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 Sept. 12, 2017 | Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington (19100)

95 patents granted Ranked no. 8 in patent production out of 250 metros

NO. OF PATENTS BY CLASSIFICATION

TOP 3 LOCAL ASSIGNEES (NO. OF PATENTS)

1. Futurewei Technologies Inc., Plano (10)

2. SanDisk Technologies LLC, Plano (8)

3. Lennox Industries Inc., Richardson (3)

TOP LOCAL INVENTOR (NO. OF PATENTS)

John T. Hardesty, Weatherford (3)

SPEED: APPLICATION TO ISSUE (NO. OF DAYS)

211 days

Method and apparatus of derivation for a binary partition pattern, patent no. 9762914
Futurewei Technologies Inc., Plano

2,121 days

Portable endoscope and method of use thereof, patent no. 9757150
TREBLE INNOVATIONS, Springville, UT (Inventor, Brian Dean Owens, Plano)

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Patent information is provided by Joe Chiarella, founder of patent analytics company Patent Index and publisher of The Inventiveness Index.

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

UTILITY PATENTS

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

[PATENT NO. 9757150 IMAGE VIA USPTO]

Portable endoscope and method of use thereof
Patent No. 9757150

Inventor(s): Brian Dean Owens (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): TREBLE INNOVATIONS (Springville, UT)
Law Firm: Goodhue, Coleman Owens, P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13303117 on 11/22/2011 (2121 days app to issue)

Abstract: One embodiment provides a portable endoscope. The portable endoscope includes a case configured to enclose at least electrical components of the portable endoscope. The electrical components include a camera configured to capture video content within a body of a patient. The components include one or more lights at least partially encompassing the camera. The one or more lights are adapted to illuminate internal portions of the body of the patient. The components include a transceiver in electrical communication with the camera. The transceiver is configured to receive the video content from the camera and wirelessly transmit the video content to a computing or communications device. The components include a battery configured to provide electrical energy to the camera, the one or more lights, and the transceiver. Each of the electrical components are interchangeable within the case.

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

Locking pedicle screw devices, methods, and systems
Patent No. 9757161

Inventor(s): Kevin Kaufman (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): Genesys Spine (Austin, TX)
Law Firm: Trop, Pruner Hu, P.C. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14628895 on 02/23/2015 (932 days app to issue)

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention provides for a pedicle screw system including a bone anchor, linkage rod, tulip, set screw, and detent plate. When the set screw is fully tightened against the detent plate, pluralities of ridges on opposing faces of the detent plate and set screw cooperate by providing catches to prevent unwanted loosening of the set screw, which could lead to unwanted rod slippage and instability in the orthopedic fixation unit.

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

Spinal programmable implant
Patent No. 9757235

Inventor(s): Jessee Hunt (Plano, TX), Timothy Ganey (Tampa, FL)
Assignee(s): 4WEB, Inc. (Frisco, TX)
Law Firm: Meyertons, Hood, Kivlin, Kowert Goetzel, P.C. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15057195 on 03/01/2016 (560 days app to issue)

Abstract: Various embodiments of implant systems and related apparatus, and methods of operating the same are described herein. In various embodiments, an implant for interfacing with a bone structure includes a web structure, including a space truss, configured to interface with human bone tissue. The space truss includes two or more planar truss units having a plurality of struts joined at nodes. Implants are optimized for the expected stress applied at the bone structure site.

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

Synthetic triterpenoids and methods of use in the treatment of disease
Patent No. 9757359

Inventor(s): Colin J. Meyer (Frisco, TX), Gordon W. Gribble (Lebanon, NH), Karen T. Liby (West Lebanon, NH), Michael B. Sporn (Turnbridge, VT), Robert M. Kral (Grapevine, TX), Tadashi Honda (Port Jefferson Station, NY)
Assignee(s): REATA PHARMACEUTICALS, INC. (Irving, TX), TRUSTEES OF DARTMOUTH COLLEGE (Hanover, NH)
Law Firm: Parker Highlander PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13886053 on 05/02/2013 (1594 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention concerns methods for treating and preventing renal/kidney disease, insulin resistance/diabetes, fatty liver disease, and/or endothelial dysfunction/cardiovascular disease using synthetic triterpenoids, optionally in combination with a second treatment or prophylaxis.

[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)

Pharmaceutical compositions
Patent No. 9757376

Inventor(s): Odes W. Mitchell (Arlington, TX)
Assignee(s): GM Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Arlington, TX)
Law Firm: Winstead PC (Local + 2 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15287047 on 10/06/2016 (341 days app to issue)

Abstract: A composition of an antitussive, a decongestant, or an antihistamine to treat upper respiratory and oral pharyngeal congestion and related symptoms in a patient.

Inhibition of HIF-2 heterodimerization with HIF1 (ARNT)
Patent No. 9757379

Inventor(s): Charles G. Caldwell (Dallas, TX), John B. MacMillan (Dallas, TX), Kevin H. Gardner (Carrollton, TX), Richard K. Bruick (Dallas, TX), Thomas H. Scheuermann (Richardson, TX), Uttam K. Tambar (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): The Board of Regents of the University of Texas System (Austin, TX)
Law Firm: Parker Highlander PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14442485 on 11/14/2013 (1398 days app to issue)

Abstract: Provided is a method of inhibiting heterodimerization of HIF-2 to HIF1 (ARNT) comprising binding certain small molecules to the HIF-2 PAS-B domain cavity but not to HIF1 and inhibiting HIF-2 heterodimerization to HIF1 (ARNT) but not inhibiting HIF1 heterodimerization to HIF1 (ARNT). Those certain small molecules are also referenced synonymously as HIF2-HDI and HIF2 heterodimerization inhibitors and also simply as certain small molecules.

Methods and apparatus for lowering intracranial and intraspinal cord pressure
Patent No. 9757501

Inventor(s): Thomas Jennings (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): Board of Regents, The University of Texas System (Austin, TX)
Law Firm: Blank Rome, LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13858703 on 04/08/2013 (1618 days app to issue)

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for applying negative pressure to tissues of a patient that are transmitted to the vertebral venous system of the patient and thereby lowering intracranial pressure. Intracranial pressure is thus lowered easily without increasing the work of breathing, without needing to be intubated, and without breathing through a valve in patients with elevated increased intracranial pressure.

[A61H] PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY (electrotherapy, magnetotherapy, radiation therapy, ultrasound therapy A61N)

Multi-location top loading insulin infusion set
Patent No. 9757515

Inventor(s): Lopa Rishi Patel (Irving, TX)
Assignee(s): Flextronics AP, LLC (Broomfield, CO)
Law Firm: Haverstock Owens LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14515430 on 10/15/2014 (1063 days app to issue)

Abstract: A manual infusion set comprises a top connector lockable in a plurality of positions. The top connector and tubing is initially loaded from the top and then slid forward in order to puncture the septum. Once the connector is attached, it cannot be rotated. With the connector locked in place, flexible tubing connects the septum hub with a medicine pump, which continually supplies medicine such as insulin to a user.

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

Charging system including transmit coil current sensing circuitry
Patent No. 9757575

Inventor(s): Francis M. Menezes (Simi Valley, CA), Harry Dellamano (Santa Rosa Valley, CA), Paul Griffith (Santa Rosa Valley, CA)
Assignee(s): Syntilla Medical LLC (Southlake, TX)
Law Firm: Munck Wilson Mandala, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15347740 on 11/09/2016 (307 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system for transferring power to, and communicating with, at least one body-implantable active device includes an external power transfer system associated with an external device disposed outside of a body, operable to transfer power through a dermis layer to each body-implantable active device, and communicate data to and from each body-implantable active device, and also includes a power receiving system associated with each body-implantable active device, operable to receive power transferred from the external power transfer system, and communicate data to and from the external power transfer system. The body-implantable active device may include an implantable neurostimulation system.

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

Blanket to protect body from harsh environmental conditions
Patent No. 9756882

Inventor(s): Kimberly L. Townsend (Heath, TX)
Assignee(s): Servant”s Heart Outfitters, L.L.C. (Rockwall, TX)
Law Firm: Haynes and Boone, LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14591177 on 01/07/2015 (979 days app to issue)

Abstract: A blanket that may include a layer of material with trapezoidally shaped notches in two opposite sides of the material. An upper panel of the material may be configured to wrap around a user”s upper legs with the user in a sitting position, and a lower panel of the material may be configured to wrap around the user”s lower legs. Fasteners removably attach right and left edges of the lower panel together. A method of covering a portion of a user”s body with a blanket may include placing the blanket on the user with an upper panel of the blanket over the user”s upper legs, and a lower panel of the blanket over the user”s lower legs, wrapping left and right edges of the lower panel around the user”s lower legs, thereby surrounding the user”s lower legs with the lower panel.

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

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

[PATENT NO. 9757769 IMAGE VIA USPTO]

Composition and method to form a self-decontaminating surface
Patent No. 9757769

Inventor(s): Craig Grossman (Point Roberts, WA), Mai Ngo (Tucson, AZ), Ronald Wysocki (Tucson, AZ)
Assignee(s): ALLIED BIOSCIENCE, INC. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Snell Wilmer, L.L.P. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13448325 on 04/16/2012 (1975 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method to prepare a self-decontaminating surface, where that method includes disposing a first coating on a surface, where that first coating comprises an organosilane, and disposing a second coating over the first coating, where the second coating comprises TiO[subscript]2[/subscript].

[B05D] PROCESSES FOR APPLYING LIQUIDS OR OTHER FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL (conveying articles or workpieces through baths of liquid B65G, e.g. B65G 49/02) [2]

Article turn conveyor
Patent No. 9758313

Inventor(s): John Dewayne Prather (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): AMAZON TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (Seattle, WA)
Law Firm: Thomas | Horstemeyer, LLP (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14930033 on 11/02/2015 (680 days app to issue)

Abstract: Aspects of a turn conveyor system are described. In one embodiment, the system includes a first conveyor and a second conveyor, where the first conveyor includes a lateral displacement mechanism configured to displace an article laterally between the first conveyor and the second conveyor. The system also includes a lateral conveyor extending between the first conveyor and the second conveyor, a sensor configured to sense a position of an article on the first conveyor, an arm positioner configured to position a turn arm to one of a plurality of locations, and control logic. The control arm can be configured to control an operation of the arm positioner to position the turn arm for rotation of the article, and control an operation of the lateral displacement mechanism based in part on the position of the article to displace the article onto the lateral conveyor and into the turn arm.

[B65G] TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS (packaging B65B; handling thin or filamentary materials, e.g. paper sheets or thread, B65H; cranes B66C; portable or mobile lifting or hauling appliances, e.g. hoists, B66D; devices for lifting or lowering goods for loading or unloading purposes, e.g. fork-lift trucks, B66F 9/00; emptying bottles, jars, cans, casks, barrels or similar containers, not otherwise provided for, B67C 9/00; delivering or transferring liquids B67D; filling or discharging vessels for liquefied, solidified or compressed gases F17C; pipe-line systems for fluids F17D)

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

Polymer composition
Patent No. 9757603

Inventor(s): Andreas Mylonakis (Kailua, HI), Garry Edgington (Honolulu, HI)
Assignee(s): CBI Polymers, Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Renner, Otto, Boisselle Sklar, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13570479 on 08/09/2012 (1860 days app to issue)

Abstract: This invention relates to a polymer composition, comprising: water; a water-soluble polymer; and solid particulates of a sequestering agent. The composition may be used for decontaminating, cleaning and/or washing substrates contaminated with contaminants and/or contaminated materials.

[C11D] DETERGENT COMPOSITIONS; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS DETERGENTS; SOAP OR SOAP-MAKING; RESIN SOAPS; RECOVERY OF GLYCEROL

Method of fabricating carbon nanotube sheet scrolled fiber reinforced polymer composites and compositions and uses thereof
Patent No. 9758628

Inventor(s): Hongbing Lu (Plano, TX), Mohammad H. Haque (Richardson, TX), Ray H. Baughman (Dallas, TX), Shaoli D. Fang (Richardson, TX)
Assignee(s): The Board of Regents, The University of Texas System (Austin, TX)
Law Firm: Dickinson Wright PLLC (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14775940 on 03/14/2014 (1278 days app to issue)

Abstract: A novel method of fabricating carbon nanotube sheet scrolled fiber and fiber tows (carbon, graphite, glass, natural polymer, synthetic polymer, metallic, silicon carbide, Kevlar, etc.) in composites with improved interfacial shear strength, compressive strength, yield strength, stiffness and toughness has been reported. Single or multiple layers of carbon nanotube sheet, with a bias/wrapping angle of 0 and 90, has been scrolled around single fiber and fibers tows to improve the above mentioned mechanical properties of the matrix surrounding the fiber. Other common methods of growing CNTs directly on the fibers actually damage the fiber surface during the required precursor deposition and CNTs growth process. This demonstrated solid-state method overcomes such known problems. The CNTs sheet scrolled fiber is embedded into the polymer matrix exhibits significant (80%) increase in interfacial shear strength, compressive strength and toughness.

[C08J] WORKING-UP; GENERAL PROCESSES OF COMPOUNDING; AFTER-TREATMENT NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES C08B, C08C, C08F, C08G or C08H (working, e.g. shaping, of plastics B29) [2]

Ulcerative colitis (UC)-associated colorectal neoplasia markers
Patent No. 9758835

Inventor(s): Ajay Goel (Dallas, TX), C. Richard Boland (Dallas, TX), Yoshinaga Okugawa (Mie, , JP), Yuji Toiyama (Mie, , JP)
Assignee(s): Baylor Research Institute (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP (Local + 11 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14777414 on 03/13/2014 (1279 days app to issue)

Abstract: Embodiments provide methods and compositions related to detecting neoplasia in ulcerative colitis patients by detection and analysis of the methylation state of miR-1, -9, -124, miR-137 and/or miR-34b/c in samples from UC patients.

[C12Q] MEASURING OR TESTING PROCESSES INVOLVING ENZYMES OR MICROORGANISMS (immunoassay G01N 33/53); COMPOSITIONS OR TEST PAPERS THEREFOR; PROCESSES OF PREPARING SUCH COMPOSITIONS; CONDITION-RESPONSIVE CONTROL IN MICROBIOLOGICAL OR ENZYMOLOGICAL PROCESSES [3]

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

[PATENT NO. [PATENT NO. 9758937 IMAGE VIA USPTO]

Energy attenuating safety system
Patent No. 9758937

Inventor(s): James R. Albritton (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): Exodyne Technologies Inc. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: Baker Botts, LLP (Local + 6 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15280125 on 09/29/2016 (348 days app to issue)

Abstract: An energy absorbing system with one or more energy absorbing assemblies to reduce or eliminate severity of a collision between a moving vehicle and a roadside hazard. The energy absorbing system may be installed adjacent various roadside hazards or may be installed on highway service equipment. One end of the system may face oncoming traffic. A collision by a motor vehicle with a sled assembly may result in shredding or rupturing of portions of an energy absorbing element to dissipate energy from the vehicle collision.

[E01F] ADDITIONAL WORK, SUCH AS EQUIPPING ROADS OR THE CONSTRUCTION OF PLATFORMS, HELICOPTER LANDING STAGES, SIGNS, SNOW FENCES, OR THE LIKE

Seals for closet collars
Patent No. 9758957

Inventor(s): Michael J. Schuster (Shorewood, IL)
Assignee(s): DANCO, INC. (Irving, TX)
Law Firm: Thomas | Horstemeyer LLP (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13974918 on 08/23/2013 (1481 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments for providing a seal for a closet collar. A sealing assembly is positioned on a closet collar for a drain pipe. The sealing assembly may comprise a portion on which a sealing component is positioned. A toilet is positioned over the sealing assembly. The sealing assembly is compressed between the toilet and the closet collar, and a seal for the closet collar is formed.

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

Protection assembly for downhole wet connectors
Patent No. 9759016

Inventor(s): Bryon Mullen (Carrollton, TX), Eddie Perez (Carrollton, TX), William Germany (Denton, TX), William Richards (Frisco, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Haynes and Boone, LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14122369 on 01/10/2013 (1706 days app to issue)

Abstract: The invention addresses protecting the free ends of communication lines from debris during downhole wet-mate connection in a wellbore, with protection of the lines upon disconnection as well. A reciprocating debris exclusion device is provided for use with upper and lower tools to be connected. The lower tool has a reciprocating cover member mounted for sliding engagement with the housing of the lower tool, the cover member shielding the free end of a communication line. An upper tool has a bladder-type cover member attached to the upper tool and protecting the free end of a communication line. The reciprocating cover member is moveable between a closed and an open position and is moved in response to contact with the upper tool. The bladder cover is movable between closed and open positions and is moved to the open position by contact with the reciprocating cover member of the lower tool.

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

Tubular joint elevator and method
Patent No. 9759019

Inventor(s): Beat Kttel (Spring, TX), Faisal J. Yousef (Houston, TX), Stanislaw Casimir Sulima (Spring, TX)
Assignee(s): Canrig Drilling Technology, Ltd. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Haynes and Boone LLP (Local + 13 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13962408 on 08/08/2013 (1496 days app to issue)

Abstract: A tubular joint elevator includes a ringed portion configured to lift a tubular joint. The elevator includes an elevating mechanism disposed adjacent to the ringed portion, and configured to elevate the tubular joint. In some embodiments, the elevator includes first, second, and third doors. The elevator includes a first locking member, and the first door includes a first locking recess. The first locking member is axially displaceable between an advanced position and a retracted position such that it is either received in or separated from the first locking recess. The third door includes a locking pin, and the first door comprises a locking hole. The third door is longitudinally displaceable between a first position and a second position such that the locking pin is either separated from, or received in, the locking hole. Methods of using the same are also included.

Apparatus for securing a centralizer to a tubular
Patent No. 9759023

Inventor(s): Eugene Edward Miller (Weatherford, TX), Jean Buytaert (Mineral Wells, TX)
Assignee(s): ANTELOPE OIL TOOL MFG. CO. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: MH2 Technology Law Group, LLP (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14320099 on 06/30/2014 (1170 days app to issue)

Abstract: An apparatus for securing to a tubular includes a tubular base configured to be disposed around the tubular, the base defining a longitudinal central axis therethrough and including axial ends. The apparatus includes fingers extending from at least one of the axial ends of the base and substantially parallel to the longitudinal central axis. The fingers are separated circumferentially apart by slots, at least one of which does not extend across the base. The apparatus includes a sleeve configured to be disposed around the tubular and slid straight axially over the fingers, such that an elasticity of the sleeve provides a radially-inward gripping force on the fingers. The gripping force prevents the base, the plurality of fingers, and the sleeve from rotating relative to the tubular and from moving axially relative to the tubular. The sleeve may abut a stop wall of the base when slid onto the fingers.

Freeing pipe stuck in a subterranean well
Patent No. 9759031

Inventor(s): Neal G. Skinner (Lewisville, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Chamberlain Hrdlicka (5 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14366067 on 08/22/2012 (1847 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of freeing a pipe stuck in a subterranean well can include determining a location of a portion of the pipe stuck in the well, and penetrating and/or heating a sidewall of the pipe portion with a beam of light. A system for freeing a pipe stuck in a subterranean well can include a tool deployed into a portion of the pipe stuck in the well by a differential pressure from a wellbore to a formation penetrated by the wellbore. A beam of light emitted from the tool penetrates the pipe portion. Another method of freeing a pipe stuck in a subterranean well can include determining a location of a portion of the pipe which is biased against a wall of a wellbore by differential pressure, and directing a beam of light to the pipe portion.

Methods of removing a wellbore isolation device using galvanic corrosion of a metal alloy in solid solution
Patent No. 9759035

Inventor(s): Michael L. Fripp (Carrollton, TX), Zachary R. Murphree (Carrollton, TX), Zachary W. Walton (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: McGuireWoods LLP (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14199820 on 03/06/2014 (1286 days app to issue)

Abstract: At least a portion of a wellbore isolation device consists essentially of: a metal alloy, wherein the metal alloy: (A) comprises magnesium at a concentration of at least 50% by volume of the metal alloy; and (B) at least partially dissolves in the presence of an electrolyte. A method of removing the wellbore isolation device comprises: contacting or allowing the wellbore isolation device to come in contact with an electrolyte; and allowing at least a portion of the metal alloy to dissolve.

Degradable material time delay system and method
Patent No. 9759039

Inventor(s): John T Hardesty (Weatherford, TX)
Assignee(s): GEODYNAMICS, INC. (Millsap, TX)
Law Firm: Carstens Cahoon, LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15090963 on 04/05/2016 (525 days app to issue)

Abstract: A detonating restriction plug element and method in a wellbore casing. The element includes a hollow passage in the restriction plug element that receives a detonating assembly coupled to a mechanical restraining element, and a space for containing a reactive fluid. The mechanical restraining element undergoes a change in shape for a pre-determined time delay due to a chemical reaction when the reactive fluid in the space such as wellbore fluids comes in contact with the restraining element. A firing pin in the detonating assembly is released when the restraining elements changes shape and releases the restraint on the firing pin. The firing pin contacts a detonator in the detonating assembly and causes a detonating event such that the restriction plug element fragments.

Downhole fluid flow control system and method having a pressure sensing module for autonomous flow control
Patent No. 9759042

Inventor(s): Liang Zhao (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: McGuireWoods (Local + 4252 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15012708 on 02/01/2016 (589 days app to issue)

Abstract: A downhole fluid flow control system and method includes a fluid control module having a main fluid pathway, a valve element and a pressure sensing module. The valve element has open and closed positions relative to the main fluid pathway to allow and prevent fluid flow therethrough. The pressure sensing module includes a secondary fluid pathway in parallel with the main fluid pathway having an upstream pressure sensing location and a downstream pressure sensing location with a cross sectional area transition region therebetween. In operation, the valve element moves between open and closed positions responsive to a pressure difference between pressure signals from the upstream and downstream pressure sensing locations. The pressure difference is dependent upon the change in cross sectional area and the viscosity of a fluid flowing through the secondary fluid pathway such that the viscosity is operable to control fluid flow through the main fluid pathway.

Downhole fluid flow control system and method having autonomous flow control
Patent No. 9759043

Abstract: A downhole fluid flow control system and method includes a fluid control module having a main fluid pathway, a valve element and a pressure sensing module. The valve element has open and closed positions relative to the main fluid pathway to allow and prevent fluid flow therethrough. The pressure sensing module includes a secondary fluid pathway in parallel with the main fluid pathway having an upstream pressure sensing location and a downstream pressure sensing location. In operation, the valve element moves between open and closed positions responsive to a pressure difference between pressure signals from the upstream and downstream pressure sensing locations. The pressure difference is dependent upon the viscosity of a fluid flowing through the secondary fluid pathway such that the viscosity is operable to control fluid flow through the main fluid pathway.

Wellbore gun perforating system and method
Patent No. 9759049

Inventor(s): James A Rollins (Lipan, TX), John T Hardesty (Weatherford, TX)
Assignee(s): GEODYNAMICS, INC. (Millsap, TX)
Law Firm: Carstens Cahoon, LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15090967 on 04/05/2016 (525 days app to issue)

Abstract: A wellbore perforating system and method with reliable and safer connections in a perforating gun assembly is disclosed. The system/method includes a gun string assembly (GSA) deployed in a wellbore with multiple perforating guns attached to plural switch subs. The perforating guns are pre-wired with a cable having multi conductors; the multi conductors are connected to electrical ring contacts on either end of the perforating guns. The switch subs are configured with electrical contacts that are attached to the electrical contacts of the perforating guns without the need for manual electrical connections and assembly in the field of operations. The system further includes detonating with a detonator that is positioned upstream of the perforating gun. The detonator is wired to a switch that is positioned downstream of the perforating gun.

Wellbore gun perforating system and method
Patent No. 9759050

Inventor(s): James A Rollins (Lipan, TX), John T Hardesty (Weatherford, TX)
Assignee(s): GEODYNAMCS, INC. (Millsap, TX)
Law Firm: Carstens Cahoon, LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15090988 on 04/05/2016 (525 days app to issue)

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

[PATENT NO. [PATENT NO. 9759335 IMAGE VIA USPTO]

Flow restrictor having multiple flow modifying regions
Patent No. 9759335

Inventor(s): David Michael Jones (Magna, UT), Lamar Edward May (Tooele, UT)
Assignee(s): Dresser, Inc. (Addison, TX)
Law Firm: Paul Frank + Collins P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14469671 on 08/27/2014 (1112 days app to issue)

Abstract: A flow restrictor for use on a pilot operated relief valve (PORV) assembly with a pilot valve that regulates operation of a main valve to reduce pressure in a system or vessel. In one embodiment, the flow restrictor is configured with a plurality of flow modifying regions, namely, a first region and a second region that is spaced apart from the first region. These regions are configured to generate flow at the outlet of the flow restrictor that induces operation of the pilot valve that is favorable for operation of the main valve. In one example, the first region and the second region define, respectively, a first flow area and a second flow area for the flow pathway, wherein each are configured to assign a ratio of the second flow area to the first flow area with a value of less than 10.

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

Slam shut reset pin guide assembly and slam shut safety device comprising same
Patent No. 9759342

Inventor(s): Eva Gota (Cluj-Napoca, , RO), Tiberiu Moldovan (Cluj-Napoca, , RO), Tung K. Nguyen (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): EMERSON PROCESS MANAGEMENT REGULATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (McKinney, TX)
Law Firm: Marshall, Gerstein Borun LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14920239 on 10/22/2015 (691 days app to issue)

Abstract: A slam shut safety device includes a valve body, a valve disc, a reset pin, and a reset pin guide. The valve disc is disposed within the valve body and shiftable along a slam shut axis between an open position and a closed second position. The reset pin is operatively coupled to the valve disc and shiftable along the slam shut axis relative to the valve body between an untripped position placing the valve disc in the open position and a tripped position placing the valve disc in the closed position. The reset pin guide supports one end of the reset pin, thereby providing added structural integrity to the reset pin and valve disc.

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

Packaged air conditioning system having multiple utility connectivity
Patent No. 9759434

Inventor(s): Dave Winningham (Richardson, TX), Jeff Butler (Richardson, TX), Matthew Pine (Gadsden, AL)
Assignee(s): Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Frost Brown Todd LLC (Local + 4 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13685177 on 11/26/2012 (1751 days app to issue)

Abstract: One aspect of this disclosure provides a packaged air conditioning heating (PACH) system that comprises a housing, an air cooling system contained within the housing and an air heating system contained within the housing. A first utility access point is located on a first side of the housing and a second utility access point is located on a second side of the housing. The first and second utility access points provide multiple utility access connectivity for the air cooling and heating systems.

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

Heat pump system having a maximum percent demand re-calculation algorithm controller
Patent No. 9759466

Inventor(s): Eric Berg (Carrollton, TX), Pete Hrejsa (Carrollton, TX), Rakesh Goel (Carrollton, TX)
Assignee(s): Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Winstead PC (Local + 2 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14198046 on 03/05/2014 (1287 days app to issue)

Abstract: One aspect presents a controller that comprises a control board, a microprocessor located on and electrically coupled to the control board, and a memory coupled to the microprocessor and located on and electrically coupled to the control board. The controller is configured to receive an operating parameter signal and recalculate a first maximum heating % demand to a second maximum heating % demand that is greater than the first maximum heating % demand, when a value of the operating parameter signal exceeds a predetermined value, and operate the HP system based on the second maximum heating % demand.

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

System for controlling operation of an HVAC system having tandem compressors
Patent No. 9759468

Inventor(s): Der-Kai Hung (Dallas, TX), Harold Gene Havard, Jr. (Carrollton, TX), Rosa Maria Leal (Irving, TX)
Assignee(s): Lennox Industries Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14221843 on 03/21/2014 (1271 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention provides for a control system for operating a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. A controller operates compressors in tandem. In response to detection of a high pressure condition in refrigerant flowing through a high pressure side of the HVAC system, the controller operates the HVAC system with a first compressor on and a second compressor off.

Method and apparatus for absorbing shock in an optical system
Patent No. 9759523

Inventor(s): Brian Pekarek (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): DRS Network Imaging Systems, LLC (Melbourne, FL)
Law Firm: Kilpatrick Townsend Stockton LLP (14 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15185902 on 06/17/2016 (452 days app to issue)

Abstract: A shock attenuation system configured to reduce shock experienced by an optical device coupled to a weapon includes an inner rail support configured to couple to the weapon and at least two outer rail supports substantially parallel to the inner rail support. The at least two outer rail supports are configured to couple to the optical device. The shock attenuation system also includes a first spring feature coupled to a first of the at least two outer rail supports and the inner rail support, and a second spring feature coupled to a second of the at least two outer rail supports and the inner rail support. The shock attenuation system further includes a viscoelastic material coupled to at least one of: the inner rail support, the first outer rail support, the second outer rail support, the first spring feature, or the second spring feature.

[F41G] WEAPON SIGHTS; AIMING (optical aspects thereof G02B)

Gun launched munition with strakes
Patent No. 9759535

Inventor(s): Conlee O. Quortrup (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): BAE Systems Land Armaments L.P. (Arlington, VA)
Law Firm: Patterson Thuente Pedersen, P.A. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14700889 on 04/30/2015 (866 days app to issue)

Abstract: A projectile that includes strakes mounted about the perimeter of the midsection of the projectile and a pusher plate assembly mounted about the aft of the projectile so that a sub-caliber projectile may be fired from a larger caliber gun. The pusher plate assembly forms a seal with the bore at the aft end of the projectile. The strakes maintain the center line position of the projectile within the bore. The pusher plate assembly further designed to fragment upon exiting the bore while the strakes remain with the projectile to enhance aerodynamic qualities of the projectile in flight.

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

Adjustable deadband control system
Patent No. 9760097

Inventor(s): Douglas James Scheffler (McKinney, TX), James Curtis Bagby (McKinney, TX), Justin Lane Masias (McKinney, TX), Tung K. Nguyen (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): EMERSON PROCESS MANAGEMENT REGULATOR TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (McKinney, TX)
Law Firm: Marshall, Gerstein Borun LLP (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14825454 on 08/13/2015 (761 days app to issue)

Abstract: Control systems include various combinations of pressure regulators, pilots, and pressure stabilizers to provide systems with adjustable deadbands for over pressure protection, adjustable deadbands for under pressure protection, adjustable deadbands for both over pressure and under pressure protection, pressure assisted closure for over pressure protection, pressure assisted closure for under pressure protection, pressure assisted closure for both over pressure and under pressure protection, or spring assisted closure for over pressure and under pressure protection.

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

P H Y S I C S

[PATENT NO. [PATENT NO. 9759682 IMAGE VIA USPTO]

Applicator comb for gel electrophoresis
Patent No. 9759682

Inventor(s): Philip Guadagno (Vashon Island, WA)
Assignee(s): True Health IP LLC (Frisco, TX)
Law Firm: Perkins Coie LLP (17 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14455612 on 08/08/2014 (1131 days app to issue)

Abstract: A fluid applicator device includes an applicator body having a surface that is generally planar. A plurality of aligned applicator teeth extend from said applicator body. Each applicator tooth extends longitudinally from said applicator body along a length from a base of the applicator tooth proximate to the applicator body to a tip of the applicator tooth distal to the applicator body. At least one applicator tooth of the plurality of aligned applicator teeth has a width that is greater at the base than at the tip. A method for depositing a liquid sample on a substrate using the fluid applicator device is also disclosed.

[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)

Methods and apparatus for normalizing path length in non-invasive glucose monitoring
Patent No. 9759714

Inventor(s): Michael Bordelon (Sugar Land, TX), Valentin Korman (Huntsville, AL)
Assignee(s): Socrates Health Solutions, Inc. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: The Courtney Firm (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14995519 on 01/14/2016 (607 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for normalizing path length in an optical system for non-invasive glucose concentration. A method arrangement includes providing an optical energy source spaced from a first photo-detector by a sensing area; transmitting energy from the optical energy source onto the first photo-detector; storing a first reading corresponding to the light intensity observed by the first photo-detector; subsequently, introducing a container of solution including an optically active substance into the sampling area; transmitting energy from the optical energy source through the container in the sampling area and onto the first photo-detector; storing a second reading corresponding to the light intensity observed by the first photo-detector; determining a ratio of the first reading to the second reading; and determining a path length L by computing L=ln(ratio)/ where is an absorption constant of the optical energy in the solution and container. Additional arrangements are disclosed.

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

Modular testing of a power supply
Patent No. 9759783

Inventor(s): Jimmie Paul Partee (Double Oak, TX)
Assignee(s): FedEx Supply Chain Logistics and Electrons, Inc. (Fort Worth, TX)
Law Firm: McGuireWoods LLP (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14145437 on 12/31/2013 (1351 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method for testing a power supply. A power-end of the power supply is received in a power port of a power supply tester. Information about the power supply is received. A load is dynamically configured for the power supply in response to the information. The power supply tester is automatically activated to power the power supply in response to the power supply being received by the power supply tester and the load being configured. Performance characteristic of the power supply are measured. The performance characteristics of the power supply are displayed to the user indicating functionality of the power supply.

Device and method for continuous data acquisition
Patent No. 9759827

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: 14103161 on 12/11/2013 (1371 days app to issue)

Abstract: Method for generating an excitation signal for a first vibratory seismic source so that the first vibratory seismic source is driven with no listening time. The method includes a step of determining a first target spectrum for the first vibratory seismic source; a step of setting a first group of constraints for the first vibratory seismic source; and a step of generating a first excitation signal for the first vibratory seismic source based on the first group of constraints and the first target spectrum. The first seismic traces recorded with plural receivers can be identified when the first vibratory seismic source is driven with no listening time, based on the first excitation signal.

[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]

Correlation techniques for passive electroseismic and seismoelectric surveying
Patent No. 9759838

Inventor(s): Alan Katz (Dallas, TX), Arthur Thompson (Houston, TX), Mohammad Rahman (Dallas, TX), Naga P. Devineni (Irving, TX), Robert England (Flower Mound, TX)
Assignee(s): ES XPLORE, L.L.C. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14515271 on 10/15/2014 (1063 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for surveying, may include receiving, by a processor, first survey data from a first source, the first source comprising a first signal generated by a subsurface earth formation in response to a passive-source electromagnetic signal, wherein the electromagnetic signal is generated by an electroseismic or seismoelectric conversion of the passive-source electromagnetic signal. The method may also include receiving, by the processor, second survey data from a second source and processing the first survey data and the second survey data to determine one or more properties of a subsurface earth formation.

[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]

Device and method for optical beam combination
Patent No. 9759867

Inventor(s): Li Zeng (Santa Clara, CA), Qi Deng (San Jose, CA), Xiaolu Song (Santa Clara, CA), Yaohui Xie (Cupertino, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15012593 on 02/01/2016 (589 days app to issue)

Abstract: An optical apparatus includes a first beam combining device arranged to receive a first optical beam having a first wavelength at a first location and a second optical beam output having a second wavelength at a second location. The second optical beam has a polarization that is substantially orthogonal to a polarization of the first optical beam. The first beam combining device configured to output a first combined beam that comprises a combination of the first optical beam and the second optical beam. An optical element is arranged to receive the first combined beam and a second combined beam and to transmit an output beam that includes a combination of the first combined beam and the second combined beam.

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

Method and system for hijacking writes to a non-volatile memory
Patent No. 9760299

Inventor(s): Moshe Raz (Kefar Rosh Hanikra, , IL), Paul Yaroshenko (Haifa, , IL), Rotem Sela (Haifa, , IL)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Brinks Gilson Lione (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14629167 on 02/23/2015 (932 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method and system for accessing enhanced functionality on a storage device is disclosed. A hijack command is sent to the storage device that includes an identifier (such as a signature or an address). The storage device determines whether to hijack one or more subsequently commands by analyzing the subsequently commands using the identifier. For example, the storage device may analyze the subsequently received commands to determine whether the signature is in the payload of the subsequently received commands. As another example, the storage device may compare the address in the subsequently received commands with the address in the hijack command to determine whether to hijack the subsequently received commands.

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

Partially-bad block operation in 3-D nonvolatile memory
Patent No. 9760303

Inventor(s): Aaron Lee (Mountain View, CA), Abhijeet Bhalerao (San Jose, CA), Dennis S. Ea (Hayward, CA), Ivan Baran (San Jose, CA), Mikhail Palityka (Ontario, , CA), Mrinal Kochar (San Jose, CA), Yew Yin Ng (Milpitas, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Foley Lardner LLP (13 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14869686 on 09/29/2015 (714 days app to issue)

Abstract: Partially-bad blocks are identified in a 3-D block-erasable nonvolatile memory, each partially-bad block having one or more inoperable separately-selectable sets of NAND strings and one or more operable separately-selectable sets of NAND strings. Operable sets of NAND strings within two or more partially-bad blocks are identified and are mapped to form one or more virtual blocks that are individually assigned virtual block addresses. The virtual block address are maintained in a list and used to access the virtual blocks.

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

Weighted read scrub for nonvolatile memory including memory holes
Patent No. 9760307

Inventor(s): Alexander Kwok-Tung Mak (Los Altos Hills, CA), Chris Avila (Saratoga, CA), Steven T. Sprouse (San Jose, CA), Yingda Dong (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Stoel Rives LLP (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14861953 on 09/22/2015 (721 days app to issue)

Abstract: An array of non-volatile memory cells includes a first plurality of nonvolatile memory cells and a second plurality of non-volatile memory cells. The first plurality of memory cells, which have first diameters of memory holes, are assigned to store portions of data that are not frequently read. The second plurality of memory cells, which have second diameters of memory holes, are assigned to store portions of data that are frequently read. The first diameters are smaller than the second diameters.

[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)

Storage system and method for adaptive thermal throttling
Patent No. 9760311

Inventor(s): Gadi Vishne (Petah-Tikva, , IL), Joshua Lehmann (Modin, , IL), Judah Hahn (Ofra, , IL), Nir Amir (Beit Hasmoni, , IL)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Brinks Gilson Lione (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15190974 on 06/23/2016 (446 days app to issue)

Abstract: A storage system and method for adaptive thermal throttling are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for adaptive thermal throttling is provided that is performed in a storage system having a memory. This method comprises determining if a temperature of the storage system is above a threshold temperature; and in response to determining that the temperature of the storage system is above the threshold temperature: reducing performance of the storage system in an iterative manner until the temperature of the storage system is within a temperature envelope around the threshold temperature; and storing, in the memory, a value indicating what the performance of the storage system was reduced to in order to get the temperature within the temperature envelope. Other embodiments are possible, and each of the embodiments can be used alone or together in combination.

Automatically expiring out source code comments
Patent No. 9760368

Inventor(s): Rachel E. Kohler (Burleson, TX)
Assignee(s): INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION (Armonk, NY)
Law Firm: Cantor Colburn LLP (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15177452 on 06/09/2016 (460 days app to issue)

Abstract: Aspects include a method for expiring out source code comments. The method includes parsing source code to locate one or more comments. The method also includes, for each of the located one or more comments: determining whether the comment specifies expiration criteria; determining whether the expiration criteria meets an expiration threshold based on the comment specifying expiration criteria; and deleting the comment from the source code based on determining that the expiration criteria meets the expiration threshold, the deleting resulting in updated source code. The method further includes storing the updated source code.

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

Intelligent code apparatus, method, and computer program for memory
Patent No. 9760432

Inventor(s): Alan Gatherer (Richardson, TX), Casen Hunger (Austin, TX), Hao Luan (Plano, TX), Hardik Jain (Austin, TX), Sriram Vishwanath (Austin, TX)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Zilka-Kotab, PC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14811763 on 07/28/2015 (777 days app to issue)

Abstract: An intelligent code apparatus, method, and computer program are provided for use with memory. In operation, a subset of data stored in a first memory is identified. Such subset of the data stored in the first memory is processed, to generate a code. The code is then stored in a second memory, for use in reconstructing at least a portion of the data.

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

Multiport memory
Patent No. 9760481

Inventor(s): Manuel Antonio D”Abreu (El Dorado Hills, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Toler Law Group, PC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14304323 on 06/13/2014 (1187 days app to issue)

Abstract: A data storage device includes a memory that has a three-dimensional (3D) memory configuration, a controller, and a plurality of memory ports. The controller is configured to read mapping data from the memory. The mapping data maps the plurality of memory ports to the plurality of storage elements. The controller is further configured to, in response to receiving a command associated with a logical address, determine a physical address of the memory corresponding to the logical address, the physical address corresponding to a group of storage elements of the plurality of storage elements. The controller is further configured to select a memory port of the plurality of memory ports, where the memory port is mapped to the group of storage elements. The controller is further configured to access the group of storage elements via the memory port to perform first command.

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

Disaggregated server architecture for data centers
Patent No. 9760527

Inventor(s): Guangyu Shi (Cupertino, CA), Norbert Egi (Santa Clara, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14931264 on 11/03/2015 (679 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system comprising a unified interconnect network, a plurality of process memory modules, and a plurality of processor modules configured to share access to the memory modules via the unified interconnect network. Data may be communicated between a plurality of processor modules and a plurality of shared resource pools via a unified interconnect network, wherein the communications comprise a protocol that is common to all resource pools, and wherein each resource pool comprises a plurality of resource modules each configured to perform a common function. Further, a network interface controller (NIC) module may be configured to receive data from a plurality of processor modules via a unified interconnect network, and provide core network connectivity to the processor modules.

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

System and method for adaptive filtering of data requests
Patent No. 9760604

Inventor(s): Adrian Brian Billington (England, , GB), Paul Robert Bridger (London, , GB), Tanel Poder (Irving, TX)
Assignee(s): GLUENT INC. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Eversheds Sutherland (US) LLP (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15383674 on 12/19/2016 (267 days app to issue)

Abstract: This disclosure describes systems and methods related to filtering data requests. In some embodiments, a system may determine an execution plan tree. The system may determine a backend-processed target table in the at least one first storage device. The system may traverse at least one first branch and at least one first node in the execution plan tree. The system may traverse at least one second branch and at least one second node from the parent join node. The system may determine that the rowsource is referenced at the rowsource-access node. The system may determine that the rowsource referenced at the rowsource-access node is a filtered-rowsource. The system may extract at least one join column from a join condition associated with the backend-processed target table and the filtered-rowsource. The system may determine at least one storage location of the filtered-rowsource. The system may determine an adaptive processing path based at least in part on the at least one storage location of the filtered-rowsource, the at least one join column determined from the join condition and the at least one direct predicate determined for the filtered-rowsource. The system may generate at least one target filter predicate for the backend-processed target table.

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

Geospatial data analysis
Patent No. 9760840

Inventor(s): Jack B. Thompson (Grapevine, TX), Pranav Tyagi (Southlake, TX), Sunil Suram (Southlake, TX)
Assignee(s): TANGO ANALYTICS LLC (Irving, TX)
Law Firm: Perkins Coie LLP (17 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13663340 on 10/29/2012 (1779 days app to issue)

Abstract: A unit planning system programmed to provide a graphical user interface to one or more user devices associated with users of the system us disclosed. The graphical user interface may provide the user devices with functionality for receiving graphical, geospatial data describing geographic areas, existing retail units, target areas for potential retail units, and sites for potential retail units. In conjunction with the graphical user interface and/or independent from it, the unit planning system may also be programmed to collect, calculate and organize data related to target geographic areas for placement of retail units as well as potential sites for placements of retail units.

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

System and method for operating a product return system
Patent No. 9760855

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 (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14068212 on 10/31/2013 (1412 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method for operating a product return system. One or more electronic devices are received from a carrier at a return provider. A determination is made whether the one or more electronic devices include customer personal information. The one or more electronic devices are quarantined in response to determining the one or more electronic devices include CPI. The one or more electronic devices are processed in response to determining the CPI has been removed.

Automatic search of local inventory
Patent No. 9760924

Inventor(s): David Jeffrey Cumberland (San Luis Obispo, CA), Edward Allen Stevens (Carpenteria, CA), Jera Vincelli (San Luis Obispo, CA), Natasha Festa (San Luis Obispo, CA), Nelson Miguel Flores (Templeton, CA)
Assignee(s): KIBO Software, Inc. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Knobbe, Martens, Olson Bear, LLP (9 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14920738 on 10/22/2015 (691 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer storage media, for determining which of multiple vendors have a product in stock. One of the methods includes maintaining a central database that includes information about respective inventories of multiple vendors, receiving information from a first user device identifying a requested commerce object, and a geographical area, identifying a plurality of sources of available inventory data, searching the plurality of sources for available inventory of the requested commerce object, the searching comprising performing all three of the following processes substantially in parallel: performing real-time searching in the central database, performing sub-real-time searching in respective databases maintained by individual vendors, and initiating manual-assisted searching, asynchronously receiving and aggregating search results into groups, and serving, for each of the groups of search results, instructions for a presentation of the respective composite user interface to a second user device.

System and method for supporting mobile unit connectivity for computer server to process specific orders
Patent No. 9760940

Inventor(s): Jeffrey L. Wohlwend (Plano, TX), Peter J. Walsh, Jr. (Flower Mound, TX)
Assignee(s): Connect720 Technologies, LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Hemingway Hansen, LLP (Local)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14694577 on 04/23/2015 (873 days app to issue)

Abstract: The present invention is an applications gateway that offers multiple functions and features for specific geographic venue locations, while providing easy access to advertising, purchasing, and redemption opportunities for that specific geographic venue location. Venue locations can be stadiums, shopping malls, amusement parks, open air spaces where people can congregate, and/or buildings, which most often require the presence of a concentration of people. The venue location may correlate to the location of the hand-held mobile unit or it may be a remote geographic venue location not near the location of the hand-held mobile unit. Access to the gateway application is through a hand-held mobile unit, which can include a mobile phone, smartphone device, or portable computer having a wireless radio transmission connection. (e.g. iPhone, Droid, iPad, Slate, etc.)

Techniques for restaurant transaction processing
Patent No. 9760958

Inventor(s): James Asa Cloin (Arlington, TX), James Lee Fortuna (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): NCR CORPORATION (Duluth, GA)
Law Firm: Schwegman Lundberg Woessner, PA (9 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13656037 on 10/19/2012 (1789 days app to issue)

Abstract: Techniques for restaurant transaction processing are provided. A handheld device of a waiter is used to automatically associate a check with a table at a restaurant and to recall and modify that check. In an embodiment, two waiters use one or more handheld devices to automatically transfer a customer”s check to one another.

Bank note processing system having a combined florescence and phosphorescence detection system
Patent No. 9761077

Inventor(s): Sohail Kayani (Irving, TX)
Assignee(s): Toshiba International Corporation (Houston, TX)
Law Firm: Baker Botts L.L.P. (Local + 8 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14322467 on 07/02/2014 (1168 days app to issue)

Abstract: A bank note processing system having a combined florescence and phosphorescence detection system. The bank note processing system includes a detection module which has a detector housing having a first compartment and a second compartment separated by a light baffle. An illumination source and a first sensor module are disposed in the first compartment of the detector housing and a second sensor module is disposed in the second compartment of the detector housing. The illumination source directs light to the bank note and the first sensor module measures the bank note”s florescence at a first point in time. The second sensor module measures the bank note”s phosphorescence at a second point in time and the detection module determines whether the bank note is a counterfeit bank note using the measured florescence and the measured phosphorescence.

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

Skin touch temperature test apparatus and method
Patent No. 9761155

Inventor(s): Qian Han (San Diego, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Schwegman Lundberg Woessner, P.A. (9 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14446196 on 07/29/2014 (1141 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for simulating an effect of surface temperature of an electronic device on skin of a human being when the electronic device is touched by the human being. The method comprises applying heat to a material within a cavity of a body, the body comprising a first end, a second end, an outer surface, and an inner surface that defines the cavity extending between the first end and the second end. The outer surface and the material have heat and thermal conductivity properties similar to human skin. The method comprises sensing a temperature of the material, and sensing a temperature of at least a portion of the outer surface when the portion of the outer surface contacts the electronic device.

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

Overheat prevention for annealing non-volatile memory
Patent No. 9761290

Inventor(s): Deepanshu Dutta (San Jose, CA), Navneeth Kankani (Fremont, CA), Ning Ye (San Jose, CA), Sarath Puthenthermadam (San Jose, CA), Suresh Upadhyayula (San Jose, CA)
Assignee(s): SANDISK TECHNOLOGIES LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Kunzler Law Group, PC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15247912 on 08/25/2016 (383 days app to issue)

Abstract: Apparatuses, systems, methods, and computer program products are disclosed for preventing overheating, for annealing non-volatile memory. An apparatus may include an array of non-volatile storage elements. A heating element may be configured to heat a first set of the non-volatile storage elements to anneal the first set of non-volatile storage elements. A heat shield or cooling element may be configured to prevent a second set of the non-volatile storage elements from overheating during annealing of the first set of non-volatile storage elements, to mitigate data errors for data stored on the second set of non-volatile storage elements.

Reducing hot electron injection type of read disturb during read recovery phase in 3D memory
Patent No. 9761320

Inventor(s): Ching-Huang Lu (Fremont, CA), Hong-Yan Chen (Sunnyvale, CA), Wei Zhao (Fremont, CA)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15383852 on 12/19/2016 (267 days app to issue)

Abstract: A memory device and associated techniques for reducing read disturb of memory cells during the last phase of a sensing operation when all voltage signals are ramped down to a steady state voltage. In one aspect, the voltages of the source side word line, WL[b]0[/b], and an adjacent dummy word line, WLDS[b]1[/b], are ramped down after the voltages of remaining word lines are ramped down. This can occur regardless of whether WL[b]0[/b] is the selected word line which is programmed or read. The technique can be applied after the sensing which occurs in a read or program-verify operation. Another option involves elevating the voltage of the selected word line so that all word lines are ramped down from the same level, such as a read pass level. The techniques are particularly useful when the memory device includes an interface in the channel between epitaxial silicon and polysilicon.

Apparatuses with an embedded combination logic circuit for high speed operations
Patent No. 9762247

Inventor(s): Kallol Mazumder (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Micron Technology, Inc. (Boise, ID)
Law Firm: Dorsey Whitney LLP (6 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15184077 on 06/16/2016 (453 days app to issue)

Abstract: Apparatuses for performing combination logic operations with an combination logic circuit are disclosed. According to one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a first-in-first-out stage comprising an combination logic circuit, a input ring counter circuit coupled to the first-in-first-out stage and configured to selectively provide a push signal to the first-in-first-out stage, and a output ring counter circuit coupled to the first-in-first-out stage and configured to selectively provide a pop signal to the first-in-first-out stage, wherein the first-in-first-out stage is configured to perform calculations on input data with the combination logic circuit to generate output data responsive to receiving the push signal and to provide the output data based on the calculations responsive to receiving the pop signal.

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

Predictive cloud provisioning based on human behaviors and heuristics
Patent No. 9762466

Inventor(s): Karl J. Cama (Coppell, TX)
Assignee(s): INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION (Armonk, NY)
Law Firm: Cantor Colburn LLP (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14501345 on 09/30/2014 (1078 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of predictively provisioning cloud resources based on human behaviors and heuristics includes monitoring a collection of events relating to a customer application as well as monitoring an infrastructure load on resources for the customer application. A causal relationship is evaluated between an event and the infrastructure load. A predictive rule is then constructed based on the causal relationship. Resource requirements are anticipated based on the predictive rule and a provisioning of resources in a service domain is requested for the anticipated resource requirements.

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

Method of IMS (SIP network) webRTC optimized P2P communication
Patent No. 9762533

Inventor(s): Huipeng Ren (Santa Clara, CA), Xinmin Ding (San Jose, CA), Yilin Gan (San Ramon, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Schwegman Lundberg Woessner, P.A. (9 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14137216 on 12/20/2013 (1362 days app to issue)

Abstract: A WebRTC system, device and method enabling a P2P communication when both ends of a communication are WebRTC enabled devices. The system and devices also enable a WebRTC client to SIP device communication. A SIP interworking function is configured to receive a SDP1 from an originating WebRTC and obtain local media information from a media interworking function. The first SIP interworking function is configured to create a SDP2 based on the SDP1 and the local media information, create a SIP message comprising a message-body field including the SDP2 and an SIP extension header field including the SDP1, and send the SIP message to an IMS or SIP server.

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

Secure cross domain solution systems and methods
Patent No. 9762595

Inventor(s): Kevin L. Cariker (Rockwall, TX)
Assignee(s): Raytheon Company (Waltham, MA)
Law Firm: Schwegman Lundberg Woessner, P.A. (9 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14823417 on 08/11/2015 (763 days app to issue)

Abstract: Generally discussed herein are systems, apparatuses, and methods for secure transfer of content across a security boundary. A system can include a high side domain communicatively coupled to a transfer guard module, the high side domain comprising a high side data repository, a first review module executable by processing circuitry to determine whether a permission level of first content violates a permission level of the high side domain, a second review module executable by the processing circuitry to determine whether second content from the high side data repository includes a permission level that violates a permission level of a low side domain, a first data diode module communicatively coupled between the first review module and the high side data repository, and a second data diode module communicatively coupled between the second review module and the high side data repository.

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

Storing and transmitting content for downloading and streaming
Patent No. 9762642

Inventor(s): Xin Wang (Rancho Palos Verdes, CA), Yongliang Liu (Beijing, , CN)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14157294 on 01/16/2014 (1335 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method implemented by a first client device, the method comprising receiving a media presentation description (MPD) for a media content from a streaming server, receiving a plurality of segments for the media content from one or more streaming servers, and packaging the MPD and at least part of the received segments such that the packaged segments are accessible by a second client device through the packaged MPD.

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

Methods and apparatus to improve usage crediting in mobile devices
Patent No. 9762688

Inventor(s): Achilleas Papakostas (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): The Nielsen Company (US), LLC (New York, NY)
Law Firm: Hanley, Flight Zimmerman, LLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14529784 on 10/31/2014 (1047 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, systems and articles of manufacture are disclosed to identify a first request having a first source port number, from a device. Examples disclosed herein determine whether a second request, having a second source port number, is within a threshold number of ports from the first source port number. Examples disclosed herein group the first and the second requests as a first session when the second source port number is within the threshold number of ports from the first source port number, and identify an application associated with the first session.

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

Dual-field-of-view optical system
Patent No. 9762812

Inventor(s): Brent Belote (Allen, TX), James Robarge (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): RAYTHEON COMPANY (Waltham, MA)
Law Firm: Lando Anastasi, LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14927756 on 10/30/2015 (683 days app to issue)

Abstract: A dual-field-of-view (FOV) optical imaging system having a primary FOV and a simultaneously viewable secondary FOV. One example of the system includes an imaging sensor, primary and secondary FOV objective optics configured to receive and output electromagnetic radiation corresponding to the primary FOV and secondary FOV, respectively, imager optics, and a field-of-view selection mechanism disposed between the secondary FOV objective optics and the imager optics and configured to selectively pass the second FOV to the imager optics, the imaging sensor being configured to produce primary FOV image frames and combined image frames that include imagery from both the primary and secondary fields-of-view.

E L E C T R I C I T Y

[PATENT NO. 9759861 IMAGE VIA USPTO]

Hybrid photonic and electronic integrated circuits
Patent No. 9759861

Inventor(s): John H. Zhang (Altamont, NY)
Assignee(s): STMicroelectronics, Inc. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Seed IP Law Group LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14983078 on 12/29/2015 (623 days app to issue)

Abstract: A sequence of processing steps presented herein is used to embed an optical signal path within an array of nanowires, using only one lithography step. Using the techniques disclosed, it is not necessary to mask electrical features while forming optical features, and vice versa. Instead, optical and electrical signal paths can be created substantially simultaneously in the same masking cycle. This is made possible by a disparity in the widths of the respective features, the optical signal paths being significantly wider than the electrical ones. Using a damascene process, the structures of disparate widths are plated with metal that over-fills narrow trenches and under-fills a wide trench. An optical cladding material can then be deposited into the trench so as to surround an optical core for light transmission.

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

System and method for spatiotemporal image fusion and integration
Patent No. 9761275

Inventor(s): Hao Wu (Pittsford, NY), Robert P. Loce (Webster, NY)
Assignee(s): Conduent Business Services, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Fay Sharpe LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14805710 on 07/22/2015 (783 days app to issue)

Abstract: A system and method for creating a spatiotemporal image representation with information content that enables accurate and rapid processing for several applications.

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

3D vertical NAND with III-V channel
Patent No. 9761604

Inventor(s): Jayavel Pachamuthu (San Jose, CA), Johann Alsmeier (San Jose, CA), Masaaki Higashitani (Cupertino, CA), Peter Rabkin (Cupertino, CA)
Assignee(s): SanDisk Technologies LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vierra Magen Marcus LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14666678 on 03/24/2015 (903 days app to issue)

Abstract: Disclosed herein is 3D memory with vertical NAND strings having a III-V compound channel, as well as methods of fabrication. The III-V compound has at least one group III element and at least one group V element. The III-V compound provides for high electron mobility transistor cells. Note that III-V materials may have a much higher electron mobility compared to silicon. Thus, much higher cell current and overall cell performance can be achieved. Also, the memory device may have better read-write efficiency due to much higher carrier mobility and velocity. The tunnel dielectric of the memory cells may have an Al[subscript]2[/subscript]O[subscript]3 [/subscript]film in direct contact with the III-V NAND channel. The drain end of the NAND channel may be a metal-III-V alloy in direct contact with a metal region. The body of the source side select transistor could be formed from the III-V compound or from crystalline silicon.

Integration of strained silicon germanium PFET device and silicon NFET device for finFET structures
Patent No. 9761699

Inventor(s): Bruce B. Doris (Slingerlands, NY), Hong He (Schenectady, NY), Junli Wang (Slingerlands, NY), Nicolas J. Loubet (Guilderland, NY)
Assignee(s): STMICROELECTRONICS, INC. (Coppell, TX)
Law Firm: Cantor Colburn LLP (7 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14607256 on 01/28/2015 (958 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method of forming a finFET transistor device includes forming a crystalline, compressive strained silicon germanium (cSiGe) layer over a substrate; masking a first region of the cSiGe layer so as to expose a second region of the cSiGe layer; subjecting the exposed second region of the cSiGe layer to an implant process so as to amorphize a bottom portion thereof and transform the cSiGe layer in the second region to a relaxed SiGe (rSiGe) layer; performing an annealing process so as to recrystallize the rSiGe layer; epitaxially growing a tensile strained silicon layer on the rSiGe layer; and patterning fin structures in the tensile strained silicon layer and in the first region of the cSiGe layer.

Broadband notch antennas
Patent No. 9761952

Inventor(s): Sheng Yeng Peng (Lynnwood, WA)
Assignee(s): WavCatcher (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Olympic Patent Works PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15333540 on 10/25/2016 (322 days app to issue)

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to broadband notch antennas. In one aspect, a notch antenna includes a dielectric plate having a first surface and a second surface located opposite the first surface. A conductive layer is disposed on the first surface and has a notch region that exposes the dielectric plate between edges of the conductive layer. The antenna also includes two or more frequency matching circuits that branch from the notch region. Each matching circuit is configured to send and receive electromagnetic radiation in a frequency band of a radio spectrum.

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

Temperature insensitive integrated electro-absorption modulator and laser
Patent No. 9762025

Inventor(s): Gary Alan Evans (Plano, TX), Ralph Herbert Johnson (Murphy, TX)
Assignee(s): TeraMod LLC (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Vinson Elkins LLP (Local + 5 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15045461 on 02/17/2016 (573 days app to issue)

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for a temperature insensitive electro-absorption modulator and laser. The device comprising a laser capable of emitting light. The laser itself includes a laser gain section, a first mirror and a second mirror. Each of the mirrors are coupled to the laser gain section. The laser gain section contains quantum wells. The first mirror and the second mirror have a wavelength bandwidth sufficient for a lasing wavelength range of the laser. A modulator is coupled to the laser to receive the light and is capable of modulating the light to vary the output from the modulator. The modulator contains quantum wells and has a quantum well confinement factor that is greater than 0.1. An output coupler is coupled to the modulator and the output coupler has a back reflection that is less than half of a back reflection of the second mirror. The laser has a lasing wavelength that tracks the absorption spectrum of the modulator. The device is operated at a temperature range comprising a first temperature and a second temperature, wherein the second temperature is greater than the first temperature by at least 15 degrees Celsius.

[H01S] DEVICES USING STIMULATED EMISSION

Channel mapping for an aggregated touchless wireless fronthaul
Patent No. 9762324

Inventor(s): Frank Effenberger (Colts Neck, NJ), Huafeng Lin (Shenzhen, , CN), Lei Zhou (Shenzhen, , CN), Xiang Liu (Marlboro, NJ)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14921021 on 10/23/2015 (690 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method implemented by a wireless fronthaul unit, the method comprises aggregating a plurality of first wireless channel signals to produce a first aggregated signal via digital frequency-domain mapping (FDM), wherein the first wireless channel signals are positioned in the first aggregated signal in non-overlapping first frequency bands, each non-overlapping first frequency band having a first bandwidth and a center frequency, wherein each respective center frequency is an odd integer multiple of a lowest center frequency, converting the first aggregated signal into a first modulated signal, and transmitting the first modulated signal to a wireless fronthaul link.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]

Statistics adaptive soft decision forward error correction in digital communication
Patent No. 9762351

Inventor(s): Yi Cai (Jackson, NJ), Zhensheng Jia (Morganville, NJ)
Assignee(s): ZTE (USA) Inc. (Richardson, TX)
Law Firm: Perkins Coie LLP (17 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14220049 on 03/19/2014 (1273 days app to issue)

Abstract: A digital communication receiver uses a maximum likelihood sequence estimation stage to recover symbols from digitized sample values of a received signal. A probability density function is calculated and used to improve a soft decision forward error correction calculation. The results of error decoding, which represent error corrected data bits, are further used to improve the probability density function calculation.

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

One-to-many matching with application to efficient privacy-preserving re-identification
Patent No. 9762393

Inventor(s): Albert Gordo Soldevila (Grenoble, , FR), Florent C. Perronnin (Domne, , FR), Naila Murray (Grenoble, , FR)
Assignee(s): Conduent Business Services, LLC (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Fay Sharpe LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14662939 on 03/19/2015 (908 days app to issue)

Abstract: Authentication methods are disclosed for determining whether a person or object to be authenticated is a member of a set of authorized persons or objects. A query signature is acquired comprising a vector whose elements store values of an ordered set of features for the person or object to be authenticated. The query signature is compared with an aggregate signature comprising a vector whose elements store values of the ordered set of features for the set of authorized persons or objects. The individual signatures for the authorized persons or objects are not stored; only the aggregate signature. It is determined whether the person or object to be authenticated is a member of the set of authorized persons or objects based on the comparison. The comparing may comprise computing an inner product of the query signature and the aggregate signature, with the determining being based on the inner product.

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

Methods for dynamic service deployment for virtual/physical multiple device integration
Patent No. 9762446

Inventor(s): Guang Zhao (Nanjing, , CN), Jun Xu (Cupertino, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies Co., Ltd. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13730296 on 12/28/2012 (1719 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method implemented in an integrated edge node for performing routing functions and network appliance services at the edge of a network, the method comprising disassociating a first network feature from a port, creating a plurality of first internal virtual ports, associating the plurality of first internal virtual ports to a first network appliance service component and a core unit component, mapping the plurality first internal virtual ports to each other and to a plurality of ports, constructing an internal path comprising at least one port, a subset of the plurality of internal virtual ports, the network appliance service component, and the core unit component, and associating the first network feature to the internal path.

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

Weighted distribution across paths of degraded quality
Patent No. 9762495

Inventor(s): James W. Ling (McKinney, TX)
Assignee(s): INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION (Armonk, NY)
Law Firm: Heslin Rothenberg Farley Mesiti P.C. (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15264261 on 09/13/2016 (364 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method, computer program product, and system for adjusting network traffic balance among a plurality of communication links between a first network node and a second network node on a computing network includes a processor receiving over a computing network from a network device, performance metrics for a plurality of communications links between a first network node and a second network node on the computing network and based on receiving the performance metrics, the processor determines degradation in network performance on at least one of the plurality of communication links. The processor determines a weight for each communication link, associating a lower weight with the degraded link(s), and formulates instructions for an adjusted network traffic balance among the links, based on the weights. The processor transmits the instructions to a network device on the computing network and upon receipt of the instructions, the network device adjusts the network traffic balance among the links in accordance with the instructions.

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

Convergence of social enterprise and digital telephony
Patent No. 9762519

Inventor(s): Subil M. Abraham (Lewisville, TX)
Assignee(s): International Business Machines Corporation (Armonk, NY)
Law Firm: Sherman IP LLP (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15222707 on 07/28/2016 (411 days app to issue)

Abstract: Integrating digital telephony information with a social platform includes receiving, by a processor, information for multiple parties connected to a conference telephone call. Virtual groups for the multiple parties are created. Permissions are assigned to each of the virtual groups. Muting of portions of the conference telephone call related to a discussion of a particular topic is controlled based on permissions. Clips from the conference telephone call and actions are captured. A social enterprise platform is connected to and a recording is automatically uploaded after the conference telephone call has ended. Permissions are synchronized across the social enterprise platform. Media sources are linked together. Context across the linked media sources is provided. The captured clips and the actions are integrated.

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

Simplified control input to a mobile device
Patent No. 9762717

Inventor(s): Ian C. Schmehl (Allen, TX)
Assignee(s): ATT Intellectual Property I, L.P. (Atlanta, GA)
Law Firm: Jackson Walker L.L.P. (Local + 3 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14727551 on 06/01/2015 (834 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method and system for operating a mobile device includes interpreting a user-defined pattern detected by at least one of a touch interface and a motion sensor included with the mobile device. The user-defined pattern may be interpreted as at least one of: a polygon, an ellipse, a curve, a line segment, an alphanumeric character, and a movement of the mobile device. The user-defined pattern may be a two-dimensional pattern traced by the user on the touch interface. When the user-defined pattern is recognized, a wireless communication command may be executed by the mobile device. The wireless communication command may be a telephone command or a remote control command for a remote-controlled device.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]

Weighted prediction method and apparatus in quantization matrix coding
Patent No. 9762902

Inventor(s): Jianhua Zheng (Beijing, , CN), Jianwen Chen (Los Angeles, CA), Jingsheng Jason Cong (Pacific Palisades, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13737863 on 01/09/2013 (1707 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for decoding and reconstructing a QM associated with a picture, wherein the method comprises acquiring at least one reference QM and at least one weighting factor associated with the reference QM, wherein the reference QM is a previously decoded QM, and computing a predicted matrix using the reference QM and the weighting factor associated with the reference QM, wherein the predicted matrix is used to reconstruct the QM. In another embodiment, a method for encoding a QM associated with a picture, wherein the method comprises acquiring a first QM reference and a second QM reference, acquiring a first weighting factor that corresponds to the first QM reference and a second weighting factor that corresponds to the second QM reference, obtaining the predicted QM using the first QM reference, the second QM reference, the first weighting factor, and the second weighting factor.

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

Method and apparatus of derivation for a binary partition pattern
Patent No. 9762914

Inventor(s): Chen-Xiong Zhang (Plano, TX), Jianhua Zheng (Beijing, , CN), Nam Ling (San Jose, CA), Zhouye Gu (Santa Clara, CA)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX), Santa Clara University (Santa Clara, CA)
Law Firm: Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15430874 on 02/13/2017 (211 days app to issue)

Abstract: There is disclosed a method, device and computer-readable storage medium for decoding video data. The method includes: obtaining a reference sample array of a video block; obtaining a sum of the reference sample array; calculating a threshold by performing arithmetic right shift to the sum, a shift value of the arithmetic right shift being determined according to size information of the video block; and determining the binary partition pattern by comparing the reference sample array with the threshold.

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

Consumer-configurable alternative advertising reception with incentives
Patent No. 9762974

Inventor(s): Kulvir S. Bhogal (Fort Worth, TX)
Assignee(s): INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION (Armonk, NY)
Law Firm: Lee Law, PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14314599 on 06/25/2014 (1175 days app to issue)

Abstract: An indication from a user is detected by a first content viewing device to transfer an advertisement delivered to the first content viewing device as part of streamed audio and video (A/V) content to an alternative content viewing device. A determination is made, based upon user-specific advertising configuration information, as to whether the user is authorized to perform advertisement deferral during the streamed A/V content. The advertisement is configured as an incentivized deferred advertisement to be viewed by the user at a later time using the alternative content viewing device in response to determining that the user is authorized to perform advertisement deferral during the streamed A/V content. The configured incentivized deferred advertisement is transferred to the alternative content viewing device.

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

Anonymizing location data
Patent No. 9763047

Inventor(s): Erik H. Katzen (Argyle, TX)
Assignee(s): International Business Machines Corporation (Armonk, NY)
Law Firm: Keohane D”Alessandro PLLC (no location found)
Application No., Date, Speed: 15278060 on 09/28/2016 (349 days app to issue)

Abstract: Approaches presented herein enable servicing a location request for a user device by providing anonymized location data. Specifically, a location request for a user device is received from an application server associated with a location-based/location-tracking application. Based on an application setting option associated with the location-based/location-tracking application, a geographic cell is defined. A set of available participating devices within the geographic cell is identified. A participating device is selected from the set of available participating devices. The location request is routed to the selected participating device, wherein the selected participating device forwards a location of the selected participating device to the application server.

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

Method and system for mobile relay enablement
Patent No. 9763110

Inventor(s): Yi Song (Plano, TX), Yi Yu (Irving, TX), Zhijun Cai (Euless, TX)
Assignee(s): BlackBerry Limited (Waterloo, Ontario, , CA)
Law Firm: Conley Rose, P.C. (3 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13673474 on 11/09/2012 (1768 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method and relay node for managing a plurality of relay nodes that is moving relative to a source network node, the method comprising: selecting a lead node; connecting the plurality of relay nodes to the lead node; and transmitting a signal to manage mobility of the plurality of relay nodes from the lead node to a network node.

[H04B] TRANSMISSION [4]

Cell performance assessment
Patent No. 9763114

Inventor(s): Colin Gordon Bowdery (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): Aircom International LTD. (Surrey, , GB)
Law Firm: ATFirm PLLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14367898 on 12/21/2012 (1726 days app to issue)

Abstract: A method for assessing performance of a cell in a network in which data is passed between layers in a protocol stack implemented by the cell. The method comprises calculating a data efficiency of data passing through a physical layer in the protocol stack via one or more higher layers in the protocol stack based on a comparison of a number of physical resource data units allocated to that data at the physical layer with a data throughput of one or more of the layers of the protocol stack. The method further comprises calculating an average efficiency by averaging the data efficiency over a predetermined time and normalizing the average efficiency with respect to a predetermined efficiency so as to generate a normalized average efficiency. The method also comprises comparing the normalized average efficiency with a target threshold and adjusting the operation of the cell if the normalized average efficiency differs from the target threshold by greater than a threshold amount.

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

Methods and apparatus to discover spectrum usage of mobile carriers
Patent No. 9763123

Inventor(s): Dominic H. Ngai (Plano, TX)
Assignee(s): The Nielsen Company (US), LLC (New York, NY)
Law Firm: Hanley, Flight Zimmerman, LLC (1 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14537128 on 11/10/2014 (1037 days app to issue)

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for determining reliability of wireless carriers. An example method includes extracting channel information from messages transmitted to mobile devices at a plurality of locations to determine a quantity of available channels, segregating the extracted channel information into a first group corresponding to channels of a first carrier and a second group corresponding to channels of a second carrier, and determining, with a processor, a relative reliability between the first carrier and the second carrier based on a respective quantity of channels in the first group and the second group.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

Method and system for managing wireless connectivity in a communication system
Patent No. 9763148

Inventor(s): Thomas Keathley (Dallas, TX), Tony Wong (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): ATT Intellectual Property I, L.P. (Atlanta, GA), ATT Mobility II LLC (Atlanta, GA), Interwise Ltd. (Airport, , IL)
Law Firm: Guntin Gust, PLC (2 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14702932 on 05/04/2015 (862 days app to issue)

Abstract: Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, a method, including applying a voice quality model to network performance information associated with a voice over internet protocol call session to generate a measure of voice quality associated with a first wireless radio access network wirelessly coupling a mobile device and a communication network, detecting a trigger condition for a measurement reporting according to the measure of voice quality, a first signal of the first wireless radio access network, and a second signal of a second wireless radio access network, and detecting a trigger condition for a measurement report according to the measure of voice quality, a first signal of the first wireless radio access network, and a second signal of a second wireless radio access network. The measurement report can be transmitted to the first wireless radio access network responsive to detecting the trigger condition for the measurement reporting. The first wireless radio access network can transmit a handover request to the second wireless radio access network based on applying a first handover policy to the measure of voice quality, the first signal, and the second signal of the measurement report. The second wireless radio access network can initiate a second wireless coupling of the mobile device and the communication network to complete a handover of the voice over internet protocol call session to the second wireless radio access network responsive to a hando

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

System and method for dynamic channel allocaton
Patent No. 9763260

Inventor(s): Brian J. Austin (Saginaw, TX), Ronald Lee Bane (Haslet, TX)
Assignee(s): E.F. Johnson Company (Irving, TX)
Law Firm: Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 14935270 on 11/06/2015 (676 days app to issue)

Abstract: An exemplary system and method for dynamic channel allocation in an LMR system includes using one or more preference indicators to dynamically determine a channel allocation priority to be used for channel allocation when channel allocation requests are received. The preference indicators may include a channel failure indicator (e.g. a channel health indicator based on repeater failures), a channel priority indicator, a radio frequency interference indicator, a high reflected power indicator, an excessive current drain indicator, a loss of backbone communications indicator, and a channel usage indicator. If more than one preference indicator is used, the channel priority ranking may be determined using any of a variety of weightings and prioritizations of the various preference indicators to dynamically generate the channel allocation priority. The dynamic channel allocation system may include one or more site controllers, servers, and/or one or more processors configured to implement the method of dynamic channel allocation.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

System and method for time resource allocation for device-to-device communication overlaid on a cellular network
Patent No. 9763272

Inventor(s): Brian Classon (Palatine, IL), Deping Liu (Schaumburg, IL), Philippe Sartori (Agonquin, IL), Vipul Desai (Palatine, IL)
Assignee(s): Futurewei Technologies, Inc. (Plano, TX)
Law Firm: Slater Matsil, LLP (Local + 1 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 13406455 on 02/27/2012 (2024 days app to issue)

Abstract: An embodiment of a system for operating a communications controller and a user equipment in a wireless communications system is provided. The communications controller is configured to allocate a first set of subframes to a group of UEs for a DMC link, allocate a second set of subframes to a particular UE in the group of UEs, transmit a first message including information about the first set of subframes to the group of UE, and transmit a second message including information about the second set of subframes to the particular UE. The second set of subframes is a subset of the first set of subframes, and information about the second set includes subframes in which the particular UE may transmit to other UEs in the group of UEs. Subframes in the first set not in the second set are allocated for reception by the particular UE.

[H04W] WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS [2009.01]

DESIGN PATENTS

[PATENT NO. D796870 IMAGE VIA USPTO]

Car seat cover
Patent No. D796870

Inventor(s): David King (Allen, TX), Patrick Hoffman (Arlington, TX)
Assignee(s): Radio Systems Corporation (Knoxville, TN)
Law Firm: Baker Donelson (Local + 55 other metros)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29558343 on 03/16/2016 (545 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Ceramic bonding tool with textured tip
Patent No. D797171

Inventor(s): Cesar Alfaro (Lewisville, TX)
Assignee(s): CoorsTek, Inc. (Golden, CO)
Law Firm: Faegre Baker Daniels LLP (8 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29516523 on 02/03/2015 (952 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Ceramic bonding tool with textured tip
Patent No. D797172

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A

Eyeglass temple pads
Patent No. D797183

Inventor(s): Allison Flake (Dallas, TX), Jonathan McCann (Mansfield, TX), Kurt R. Spenser (Burbank, CA), Robert A. Canales (Dallas, TX), Thomas Clayton Shortall (Dallas, TX)
Assignee(s): ROKA SPORTS, INC. (Dallas, TX)
Law Firm: Wilson Sonsini Goodrich Rosati (11 non-local offices)
Application No., Date, Speed: 29562643 on 04/27/2016 (503 days app to issue)

Abstract: No Abstract Patent Class: N/A