in the apparatus.

Testable isolation packer
Patent No. 9920587

Inventor(s): Timothy Edward Harms (The Colony, TX), William Mark Richards (Flower Mound, TX)
Assignee(s): HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES, INC. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Kilpatrick Townsend Stockton LLP (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14408394 on 01/23/2014 (1517 days app to issue)

Abstract: Certain aspects are directed to a testable isolation packer that sets and provides the ability to test upper and lower packer elements. In one aspect, the testable isolation packer includes at least two packer elements, a packer element setting system, a bypass system, and a testing subassembly. The testing subassembly generally includes a moveable element with an outer port and a sealing element, an inner mandrel with an inner port, and a shear mechanism to cause travel of the moveable element close the bypass system and to open the testing subassembly.

Methods of improving hydraulic fracture network
Patent No. 9920607

Inventor(s): Charles Elmer Bell (Rockwall, TX)
Assignee(s): Baker Hughes, a GE company, LLC (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Jones Delflache LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13927304 on 06/26/2013 (1728 days app to issue)

Abstract: The complexity of a fracture network may be enhanced during a hydraulic fracturing operation by monitoring operational parameters of the fracturing job and altering stress conditions in the well in response to the monitoring of the operational parameters. The operational parameters monitored may include the injection rate of the pumped fluid, the density of the pumped fluid or the bottomhole pressure of the well after the fluid is pumped. The method provides an increase to the stimulated reservoir volume (SRV).

Well tools having magnetic shielding for magnetic sensor
Patent No. 9920620

Inventor(s): Matthew J. Merron (Dallas, TX), Michael L. Fripp (Carrollton, TX), Zachary R. Murphree (Dallas, TX), Zachary W. Walton (Coppell, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Locke Lord LLP (Local + 12 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14420386 on 03/24/2014 (1457 days app to issue)

Abstract: A well tool can include a magnetic sensor having opposite sides, and a magnetic shield that conducts an undesired magnetic field from one side to the other side of the sensor. Another well tool can include a magnetic sensor in a housing, the sensor having opposite longitudinal sides relative to a housing longitudinal axis, and a magnetic shield interposed between the housing and each of the opposite longitudinal sides of the magnetic sensor. Another well tool can include at least two magnetic sensors, one magnetic sensor sensing a magnetic field oriented orthogonal to the housing longitudinal axis, and another magnetic sensor sensing a magnetic field oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis, and a magnetic shield interposed between a housing and each of opposite longitudinal sides of the magnetic sensors.

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

Piston device and pressure regulator using same
Patent No. 9920835

Inventor(s): Min Qiu (Chengdu, , CN), Xuan Yu (Chengdu, , CN), Yanwei Lei (Chengdu, , CN)
Assignee(s): EMERSON PROCESS MANAGEMENT REGULATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (McKinney, TX)
Law Firm: Marshall, Gerstein Borun LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14764118 on 01/24/2014 (1516 days app to issue)

Abstract: A piston device and a pressure regulator including the piston device. The piston device includes a piston body and a baffle plate having a surface provided with openings. The baffle plate is arranged in the piston body and divides the piston body into an upper first area and a lower second area. The piston device beneficially improves the stress balance of the first area and the second area, thereby improving the stability of the overall system.

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

Apparatus to interface with a corrugated diaphragm
Patent No. 9920847

Inventor(s): Andrew Jared Lukensmeyer (McKinney, TX), Ernesto Vasquez (McKinney, TX), James Lyman Griffin, Jr. (McKinney, TX), Kunrong Matthews (Carrollton, TX), Tony Alan Durant (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): EMERSON PROCESS MANAGEMENT REGULATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (McKinney, TX)
Law Firm: Hanley, Flight Zimmerman, LLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15139898 on 04/27/2016 (692 days app to issue)

Abstract: Apparatus to interface with a corrugated profile are disclosed. An example apparatus for use with a fluid regulator includes an elastomeric ring having a corrugated profile that corresponds to a corrugated profile of a diaphragm of the fluid regulator. The elastomeric ring is to be positioned between a valve body and a bonnet of the fluid regulator to clamp the diaphragm between the valve body and the bonnet. The example apparatus includes a metallic ring positioned between the valve body and the bonnet to contact the elastomeric ring to support the elastomeric ring.

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

Method for determining amplitude of stick-slip on a valve assembly and implementation thereof
Patent No. 9920856

Inventor(s): Larry Gene Schoonover (Falmouth, MA)
Assignee(s): Dresser Inc. (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Paul Frank + Collins P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14506047 on 10/03/2014 (1264 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for processing operating data (e.g., position, setpoint, and pressure) for a valve assembly. The method is configured to associate characteristics of operation for the valve assembly with a root cause and/or a contributing factor. In one embodiment, the method can assign a first amplitude with a value that quantifies movement or ”jump” of the valve stem that results from stick-slip on the valve assembly. The method can also assign a second amplitude with a value that quantifies a change in the data for the setpoint. The method can further ascertain the relationship or ”position” of the first amplitude relative to the second amplitude, or vice versa. The method can use the relationship between the first amplitude and the second amplitude to indicate the root cause of the operation of the valve assembly.

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

Wickless heat pipe and thermal ground plane
Patent No. 9921003

Inventor(s): Brian Van Lear (Burleson, TX)
Assignee(s): Lockheed Martin Corporation (Bethesda, MD)
Law Firm: Wolf, Greenfield Sacks, P.C. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13744608 on 01/18/2013 (1887 days app to issue)

Abstract: A wickless heat pipe including a first tube and a second tube. The first tube may form a first shape extending longitudinally in a first direction. The second tube may form a second shape extending longitudinally in a second direction different from the first direction. The first tube and the second tube intersect at at least one location. The two tubes may intersect at a right angle or an oblique angle. The first and second tube may intersect at a plurality of locations. The tubes may be formed from a metal plate used as a thermal ground plane.

[F28D] HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT (heat-transfer, heat-exchange or heat-storage materials C09K 5/00; fluid heaters having heat generating means and heat transferring means F24H; furnaces F27; details of heat-exchange apparatus of general application F28F); HEAT STORAGE PLANTS OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL [4]

P H Y S I C S

Method for transmitting data for device diagnostics and implementations thereof
Patent No. 9920855

Inventor(s): Rama Krishna Raju Mudunuru (Dublin, CA), Sudhakar Reddy (San Ramon, CA), Vidya Govindan (San Ramon, CA)
Assignee(s): Dresser Inc. (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Paul Frank + Collins P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14530790 on 11/02/2014 (1234 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method that simplifies the exchange of data to facilitate delivery of data that relates to operation of a valve assembly to a Web-based user interface over a network. In one embodiment, the method configures an apparatus to receive data about the valve assembly in a first format and to generate an output in a second format, e.g., JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) format. The method may also configure the device with an architecture with multiple layers, wherein the architecture can exchange data in the JSON format between a first layer and a second layer. This architecture is configured to be lightweight as compared to the SOAP/HTTP architecture found in conventional techniques, typically deploying a Representational State Transfer (REST) structure that permits use of JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) format to communicate among the architecture layers and with the web-based user interface.

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

System for planning trips with estimated time of arrival (ETA) and projected time of availability (PTA) calculated for each stop
Patent No. 9921070

Inventor(s): David Johnmichael McKinney (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): TRIMBLE INC. (Sunnyvale, CA)
Law Firm: Marsh Fischmann Breyfogle LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15273419 on 09/22/2016 (544 days app to issue)

Abstract: A transportation management system that includes tools for generating an optimized trip plan that can be updated, such as based on driver input, during implementation of a planned trip. The system includes a comprehensive trip optimization tool that generates a trip plan with fuel stop and rest stop optimization. The system includes tools calculating estimated time of arrival (ETA) and projected time of availability (PTA) for the driver, and these tools are adapted to provide the ETA and PTA for the entire trip (rather than only providing an ETA for the next stop). The system further includes tools accepting driver input and/or allowing driver manipulation of a dispatched trip plan such as using pre-filtered alternatives for fuel stops or rest stops or routes, e.g., based on stored driver preferences, that may be less optimal than those in the original trip plan but still viable.

[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)

System and method for fluid composition characterization
Patent No. 9921204

Inventor(s): Jess V. Ford (Weatherford, TX)
Assignee(s): Weatherford Technology Holdings, LLC (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Blank Rome LLP (4 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14931729 on 11/03/2015 (868 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems and methods for predicting fluid composition in a reservoir formation are disclosed. To accurately and efficiently predict the composition of a sample fluid, an absorption spectrum is obtained over a prefixed set of wavelength channels and a set of basis spectra is received for all constituents of interest in the sample fluid. A set of a-priori constraints on the obtained absorption spectrum and constituent properties to be determined is then obtained, before calculating a joint probability distribution of all constituents of interest based on the obtained spectrum, basis spectra and a-priori constraints. In one embodiment, qualitative states are also computed for all constituents of interest based on the obtained spectrum, basis spectra and a-priori constraints.

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

Field strength monitoring for optimal performance
Patent No. 9921256

Inventor(s): James D. Lilly (Silver Spring, MD), James F. Corum (Morgantown, WV), Joseph F. Pinzone (Cornelius, NC), Kenneth L. Corum (Plymouth, NH)
Assignee(s): CPG TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (Red Oak, TX)
Law Firm: Thomas | Horstemeyer, LLP (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14847599 on 09/08/2015 (924 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments for field strength monitoring of electromagnetic fields generated by a guided surface waveguide probe. A field meter measures the field strength of the electromagnetic field. The field meter communicates the measured field strength to a probe control system coupled to the guided surface waveguide probe. Adjustments can be made to one or more operational parameters of the guided surface waveguide probe according to the measured field strength.

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

Adaptable seismic source for seismic surveys and method
Patent No. 9921328

Inventor(s): John Sallas (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): CGG SERVICES SAS (Massy, , FR)
Law Firm: Patent Portfolio Builders PLLC (4 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14889194 on 06/13/2014 (1376 days app to issue)

Abstract: Method, source array and seismic vibro-acoustic source element for seismic data acquisition. The method includes storing in a controller a library of beam form factor sets associated with a source array and corresponding regions to be surveyed; towing the source array along survey lines over the regions to be surveyed; selecting a beam form factor set from the library to be applied to the source array for each region; and actuating the source array based on the selected set of beam form factors and a position of the source array relative to the regions. Each set of beam form factors maps to a corresponding region of an area to be surveyed.

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

Dynamic coding algorithm for intelligent coded memory system
Patent No. 9921754

Inventor(s): Alan Gatherer (Plano, TX), Casen Hunger (Plano, TX), Hao Luan (Plano, TX), Hardik Jain (Plano, TX), Sriram Vishwanath (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Zilka-Kotab, PC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14811357 on 07/28/2015 (966 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems and techniques for dynamic coding of memory regions are described. A described technique includes monitoring accesses to a group of memory regions, each region including two or more portions of a group of data banks; detecting a high-access memory region based on whether accesses to a region of the group of memory regions exceeds a threshold; generating coding values of a coding region corresponding to the high-access memory region, the high-access memory region including data values distributed across the group of banks; and storing the coding values of the coding region in a coding bank.

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

System, method and computer program product for contact information backup and recovery
Patent No. 9921922

Inventor(s): Craig H DePoi (Metairie, LA), John Dunn (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Globally Tele-Connected, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Braxton, Hilton Perrone, PLLC (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14941869 on 11/16/2015 (855 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for contact information backup and recovery comprising receiving, by a contact information backup and recovery system, subscriber information, storing the subscriber information in a contacts data store, receiving, by the contact information backup and recovery system, contacts information associated with the subscriber information, storing the contacts information in the contacts data store, wherein the contacts information is stored in relation to the subscriber information, receiving, by the contact information backup and recovery system, a contacts recovery request, and performing, by the contact information backup and recovery system, a contacts recovery operation, comprising acquiring target contact information from the stored contacts information in the contacts data store, performing a telephonic communication using the target contact information, and sending the stored contacts information to a remote storage device.

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

Auditing electronic devices for customer personal information
Patent No. 9921923

Inventor(s): Brian Gventer (Fort Worth, TX), Joel McCarty (Oklahoma City, OK), Ken Nguyen (Fort Worth, TX), Kevin Asbury (Van Alstyne, TX), Mike Lowry (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): FedEx Supply Chain Logistics Electronics Inc. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: McGuireWoods LLP (Local + 9 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14075427 on 11/08/2013 (1593 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system, method, and auditing device for processing electronic devices to detect CPI. The auditing device may include a user interface for communicating information and receiving user input. The auditing device may also include a number of interfaces operable to communicate with the one or more electronic devices. The auditing device may also include a memory operable to store a plurality of libraries providing information for detecting CPI on a number of electronic devices including a number of makes, models, and configurations. The auditing device may also include logic operable to utilize the plurality of libraries to detect CPI included on the one or more electronic devices communicating with the testing device, record an identification of an electronic device in response to detecting the CPI is present on the electronic device, and store an alert associated with the identification indicating that CPI is present on the electronic device.

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

System and method for tracking block level mapping overhead in a non-volatile memory
Patent No. 9921956

Inventor(s): Michael Anthony Moser (San Jose, CA), Nicholas James Thomas (Dundee, , GB), Oleg Kragel (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Brinks Gilson Lione (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15215271 on 07/20/2016 (608 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for tracking block mapping overhead in a non-volatile memory. The system may include a non-volatile memory having multiple memory blocks and a processor configured to track a block level mapping overhead for closed blocks of the multiple memory blocks. The processor may be configured to track predetermined logical address ranges within which data written to a block fall, and then store the sum of the number of different logical address ranges for each respective block as a block address entropy metric. The method may include the processor using the block address entropy metric to select source blocks for garbage collection with a lower block address entropy metric or to adjust other operational characteristics such as data routing within the non-volatile memory system based on average block address entropy for a group of blocks.

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

Off-board hours-of-service (”HOS”) processing
Patent No. 9922001

Inventor(s): Thomas N. Flies (Poway, CA)
Assignee(s): OMNITRACS, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Arent Fox LLP (5 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13789304 on 03/07/2013 (1839 days app to issue)

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

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

Automated background check via facial recognition
Patent No. 9922048

Inventor(s): Danny C. Milliorn (Waxahachie, TX)
Assignee(s): Securus Technologies Inc. (Carrollton, TX)
Law Firm: Fogarty LLP (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14556695 on 12/01/2014 (1205 days app to issue)

Abstract: Embodiments use pictures of detainees and automatically scan image databases to detect when a detainee has a criminal record and to alert controlled-environment facility personnel to that record. A picture of the detainee is captured during booking or at another time. The picture is compared to a database of images of individuals with criminal records. If the picture matches an existing image in the database, then information associated with the matching image is provided to the controlled-environment facility personnel. The information is analyzed to identify key issues, such as active warrants. The controlled-environment facility personnel are alerted to any such key information.

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

Composite storage
Patent No. 9922115

Inventor(s): Athena Ann Smyros (Gunter, TX), Constantine John Smyros (Gunter, TX)
Assignee(s): Intelligent Language, LLC (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13763710 on 02/10/2013 (1864 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present application relates in general to information retrieval and repository management system and in particular to composite storage that efficiently and compactly stores all grammatical information, including text and non-text information, about a document or a set of documents, as well as various measures based on the language used within such documents to allow any size device to manage the information that it requires to perform its functions.

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

Methods, apparatus and computer systems that enable hardware module use rights owned by one server to be claimed for use by another server in a common share group
Patent No. 9922198

Inventor(s): Francisco J. Romero (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Dahl Osterloth, LLP (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 11518084 on 09/07/2006 (4212 days app to issue)

Abstract: In one embodiment, a computer-implemented method groups two or more servers in a share group. The method then tracks how many rights to use a particular hardware module type are owned and in use by each of the servers. If a first one of the servers needs to activate an inactive one of the particular hardware module type, but does not own an unused right to use the particular hardware module type, the method then i) requests a second one of the servers to inactivate one of its hardware modules, thereby freeing a right to use the particular hardware module type, and ii) claims the freed right of the second server for use by the first server. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

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

Shipping system and method for tracking customer personal information
Patent No. 9922302

Inventor(s): Brian Gventer (Forth Worth, TX), Joel McCarty (Oklahoma City, OK), Ken Nguyen (Forth Worth, TX), Kevin M. Asbury (Van Alstyne, TX), Mike Lowry (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): FedEx Supply Chain Logistics Electronics Inc. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: McGuireWoods LLP (Local + 9 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13360355 on 01/27/2012 (2244 days app to issue)

Abstract: A shipping system and method for tracking customer personal information in electronic devices. The shipping system includes a processor for executing a set of instructions and a memory for storing the set of instructions. The instructions are executed by the processor to receive one or more electronic devices for shipping to a destination, determine whether the one or more electronic devices include CPI, record an identification and metadata of the one or more electronic devices in response to determining CPI is included on the one or more electronic devices, and prevent the shipping system from generating a shipping label to ship the one or more electronic devices in response to determining the CPI is included on the one or more electronic devices.

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

System for embedding searchable information, encryption, signing operation, transmission, storage and retrieval
Patent No. 9922391

Inventor(s): Frederick J. Murphy (Falmouth, MA), Michael F. Malone (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): MYPORT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (McKinney, TX)
Law Firm: Munck Wilson Mandala, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15450494 on 03/06/2017 (379 days app to issue)

Abstract: A cell phone is disclosed for acquiring information to be transmitted to a receiving facility and for transmitting such thereto. A capture device captures information from an external source. A processor is provided for associating with the captured information a representation of the date and time of the capture of the information, such that the representation of the date and time information in association with the captured information forms augmented captured information. The processor also places the augmented captured information in association with subscriber information in a transmission of the augmented captured information to a receiving facility requiring such subscriber information. A transmitter transmits the transmission including the augmented captured information and the subscriber information to the receiving facility. An encryptor encrypts the augmented captured information with a symmetrical encryption algorithm to provide encrypted augmented captured information in the transmission with the subscriber information.

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

System and method for customer interaction management
Patent No. 9922649

Inventor(s): Parind S. Poi (Lewisville, TX)
Assignee(s): JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. (New York, NY)
Law Firm: Hunton Williams LLP (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15245796 on 08/24/2016 (573 days app to issue)

Abstract: The invention relates to a customer interaction management system that comprises a memory that stores customer profile data and customer interaction data; a voice response input that receives a voice pattern from a customer; and a computer processor, coupled to the memory and the voice response input, programmed to: retrieve customer voice data from a current customer interaction via a voice channel; retrieve data from one or more other interactions via one or more other channels; compare customer voice data to a customer baseline, where the customer baseline is developed from one or more prior customer interactions; generate, using a speech analytics engine, a customer score that indicates customer sentiment based on the customer voice data and data from one or more other interactions; during the current customer interaction, update the customer score based on customer progress data; and develop one or more actions, in response to the customer score.

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

Reducing select gate injection disturb at the beginning of an erase operation
Patent No. 9922705

Inventor(s): Vinh Diep (San Jose, CA), Xuehong Yu (San Jose, CA), Yingda Dong (San Jose, CA), Zhengyi Zhang (Mountain View, CA)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15621222 on 06/13/2017 (280 days app to issue)

Abstract: A memory device and associated techniques avoid a disturb of a select gate transistor during an erase operation for memory cells in a string. During the erase operation, a channel gradient near the select gate transistors is reduced when the voltages of the drain and source ends of a memory string are increased to an erase level which charges up the channel. In one approach, the voltage of the word line which is adjacent to a select gate line is temporarily increased. Another approach builds off the first approach by temporarily increasing the voltage of the select gate line at the same time as the increase in the word line voltage.

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

Memory hole bit line structures
Patent No. 9922709

Inventor(s): Christopher Petti (Mountain View, CA), Perumal Ratnam (Fremont, CA), Tianhong Yan (Saratoga, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14715566 on 05/18/2015 (1037 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods for reducing leakage currents through unselected memory cells of a memory array during a memory operation are described. In some cases, the leakage currents through the unselected memory cells of the memory array may be reduced by setting an adjustable resistance bit line structure connected to the unselected memory cells into a non-conducting state. The adjustable resistance bit line structure may comprise a bit line structure in which the resistance of an intrinsic (or near intrinsic) polysilicon portion of the bit line structure may be adjusted via an application of a voltage to a select gate portion of the bit line structure that is not directly connected to the intrinsic polysilicon portion. The intrinsic polysilicon portion may be set into a conducting state or a non-conducting state based on the voltage applied to the select gate portion.

Temperature dependent erase in non-volatile storage
Patent No. 9922714

Inventor(s): Xuehong Yu (San Jose, CA), Yingda Dong (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15483493 on 04/10/2017 (344 days app to issue)

Abstract: Apparatuses and techniques are described for temperature dependent erase in non-volatile storage. In one aspect, select gate voltage magnitude depends on temperature. This temperature dependent select gate voltage may be applied to a control gate of a select transistor while applying an erase voltage to a bit line and/or source line coupled to the select transistor. This can help assure that there is sufficient GIDL current for efficient erase at lower temperatures. In one aspect, a control circuit increases the duration of the erase voltage that is applied to the source line and/or the bit line at lower temperatures. In one aspect, the magnitude of the first erase voltage in a sequence depends on the present temperature.

Architecture for CMOS under array
Patent No. 9922716

Inventor(s): Alexander Chu (San Francisco, CA), Chia-Lin Hsiung (Mountain View, CA), Fumiaki Toyama (Cupertino, CA), Yanbin An (Santa Clara, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15439858 on 02/22/2017 (391 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing the area and improving the performance of a non-volatile memory array are described. The non-volatile memory array may comprise a 3D NAND memory array that includes vertical NAND strings that are arranged orthogonal to a substrate. A vertical NAND string may include floating gate memory cell transistors or charge trap memory cell transistors. Sensing circuitry for sensing the programmed data states of memory cell transistors within the vertical NAND strings may be positioned underneath the 3D NAND memory array and connections from bit lines positioned above the 3D NAND memory array may be made using vertical connections extending though the 3D NAND memory array or through memory breaks within the 3D NAND memory array.

Multi-VT sensing method by varying bit line voltage
Patent No. 9922719

Inventor(s): Deepanshu Dutta (Fremont, CA), Yen-Lung Li (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14924129 on 10/27/2015 (875 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods and systems for verifying two or more programming states at the same time are described. During a program verify operation, two or more memory cell threshold voltage levels may be concurrently verified by applying a word line voltage to a plurality of memory cells, applying two or more different bit line voltages to the plurality of memory cells, and sensing the plurality of memory cells while the two or more different bit line voltages are applied to the plurality of memory cells. The bit line voltages applied during the program verify operation may allow a first set of the plurality of memory cells to be sensed at a first voltage level while a second set of the plurality of memory cells are sensed at a second voltage level different from the first voltage level.

Integrated radiation shield and radiation stop
Patent No. 9924114

Inventor(s): George D. Skidmore (Richardson, TX), Henry W. Neal (Allen, TX), Jeff R. Emmett (Sachse, TX), Richard L. Southerland (Plano, TX), Samuel E. Ivey (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): DRS Network Imaging Systems, LLC (Melbourne, FL)
Law Firm: Kilpatrick Townsend Stockton LLP (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14208462 on 03/13/2014 (1468 days app to issue)

Abstract: An apparatus includes a detector that measures radiation. The apparatus also includes a window that is relationally coupled to the detector and a shield, so that the window is in between the detector and the shield. The apparatus further includes the shield that emits substantially constant radiation, and substantially blocks radiation from a camera housing at least partially surrounding the shield, so that the detector measures radiation passing through an optical system and the shield.

[G01J] MEASUREMENT OF INTENSITY, VELOCITY, SPECTRAL CONTENT, POLARISATION, PHASE OR PULSE CHARACTERISTICS OF INFRA-RED, VISIBLE OR ULTRA-VIOLET LIGHT; COLORIMETRY; RADIATION PYROMETRY [2]

E L E C T R I C I T Y

Methods of preparing nanodevices
Patent No. 9919921

Inventor(s): George Dee Skidmore (Richardson, TX), Jason M. Gray (Hillsboro, OR), Joseph J. Brown (Boulder, CO), Nathan T. Eigenfeld (Boulder, CO), Steven George (Boulder, CO), Victor M. Bright (Boulder, CO)
Assignee(s): DRS Network Imaging Systems, LLC (Dallas, TX), The Regents of the University of Colorado, a body corporate (Denver, CO)
Law Firm: Saul Ewing Arnstein Lehr LLP (4 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14604896 on 01/26/2015 (1149 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel nano- and micro-electromechanical devices and novel methods of preparing them. In one aspect, the invention includes methods of preparing a nanodevice. In certain embodiments, the methods comprise coating a polymer layer with a first at least one thin solid material layer using atomic layer deposition (ALD), thus forming an ALD-generated layer. In other embodiments, the methods comprise patterning the first at least one thin solid material layer to form a nanodevice. In yet other embodiments, the methods comprise releasing the nanodevice from the polymer layer.

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

Offset cancellation device for micro-electromechanical system
Patent No. 9921239

Inventor(s): Fabio Romano (Coppell, TX)
Assignee(s): STMicroelectronics Inc. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Seed IP Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14549437 on 11/20/2014 (1216 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a system that includes a sensor and a signal conditioner coupled to the sensor. The signal conditioner includes signal processing circuitry coupled to the sensor and offset cancellation circuitry. The offset cancellation circuitry includes a sign detector configured to output a high signal or a low signal based on a sign of an output signal from the signal processing circuitry, an integrator coupled to the sign detector, and a divider coupled to the integrator and to an input of the signal processing circuitry.

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

Programming optimization utilizing a framework for audience rating estimation
Patent No. 9922341

Inventor(s): Wassim Samir Chaar (Coppell, TX)
Assignee(s): TURNER BROADCASTING SYSTEM, INC. (Atlanta, GA)
Law Firm: Chip Law Group (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14842817 on 09/01/2015 (931 days app to issue)

Abstract: The television program scheduling system receives from one or more published data sources, historical audience data for previous telecasts of the shows on one or more television networks, and calibrates a model for audience rating estimation based on the historical audience data. The calibrated model for audience rating estimation may be utilized to generate estimates or projections of audience in the future. The television program scheduling system may generate an optimal schedule assignment of the shows to time periods that maximizes total resulting estimated audience based on the calibrated model for audience rating estimation. The generation utilizes a time expanded network in which each node represents an assignment of a show to a specific time period, with a specific stacking, and preceded by a lead-in show, and a feasible transition between two nodes represents a valid transition between two shows.

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

Electrical cables with non-metallic jackets and methods of fabricating the same
Patent No. 9922756

Inventor(s): David K. Smith (McKinney, TX), Jose D. Garza (McKinney, TX), Mark D. Bennett (Ravenna, TX), William T. Bigbee, Jr. (Bonham, TX)
Assignee(s): Encore Wire Corporation (McKinney, TX)
Law Firm: Warren Rhoades LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14328950 on 07/11/2014 (1348 days app to issue)

Abstract: An electrical cable having a plurality of conductors including a grounding conductor and at least one power-carrying conductor. The plurality of conductors disposed approximately in parallel within an outer jacket such that the electrical cable has a substantially elongated horizontal cross-section.

[H01B] CABLES; CONDUCTORS; INSULATORS; SELECTION OF MATERIALS FOR THEIR CONDUCTIVE, INSULATING OR DIELECTRIC PROPERTIES (selection for magnetic properties H01F 1/00; waveguides H01P)

Method for making strained semiconductor device and related methods
Patent No. 9922883

Inventor(s): Chun-Chen Yeh (Clifton Park, NY), Qing Liu (Watervliet, NY), Ruilong Xie (Niskayuna, NY), Xiuyu Cai (Niskayuna, NY)
Assignee(s): STMICROELECTRONICS, INC. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Cantor Colburn LLP (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15180158 on 06/13/2016 (645 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for making a semiconductor device is provided. Raised source and drain regions are formed with a tensile strain-inducing material, after thermal treatment to form source drain extension regions, to thereby preserve the strain-inducing material in desired substitutional states.

Three-dimensional memory device containing separately formed drain select transistors and method of making thereof
Patent No. 9922987

Inventor(s): Fumiaki Toyama (Cupertino, CA), James Kai (Santa Clara, CA), Johann Alsmeier (San Jose, CA), Shigehiro Fujino (Yokkaichi, , JP), Yuki Mizutani (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: The Marbury Law Group PLLC (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15468732 on 03/24/2017 (361 days app to issue)

Abstract: Memory stack structures can be formed through an alternating stack of insulating layers and spacer material layers that are formed as, or are subsequently replaced with, electrically conductive layers. The memory stack structures can be formed as rows having a first pitch. Additional insulating layers and at least one drain select level dielectric layer are formed over the alternating stack. Drain select level openings are formed in rows having a smaller second pitch. Partial replacement of the at least one drain select level dielectric layer forms spaced apart electrically conductive line structures that surround a respective plurality of drain select level openings. Drain select level channel portions are subsequently formed in respective drain select level openings.

Doping channels of edge cells to provide uniform programming speed and reduce read disturb
Patent No. 9922992

Abstract: A three-dimensional stacked memory device provides uniform programming speeds for a block of memory cells. The channel layers of the memory strings which are relatively close to a local interconnect of a stack are doped to account for a reduced blocking oxide thickness. Channel layers of remaining memory strings are undoped. The doping can be performing by masking the channel layers which are to remain undoped while exposing the other memory holes to a dopant. The dopant can be provided, e.g., in a carrier gas, spin on glass or other solid, or by plasma doping. An n-type dopant such as antimony, arsenic or phosphorus may be used. Heating causes the dopants to diffuse into the channel layer. Another approach deposits doped silicon for some of the channel layers and undoped silicon for other channel layers.

Transistor with self-aligned source and drain contacts and method of making same
Patent No. 9922993

Inventor(s): John Hongguang Zhang (Fishkill, NY)
Assignee(s): STMicroelectronics Inc. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15292465 on 10/13/2016 (523 days app to issue)

Abstract: A transistor includes an active region supported by a substrate and having a source region, a channel region and a drain region. A gate stack extends over the channel region and a first sidewall surrounds the gate stack. A raised source region and a raised drain region are provided over the source and drain regions, respectively, of the active region adjacent the first sidewall. A second sidewall peripherally surrounds each of the raised source region and raised drain region. The second sidewall extends above a top surface of the raised source region and raised drain region to define regions laterally delimited by the first and second sidewalls. A conductive material fills the regions to form a source contact and a drain contact to the raised source region and raised drain region, respectively.

Low power barrier modulated cell for storage class memory
Patent No. 9923140

Inventor(s): Ming-Che Wu (San Jose, CA), Tanmay Kumar (Pleasanton, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15269999 on 09/20/2016 (546 days app to issue)

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing a Barrier Modulated Cell (BMC) structure that may comprise a reversible resistance-switching memory element within a memory array are described. The BMC structure may include a barrier layer comprising a layer of amorphous germanium or amorphous silicon germanium paired with a conductive metal oxide, such as titanium dioxide (TiO2), strontium titanate (SrTiO3), or a binary metal oxide. The BMC structure may include a conductive metal oxide in series with an amorphous layer of a low bandgap material. The low bandgap material may comprise a semiconductor material with a bandgap energy (Eg) less than 1.0 eV. The improved BMC structure may be used for providing multi-level memory elements within a three dimensional memory array.

System and method for a mobile antenna with adjustable resonant frequencies and radiation pattern
Patent No. 9923282

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 (1673 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)

Radially compliant, axially free-running connector
Patent No. 9923293

Inventor(s): Brandon W. Pillans (Plano, TX), David E. Swernofsky (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): RAYTHEON COMPANY (Waltham, MA)
Law Firm: Cantor Colburn LLP (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15171636 on 06/02/2016 (656 days app to issue)

Abstract: A connectable assembly is provided and includes a body defining a recess, a male conductive element supportively disposed proximate to the body and a conductive compliant (CC) plug disposed within the recess for establishing a radially compliant, axially free running electrical connection with the male conductive element.

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

Wire pulling head apparatus with crimp zone indicators and method of using same
Patent No. 9923345

Inventor(s): Mark D. Bennett (Bonham, TX), William T. Bigbee, Jr. (Melissa, TX)
Assignee(s): Encore Wire Corporation (McKinney, TX)
Law Firm: Warren Rhoades LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15359065 on 11/22/2016 (483 days app to issue)

Abstract: An enhanced apparatus and method for securing a wire to a pulling cable for pulling wire. Specifically, the pulling cable and wire are attached via a pulling head body. The wire is inserted into an end of the pulling head body and secured by crimping the pulling head body against the wire. Further, crimp zone indicators positioned on the outer surface of the pulling head body indicate the optimal zone of crimping to achieve substantial contact between the pulling head body and the wire. A pulling cable is secured to the pulling head body via a ball swage that comprises a tapped surface.

[H02G] INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES (insulated conductors or cables with arrangements for facilitating mounting or securing H01B 7/40; distribution points incorporating switches H02B; guiding telephone cords H04M 1/15; cable ducts or mountings for telephone or telegraph exchange installations H04Q 1/06)

Multiply-connected power processing
Patent No. 9923373

Inventor(s): James F. Corum (Morgantown, WV)
Assignee(s): CPG TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (Italy, TX)
Law Firm: Thomas Horstemeyer, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15205467 on 07/08/2016 (620 days app to issue)

Abstract: Various power processing systems are described that employ a multiply-connected velocity inhibiting circuit. At least one delay active circuit and at least one variable capacitance are configured to cause an alternating current (AC) power signal to propagate in a single direction in the multiply-connected velocity inhibiting circuit.

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

Excitation and use of guided surface waves
Patent No. 9923385

Inventor(s): James F. Corum (Morgantown, WV), Kenneth L. Corum (Plymouth, NH)
Assignee(s): CPG TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (Italy, TX)
Law Firm: Thomas | Horstemeyer, LLP (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14728492 on 06/02/2015 (1022 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments for transmitting and receiving energy conveyed in the form of a guided surface-waveguide mode along the surface of a lossy medium such as, e.g., a terrestrial medium excited by a guided surface waveguide probe.

Method and apparatus for filtering a rectified voltage signal
Patent No. 9923451

Inventor(s): Dianbo Fu (Plano, TX), Heping Dai (Plano, TX), Liming Ye (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Futurewei Technology Inc. (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15095885 on 04/11/2016 (708 days app to issue)

Abstract: A configurable impedance circuit is provided, including a filter for filtering a received DC voltage and a controller. The filter includes a first capacitor, a second capacitor, and a selectable switch coupled in series with the second capacitor and coupled to receive a control signal. The selectable switch and the second capacitor are selectively coupled in parallel with the first capacitor. The controller is connected to sense a differential voltage across the second capacitor and configured to generate the control signal to open or close the selectable switch based on the differential voltage across the second capacitor, so as to maintain a voltage range across the second capacitor. According to disclosure of the present invention, the total physical size of the capacitors is reduced and the size of the power supply is reduced accordingly.

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

Multi-channel inverter systems
Patent No. 9923485

Inventor(s): Dianbo Fu (Plano, TX), Yunfeng Liu (Shanghai, , CN)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14933723 on 11/05/2015 (866 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system comprises a first T-type inverter connected to a dc power source, a second T-type inverter connected to the dc power source, wherein the second T-type inverter is configured to operate with a first phase shift from the first T-type inverter, a third T-type inverter connected to the dc power source, wherein the third T-type inverter is configured to operate with a second phase shift from the second T-type inverter, a coupled inductor having a first input, a second input and a third input connected to the first T-type inverter, the second T-type inverter and the third T-type inverter respectively and an output filter coupled to the output of the coupled inductor.

Solar panels with contactless panel-to-panel connections
Patent No. 9923515

Inventor(s): Adem Chich (Kearny, NJ), Daniel E. Boss (Murphy, TX), Sudhir Railkar (Wayne, NJ), Tommy F. Rodrigues (Nutley, NJ)
Assignee(s): Building Materials Investment Corporation (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP (12 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14207869 on 03/13/2014 (1468 days app to issue)

Abstract: A solar panel array comprises a first plurality of solar panels arranged side-by-side in a first course and a second plurality of solar panels arranged side-by-side in a second course, the second course partially overlapping the first course. Electrical energy produced by each solar panel of the array is aggregated with the electrical energy produced by the other solar panels of the array without physical electrical contacts between the solar panels. In one embodiment, contactless inductive couplers are used to couple the electrical energies of the panels together.

Automatic volume control for land mobile radio
Patent No. 9923534

Inventor(s): Christian K. Barker (Roanoke, TX), Joshua Alan Johnson (Lincoln, NE), Marshall Pommier Schiring (Lincoln, NE), Stephen Joseph Borer (Lincoln, NE)
Assignee(s): E.F. Johnson Company (Irving, TX)
Law Firm: Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14815033 on 07/31/2015 (963 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a radio and method for automatically adjusting, in response to ambient noise, the volume setting of a radio. The radio comprises a microphone for receiving ambient audio and generating a microphone signal; a codec for receiving the microphone signal and generating a processor signal representative of the ambient audio; and processor circuitry operable to receive the processor signal, determine an ambient audio level in response to the processor signal, and determine an adjusted radio volume to generate a radio volume control signal, wherein the adjusted radio volume is determined by calculating a difference between a baseline volume level and ambient audio level and adding a current volume level setting, wherein the codec is also operable to receive the radio volume control signal and generate an output signal to adjust the radio volume setting to maintain a net difference between the adjusted radio volume and ambient audio.

[H03G] CONTROL OF AMPLIFICATION (impedance networks, e.g. attenuators, H03H; control of transmission in lines H04B 3/04)

Feedback based on codebook subset
Patent No. 9923616

Inventor(s): Lai King Tee (Dallas, TX), Neng Wang (Plano, TX), Yi Song (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Apple Inc. (Cupertino, CA)
Law Firm: Meyertons, Hood, Kivlin, Kowert Goetzel, P.C. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15331979 on 10/24/2016 (512 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention provides for an improved application of signal strength weightings in a SDMA sectorized cellular network. The improved signal strength weightings application is conducted through the improved selection of weightings from a new codebook subset or by the selection of weightings from a larger codebook subset. In a further embodiment, an antenna beam index or bit map can be used to select the best beam(s) in a SDMA sectorized cellular network. In another embodiment, a field or factor in an uplink or downlink transmission packet can designate which directional transmission beam is best suited for the transmission or when the directional transmission beam should be activated.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]

System and method for relay node selection
Patent No. 9923628

Inventor(s): James Earl Womack (Bedford, TX), Yi Yu (Irving, TX)
Assignee(s): BlackBerry Limited (Waterloo, Ontario, , CA)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14878613 on 10/08/2015 (894 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for recommending a relay node to which a user agent attaches. The method includes recommending the relay node based on a relay node selection rank.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]

Analyzing optical networks
Patent No. 9923630

Inventor(s): Joe S. Philip (Hurst, TX)
Assignee(s): Lockheed Martin Corporation (Bethesda, MD)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15133574 on 04/20/2016 (699 days app to issue)

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for analyzing optical networks includes a network analyzer optically coupled to a fiber optic network. The network analyzer may transmit a test signal to the fiber optic network, receive a reflected signal in response to transmitting the test signal, wherein the reflected signal is generated in response to the test signal interacting with a defect of the fiber optic network. The analyzer may then analyze a power of the reflected signal, wherein the power of the reflected signal corresponds to the defect in the fiber optic network, calculate a transmit time of the reflected signal, wherein the transmit time corresponds a location of the defect in the fiber optic network, identify a component of the fiber optic network corresponding to the defect and the location of the defect in the fiber optic network, and generate a maintenance report based on the analyzed reflected signal.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]

Harmonic generation and phase sensitive amplification using a bragg reflection waveguide
Patent No. 9923634

Inventor(s): Inwoong Kim (Allen, TX), Jeng-Yuan Yang (Garland, TX), Motoyoshi Sekiya (Richardson, TX), Youichi Akasaka (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Fujitsu Limited (Kawasaki, , JP)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14863170 on 09/23/2015 (909 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods and systems enable amplifying optical signals using a Bragg reflection waveguide (BRW) having second order optical nonlinearity to generate an optical pump by injection locking. The BRW may also be used for parametric amplification of optical signals using the optical pump. Feedback phase-power control may be performed to maximize output power.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]

Systems and methods for adaptive frequency synchronization
Patent No. 9923651

Inventor(s): A. Thomas Emberson (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): WatchGuard Inc. (Allen, TX)
Law Firm: Winstead PC (Local + 2 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15412589 on 01/23/2017 (421 days app to issue)

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method includes receiving transmission segments from at least one device over a plurality of channels pursuant to a channel-switching schedule, the channel-switching schedule comprising an iteratively-repeated channel sequence. The iteratively-repeated channel sequence comprises a plurality of channels, the channel-switching schedule specifying an assigned transmission duration for each channel. In addition, the method includes, for at least one channel of the plurality of channels, detecting interference during a time segment of the assigned transmission duration, the time segment comprising at least one of a beginning portion and an ending portion of the assigned transmission duration. Further, the method includes responsive to the detected interference, determining to shift, by a specified quantity of time, a future channel switch indicated by the iteratively-repeated channel sequence.

[H04H] BROADCAST COMMUNICATION (multiplex communication H04J; pictorial communication aspects of broadcast systems H04N)

Seamless migration from multiple spanning tree protocol to ethernet ring protection switching protocol
Patent No. 9923731

Inventor(s): Davin Michael Colven (Dallas, TX), Maitreya Mukhopadhyay (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Fujitsu Limited (Kawasaki, , JP)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15262991 on 09/12/2016 (554 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for migrating loop-breaking protocols in an Ethernet network. The method includes selecting a virtual local area network (VLAN) implementing a multiple spanning tree protocol (MSTP) from a plurality of VLANs operating on the Ethernet network, the MSTP having a spanning tree with a root network element coupled to a first branch of network elements; disabling a virtual network link in the VLAN; migrating a first leaf network element of the first branch in the VLAN by disabling the MSTP and enabling an Ethernet ring protection switching (ERPS) protocol on the first leaf network element; migrating the root network element in the VLAN after the first leaf network element by disabling the MSTP and enabling the ERPS protocol on the root network element; and enabling the virtual network link after migrating the first leaf network element and the root network element.

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

Maintenance entity group end point of a subnetwork within a multi-domain network
Patent No. 9923756

Inventor(s): Michael Waldo (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): ADVA OPTICAL NETWORKING SE (Meningen, , DE)
Law Firm: Jenkins, Wilson, Taylor Hunt, P.A. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14484223 on 09/11/2014 (1286 days app to issue)

Abstract: A Maintenance Entity Group, MEG, End Point, MEP, of a subnetwork within a multi-domain network, said MEP comprising an encapsulation unit configured to encapsulate SOAM frames received by a passive Service Access Point, SAP, of the MEP and a decapsulation unit configured to decapsulate encapsulated SOAM frames received by an active Service Access Point, SAP, of the MEP.

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

Interfrequency and inter-technology neighbor planning on a self-organizing network
Patent No. 9923772

Inventor(s): Ashish Bansal (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): Cisco Technology Inc. (San Jose, CA)
Law Firm: Patterson + Sheridan, LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14333261 on 07/16/2014 (1343 days app to issue)

Abstract: In an example, a self-organizing network (SON) provides automated interfrequency load balancing for a base station such as a NodeB. The NodeB may provide a plurality of carriers, such as in a plurality of UARFCN frequencies, and the SON may provide configuration directives for increasing efficiency. For example, when one carrier becomes loaded, the SON may update neighbor associations to take advantage of relatively unloaded frequency carriers. A plurality of scenarios S may be provided, and a policy P may be defined for each. When the NodeB encounters a scenario S, SON may send configuration directives to implement policy P. Similar concept and policy could be applied in conjunction with INTER Technology Neighbor Definitions between LTE and UMTS and UMTS and GSM. Example if GSM Frequency Neighbors needs to be replaced with different Frequency Neighbors from UMTS based on Load or RF conditions.

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

Application update using multiple disparate networks
Patent No. 9923810

Inventor(s): Kevin V. Nguyen (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Open Invention Network LLC (Durham, NC)
Law Firm: Haynes and Boone, LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14686932 on 04/15/2015 (1070 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method that enables an application to retrieve application update from the software vendor using one or more network connection. The application checks for updates when it is invoked by the user. The checking of updates is done by sending a request to the vendor server via one or multiple network connections. The network connection can be wired or wireless. By using multiple network connections, the update process can send and receive update data faster than using one network connections. Another aspect of the invention is if the checking for update request failed via the default or 1[superscript]st [/superscript]network connection, the application will check for the next available network connection to send the update request. By checking for update from the vendor, the application will always have the most up to date patches, fixes, and/or new features.

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

Packet prioritization in a software-defined network implementing OpenFlow
Patent No. 9923831

Inventor(s): Jiao Wang (Shenzhen, , CN), Min Luo (Cumming, GA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14089295 on 11/25/2013 (1576 days app to issue)

Abstract: A software-defined networking (SDN) OpenFlow apparatus comprises a processor, and a memory system coupled to the processor and comprising a flow pipeline, wherein the flow pipeline comprises a series of flow tables, wherein each of the flow tables comprises at least one match field, wherein the match fields correspond to a plurality of network services, wherein the match fields are ordered based on a prioritization of the network services, which of the match fields are shared among the network services, a shared dependency of the match fields, and processing speed, and wherein the prioritization is based on which network services are most important and which network services are most frequently used.

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

System and method for triggering and sending device-to-device buffer status report and scheduling request
Patent No. 9923834

Inventor(s): Jie Ma (Beijing, , CN), Mazin Al-Shalash (Frisco, TX), Yongqiang Gao (Beijing, , CN), Zhenzhen Cao (Beijing, , CN)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14708233 on 05/09/2015 (1046 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for device-to-device (D2D) communications by a user device includes transmitting a first message including a proximity services (ProSe) buffer status report (BSR) to a communications controller, receiving a second message including information regarding a D2D resource grant scheduled for the user device by the communications controller, and canceling all pending ProSe BSRs in accordance with the D2D resource grant.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Electronic messaging exchange
Patent No. 9923932

Inventor(s): David Woody (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Global Tel*Link Corporation (Reston, VA)
Law Firm: Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein Fox P.L.L.C. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15620986 on 06/13/2017 (280 days app to issue)

Abstract: A computer-implemented system and method for secure electronic message exchange including coupling a control platform to a workstation of a plurality of workstations via a communications medium, where the control platform includes one or more apparatuses for monitoring, controlling, conversion, and billing, related to messages exchanged between a plurality of local users and a plurality of remote users. The system prevents forwarding or copying of a message sent by a local user of the plurality of local users and received by a remote user of the plurality of remote users, to another party by the control platform. The system and method also provides for authenticating the remote user with the control platform.

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

System and method for third party monitoring of voice and video calls
Patent No. 9923936

Inventor(s): Stephen Lee Hodge (Aubrey, TX)
Assignee(s): Global Tel*Link Corporation (Reston, VA)
Law Firm: Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein Fox P.L.L.C. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15594150 on 05/12/2017 (312 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system is described herein that facilitates the monitoring of inmate communications. The system provides a remotely-accessible means for a reviewer to monitor a call between an inmate and another person. The system includes a monitoring server and a monitoring station. The monitoring server is configured to receive a call and call information from a communication center and process the call for monitoring, schedule a review of the call; and store the call, the call information, and scheduling data. The monitoring station is configured to receive the call and the call information from the monitoring server based on the scheduling data, and to display the identifying information and facilitate the review of the call.

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

Large-scale storage and retrieval of data with well-bounded life
Patent No. 9923969

Inventor(s): Chi Young Ku (San Ramon, CA), Masood Mortazavi (Santa Clara, CA), Stephen Morgan (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14818925 on 08/05/2015 (958 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method comprising receiving one or more data storage specifications from a tenant, determining that a plurality of physical storage units in a physical storage system comprises a sufficient system capacity to provision data storage for the tenant, sending a storage request message to request creation of a network storage entity for the tenant according to the data storage specifications, and receiving a storage response message indicating a first of a plurality of logical storage units allocated to the network storage entity according to the data storage specifications, wherein the plurality of logical storage units are distributed across the plurality of physical storage units, and wherein the plurality of logical storage units are arranged in a sequential order to form a logical circular buffer.

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

Rules-based systems and methods for video visitation
Patent No. 9924135

Inventor(s): Matthew Richard Smith (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): Securus Technologies Inc. (Carrollton, TX)
Law Firm: Fogarty LLP (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13764470 on 02/11/2013 (1863 days app to issue)

Abstract: Rules-based systems and methods for video visitation. In some embodiments, a method may include receiving a request for a video visitation between a resident and a non-resident of a controlled-environment facility, identifying, among a plurality of predetermined rules, one or more rules that are applicable to the request, and evaluating the request based upon the one or more identified rules.

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

Image coding method, image decoding method, image coding apparatus, image decoding apparatus, and image coding and decoding apparatus
Patent No. 9924202

Inventor(s): Hisao Sasai (Osaka, , JP), Kengo Terada (Osaka, , JP), Kyoko Tanikawa (Osaka, , JP), Takahiro Nishi (Nara, , JP), Toru Matsunobu (Osaka, , JP), Toshiyasu Sugio (Osaka, , JP), Youji Shibahara (Tokyo, , JP)
Assignee(s): VELOS MEDIA, LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Nixon Vanderhye P.C. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15373818 on 12/09/2016 (466 days app to issue)

Abstract: An image coding method using arithmetic coding. The method includes: performing arithmetic coding on a first flag that indicates whether or not an absolute value of a target coefficient in a target coefficient block is greater than 1; and performing arithmetic coding on a second flag that indicates whether or not the absolute value is greater than 2. In the arithmetic coding on the first flag and the arithmetic coding on the second flag, it is determined whether or not an immediately-prior coefficient block that has been coded immediately prior to the target coefficient block includes a coefficient having an absolute value greater than a threshold value. Based on a result of the determination, respective contexts to be used in the arithmetic coding on the first and second flags are selected.

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

Display inserts, overlays, and graphical user interfaces for multimedia systems
Patent No. 9924235

Inventor(s): Alvin R. McQuarters (Euless, TX), Amir Ansari (Plano, TX), George A. Cowgill (Farmersville, TX), Jude P. Ramayya (Wylie, TX), Leon E. Nicholls (Plano, TX), Ramprakash Masina (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): KIP PROD P1 LP (New York, NY)
Law Firm: Perkins Coie LLP (17 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15360767 on 11/23/2016 (482 days app to issue)

Abstract: A disclosed digital media device operational at user premises to receive media signals from a media source for presentation via endpoint devices such as a television display. The digital media device can include gateway and digital media management functionality and can be referred to as a gateway and digital media device. The device offers application services obtained over a wide area network and a user premises network. The digital media device may form a composite signal from the media signal and application service information, for example, for a composite audio and/or video signal for television type presentation to the user. The digital media device may receive a selection signal based on the presentation, for transmission to the application service provider device or to the media source. The media device also offers a GUI presenting a moveable arrangement of icons for selectively accessing application services.

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

Intelligent patching systems and methods using color identification tags and related equipment
Patent No. 9924241

Inventor(s): Yi-Teh Shih (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): CommScope Inc. of North Carolina (Hickory, NC)
Law Firm: Fogg Powers LLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15218969 on 07/25/2016 (603 days app to issue)

Abstract: In one embodiment, a patch cord comprises: a communications cable that includes a first conductor and a second conductor that form a first differential pair, a third conductor and a fourth conductor that form a second differential pair; a fifth conductor and a sixth conductor that form a third differential pair, a seventh conductor and an eighth conductor that form a fourth differential pair; and a plug that is attached to a first end of the communications cable, the plug comprising: a plug housing that receives the communications cable; first through eighth plug contacts that each are at least partially within the housing and that are electrically connected to the respective first through eighth conductors; and a color identification tag that has a first color pattern that is a unique identifier for the patch cord.

[H04Q] SELECTING (switches, relays, selectors H01H; wireless communication networks H04W) [2009.01]

Method and apparatus of modifying a device according to acquaintance information
Patent No. 9924317

Inventor(s): David Gerard Ledet (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Open Invention Network LLC (Durham, NC)
Law Firm: Haynes and Boone, LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14630975 on 02/25/2015 (1119 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are examples of modifying a current state of a mobile station based on the location of the mobile station with respect to a nearby acquaintance. The method may include detecting a presence of a mobile station in a predefined domain area identified by an application, the predefined domain area being associated with at least one acquaintance, and performing a modification to a current state of the mobile station based on a level associated with the at least one acquaintance.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Apparatus and method for facilitating return of a mobile device
Patent No. 9924323

Inventor(s): Reza Yazdani (Los Altos, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Zilka-Kotab, PC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15242388 on 08/19/2016 (578 days app to issue)

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided to facilitate a return of a mobile device to an owner. A graphical user interface element is displayed, utilizing a display of a mobile device. A user input is detected in connection with the graphical user interface element, utilizing an input device of the mobile device. An interface is displayed including at least one return option for returning the mobile device to an owner of the mobile device, utilizing the display of the mobile device. Such interface is displayed in response to the detection of the user input in connection with the graphical user interface element utilizing the input device of the mobile device.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Interfrequency and inter-technology neighbor planning on a self-organizing network
Patent No. 9924382

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Method and system for wireless network optimization and remote control of mobile handset operation
Patent No. 9924386

Inventor(s): Anuj Jain (Dallas, TX), Jairaj Hedge (Southlake, TX)
Assignee(s): Orchestra Technology Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Munck Wilson Mandala, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15188713 on 06/21/2016 (637 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system for wireless network optimization and remote control of mobile handset operation, comprising one or more devices disposed on a network and a server disposed on the network having a database, the server configured to push a client application to the one or more devices, instruct the client application to perform a plurality of tests on the one or more devices, collect a plurality of reports corresponding the plurality of tests performed on the on the one or more devices, instruct the client application to perform debugging tests on the one or more devices, collect debugging results corresponding to the debugging tests performed on the one or more devices, and remotely access the one or more devices to resolve any operational problems of the one or more devices.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Apparatus, computer program, and method for criteria-based conditional cell reselection
Patent No. 9924426

Inventor(s): Julia Wang (San Diego, CA), Limei Wang (San Diego, CA), Mark Ernest Newbury (Hillsborough, NJ), SaiRamesh Nammi (Bedminster, NJ)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Zilka-Kotab, PC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15174890 on 06/06/2016 (652 days app to issue)

Abstract: An apparatus, computer program, and method are provided for criteria-based conditional cell reselection. In operation, information is identified in connection with a mobile communication device being serviced by a first cell of a network utilizing a first frequency with a first priority. A determination is then made as to whether the information meets one or more criteria. Based on such determination, reselection is conditionally caused for the mobile communication device in connection with a second cell of the network utilizing a second frequency with a second priority.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Network backhaul access
Patent No. 9924427

Inventor(s): John Green (Wylie, TX), Vincent Charles Graffagnino (Rockwall, TX)
Assignee(s): Oceus Networks Inc. (Reston, VA)
Law Firm: Knobbe, Martens, Olson Bear, LLP (9 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15204810 on 07/07/2016 (621 days app to issue)

Abstract: A communication system can provide an independent mobile cellular network to devices within a covered area. In addition, the system can determine whether user equipment within a covered area of the communication system are to have backhaul access to another communication system and/or whether to adjust the point of presence of the user equipment.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Systems and methods for signal brokering in distributed evolved packet core (EPC) network architectures
Patent No. 9924483

Inventor(s): Kaippallimalil Mathew John (Richardson, TX), Zhixian Xiang (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14510980 on 10/09/2014 (1258 days app to issue)

Abstract: Internet protocol (IP) address allocations in distributed EPC networks can be published to an IP address registry maintained at the central EPC entity in order to facilitate the routing of authentication authorization, and accounting (AAA) signaling of third party networks throughout the distributed EPC network architecture. The address allocations can be published directly to an address registry maintained by the central EPC entity, or indirectly via a cloud management server. Additionally, latencies associated with UE authentication in distributed EPC network architectures can be mitigated by triggering communication of the authentication or authorization profile upon reception of an update location request (ULR) message at the central EPC network entity.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Vehicle connectivity using a desired access point name
Patent No. 9924548

Inventor(s): Bonnie Chen (Grapevine, TX)
Assignee(s): General Motors LLC (Detroit, MI)
Law Firm: Reising Ethington P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14686073 on 04/14/2015 (1071 days app to issue)

Abstract: A communication system and method of using the communication system to determine whether to maintain a connection between a wireless carrier system and a telematics unit in a vehicle. The method includes the steps of: providing a connection request between the vehicle and the wireless carrier system (WCS), wherein the connection request includes a first connectivity identifier; receiving a connection response from the WCS indicating a vehicle-WCS connection, wherein the connection response includes a second connectivity identifier; based on receiving the connection response, determining at the telematics unit whether to maintain the vehicle-WCS connection using the first and second connectivity identifiers; and when the telematics unit determines to not maintain the vehicle-WCS connection, then carrying out one or more actions to terminate the vehicle-WCS connection.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

DESIGN PATENTS

Snack food product
Patent No. D812840

Inventor(s): Adam Broski (Dallas, TX), Chad Woelfle (Farmers Branch, TX), Michael Adams (Plano, TX), Vamshidhar Puppala (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): Frito-Lay North America Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Carstens Cahoon, LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29592929 on 02/03/2017 (410 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Snack food product
Patent No. D812841

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Cosmetic bottle
Patent No. D813041

Inventor(s): Jenny DeMarco Staab (Frisco, TX), Lauren Purkhiser (Addison, TX)
Assignee(s): Mary Kay Inc. (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP (Local + 12 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29610670 on 07/14/2017 (249 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Accelerometer holder
Patent No. D813070

Inventor(s): David Paul Verbeck (Waxahachie, TX)
Assignee(s): Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Hubbard Johnston, PLLC (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29584418 on 11/14/2016 (491 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Canister for collecting wound exudate
Patent No. D813374

Inventor(s): Carrie Lee Childress (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Smith Nephew Inc. (Memphis, TN)
Law Firm: Knobbe, Martens, Olson Bear LLP (9 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29574909 on 08/19/2016 (578 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Basketball trophy candle
Patent No. D813426

Inventor(s): John Voss (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): Voss Solo 401k Trust (Allen, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29612343 on 07/31/2017 (232 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Golf trophy candle
Patent No. D813427

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Litter container
Patent No. D813472

Inventor(s): David Veness (Fort Worth, TX), Nicholas Baker (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: 29557596 on 03/10/2016 (740 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Floor care tool head
Patent No. D813479

Inventor(s): Scott Latimer (Flower Mound, TX)
Assignee(s): Ecolab USA Inc. (Saint Paul, MN)
Law Firm: McKee, Voorhees Sease, PLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29514779 on 01/16/2015 (1159 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

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R E A D N E X T

Dallas Invents: 111 Patents Granted for Week of March 9
Dallas-Fort Worth ranked No. 9 for patents out of 250 metros. Patents granted include: 7-Eleven's object tracking system, Accenture's cost of healthcare analytics platform, American Airlines' flight number optimization system, Deere's scouting system with an autonomous ground vehicle, Mavenir Networks' system for supporting low latency applications in a cloud RAN, Roka Sports' snap-in nose pads for eyewear, The Parking Genius' sensors capable of determining direction and speed of vehicle entering or leaving a lot, and Toyota's system for monitoring suspicious activity of a vehicle.
The DEC Sets Dallas Startup Week 2021: Get Ready for 19 Tracks, 3 Summits, and Startup Alley
The hybrid event in August will take place in person at SMU and virtually. The seventh annual Dallas Startup Week powered by Capital One is Dallas-Fort Worth's largest event focused on driving entrepreneurial success, economic impact, and innovation in the region.
Dallas Invents: 117 Patents Granted for Week of April 6
Dallas-Fort Worth ranked No. 9 for patents out of 250 metros. Patents granted include: Astrapi's methods of transmitting data using polynomial-based signals, AT&T's allocation and extraction of data for augmented reality for 6G or other next-gen network, Building Materials Investment Corp.'s moisture sensing roofing systems, COEVAC's automatic smoke/carbon monoxide evacuation system, IBM's cognitive intervention for voice recognition failure, Kioma's child safety seat, SanDisk Technologies' low latency data transfer, Shavelogic's shaving systems, USAA's recommendation engine for cost of a claim, and an unassigned virus immune computer system.
Dallas Invents: 119 Patents Granted for Week of April 27
Dallas-Fort Worth ranked No. 11 for patents out of 250 metros. Patents granted include: Bank of America's authentication using blockchains, Dell's validation of data integrity through watermarking, Samsung's compensating for a movement of a sensor attached to a body of a user, SYNERGEN Technology Labs' baby monitor system sound and light delivery based on vitals,Toyota's parking meter monitoring and payment system, and Walmart's product recognition through multi-model image processing.

Dallas Invents: 92 Patents Granted for Week of March 20

Patents were granted for Securus’ automated background check via facial recognition, Turner Broadcasting’s programming optimization, FedEx’s shipping system and method for tracking customer personal information in electronic devices, and more.

THIS WEEK, BY THE NUMBERS
Week of March. 20, 2018 | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (19100)

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Dallas Invents: 92 Patents Granted for Week of March 20

Patents were granted for Securus’ automated background check via facial recognition, Turner Broadcasting’s programming optimization, FedEx’s shipping system and method for tracking customer personal information in electronic devices, and more.

THIS WEEK, BY THE NUMBERS Week of March. 20, 2018 | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (19100)

UTILITY PATENTS

DESIGN PATENTS

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R E A D N E X T

THIS WEEK, BY THE NUMBERS
Week of March. 20, 2018 | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (19100)

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Dallas Innovates, every day.