Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100176657 | FOUR QUADRANT MOSFET BASED SWITCH - An electronically controlled four quadrant MOSFET based switch in which a pair of drivers are provided in cooperation with a MOSFET. A first one of the drivers is arranged such that when current flow through the MOSFET is to be enabled responsive to a first condition of the control signal, the gate of the MOSFET is driven with an appropriate voltage, and when current flow through the MOSFET is to be disabled responsive to a second condition of the control signal, the gate is driven towards a limit voltage. A second one of the drivers is arranged such that when current flow through the MOSFET is to be enabled the body diode connection of the MOSFET is driven towards the potential of the MOSFET source, and when current flow through the MOSFET is to be disabled the body diode connection is driven towards the limit voltage. | 07-15-2010 |
20120139507 | HYSTERETIC VOLTAGE CONVERTER WITH OFFSET VOLTAGE CORRECTION - A hysteretic power converter wherein an additional adjustment circuit, implemented as an offset correction loop, adds an offset to the comparator detection function to reduce the difference between the average output voltage and the regulation set point voltage. The adjustment circuit lies outside the main hysteretic regulation loop and therefore does not substantially impact the response time of the hysteretic loop, and is slow acting responsive to a low pass filter. | 06-07-2012 |
20120300347 | Photo-Voltaic Safety De-Energizing Device - A safety mechanism for a solar cell group, the safety mechanism constituted of: a signal receiver arranged to assert a permissive signal indicative of reception by the signal receiver of a predetermined signal; an electronically controlled switch arranged to provide in a closed state an effective short circuit across the output of the solar cell group responsive to the absence of the asserted permissive signal of the signal receiver; and a power harvester in communication with the solar cell group and arranged to provide electric power to the signal receiver when the electronically controlled switch is the closed state. | 11-29-2012 |
20150276812 | CURRENT SENSING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A current sensing system constituted of: an impedance element; a switching network arranged to alternately couple a first end of the impedance element between a supply voltage and return, the impedance element arranged to develop a voltage there across reflecting a current flow to a load coupled to the second end of the impedance element; a first stage amplifier, a first and second input thereof respectively coupled to the first and second end of the impedance element, a power supply input thereof coupled to a voltage greater than the supply voltage and a return thereof coupled to the first end of the impedance element, the amplifier having a first and second output, the potential difference reflecting the impedance element voltage times a first stage gain; and a second stage amplifier, a first and second input thereof respectively coupled to a first and second output of the first stage amplifier. | 10-01-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20140307247 | Methods and Systems for Detecting Weather Conditions Including Wet Surfaces Using Vehicle Onboard Sensors - Example methods and systems for detecting weather conditions including wet surfaces using vehicle onboard sensors are provided. An example method includes receiving laser data collected for an environment of a vehicle. The method also includes determining laser data points that are associated with one or more objects in the environment, and based on laser data points being unassociated with the one or more objects in the environment, identifying an indication that a surface on which the vehicle travels is wet. The method may further include receiving radar data collected for the environment of the vehicle that is indicative of a presence of the one or more objects in the environment of the vehicle, and identifying the indication that the surface on which the vehicle travels is wet further based on laser data points being unassociated with the one or more objects in the environment indicated by the radar data. | 10-16-2014 |
20140324266 | Methods and Systems for Detecting Weather Conditions Including Fog Using Vehicle Onboard Sensors - Methods and systems for detecting weather conditions including fog using vehicle onboard sensors are provided. An example method includes receiving laser data collected from scans of an environment of a vehicle, and associating, by a computing device, laser data points of with one or more objects in the environment. The method also includes comparing laser data points that are unassociated with the one or more objects in the environment with stored laser data points representative of a pattern due to fog, and based on the comparison, identifying by the computing device an indication that a weather condition of the environment of the vehicle includes fog. | 10-30-2014 |
20140330479 | Predictive Reasoning for Controlling Speed of a Vehicle - Methods and systems for predictive reasoning for controlling speed of a vehicle are described. A computing device may be configured to identify a first and second vehicle travelling ahead of an autonomous vehicle and in a same lane as the autonomous vehicle. The computing device may also be configured to determine a first buffer distance behind the first vehicle at which the autonomous vehicle will substantially reach a speed of the first vehicle and a second buffer distance behind the second vehicle at which the first vehicle will substantially reach a speed of the second vehicle. The computing device may further be configured to determine a distance at which to adjust a speed of the autonomous vehicle based on the first and second buffer distances and the speed of the autonomous vehicle, and then provide instructions to adjust the speed of the autonomous vehicle based on the distance. | 11-06-2014 |
20140333468 | Methods and Systems for Detecting Weather Conditions Including Sunlight Using Vehicle Onboard Sensors - Methods and systems for detecting weather conditions including sunlight using onboard vehicle sensors are described. In one example, a method is provided that includes receiving laser data collected for an environment of a vehicle. The method also includes associating laser data points with one or more objects in the environment, and determining given laser data points that are unassociated with the one or more objects in the environment as being representative of an untracked object at a given position with respect to the vehicle. The method also includes determining that the untracked object remains at a substantially same relative position with respect to the vehicle as the vehicle moves, and identifying by the computing device an indication that a weather condition of the environment of the vehicle is sunny. | 11-13-2014 |
20140336935 | Methods and Systems for Detecting Weather Conditions Using Vehicle Onboard Sensors - Example methods and systems for detecting weather conditions using vehicle onboard sensors are provided. An example method includes receiving laser data collected for an environment of a vehicle, and the laser data includes a plurality of laser data points. The method also includes associating, by a computing device, laser data points of the plurality of laser data points with one or more objects in the environment, and determining given laser data points of the plurality of laser data points that are unassociated with the one or more objects in the environment as being representative of an untracked object. The method also includes based on one or more untracked objects being determined, identifying by the computing device an indication of a weather condition of the environment. | 11-13-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120083960 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREDICTING BEHAVIORS OF DETECTED OBJECTS - Aspects of the invention relate generally to autonomous vehicles. Specifically, the features described may be used alone or in combination in order to improve the safety, use, driver experience, and performance of these vehicles. | 04-05-2012 |
20130197736 | VEHICLE CONTROL BASED ON PERCEPTION UNCERTAINTY - Aspects of the disclosure relate generally to maneuvering autonomous vehicles. Specifically, the vehicle may determine the uncertainty in its perception system and use this uncertainty value to make decisions about how to maneuver the vehicle. For example, the perception system may include sensors, object type models, and object motion models, each associated with uncertainties. The sensors may be associated with uncertainties based on the sensor's range, speed, and /or shape of the sensor field. The object type models may be associated with uncertainties, for example, in whether a perceived object is of one type (such as a small car) or another type (such as a bicycle). The object motion models may also be associated with uncertainties, for example, not all objects will move exactly as they are predicted to move. These uncertainties may be used to maneuver the vehicle. | 08-01-2013 |
20130245877 | Actively Modifying a Field of View of an Autonomous Vehicle in View of Constraints - Methods and devices for actively modifying a field of view of an autonomous vehicle in view of constraints are disclosed. In one embodiment, an example method is disclosed that includes causing a sensor in an autonomous vehicle to sense information about an environment in a first field of view, where a portion of the environment is obscured in the first field of view. The example method further includes determining a desired field of view in which the portion of the environment is not obscured and, based on the desired field of view and a set of constraints for the vehicle, determining a second field of view in which the portion of the environment is less obscured than in the first field of view. The example method further includes modifying a position of the vehicle, thereby causing the sensor to sense information in the second field of view. | 09-19-2013 |
20130253753 | DETECTING LANE MARKINGS - Aspects of the disclosure relate generally to detecting lane markers. More specifically, laser scan data may be collected by moving a laser along a roadway. The laser scan data may include data points describing the intensity and location information of objects within range of the laser. Each beam of the laser may be associated with a respective subset of data points. For a single beam, the subset of data points may be further divided into sections. For each section, the average intensity and standard deviation may be used to determine a threshold intensity. A set of lane marker data points may be generated by comparing the intensity of each data point to the threshold intensity for the section in which the data point appears and based on the elevation of the data point. This set may be stored for later use or otherwise made available for further processing. | 09-26-2013 |
20130253754 | Robust Method for Detecting Traffic Signals and their Associated States - Methods and devices for detecting traffic signals and their associated states are disclosed. In one embodiment, an example method includes a scanning a target area using one or more sensors of a vehicle to obtain target area information. The vehicle may be configured to operate in an autonomous mode, and the target area may be a type of area where traffic signals are typically located. The method may also include detecting a traffic signal in the target area information, determining a location of the traffic signal, and determining a state of the traffic signal. Also, a confidence in the traffic signal may be determined. For example, the location of the traffic signal may be compared to known locations of traffic signals. Based on the state of the traffic signal and the confidence in the traffic signal, the vehicle may be controlled in the autonomous mode. | 09-26-2013 |
20140088855 | DETERMINING CHANGES IN A DRIVING ENVIRONMENT BASED ON VEHICLE BEHAVIOR - A method and apparatus are provided for determining whether a driving environment has changed relative to previously stored information about the driving environment. The apparatus may include an autonomous driving computer system configured to detect one or more vehicles in the driving environment, and determine corresponding trajectories for those detected vehicles. The autonomous driving computer system may then compare the determined trajectories to an expected trajectory of a hypothetical vehicle in the driving environment. Based on the comparison, the autonomous driving computer system may determine whether the driving environment has changed and/or a probability that the driving environment has changed, relative to the previously stored information about the driving environment. | 03-27-2014 |
20140129073 | Methods and Systems to Aid Autonomous Vehicles Driving Through a Lane Merge - Methods and devices for controlling a vehicle in an autonomous mode are disclosed. In one aspect, an example method is disclosed that includes obtaining, by a computer system, lane information that provides an estimated location of a lane of a road on which a vehicle is travelling, where the computer system is configured to control the vehicle in an autonomous mode. The example method further includes determining, by the computer system, that the lane information has become unavailable or unreliable and, in response to determining that the lane information has become unavailable or unreliable, the computer system analyzing trajectories of other vehicles to locate a potential merge point on the road and creating a new trajectory that follows the lane at the potential merge point. | 05-08-2014 |
20140277901 | Use of Uncertainty Regarding Observations of Traffic Intersections to Modify Behavior of a Vehicle - Methods and devices for using uncertainty regarding observations of traffic intersections to modify behavior of a vehicle are disclosed. In one embodiment, an example method includes determining a state of a traffic intersection using information from one or more sensors of a vehicle. The vehicle may be configured to operate in an autonomous mode. The method may also include determining an uncertainty associated with the determined state of the traffic intersection. The method may further include controlling the vehicle in the autonomous mode based on the determined state of the traffic intersection and the determined uncertainty. | 09-18-2014 |
20140309833 | MAPPING ACTIVE AND INACTIVE CONSTRUCTION ZONES FOR AUTONOMOUS DRIVING - Aspects of the present disclosure relate to differentiating between active and inactive construction zones. In one example, this may include identifying a construction object associated with a construction zone. The identified construction object may be used to map the area of the construction zone. Detailed map information may then be used to classify the activity of the construction zone. The area of the construction zone and the classification may be added to the detailed map information. Subsequent to adding the construction zone and the classification to the detailed map information, the construction object (or another construction object) may be identified. The location of the construction object may be used to identify the construction zone and classification from the detailed map information. The classification of the classification may be used to operate a vehicle having an autonomous mode. | 10-16-2014 |
20140379247 | Use of Environmental Information to aid Image Processing for Autonomous Vehicles - An autonomous vehicle may be configured to use environmental information for image processing. The vehicle may be configured to operate in an autonomous mode in an environment and may be operating substantially in a lane of travel of the environment. The vehicle may include a sensor configured to receive image data indicative of the environment. The vehicle may also include a computer system configured to compare environmental information indicative of the lane of travel to the image data so as to determine a portion of the image data that corresponds to the lane of travel of the environment. Based on the portion of the image data that corresponds to the lane of travel of the environment and by disregarding a remaining portion of the image data, the vehicle may determine whether an object is present in the lane, and based on the determination, provide instructions to control the vehicle in the autonomous mode in the environment. | 12-25-2014 |
20150268665 | VEHICLE COMMUNICATION USING AUDIBLE SIGNALS - The present disclosure relates to enabling an autonomous vehicle operating in a self-driving mode to communicate information about what the vehicle is about to do or is currently doing. For example, one or more processors may maneuver a vehicle in an autonomous or self-driving mode. While maneuvering the vehicle in the autonomous driving mode, a time when the vehicle will begin to accelerate may be determined. A first audible signal may be played through a speaker at a time t seconds before the time when the vehicle will begin to accelerate. While maneuvering the vehicle in the autonomous driving mode, a time when the vehicle will begin to decelerate may also be determined. A second audible signal, different from the first audible signal, may be played through the speaker at the time when the vehicle begins decelerating. | 09-24-2015 |
20150355640 | MAPPING ACTIVE AND INACTIVE CONSTRUCTION ZONES FOR AUTONOMOUS DRIVING - Aspects of the present disclosure relate to differentiating between active and inactive construction zones. In one example, this may include identifying a construction object associated with a construction zone. The identified construction object may be used to map the area of the construction zone. Detailed map information may then be used to classify the activity of the construction zone. The area of the construction zone and the classification may be added to the detailed map information. Subsequent to adding the construction zone and the classification to the detailed map information, the construction object (or another construction object) may be identified. The location of the construction object may be used to identify the construction zone and classification from the detailed map information. The classification of the classification may be used to operate a vehicle having an autonomous mode. | 12-10-2015 |
20150360692 | Robust Method for Detecting Traffic Signals and their Associated States - Methods and devices for detecting traffic signals and their associated states are disclosed. In one embodiment, an example method includes a scanning a target area using one or more sensors of a vehicle to obtain target area information. The vehicle may be configured to operate in an autonomous mode, and the target area may be a type of area where traffic signals are typically located. The method may also include detecting a traffic signal in the target area information, determining a location of the traffic signal, and determining a state of the traffic signal. Also, a confidence in the traffic signal may be determined. For example, the location of the traffic signal may be compared to known locations of traffic signals. Based on the state of the traffic signal and the confidence in the traffic signal, the vehicle may be controlled in the autonomous mode. | 12-17-2015 |
20150379869 | Use of Relationship between Activities of Different Traffic Signals in a Network to Improve Traffic Signal State Estimation - Methods and devices for using a relationship between activities of different traffic signals in a network to improve traffic signal state estimation are disclosed. An example method includes determining that a vehicle is approaching an upcoming traffic signal. The method may further include determining a state of one or more traffic signals other than the upcoming traffic signal. Additionally, the method may also include determining an estimate of a state of the upcoming traffic signal based on a relationship between the state of the one or more traffic signals other than the upcoming traffic signal and the state of the upcoming traffic signal. | 12-31-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20140063232 | Construction Zone Sign Detection - Methods and systems for detection of a construction zone sign are described. A computing device, configured to control the vehicle, may be configured to receive, from an image-capture device coupled to the computing device, images of a vicinity of the road on which the vehicle is travelling. Also, the computing device may be configured to determine image portions in the images that may depict sides of the road at a predetermined height range. Further, the computing device may be configured to detect a construction zone sign in the image portions, and determine a type of the construction zone sign. Accordingly, the computing device may be configured to modify a control strategy associated with a driving behavior of the vehicle; and control the vehicle based on the modified control strategy. | 03-06-2014 |
20140067187 | Construction Zone Detection Using a Plurality of Information Sources - Methods and systems for detection of a construction zone using information from a plurality of sources are described. In an example, a computing device, configured to control the vehicle, may be configured to receive information, from a plurality of sources, relating to detection of a construction zone on the road on which the vehicle is travelling. Also, the computing device may be configured to determine a likelihood of existence of the construction zone on the road, based on the information. Further the computing device may be configured to modify a control strategy associated with a driving behavior of the vehicle, based on the likelihood; and control the vehicle based on the modified control strategy. | 03-06-2014 |
20150266471 | Construction Zone Sign Detection Using Light Detection and Ranging - Methods and systems for construction zone sign detection are described. A computing device may be configured to receive a 3D point cloud of a vicinity of a road on which a vehicle is travelling. The 3D point cloud may include points corresponding to light reflected from objects in the vicinity of the road. The computing device may be configured to determine a set of points representing an area at a given height from a surface of the road, and estimate a shape associated with the set of points. Further, the computing device may be configured to determine a likelihood that the set of points represents a construction zone sign, based on the estimated shape. Based on the likelihood, the computing device may be configured to modify a control strategy associated with a driving behavior of the vehicle; and control the vehicle based on the modified control strategy. | 09-24-2015 |
20150266472 | Construction Zone Object Detection Using Light Detection and Ranging - Methods and systems for construction zone object detection are described. A computing device may be configured to receive, from a LIDAR, a 3D point cloud of a road on which a vehicle is travelling. The 3D point cloud may comprise points corresponding to light reflected from objects on the road. Also, the computing device may be configured to determine sets of points in the 3D point cloud representing an area within a threshold distance from a surface of the road. Further, the computing device may be configured to identify construction zone objects in the sets of points. Further, the computing device may be configured to determine a likelihood of existence of a construction zone, based on the identification. Based on the likelihood, the computing device may be configured to modify a control strategy of the vehicle; and control the vehicle based on the modified control strategy. | 09-24-2015 |
20160092755 | Construction Zone Sign Detection - Methods and systems for detection of a construction zone sign are described. A computing device, configured to control the vehicle, may be configured to receive, from an image-capture device coupled to the computing device, images of a vicinity of the road on which the vehicle is travelling. Also, the computing device may be configured to determine image portions in the images that may depict sides of the road at a predetermined height range. Further, the computing device may be configured to detect a construction zone sign in the image portions, and determine a type of the construction zone sign. Accordingly, the computing device may be configured to modify a control strategy associated with a driving behavior of the vehicle; and control the vehicle based on the modified control strategy. | 03-31-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20130261872 | Modifying Behavior of Autonomous Vehicle Based on Predicted Behavior of Other Vehicles - A vehicle configured to operate in an autonomous mode could determine a current state of the vehicle and the current state of the environment of the vehicle. The environment of the vehicle includes at least one other vehicle. A predicted behavior of the at least one other vehicle could be determined based on the current state of the vehicle and the current state of the environment of the vehicle. A confidence level could also be determined based on the predicted behavior, the current state of the vehicle, and the current state of the environment of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the confidence level may be related to the likelihood of the at least one other vehicle to perform the predicted behavior. The vehicle in the autonomous mode could be controlled based on the predicted behavior, the confidence level, and the current state of the vehicle and its environment. | 10-03-2013 |
20140136045 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREDICTING BEHAVIORS OF DETECTED OBJECTS - Aspects of the invention relate generally to autonomous vehicles. Specifically, the features described may be used alone or in combination in order to improve the safety, use, driver experience, and performance of these vehicles. | 05-15-2014 |
20140142799 | Modifying Behavior of Autonomous Vehicle Based on Predicted Behavior of Other Vehicles - A vehicle configured to operate in an autonomous mode could determine a current state of the vehicle and the current state of the environment of the vehicle. The environment of the vehicle includes at least one other vehicle. A predicted behavior of the at least one other vehicle could be determined based on the current state of the vehicle and the current state of the environment of the vehicle. A confidence level could also be determined based on the predicted behavior, the current state of the vehicle, and the current state of the environment of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the confidence level may be related to the likelihood of the at least one other vehicle to perform the predicted behavior. The vehicle in the autonomous mode could be controlled based on the predicted behavior, the confidence level, and the current state of the vehicle and its environment. | 05-22-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20130005501 | HOLLOW GOLF CLUB WITH HIGH DENSITY WEIGHTS - A golf club with a new innovative construction to attach a high density weight to an external surface of the sole of a golf club head is disclosed herein. More specifically, the present invention relates to utilizing a thickened sole portion having a specific surface area to thickness ratio to provide adequate support for a high density weight having a significant amount of mass. The new innovative method of attachment also incorporates a unique mechanical lock to properly secure the high density weight to the club head, as materials used for high density weighting may not be easily weldable to the titanium material currently used for metalwood type golf club head. | 01-03-2013 |
20130005502 | HOLLOW GOLF CLUB WITH HIGH DENSITY WEIGHTS - A golf club with a new innovative construction to attach a high density weight to an external surface of the sole of a golf club head is disclosed herein. More specifically, the present invention relates to utilizing a thickened sole portion having a specific surface area to thickness ratio to provide adequate support for a high density weight having a significant amount of mass. The new innovative method of attachment also incorporates a unique mechanical lock to properly secure the high density weight to the club head, as materials used for high density weighting may not be easily weldable to the titanium material currently used for metalwood type golf club head. The present invention's mechanical lock mechanism utilizes a protruding extension stemming from an internal surface of the weight and an attachment socked located within an internal cavity of the golf club head to engage one another to help secure the weight to the golf club head. | 01-03-2013 |
20130005504 | METAL WOOD GOLF CLUB HEAD HAVING EXTERNALLY PROTRUDING WEIGHTS - A metal wood golf club with externally protruding weights that improves the performance of a golf club head is disclosed herein. More specifically, the present invention discloses a metal wood type golf club head that is capable of pushing the boundaries of performance all while maintaining the size and shape of a classic pear shaped golf club. | 01-03-2013 |
20150335963 | METAL WOOD CLUB - A method of constructing a golf club head, comprising affixing a hosel to a shell, wherein said shell comprises a striking face, a sole extending aftward from a lower edge of said ball striking face, and a crown extending aftward from an upper edge of said ball striking face, wherein said shell defines a golf club head interior within said shell, wherein said hosel is configured to receive a golf club shaft, wherein said hosel comprises an internal portion within said golf club head interior and an external portion extending outside said shell, wherein said golf club head comprises a hosel rib affixed to said internal portion of said hosel, manipulating the orientation of said hosel relative to said shell after affixing said hosel to said shell, and affixing said hosel rib to said shell after manipulating the orientation of said hosel. | 11-26-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080306846 | System and Method for a Frame-Based Internet Enabled User Interface - A system and method for a frame-based internet enabled interface. In one embodiment, a system is disclosed for a client-side frame based internet enabled interface. The system comprises a first frame and a second frame in a window. The first frame encapsulates a resource from a third-party internet based service. The resource is requested by a user through an internet enabling software. In addition, the second frame comprises user-specific information that is related to content provided from the resource. | 12-11-2008 |
20100205079 | Method and Apparatus for Configuring and Establishing a Secure Credential-Based Network Link Between a Client and a Service over a Data-Packet-Network - A system for establishing a direct network connection between a first and a second node over a data-packet-network includes a third network node having connection to the data-packet-network for providing an electronic interface accessible to the first node; a navigation agent directed by the third network node for navigating over the network to the second node to gather information; and at least one machine-readable instruction containing the instruction for directing and implementing the direct network connection. The electronic interface may be a Web page providing bill consolidation and payment services to a client operating the first node and wherein the connection established via the instruction enables transparent login payment of a bill at the second node, which may be a direct billing party interface of the client registered and listed on the Web page. | 08-12-2010 |
20110282783 | Method and Apparatus for Configuring and Establishing a Secure Credential-Based Network Link Between a Client and a Service over a Data-Packet-Network - A bill-paying service has an internet-connected server executing software from a non-transitory, machine-readable medium, the software providing functionality accessing, on behalf of a user, a plurality of billing servers, logging in with credentials supplied by the user, and downloading information concerning one or more bills which the user is responsible to pay, functionality receiving a selection by the end user, indicating a bill the user wishes to pay, and functionality transmitting to the user a deep-link plug-in (DLP) for the billing server where the bill selected by the client is associated, the DLP redirecting the user to a page at the billing server where the user is enabled to pay the bill selected. | 11-17-2011 |
20120289188 | PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS ON MOBILE DEVICE USING MOBILE CARRIER - A user makes a purchase request through a merchant app on a mobile device, such as by selecting an item for purchase. A mobile SDK of a payment provider is installed in the merchant app. The payment request includes the phone number for the mobile device. The payment provider verifies the phone number of the user and requests approval of the payment from a mobile operator providing wireless communication services on the mobile device. If the request is approved, the payment is charged to the user mobile operator account. The user simply taps a button to select an item to purchase and selects another button to confirm the purchase. Once processing is done, the user is notified on the mobile device of a successful payment. | 11-15-2012 |
20130320089 | CARD READER FOR MOBILE DEVICE - A card reader for use with a mobile device includes a rotatable face that can be rotated over a portion of the mobile device so that when the user slides a card through the card reader, the overlapping portion of the rotatable face prevents the card reader from spinning or rotating. A foot and/or a housing for a jack on the bottom of the card reader prevents the card reader from accidently turning off the mobile device during use. | 12-05-2013 |
20140312118 | CARD READER FOR MOBILE DEVICE - A card reader for use with a mobile device includes a foot and/or a housing for a jack on the bottom of the card reader prevents the card reader from accidently turning off the mobile device during use. | 10-23-2014 |
20140351144 | PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS ON MOBILE DEVICE USING MOBILE CARRIER - A user makes a purchase request through a merchant app on a mobile device, such as by selecting an item for purchase. A mobile SDK of a payment provider is installed in the merchant app. The payment request includes the phone number for the mobile device. The payment provider verifies the phone number of the user and requests approval of the payment from a mobile operator providing wireless communication services on the mobile device. If the request is approved, the payment is charged to the user mobile operator account. The user simply taps a button to select an item to purchase and selects another button to confirm the purchase. Once processing is done, the user is notified on the mobile device of a successful payment. | 11-27-2014 |
20150073980 | BLUETOOTH LOW ENERGY (BLE) PRE-CHECK IN - One or more Bluetooth® low energy (BLE) beacons in communication with a remote server that provides check in capabilities and payment capabilities may be installed at a location. The BLE beacons may connect with a user's mobile device when the user enters the location and allow the user to check in to the location and authorize payments to be made at the location. Once the user is checked in to the location, the user may be provided with additional functionality, benefits, offers, and applications related to the location and facilitated by the check in. Further, the user may be pre-checked in into a next location when the user is at a current location. | 03-12-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080256133 | Integrated Change Management Unit - An integrated system for managing changes in regulatory and non-regulatory requirements for business activities at an industrial or commercial facility. Application of this system to environmental, health and safety activities, and to food, drug, cosmetic, and medical treatment and device activities, are discussed as examples. The system: provides one or more databases that contain information on operations and requirements concerning an activity or area of business; receives information on regulatory and non-regulatory changes that affect operations of the business; converts these changes into changes in data entry forms, data processing and analysis procedures, and presentation (by printing, electronic display and/or distribution) of data processing and analysis results to selected recipients, without requiring the services of one or more programmers to re-key and/or reformat the items affected by the change; and implements receipt of change information and dissemination of data processing and analysis results using the facilities of the Internet. | 10-16-2008 |
20110208553 | INTEGRATED CHANGE MANAGEMENT UNIT - An integrated system for managing changes in regulatory and non-regulatory requirements for business activities at an industrial or commercial facility. Application of this system to environmental, health and safety activities, and to food, drug, cosmetic, and medical treatment and device activities, are discussed as examples. The system: provides one or more databases that contain information on operations and requirements concerning an activity or area of business; receives information on regulatory and non-regulatory changes that affect operations of the business; converts these changes into changes in data entry forms, data processing and analysis procedures, and presentation (by printing, electronic display and/or distribution) of data processing and analysis results to selected recipients, without requiring the services of one or more programmers to re-key and/or reformat the items affected by the change; and implements receipt of change information and dissemination of data processing and analysis results using the facilities of the Internet. | 08-25-2011 |
20140180939 | INTEGRATED CHANGE MANAGEMENT UNIT - An integrated system for managing changes in regulatory and nonregulatory requirements for business activities at an industrial or commercial facility. Application of this system to environmental, health and safety activities, and to food, drug, cosmetic, and medical treatment and device activities, are discussed as examples. The system: provides one or more databases that contain information on operations and requirements concerning an activity or area of business; receives information on regulatory and nonregulatory changes that affect operations of the business; converts these changes into changes in data entry forms, data processing and analysis procedures, and presentation (by printing, electronic display and/or distribution) of data processing and analysis results to selected recipients, without requiring the services of one or more programmers to re-key and/or reformat the items affected by the change; and implements receipt of change information and dissemination of data processing and analysis results using the facilities of the Internet. | 06-26-2014 |
20160055489 | INTEGRATED CHANGE MANAGEMENT UNIT - An integrated system for managing changes in regulatory and nonregulatory requirements for business activities at an industrial or commercial facility. Application of this system to environmental, health and safety activities, and to food, drug, cosmetic, and medical treatment and device activities, are discussed as examples. The system: provides one or more databases that contain information on operations and requirements concerning an activity or area of business; receives information on regulatory and nonregulatory changes that affect operations of the business; converts these changes into changes in data entry forms, data processing and analysis procedures, and presentation (by printing, electronic display and/or distribution) of data processing and analysis results to selected recipients, without requiring the services of one or more programmers to re-key and/or reformat the items affected by the change; and implements receipt of change information and dissemination of data processing and analysis results using the facilities of the Internet. | 02-25-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120305283 | POWER ELECTRONICS INTERCONNECTION FOR ELECTRIC MOTOR DRIVES - The bus bar includes a first bus bar layer formed of a first generally uniform thickness of a first bus bar conductor; a first dielectric layer overlying a top surface of the first bus bar layer; and a second bus bar layer formed of a second generally uniform thickness of a second bus bar conductor overlying a top surface of the first dielectric layer and the top surface of the first bus bar layer wherein: the first bus bar layer includes a first via for receipt of a first electrical lead of an electrical component and a second via for receipt of a second electrical lead of the electrical component and wherein: the first dielectric layer and the second bus bar layer each include a via aligned with the first via wherein the first electrical lead is extendable from beneath the first bus bar layer through the first dielectric layer and through the second bus bar layer. | 12-06-2012 |
20130074411 | Fuel Coupler with Wireless Port Door Unlatching Actuator - A fuel delivery system and method of use are provided that may be used to open the door covering the charge port of an electric vehicle, or the door covering the fuel filler port of a conventional vehicle. The system includes a fuel coupler (e.g., a charging connector or a gas nozzle) designed to transfer fuel from the source to the vehicle via the vehicle's fuel port. The fuel coupler includes a switch that when toggled, causes a control signal to be wirelessly transmitted over a short distance. Upon receipt of the control signal by a receiver integrated into a vehicle that is in close proximity to the fuel port, an unlatching actuator within the vehicle unlatches the port door, thereby allowing it to open and provide port access. | 03-28-2013 |
20130074985 | Vehicle Port Door with Wirelessly Actuated Unlatching Assembly - A port door unlatching system is provided that may be used to open the door covering the charge port of an electric vehicle, or the door covering the fuel filler port of a conventional vehicle. The system includes a fuel delivery subsystem with a fuel coupler (e.g., a charging connector or a gas nozzle) designed to transfer fuel from the source to the vehicle via the vehicle's fuel port. The fuel coupler includes a switch that when toggled, causes a control signal to be wirelessly transmitted over a short distance. Upon receipt of the control signal by a receiver integrated into a vehicle that is in close proximity to the fuel port, an unlatching actuator within the vehicle unlatches the port door, thereby allowing it to open and provide port access. | 03-28-2013 |
20130076059 | Charge Port Door with Electromagnetic Latching Assembly - A door latching system for the door covering the charge port of an electric vehicle, or for the door covering the fuel filler port of a conventional vehicle, is provided. The door latching system is comprised of a ferromagnetic member attached to an interior surface of the door, and a latching assembly integrated into the port housing, where the latching assembly includes an assembly case, an electromagnet, and a permanent magnet that maintains the door in a closed position when the electromagnet is not energized and releases the door when the electromagnet is energized. The latching assembly may include a magnetic flux sensor that monitors when the port door is open or closed. The magnetic flux sensor may be coupled to a system controller that performs a preset response when the magnetic flux sensor determines that the door is open. | 03-28-2013 |
20130078839 | Funnel Shaped Charge Inlet - A vehicle charge inlet integrated into a port assembly surface is provided. The charge inlet includes an inlet housing with a perimeter that is curvilinear, non-cylindrical and shaped so that only a single orientation of a complementary sized and shaped electrical connector may be inserted into the inlet. A plurality of electrical contacts, a latching mechanism and a divider are also integrated into the charge inlet housing, the divider extending from the bottom surface of the inlet housing and configured to fit within a complementary slot of the charge connector, the divider providing further electrical isolation between the electrical contacts. A funneling surface connects the open end of the inlet housing to the port assembly surface. | 03-28-2013 |
20130078841 | Electromechanical Pawl for Controlling Vehicle Charge Inlet Access - A charge connector latching mechanism integrated into a vehicle's charge inlet is provided, where the latching mechanism includes a retractable latching pawl. The retractable pawl is configured to be positioned in at least a first, default position where the pawl extends through an inlet surface of the charge inlet, and a second position where the pawl is retracted and does not extend through the inlet surface. In the first position the retractable pawl prevents insertion of a charge connector into the charge inlet if the charge connector is uncoupled from the inlet, and prevents removal of the charge connector if the charge connector is coupled to the inlet. In the second position the retractable pawl allows insertion/withdrawal of the charge connector into/from the charge inlet. The front surface of the retractable pawl may include a nub configured to fit within a recess within the front face of the charge connector. | 03-28-2013 |
20140209344 | POWER ELECTRONICS INTERCONNECTION FOR ELECTRIC MOTOR DRIVES - The bus bar includes a first bus bar layer formed of a first generally uniform thickness of a first bus bar conductor; a first dielectric layer overlying a top surface of the first bus bar layer; and a second bus bar layer formed of a second generally uniform thickness of a second bus bar conductor overlying a top surface of the first dielectric layer and the top surface of the first bus bar layer wherein: the first bus bar layer includes a first via for receipt of a first electrical lead of an electrical component and a second via for receipt of a second electrical lead of the electrical component and wherein: the first dielectric layer and the second bus bar layer each include a via aligned with the first via wherein the first electrical lead is extendable from beneath the first bus bar layer through the first dielectric layer and through the second bus bar layer. | 07-31-2014 |
20140213139 | MAGNETIC CONSTRUCTION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A magnetic construction system comprised of plural multi-shaped structural bodies each containing one or more captured magnets, wherein each magnet is free to rotate within its respective retaining pocket to align in magnetic polarity with rotatable magnets in adjacent structural bodies. Surface geometry around each magnet may include a radial detent feature which provides lateral and rotational stability between magnetically coupled structural bodies, or a radial recess which allows free rotation of respective structural bodies about the polar axis of magnetic coupling. | 07-31-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080320625 | STRAWBERRY PLANT NAMED 'DRISSTRAWTHREE' - This invention relates to a new and distinct cultivar of strawberry plant named ‘DrisStrawThree’. The new cultivar is primarily characterized by its large fruit size, heavy fruit production, and resistance to powdery mildew. | 12-25-2008 |
20130025008 | Strawberry plant named 'Drisstrawtwentytwo' - A new and distinct variety of strawberry plant named ‘DrisStrawTwenty-Two’ characterized by having medium sized, conical to an almost cylindrical shaped berries that are dark red in color, and having a medium sweetness, is disclosed. | 01-24-2013 |
20130025009 | Strawberry plant named 'DrisStrawTwenty-One' - A new and distinct variety of strawberry plant named ‘DrisStrawTwenty-One’ characterized by having large sized, bi-conical shaped berries that are dark red in color, and having a weak sweetness, is disclosed. | 01-24-2013 |
20130276182 | Strawberry Plant Named 'DrisStrawTwentyNine' - A new and distinct variety of strawberry plant named ‘DrisStrawTwentyNine’ particularly characterized by having large fruit with a long shelf life, and high production of first class fruit, is disclosed. | 10-17-2013 |
20130276183 | Strawberry Plant Named 'DrisStrawThirty' - A new and distinct variety of strawberry plant named ‘DrisStrawThirty’ particularly characterized by high yield, dark red fruit color, and large fruit with medium sweetness is disclosed. | 10-17-2013 |
20130347158 | Strawberry plant named 'DrisStrawThirtyOne' - A new and distinct variety of strawberry plant named ‘DrisStrawThirtyOne’ particularly characterized by large fruit with sweet juicy flavor, conic shape and full red glossy color is disclosed. | 12-26-2013 |
20140075619 | Strawberry plant named 'DrisStrawThirtyThree' - A new and distinct variety of strawberry plant named ‘DrisStrawThirtyThree’ particularly characterized by large, orange-red colored, very glossy fruit with sweet flavor is disclosed. | 03-13-2014 |
20150096086 | Strawberry plant named 'drisstrawthirtysix' - A new and distinct variety of strawberry plant named ‘DrisStrawThirtySix’ particularly characterized by a very vigorous plant bearing large, conic shaped fruit having an early harvest maturity is disclosed: | 04-02-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090205515 | RFID TAG THAT PROVIDES A FLAT PRINT AREA AND A PINCH THAT ENABLES THE SAME - A radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag includes a face stock and an RFID device. The face stock has a printable side and an inlay side, with the RFID device mounted to the inlay side. A layer of adhesive is coated on the inlay side of the face stock. A liner is releasably adhered to the layer of adhesive and includes a relief area that accommodates for defection of the RFID device. The accommodation of the thickness of the RFID device results in a tag that has a substantially uniform printable surface. Accordingly, when passing through a printer, the printable surface is maintained substantially flat or linear at the print head of the printer, thereby minimizing jamming and enhancing printability. A pinch roller for a printer also accommodates for deflection of the RFID tag by providing a deformable section along a length thereof the body that has a greater resiliency than the rest of the body. At the location of the RFID device, the layer of adhesive may also include a blank that is substantially free of adhesive for accommodating the RFID device. | 08-20-2009 |
20090206474 | ELECTRICAL DEVICE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING ELECTRICAL DEVICES USING FILM EMBOSSING TECHNIQUES TO EMBED INTEGRATED CIRCUITS INTO FILM - An electrical device and method of making same is provided wherein a chip or other electrical component is embedded in a substrate. The substrate may be a thermoplastic material capable of deforming around the chip and at least partially encasing the chip when heat and/or pressure is applied to the substrate. Electromagnetic radiation such a near infrared radiation can be used to heat the substrate. The substrate may include a compressible layer that can be compressed and/or crushed to form a recess into which the chip can be inserted. Once embedded, the chip or electrical component is secured by the substrate and may be coupled to another electrical component. A method of making an RFID transponder is also provided wherein an RFID chip is embedded in a substrate using heat and/or pressure, an antenna structure is applied to the substrate, and the RFID chip and antenna structure are coupled together. | 08-20-2009 |
20100043203 | HIGH-SPEED RFID CIRCUIT PLACEMENT METHOD AND DEVICE - A high-speed machine and method for placing an RFID circuit onto an electrical component includes separating an RFID circuit from a web of RFID circuits, and placing the RFID circuit onto an electrical component with a placing device. The separating includes directing the RFID circuit onto a transfer drum of the placement device and separably coupling the RFID circuit to the transfer drum. According to one method, a separator device separates and directs chips or interposers onto a placement device. According to another method, chips or interposers are tested before being separated from a web, and if good, are separated from the web, directed onto a placement device, and placed on an electrical component. If defective, the chips or interposers are not directed onto a placement device and are removed by a scrap web removal device. | 02-25-2010 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090204457 | System and method for authenticating a user of multiple computer applications, networks or devices using a wireless device - An automated system and method for authenticating entities or individuals engaging in automated or electronic transactions or activities such as financial transactions, accessing computer applications, computer software, data networks or other automated or electronic devices requiring identity verification is provided. A unique Personal Identity Value is computed and stored in an Identity Register for the entity or individual and may be used for a variety of applications including recognizing incidents of identity theft. This Personal Identity Value is based on one or more computer logic resources that incorporate the relationship among a variety of identification information elements and parameters associated with the entity or individual, such as the entity's or individual's wireless device location, the entity's or individual's home location, other associated locations, automated activities engaged in and applications accessed. | 08-13-2009 |
20100130165 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IDENTITY PROTECTION USING MOBILE DEVICE SIGNALING NETWORK DERIVED LOCATION PATTERN RECOGNITION - A system and method for recognizing patterns in wireless device locations using wireless device location data derived from a communications signaling network is provided. By using wireless network supported signaling operations and messages, location data concerning the whereabouts of wireless devices, and hence wireless device users, may be obtained. The location data derived from the communications signaling network may be statistically analyzed to reveal potential geographic patterns that may indicate meaningful behaviors of the purported users of the wireless devices. | 05-27-2010 |
20110208601 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FINANCIAL TRANSACTION AUTHENTICATION USING TRAVEL INFORMATION - Systems and methods for verifying a distant-from-home financial transaction related to a customer account based on travel indicators in earlier purchase transactions made by that customer. | 08-25-2011 |
20120144498 | System And Method For Mobile Identity Protection of a User of Multiple Computer Applications, Networks or Devices - An automated system and method for authenticating entities or individuals engaging in automated or electronic transactions or activities such as financial transactions, accessing computer applications, computer software, data networks or other automated or electronic devices requiring identity verification is provided. A unique Personal Identity Value is computed and stored in an Identity Register for the entity or individual and may be used for a variety of applications including recognizing incidents of identity theft. This Personal Identity Value is based on one or more computer logic resources that incorporate the relationship among a variety of identification information elements and parameters associated with the entity or individual, such as the entity's or individual's wireless device location, the entity's or individual's home location, other associated locations, automated activities engaged in and applications accessed. | 06-07-2012 |
20120302209 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IDENTITY PROTECTION USING MOBILE DEVICE SIGNALING NETWORK DERIVED LOCATION PATTERN RECOGNITION - A system and method for recognizing patterns in wireless device locations using wireless device location data derived from a communications signaling network is provided. By using wireless network supported signaling operations and messages, location data concerning the whereabouts of wireless devices, and hence wireless device users, may be obtained. The location data derived from the communications signaling network may be statistically analyzed to reveal potential geographic patterns that may indicate meaningful behaviors of the purported users of the wireless devices. | 11-29-2012 |
20140040155 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MOBILE IDENTITY PROTECTION OF A USER OF MULTIPLE COMPUTER APPLICATIONS, NETWORKS OR DEVICES USING A WIRELESS DEVICE - An automated system and method for authenticating entities or individuals engaging in automated or electronic transactions or activities such as financial transactions, accessing computer applications, computer software, data networks or other automated or electronic devices requiring identity verification is provided. A unique Personal Identity Value is computed and stored in an Identity Register for the entity or individual and may be used for a variety of applications including recognizing incidents of identity theft. This Personal Identity Value is based on one or more computer logic resources that incorporate the relationship among a variety of identification information elements and parameters associated with the entity or individual, such as the entity's or individual's wireless device location, the entity's or individual's home location, other associated locations, automated activities engaged in and applications accessed. | 02-06-2014 |
20150017947 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IDENTITY PROTECTION USING MOBILE DEVICE SIGNALING NETWORK DERIVED LOCATION PATTERN RECOGNITION - A system and method for recognizing patterns in wireless device locations using wireless device location data derived from a communications signaling network is provided. By using wireless network supported signaling operations and messages, location data concerning the whereabouts of wireless devices, and hence wireless device users, may be obtained. The location data derived from the communications signaling network may be statistically analyzed to reveal potential geographic patterns that may indicate meaningful behaviors of the purported users of the wireless devices. | 01-15-2015 |
20150142623 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IDENTITY PROTECTION USING MOBILE DEVICE SIGNALING NETWORK DERIVED LOCATION PATTERN RECOGNITION - A system and method for recognizing patterns in wireless device locations using wireless device location data derived from a communications signaling network is provided. By using wireless network supported signaling operations and messages, location data concerning the whereabouts of wireless devices, and hence wireless device users, may be obtained. The location data derived from the communications signaling network may be statistically analyzed to reveal potential geographic patterns that may indicate meaningful behaviors of the purported users of the wireless devices. | 05-21-2015 |