Fullerton, US

Benjamin Fullerton, Oconomowoc, WI US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20140265768	MEDICINE CABINET - A cabinet includes a box with a backboard, a top panel, a bottom panel, and two side panels joining the top and bottom panels. The cabinet further includes shelves configured to be inserted within the box between one pair of clips, each clip having an undulation that mates with a corresponding undulation on trim strips disposed on side panels. An accessory slides in a track of a cabinet door and is connected to the track with a bow clip. The cabinet includes a frame member with a projecting lip configured to extend over an edge of the box. The frame member has at least one stiffening support that connects to a bracket mounted against a wall, and the backboard connects to the bracket with a screw tab having a cover flap concealing a screw. The cabinet is configured to be mounted in a wall surface or a recess.	09-18-2014

Daniel George Fullerton, Atlanta, GA US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20080197065	Sintered polymeric materials and applications thereof - The present invention provides sintered polymeric materials and methods of making the same which are useful in a variety of applications. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a sintered polymeric material comprising at least one plastic and at least one elastomer.	08-21-2008

Douglas A. Fullerton, Winston-Salem, NC US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20080308383	Bottled water distribution method and bottle return apparatus - Method and apparatus for bottled beverage distribution. Apparatus includes bin, means for receiving bottles, sensor and receipt dispenser. Method of selling includes providing an inventory, assigning identification indicia, assigning first and second purchase prices and positioning apparatus for receiving, storing and dispensing receipt. Method of distributing includes delivering to a first location water bottles, positioning at a second location a receiving, storing and receipt dispensing apparatus, and retrieving empty bottles from the apparatus. Method of distributing includes creating an account, assigning a first amount charged for each bottle sold, assigning a second amount deducted from the first amount for each bottle received, delivering bottles and positioning a receiving, storing and receipt dispensing apparatus. Method of distributing includes delivering inventory of drinking water, transferring ownership of the inventory, invoicing for each bottle delivered and retrieving empty drinking water bottles from bottle return apparatus.	12-18-2008

Kevin Wayne Fullerton, Graham, TX US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20120030046	System and Method for Buying and Selling Portions of a Composite good in an Electronic Marketplace - Described herein is an improved system and method for buying and selling portions of a composite good in an electronic marketplace. One method and system comprise communicating to a buyer a first good post associated with a seller, and communicating to a seller a “want to buy” post from the buyer, wherein the “want to buy” post is for a second good different from, but associated with, the first good. Another system and method comprise displaying online a want to buy post from a buyer, for a first good, and communicating to a buyer a seller offer for a second good, associated with the first good.	02-02-2012

Larry Fullerton, New Hope, AL US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20080222295	Using internet content as a means to establish live social networks by linking internet users to each other who are simultaneously engaged in the same and/or similar content - A system and method that uses internet content and/or content metadata as a means to establish social networks. Examples include linking internet users, searchers, viewers and/or listeners of the same and/or similar internet content to each other via a platform that enables any of the following in n-dimensional environments: social networking, communications, sharing, e-commerce, advertising, search, hosting and registry services, push and pull applications, anonymous communications, and rich presence.	09-11-2008
20090165140	System for inserting/overlaying markers, data packets and objects relative to viewable content and enabling live social networking, n-dimensional virtual environments and/or other value derivable from the content - A system by which a User can associate selectable Markers, Data Packets and/or Objects with Content. The Content may generally be distributed electronically, and the Markers allow for insertion and/or overlay of Objects when the Content is selected for viewing by a Viewer. Objects and Data Packets are generally provided by a User, Promoter, Host, Service, or other entity to convey information to a Viewer. A Service provides tools and capabilities to both the User and the Promoter to facilitate their respective actions according to embodiments of the invention, including enabling the creation of live social networks (such as those linked to a specific Service provider, a specific User group, activities by a specific Promoter, and/or to specific Data Packets) and the creation of n-dimensional Virtual Environments.	06-25-2009
20090249244	Dynamic information management system and method for content delivery and sharing in content-, metadata- & viewer-based, live social networking among users concurrently engaged in the same and/or similar content - Disclosed are tools, methods, and systems for establishing generally live, Content-based social networks, and for concurrently sharing Content and Content-relevant information within a social network. A Service registers Viewers and/or n-Users, and provides tools that enable a Viewer to identify n-Users concurrently viewing the same or similar Content, or having an interest in the same or similar Content. A Viewer can initiate or join a Content-based social network, and can share their Content with others, or view others' Content, and interact with n-Users via any of several methods. Service tools also enable a Viewer to define and selectively block or alter objectionable material so that it is no longer perceivable in its objectionable form. The described tools, methods, and systems also enable numerous innovative approaches to generate revenue for a Service, for providers of product and/or services, for Content providers, and others.	10-01-2009
20110266916	TRITIUM BATTERY - A Tritium battery of parallel and aligned thin plate anodes and cathodes separated by thin dielectric panels and enclosed in a vented case with an external dummy load, an integral internal DC-DC converter providing converted output power to external electrical contacts, and a fuse. Logic switches power to the dummy load if there is no load on the external electrical contacts. The cathodes may be coated with an electrically conductive coating, such as graphene or a compound of carbon nanotubes and metallic micro wire. The cathodes may be superconductors. The anode includes a conductive thin plate coated with a chemically stable Tritium compound. The thin plate may be etched to increase surface area. The cases are scalable in configuration and may have ten electrodes or more on the sides as well as ends, and so encased Tritium batteries can be physically stacked side-to-side to create electrical connections for parallel power.	11-03-2011
20120124486	LINKING USERS INTO LIVE SOCIAL NETWORKING INTERACTIONS BASED ON THE USERS' ACTIONS RELATIVE TO SIMILAR CONTENT - A system and method that uses interne content and/or content metadata as a means to establish social networks. Examples include linking internet users, searchers, viewers and/or listeners of the same and/or similar internet content to each other via a platform that enables any of the following in n-dimensional environments: social networking, communications, sharing, e-commerce, advertising, search, hosting and registry services, push and pull applications, anonymous communications, and rich presence.	05-17-2012
20120278740	LINKING USERS INTO LIVE SOCIAL NETWORKING INTERACTIONS BASED ON THE USERS' ACTIONS RELATIVE TO SIMILAR CONTENT - A system and method that uses interne content and/or content metadata as a means to establish social networks. Examples include linking internet users, searchers, viewers and/or listeners of the same and/or similar internet content to each other via a platform that enables any of the following in n-dimensional environments: social networking, communications, sharing, e-commerce, advertising, search, hosting and registry services, push and pull applications, anonymous communications, and rich presence.	11-01-2012
20130117131	METHOD OF AND SYSTEM FOR INSERTING/OVERLAYING MARKERS, DATA PACKETS AND OBJECTS RELATIVE TO VIEWABLE CONTENT AND ENABLING LIVE SOCIAL NETWORKING, N-DIMENSIONAL VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENTS AND/OR OTHER VALUE DERIVABLE FROM THE CONTENT - A method by which a User can associate selectable Markers, Data Packets and/or Objects with Content. The Content may generally be distributed electronically, and the Markers allow for insertion and/or overlay of Objects when the Content is selected for viewing by a Viewer. Objects and Data Packets are generally provided by a User, Promoter, Host, Service, or other entity to convey information to a Viewer. A Service provides tools and capabilities to both the User and the Promoter to facilitate their respective actions according to embodiments of the invention, including enabling the creation of live social networks (such as those linked to a specific Service provider, a specific User group, activities by a specific Promoter, and/or to specific Data Packets) and the creation of n-dimensional Virtual Environments.	05-09-2013
20130159412	LINKING USERS INTO LIVE SOCIAL NETWORKING INTERACTIONS BASED ON THE USERS' ACTIONS RELATIVE TO SIMILAR CONTENT - A system and method that uses internet content and/or content metadata as a means to establish social networks. Examples include linking internet users, searchers, viewers and/or listeners of the same and/or similar internet content to each other via a platform that enables any of the following in n-dimensional environments: social networking, communications, sharing, e-commerce, advertising, search, hosting and registry services, push and pull applications, anonymous communications, and rich presence.	06-20-2013
20140181208	LINKING USERS INTO LIVE SOCIAL NETWORKING INTERACTIONS BASED ON THE USERS ACTIONS RELATIVE TO SIMILAR CONTENT - A system and method that uses internet content and/or content metadata as a means to establish social networks. Examples include linking internet users, searchers, viewers and/or listeners of the same and/or similar internet content to each other via a platform that enables any of the following in n-dimensional environments: social networking, communications, sharing, e-commerce, advertising, search, hosting and registry services, push and pull applications, anonymous communications, and rich presence.	06-26-2014
20140208235	DYNAMIC INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTENT DELIVERY AND SHARING IN CONTENT-, METADATA- & VIEWER-BASED, LIVE SOCIAL NETWORKING AMONG USERS CONCURRENTLY ENGAGED IN THE SAME AND/OR SIMILAR CONTENT - Disclosed are tools, methods, and systems for establishing generally live, Content-based social networks, and for concurrently sharing Content and Content-relevant information within a social network. A Service registers Viewers and/or n-Users, and provides tools that enable a Viewer to identify n-Users concurrently viewing the same or similar Content, or having an interest in the same or similar Content. A Viewer can initiate or join a Content-based social network, and can share their Content with others, or view others' Content, and interact with n-Users via any of several methods. Service tools also enable a Viewer to define and selectively block or alter objectionable material so that it is no longer perceivable in its objectionable form. The described tools, methods, and systems also enable numerous innovative approaches to generate revenue for a Service, for providers of product and/or services, for Content providers, and others.	07-24-2014

Larry W. Fullerton, Huntsville, AL US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20100277208	METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING RF WAVEFORMS HAVING AGGREGATE ENERGY WITH DESIRED SPECTRAL CHARACTERISTICS - The present invention relates to a method and system that emulates a desired waveform by producing a time profile of the desired waveform, which is characterized by a plurality of sample values, and generating a plurality of RF waveforms, each RF waveform of the plurality of RF waveforms having a polarity and scaled energy based on a corresponding one of the plurality of sample values, to produce an aggregate RF energy having spectral characteristics that approximate the spectral characteristics of the desired waveform.	11-04-2010

Larry W. Fullerton, Brownsboro, AL US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20090022207	Method for Generating Communication Signal Sequences Having Desirable Correlation Properties and System for Using Same - A method for generating code sequences having good correlation properties comprising steps of selecting a code length comprising a number of chips, selecting a ruler which defines the position of non-zero values within the chips, and overlaying the non-zero values with an amplitude pattern.	01-22-2009
20100265993	SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ULTRA WIDEBAND RADIO WIRELESS NETWORK - A virtual wireless local area network system and method utilizing impulse radio wherein transmission rates (bit rates) can vary according to the impulse radio transmission quality (signal to noise ratio) and wherein the position of the user can be determined and said user can be directed to an area of greater transmission rates and wherein a plurality of impulse radio portals can be utilized and switched between to maintain high levels of transmission rates while a user is moving within a predetermined area.	10-21-2010
20120092207	SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RADIATING RF WAVEFORMS USING DISCONTINUES ASSOCIATED WITH A UTILITY TRANSMISSION LINE - A method for processing radio frequency reflections is provided. The method applies an RF waveform to a transmission line that is a conductor used for providing a utility service. The method uses a RF waveform generator to transmit UltraWideband (UWB) RF waveforms through the conductors of a building. The RF waveforms are emitted at emission points that can be impedance discontinuities along the transmission line or impulse radios. The emitted RF waveforms reflect off of objects in the building and are received at reception points that can be impedance discontinuities or impulse radios. These reflections are processed to determine movement of objects within or near the building. Based on the reflections of the RF waveforms, the position of the objects within or near the building can be determined.	04-19-2012

Lawrence Fullerton, New Hope, AL US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20090273509	MICROWAVE IMAGING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and method for using microwaves for forming a three-dimensional image of a target are disclosed. One or more RF waveforms are emitted toward the target on a plurality of frequencies from an array of antennas positioned around the target. Each antenna in the array of antennas is selectively controlled to receive multi-frequency RF energy from one or more emitted RF waveforms that is scattered by the target. The multi-frequency RF energy is coherently digitized as reflection data. The reflection data is then processed to form a three-dimensional image of an area in proximity of the platform and including the target.	11-05-2009

Mark Fullerton, Austin, TX US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20080224685	METHOD AND APPARATUS TO MANAGE POWER CONSUMPTION OF A SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICE - Briefly, a method an apparatus of a power management system of a semiconductor device capable of managing a power consumption of the semiconductor device by varying an operating voltage of the semiconductor device according to a voltage value based on a reference number.	09-18-2008
20090287902	DISTRIBUTED COMPUTING SYSTEM WITH UNIVERSAL ADDRESS SYSTEM AND METHOD - A distributed computing system that incorporates enhanced distributed storage and a universal address system and method are provided.	11-19-2009
20120250877	METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROCESSING AUDIO SIGNALS IN A CENTRAL AUDIO HUB - A central audio hub, comprising an audio switch, a bus matrix, and an audio buffer, is triggered to read audio samples of an audio stream from the audio buffer. The central audio hub routes the audio samples via the bus matrix to one or more surrounding audio modules such as an audio codec and an audio interface communicatively coupled to the central audio hub. The audio stream may be directly from an external application processor or from an external DDR. With the audio stream from the DDR, a DMA controller may fetch the audio samples from the DDR in response to a request received from the audio buffer, and store the fetched audio samples into the audio buffer for routing. The audio switch may be triggered at a determined sampling rate to read the audio samples from the audio buffer utilizing a determined sample format, and to route the audio samples to the surrounding audio modules.	10-04-2012
20120331290	Method and Apparatus for Establishing Trusted Communication With External Real-Time Clock - Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods to enable secure communication between a host processor and external real time counter (RTC) logic. In an embodiment, the host processor generates a message including a command to an external device containing the RTC. The external device verifies a Message Authentication Code (MAC) included in the message and responds to the command. Embodiments of the present invention advantageously provide a dedicated power domain for the external RTC logic while guarding against third party attacks on the RTC logic and the communication between the RTC logic and the host processor.	12-27-2012
20130043927	Integrated Circuit With Pre-Heating For Reduced Subthreshold Leakage - Certain semiconductor processes provide for the use of multiple different types of transistors with different threshold voltages in a single IC. It can be shown that in certain ones of these semiconductor processes, the speed at which high threshold transistors can operate at decreases with decreasing temperature. Thus, the overall processing speed of an IC that implements high threshold transistors is often limited by the lowest temperature at which the IC is designed (or guaranteed) to properly function. Embodiments of a system and method that overcome this deficiency by “pre-heating” the IC (or at least portions of the IC that implement the high threshold transistors) such that the IC can operate at a frequency (once pre-heated) higher than what would otherwise be possible for a given, minimum temperature at which the IC is designed (or guaranteed) to properly function at are provided.	02-21-2013
20130044844	ELECTRONICS DEVICE CAPABLE OF EFFICIENT COMMUNICATION BETWEEN COMPONENTS WITH ASYNCRONOUS CLOCKS - An electronics device is disclosed that reduces latency resulting from communication between a first electronics component operating based on a fast clock and a second electronics component operating based on a slow clock reduces communication latency. When transferring the data from the first component to the second, the data is written into a buffer using the first clock, and then extracted by the second component using the second clock. Alternatively, when transferring the data from the second component to the first component, the first component reads the data from the second component and monitors whether the data was extracted during a relevant edge of the second clock signal, in which case the first component again extracts the data from the second component.	02-21-2013
20130046915	Scalable and Configurable System on a Chip Interrupt Controller - Embodiments include a system and method for an interrupt controller that propagates interrupts to a subsystem in a system-on-a-chip (SOC). Interrupts are provided to an interrupt controller that controls access of interrupts to a particular subsystem in the SOC that includes multiple subsystems. Each subsystem in the SOC generates multiple interrupts to other subsystems in the SOC. The interrupt controller processes multiple interrupts and generates an interrupt output. The interrupt output is then transmitted to a particular subsystem.	02-21-2013
20130046967	Proactive Power Management Using a Power Management Unit - Embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for proactively managing power in a device. A power management unit (PMU) receives information from various subsystems of a device and estimates the total power required by each subsystem of the device. Based on this information, the PMU can predict power requirements for a particular subsystem or for one or more application(s) to execute. Based on this prediction, the PMU can reconfigure the subsystems so that the device executes more efficiently given the current battery life of the device. Proactive power management advantageously gives the PMU the capability to predict power needs of various subsystems of a device so that the power supplied to these subsystems can be managed in an intelligent way before battery resources are exhausted.	02-21-2013
20130047023	Adaptive Clocking Scheme to Accommodate Supply Voltage Transients - Adaptive clocking schemes for synchronized on-chip functional Hocks are provided. The clocking schemes enable synchronous clocking which can be adapted according to changes in signal path propagation delay due temperature, process, and voltage variations, for example, in embodiments, the docking schemes allow for the capacity utilization of a logic path to be increased.	02-21-2013
20130047166	Systems and Methods for Distributing an Aging Burden Among Processor Cores - Systems and methods are presented for reducing the impact of high load and aging on processor cores in a processor. A Power Management Unit (PMU) can monitor aging, temperature, and increased load on the processor cores. The PMU instructs the processor to take action such that aging, temperature, and/or increased load are approximately evenly distributed across the processor cores, so that the processor can continue to efficiently process instructions.	02-21-2013
20130082764	APPARATUS AND METHOD TO COMBINE PIN FUNCTIONALITY IN AN INTEGRATED CIRCUIT - An apparatus and method are disclosed to combine pad functionality in an integrated circuit. A power, ground, or signal pad is connected to a power, ground, or signal source, respectively. The power, ground, or signal pad is additionally connected to an additional signal source, such as automatic test equipment in a testing environment. By temporarily disconnecting either the power, ground, or signal source, from the functional block within the integrated circuit to which the source is delivered, the same pad may pass in another signal to other portions of the integrated circuit. In the alternative, the same pad may pass in another signal to other portions of the integrated circuit without disconnecting the original signal by coupling the additional signal over the original signal. Further, combining pad functionality enables reuse of an input pad as an output pad for signals originating from within the integrated circuit.	04-04-2013
20130117626	Adaptive Ultra-Low Voltage Memory - Embodiments provide an adaptive memory that allows for low voltage modes of operation. In the low voltage modes of operation, the supply voltage provided to the memory is reduced below Vcc(min), which allows for significant savings in the power consumption of circuit components (e.g., the CPU) whose minimum voltage is dictated by Vcc(min). According to further embodiments, the memory can be configured dynamically according to various configurations depending on desired power savings (e.g., target Vcc(min)) and/or performance requirements (e.g., reliability, cache size requirement, etc.).	05-09-2013
20140028344	Pre-Heating For Reduced Subthreshold Leakage - Certain semiconductor processes provide for the use of multiple different types of transistors with different threshold voltages in a single IC. It can be shown that in certain ones of these semiconductor processes, the speed at which high threshold transistors can operate at decreases with decreasing temperature. Thus, the overall processing speed of an IC that implements high, threshold transistors is often limited by the lowest temperature at which the IC is designed (or guaranteed) to properly function. Embodiments of a system and method that overcome this deficiency by “pre-heating” the IC (or at least portions of the IC that implement the high threshold transistors) such that the IC can operate at a frequency (once pre-heated) higher than what would otherwise be possible for a given minimum temperature at which the IC is designed or guaranteed) to properly function at are provided.	01-30-2014
20140189371	METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR A TRUST PROCESSOR - In an embodiment, an apparatus includes a cryptographic processor within a wireless device. The cryptographic processor includes at least one cryptographic unit. The cryptographic processor also includes a nonvolatile memory to store one or more microcode instructions, wherein at least one of the one or more microcode instructions is related to a sensitive operation. The cryptographic processor also includes a controller to control execution of the one or more microcode instructions by the at least one cryptographic unit, wherein the controller is to preclude execution of the sensitive operation if the apparatus is within an untrusted state.	07-03-2014
20140215233	Power Management System Using Blocker Modules Coupled to a Bus - Systems and methods are provided for efficiently powering down elements and buses of a system without negatively impacting traffic. A power manager receives information from subsystems and determines whether a particular subsystem or bus can be powered down. The power manager sends a message to a subsystem when the subsystem or bus can be safely powered down. Blocker modules are coupled to buses, and the blocker modules respond with an error message if a subsystem attempts to send data over an inactive bus.	07-31-2014
20140215252	Low Power Control for Multiple Coherent Masters - Systems and methods are provided for efficiently managing power among system components. In an embodiment, a power manager receives information from subsystems and determines which subsystem components will require power to perform upcoming tasks. Based on this received information, the power manager can power on and power down individual subsystem components. Systems and methods according to embodiments of the present disclosure enable a cache of a subsystem to be powered on without requiring a power-up of every component of the subsystem. Thus, disclosed systems and methods enable a first subsystem to snoop into a cache of a second subsystem without requiring a full power-up of the second subsystem.	07-31-2014
20140359323	SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CLOSED LOOP PHYSICAL RESOURCE CONTROL IN LARGE, MULTIPLE-PROCESSOR INSTALLATIONS - A system and method for closed loop power supply control in large, multiple processor installations are provided.	12-04-2014

Mark N. Fullerton, Austin, TX US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20080263324	DYNAMIC CORE SWITCHING - A system includes a first asymmetric core, a second asymmetric core, and a core switching module. The first asymmetric core executes an application when the system operates in a first mode and is inactive when the system operates in a second mode. The second asymmetric core executes the application when the system operates in the second mode. The core switching module switches operation of the system between the first mode and the second mode. The core switching module selectively stops processing of the application by the first asymmetric core after receiving a first control signal. The core switching module transfers a first state of the first asymmetric core to the second asymmetric core. The second asymmetric core resumes executing the application in the second mode.	10-23-2008
20080288748	Dynamic core switching - A core switching system includes a mode switching module that receives a switch signal to switch operation between a first mode and a second mode. During the first mode, instructions associated with applications are executed by a first asymmetric core, and a second asymmetric core is inactive. During the second mode, the instructions are executed by the second asymmetric core, and the first asymmetric core is inactive. A core activation module stops processing of the applications by the first asymmetric core after interrupts are disabled. A state transfer module transfers a state of the first asymmetric core to the second asymmetric core. The core activation module allows the second asymmetric core to resume execution of the instructions and the interrupts are enabled.	11-20-2008
20090282263	METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR A TRUST PROCESSOR - In an embodiment, an apparatus includes a cryptographic processor within a wireless device. The cryptographic processor includes at least one cryptographic unit. The cryptographic processor also includes a nonvolatile memory to store one or more microcode instructions, wherein at least one of the one or more microcode instructions is related to a sensitive operation. The cryptographic processor also includes a controller to control execution of the one or more microcode instructions by the at least one cryptographic unit, wherein the controller is to preclude execution of the sensitive operation if the apparatus is within an untrusted state.	11-12-2009
20100272162	Synchronous serial programmable interface - A synchronous serial programmable interface that programmably defines a plurality of frame definitions in which each frame definition provides signal timing for a corresponding frame used in serial data transfer. A sequencer module is used to provide a plurality of instructions, in which each instruction, when executed, obtains a frame definition from the plurality of frame definitions. Then a task scheduler selects a scheduled task from a plurality of tasks that are used in transferring data. The particular task selects one or more instructions from the plurality of instructions and obtains one or more frame definitions specified by the instruction or instructions to establish one or more frames that are used in transferring the data.	10-28-2010
20110126265	SECURITY FOR CODES RUNNING IN NON-TRUSTED DOMAINS IN A PROCESSOR CORE - A method and apparatus configure a trusted domain and a plurality of isolated domains in a processor core. Each isolated domain is assigned a unique domain identifier. One or more resources are associated with each isolated domain. The associations are stored as permissions to access physical addresses of resources. Code to be executed by a hardware device is assigned to one of the isolated domains. The domain identifier for the assigned isolated domain is written to the hardware device. When the hardware device executes the code, each instruction is logically tagged with the domain identifier written to the hardware device. An instruction includes request to access a physical address. The hardware device compares the domain identifier of the instruction with the permissions. If the permissions allow the domain identifier to access the physical address, then access to the resource at the physical address is allowed. Access is otherwise blocked.	05-26-2011
20110154480	SECURE CONTROLLER FOR BLOCK ORIENTED STORAGE - A storage controller includes a command pointer register. The command pointer register points to a chain of commands in memory, and also includes a security status field to indicate a security status of the first command in the command chain. Each command in the command chain may also include a security status field that indicates the security status of the following command in the chain.	06-23-2011
20110264901	MODULAR INTEGRATED CIRCUIT WITH COMMON SOFTWARE - A modular integrated circuit includes a hub module that is coupled to a plurality of spoke modules via a plurality of hub interfaces. The spoke modules include a plurality of interface circuits each having a hardware address. A memory module stores the hub software and hub data and configuration data. The hub software includes a plurality of driver modules corresponding to the plurality of interface circuits. The processing module executes boot firmware to configure the plurality of driver modules based on the hardware address of each of the plurality of interface circuits.	10-27-2011
20110264930	MODULAR INTEGRATED CIRCUIT WITH UNIFORM ADDRESS MAPPING - A modular integrated circuit includes a hub module that is coupled to a plurality of spoke modules via a plurality of hub interfaces. A memory module stores hub software and hub data and configuration data. The hub software operates in accordance with a memory map that includes a plurality of first reserved blocks corresponding to memory reserved for the plurality of spoke modules, and at least one second reserved block corresponding to memory reserved for at least one optional spoke module. The plurality of first reserved blocks are activated based on the configuration data and the at least one second reserved block is deactivated based on the configuration data.	10-27-2011
20110264946	MODULAR INTEGRATED CIRCUIT WITH CLOCK CONTROL CIRCUIT - A modular integrated circuit includes a hub module that is coupled to a plurality of spoke modules via a plurality of hub interfaces. The hub module includes a clock control circuit, coupled to the plurality of hub interfaces, that selectively supplies a plurality of clock signals to the plurality of spoke modules by receiving a clock request signal from a corresponding one of the plurality of spoke modules via the signal interface of the corresponding one of the plurality of hub interfaces, generating at least one of the plurality of clock signals in response to the clock request signal; and sending the at least one of the plurality of clock signals to the corresponding one of the plurality of spoke modules via the signal interface of the corresponding one of the plurality of hub interfaces.	10-27-2011
20110271028	MODULAR INTEGRATED CIRCUIT WITH COMMON INTERFACE - A modular integrated circuit includes a hub module that is coupled to a plurality of spoke modules via a plurality of hub interfaces. The plurality of hub interfaces provide a plurality of signal interfaces between the hub module and each of the plurality of spoke modules, wherein each of the plurality of signal interfaces is isolated from each of the other signal interfaces of the plurality of signals interface, and wherein each of the plurality of signal interfaces operates in accordance with a common signaling format.	11-03-2011
20110276766	CONFIGURABLE MEMORY CONTROLLER - Controlling access to memory includes receiving a plurality of memory access requests and assigning corresponding time values to each. The assigned time values are adjusted based upon a clock pulse and a priority access list is generated. Factors consider include missed access deadlines, closeness to missing access deadlines, and whether a page is open. The highest ranked client is then passed to a sequencer to allow the requested access. Time values may be assigned and adjusted according to client ID or client type (latency or bandwidth). A plurality of power modes of operation are defined wherein operation in a selected power mode of operation is based at least in part on the assigned or adjusted time values. The processing is performed in hardware in parallel (at the same time) by associated logic circuits.	11-10-2011
20110276817	MEMORY POWER MANAGER - Controlling access to memory includes receiving a plurality of memory access requests and assigning corresponding time values to each. The assigned time values are adjusted based upon a clock pulse and a priority access list is generated. Factors consider include missed access deadlines, closeness to missing access deadlines, and whether a page is open. The highest ranked client is then passed to a sequencer to allow the requested access. Time values may be assigned and adjusted according to client ID or client type (latency or bandwidth). A plurality of power modes of operation are defined wherein operation in a selected power mode of operation is based at least in part on the assigned or adjusted time values. The processing is performed in hardware in parallel (at the same time) by associated logic circuits.	11-10-2011
20120159018	SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERIPHERAL DEVICE COMMUNICATIONS - A method for operating a host device includes comparing a predetermined response of a peripheral device to a response token received from the peripheral device. The predetermined response and the response token are generated based on a first command transmitted from the host device to the peripheral device. The method further includes controlling a transfer of first data from a first memory to a peripheral control module based on the comparison between the predetermined response and the response token without interrupting a host control module, and selectively passing interrupts to the host control module when the predetermined response does not match the response token.	06-21-2012
20130091316	MODULAR INTEGRATED CIRCUIT WITH COMMON INTERFACE - A modular integrated circuit includes a hub module that is coupled to a plurality of spoke modules via a plurality of hub interfaces. The plurality of hub interfaces provide a plurality of signal interfaces between the hub module and each of the plurality of spoke modules, wherein each of the plurality of signal interfaces is isolated from each of the other signal interfaces of the plurality of signals interface, and wherein each of the plurality of signal interfaces operates in accordance with a common signaling format.	04-11-2013
20130138936	MODULAR INTEGRATED CIRCUIT WITH UNIFORM ADDRESS MAPPING - A modular integrated circuit includes a hub module that is coupled to a plurality of spoke modules via a plurality of hub interfaces. A memory module stores hub software and hub data and configuration data. The hub software operates in accordance with a memory map that includes a plurality of first reserved blocks corresponding to memory reserved for the plurality of spoke modules, and at least one second reserved block corresponding to memory reserved for at least one optional spoke module. The plurality of first reserved blocks are activated based on the configuration data and the at least one second reserved block is deactivated based on the configuration data.	05-30-2013
20130254873	SECURE CONTROLLER FOR BLOCK ORIENTED STORAGE - A storage controller includes a command pointer register. The command pointer register points to a chain of commands in memory, and also includes a security status field to indicate a security status of the first command in the command chain. Each command in the command chain may also include a security status field that indicates the security status of the following command in the chain.	09-26-2013
20140201822	METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PERMITTING ACCESS TO RESOURCES BASED ON INSTRUCTIONS OF A CODE TAGGED WITH AN IDENTIFIER ASSIGNED TO A DOMAIN - A method including: assigning identifiers to respective domains, where each of the domains is allocated a corresponding set of resources, and where the resources in the sets of resources are accessible at respective physical addresses; storing permissions to access the physical addresses, where each of the permissions indicates which of the physical addresses one or more of the domains are permitted to access. The method also includes: assigning a code to a first domain, where the code includes instructions, and where each of the instructions includes a corresponding one of the physical addresses; tagging each of the instructions by adding the identifier assigned to the first domain to each of the instructions; and during execution of each of the instructions, comparing the identifier included in the corresponding instruction to one of the permissions; and based on the comparison, permitting access to the set of resources allocated to the first domain.	07-17-2014
20160034022	DYNAMIC CORE SWITCHING - A system including a first core to execute instructions associated with an application at a first speed based on a first instruction set and a second core to execute the instructions associated with the application at a second speed based on a second instruction set. The first speed is greater than the first speed. The second instruction set is a subset of the first instruction set. A first memory stores an operating system. The operating system includes a kernel that provides services to the application. A core switching module loads into a second memory after the operating system is booted, where the second memory is separate from the first memory, switches execution of the instructions associated with the application between the first core and the second core, and switches the execution of the instructions associated with the application between the first core and the second core transparently to the operating system.	02-04-2016

Mark Norman Fullerton, Austin, TX US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20140218078	ENHANCED RECOVERY MECHANISMS - Aspects of enhanced recovery mechanisms are described. A predetermined operating parameter for a power rail is set at the outset of system start. Afterwards, a processor is released to start with a power management circuit. In turn, the power management circuit receives a default operating parameter for the power rail from the processor, and stores the default operating parameter. The power management circuit also receives a runtime operating parameter for the power rail from the processor and modifies the operating parameter for the power rail according to the runtime operating parameter. If an error condition in the processor is encountered, the power management circuit may modify the operating parameter for the power rail according to the default operating parameter in response to a reset control signal from the processor. Use of the default operating parameter for the power rail may assist the processor to recover from the error condition.	08-07-2014
20140223031	CLOCK DOMAIN CROSSING SERIAL INTERFACE, DIRECT LATCHING, AND RESPONSE CODES - Aspects of a clock domain crossing serial interface, direct latching over the serial interface, and response codes are described. In various embodiments, a data communication command received over a serial interface is identified, and an address received over the serial interface is resolved to access a register bank. In a write operation, depending upon whether the address falls within a direct latch address range of the register bank, data may be directly latched into a direct latch register of the register bank or into a first-in-first-out register. For both read and write operations, reference may be made to a status register of the serial interface to identify or mitigate error conditions, and wait times may be relied upon to account for a clock domain crossing. After each of the read and write operations, a response code including a status indictor may be communicated.	08-07-2014
20140223153	POWER MODE REGISTER REDUCTION AND POWER RAIL BRING UP ENHANCEMENT - Aspects of power mode register reduction and power rail bring up enhancements are described. In one embodiment, an operating parameter for a first power rail is set by power management circuit according to a predetermined programmed setting. In connection with a wait time, the power rail is enabled, and a processor is released to start. In turn, at least one of a command to modify the operating parameter for the first power rail or a command to set an operating parameter for a second power rail is received from the processor over a high speed interface. By accessing a grouped operating register for a group of power rails, the processor can update or modify settings of an entire group of power rails at one time. In connection with the processor, the power management circuit can power up a plurality of power rails in a flexible and efficient manner.	08-07-2014
20140223217	POWER AND SYSTEM MANAGEMENT INFORMATION VISIBILITY - Aspects of power and system management information visibility are described. In various embodiments, a system parameter of a system is measured. The system parameter may include one or more parameters such as system voltages, temperatures, options, or conditions of the system. The system parameter may be evaluated by a power manager processor. The evaluation may determine operating settings for one or more elements of the system. Based on the evaluation, one or more operating parameters for elements of the system may be set, in advance of powering up the system elements. After the operating parameters have been set, system elements may be released to start or boot based on the operating parameters. In this manner, one or more elements of the system may power on in a more flexible and deliberate manner, taking the current operating environment of the system into consideration.	08-07-2014
20150186209	CLOCK DOMAIN CROSSING SERIAL INTERFACE - A method for serial interface clock domain crossing includes identifying a data communication command received over a serial interface. An address is decoded to determine whether the address falls within a direct latch address range of a register bank. Data is communicated over the serial interface. A multiplexed output clock is generated, for writing to and reading from the register bank, based on at least one of a current system operating state and a refresh control signal from a host processor.	07-02-2015

Paul Fullerton, Plano, TX US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20100064757	Push Bench and Method of Manufacturing Small Diameter Tubing - The present invention involves cost effective, efficient systems and methods for sizing pipe. In an embodiment of the present invention, a pipe sizing system includes a die having an opening operable to size the pipe, a hydraulic cylinder having at least one rod attached thereto, the hydraulic cylinder and the at least one rod cooperating with each other to push the pipe through the die, and a receiver to guide the pipe as the pipe exits from the die.	03-18-2010

Roger D. Fullerton, Spanish Fork, UT US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20150231522	BUBBLE WAND - An exemplary bubble wand that facilitates creation of soap bubbles includes a plurality of elongate members each having a rotatable connector attached at an end tip of each elongate member and a string forming a loop and connected to each of the plurality of rotatable connectors, wherein the string is capable of rotating with the rotatable connector relative to the elongate member.	08-20-2015

Scott Bradford Fullerton, Houston, TX US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20140331570	AIR BEARING TRANSPORT SYSTEM - An air bearing transport apparatus has a support structure coupled to a plurality of traction units. The traction units are tracks that are rotationally coupled to the support structure and independently steerable. Each traction unit is coupled to the support structure by a linear actuator that acts as a normal force applicator to prevent slippage. A plurality of thrusters in a lower portion of the support structure provides a gas flow substantially perpendicular to a support surface of the support structure to provide an upward force on the support structure. The air bearing transport apparatus may be used with a portable modular surface comprising interlocking tiles.	11-13-2014

Stephen Craig Fullerton, Corvallis, OR US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20130103338	METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR DYNAMIC PROBE ADJUSTMENT - An improved method and apparatus for automatically aligning probe pins to the test or bond pads of semiconductor devices under changing conditions. In at least one embodiment, a dynamic model is used to predict an impact of changing conditions to wafer probing process. This reduces the need for frequent measurements and calibrations during probing and testing, thereby increasing the number of dice that can be probed and tested in a given period of time and increasing the accuracy of probing at the same time. Embodiments of the present invention also make it possible to adjust positions of probe pins and pads in response to the changing conditions while they are in contact with each other.	04-25-2013

Susan Fullerton, South Bend, IN US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20140319452	SINGLE TRANSISTOR RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY USING ION STORAGE IN TWO-DIMENSIONAL CRYSTALS - A single-transistor random access memory (RAM) cell may be used as universal memory. The single-transistor RAM cell generally includes a first gate, a 2D-crystal channel, a source, a drain, an ion conductor, and a second (back) gate. The single-transistor RAM cell is capable of drifting ions towards the graphene channel. The ions in turn induce charge carriers from the source into the graphene channel. The closer the ions are to the graphene channel, the higher the conductivity of the graphene channel. As the ions are spaced from the graphene channel, the conductivity of the graphene channel is reduced. Thus the presence of the charged ions adjacent to the channel is used to modify the channel's conductivity, which is sensed to indicate the state of the memory.	10-30-2014

Susan Fullerton, Winston-Salem, NC US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20160129303	Ab Crunch Neck Support - The present invention comprises a new and improved exercise device that is specifically adapted to assist a user engaged in abdominal crunches. The device comprises an elongated, arcuate board having a pair of handle grips extending from the sides thereof. Users engage the handles of the device and place their hands alongside their head during the crunch exercise. This is accomplished without placing strain on the neck. Rather than placing a tugging load on the back of the user's head, the board distributes this load across the back of the head, neck, and upper back of the user, thereby avoiding neck flexion. Overall, the device supports both the head and upper back, and eliminates neck pain when performing an abdominal crunch. The device includes adjustable side handles to ensure hands are properly placed, and stabilizes the head and neck while a person performs abdominal exercises. The device improves form during the exercise and improves core performance.	05-12-2016

Vernon John Fullerton, Supply, NC US

Patent application number	Description	Published
20080205577	Systems for aligning and handling fuel rods within a nuclear fuel bundle - In a spent fuel pool of a nuclear power plant, there is provided a system for aligning a nuclear fuel bundle and handling selected fuel rods within the fuel bundle. The bundle includes water rods, full-length and part-length fuel rods extending through a plurality of fuel spacers provided between top and bottom ends of the bundle, each spacer having a plurality of cells accommodating corresponding fuel and water rods. The system includes a bundle alignment system for aligning the fuel rods and water rods, a rod grapple tool to extract selected part-length rods from the bundle, and a fuel rod guide block slidable onto the top end of the bundle for protecting an uppermost fuel spacer of the bundle, and for aligning fuel rods within individual cells of all the fuel spacers in the fuel bundle	08-28-2008
20100232564	SYSTEMS FOR ALIGNING AND HANDLING FUEL RODS WITHIN A NUCLEAR FUEL BUNDLE - In a spent fuel pool of a nuclear power plant, there is provided a system for aligning a nuclear fuel bundle and handling selected fuel rods within the fuel bundle. The bundle includes water rods, full-length and part-length fuel rods extending through a plurality of fuel spacers provided between top and bottom ends of the bundle, each spacer having a plurality of cells accommodating corresponding fuel and water rods. The system includes a bundle alignment system for aligning the fuel rods and water rods, a rod grapple tool to extract selected part-length rods from the bundle, and a fuel rod guide block slidable onto the top end of the bundle for protecting an uppermost fuel spacer of the bundle, and for aligning fuel rods within individual cells of all the fuel spacers in the fuel bundle.	09-16-2010
20120039428	METHOD FOR ALIGNING AND HANDLING FUEL RODS WITHIN A NUCLEAR FUEL BUNDLE - A method of aligning a nuclear fuel bundle and handling selected fuel rods within the fuel bundle located in a spent fuel pool of a nuclear power plant. The bundle includes water rods, full-length and part-length fuel rods extending through a plurality of fuel spacers provided between top and bottom ends of the bundle, each spacer having a plurality of cells accommodating corresponding fuel and water rods. The method includes insertion of a rod grapple tool into a top end of a fuel bundle and down to a desired location within the bundle. A guide pin retrieval tool inserts into a side of the fuel bundle to remove a guide pin from a distal end of a gripper of the rod grapple tool, allowing the guide pin retrieval tool to grip a part-length fuel rod within the fuel bundle.	02-16-2012