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Ford, CA

Adam Ford, Burbank, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100315421Generating fog effects in a simulated environment - A system and method for generating fog effects in a simulated environment. A fog color is selected using a the orientation of a virtual camera with respect to a three dimensional fog color map. Fog effects are generated based in part on the selected fog color.12-16-2010

Alexandra C. Ford, Albany, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120018702SURFACE AND GAS PHASE DOPING OF III-V SEMICONDUCTORS - Compound semiconductor devices and methods of doping compound semiconductors are provided. Embodiments of the invention provide post-deposition (or post-growth) doping of compound semiconductors, enabling nanoscale compound semiconductor devices including diodes and transistors. In one method, a self-limiting monolayer technique with an annealing step is used to form shallow junctions. By forming a sulfur monolayer on a surface of an InAs substrate and performing a thermal annealing to drive the sulfur into the InAs substrate, n-type doping for InAs-based devices can be achieved. The monolayer can be formed by surface chemistry reactions or a gas phase deposition of the dopant. In another method, a gas-phase technique with surface diffusion is used to form doped regions. By performing gas-phase surface diffusion of Zn into InAs, p-type doping for InAs-based devices can be achieved. Both bulk and nanowire devices using compound semiconductors can be fabricated using these surface and gas-phase doping processes.01-26-2012

Anthony P.d.w. Ford, Palo Alto, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120122859METHODS OF USING DIAMINOPYRIMIDINE AS P2X3 AND P2X2/3 RECEPTOR MODULATORS FOR TREATMENT OF RESPIRATORY AND GASTROINTESTINAL DISEASES - Methods for treating respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases mediated by a P2X05-17-2012

Bradley Ford, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080304573CAPTURING MEDIA IN SYNCHRONIZED FASHION - Techniques for synchronizing audio and video content for presentation to a user at a same rate are provided. Streams of content from two or more sources of media, each media source having an associated clock, are synchronized by a synchronizing component and processor with respect to a master clock. As well, techniques are provided for ensuring that output devices are synchronized at preview startup. That is, such techniques ensure that the output devices start playing the media at the same time as well as at the same rate.12-11-2008

Bradley D. Ford, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090217239USER INTERFACE DRIVEN BY DYNAMIC STATE CHANGES - A method for responding to changes to properties of component instances is disclosed. A routine, that is to be informed of changes that occur to a particular property of a plurality of properties of a component instance, is registered. The value of the particular property is detected as changed when the value of the particular property changes because of a change to another property of the plurality of properties. A call is made to the routine to indicate that the particular property has changed.08-27-2009
20100318206Sequence Grabber For Audio Content - An audio context object gathers multiple channels of audio data from an audio device and stores each channel of data separately in a ring buffer. Clients of the audio context can request any number of channels of data at any interval from the audio context. Multiple clients can share the same audio device. The ring buffer used by the audio context object stores the channels of audio data in a two-dimensional array such that each channel of audio data is stored in contiguous memory.12-16-2010
20120307096Metadata-Assisted Image Filters - This disclosure pertains to devices, methods, systems, and computer readable media for generating and/or interpreting image metadata to determine input parameters for various image processing routines, e.g., filters that distort or enhance an image, in a way that provides an intuitive experience for both the user and the software developer. Such techniques may attach the metadata to image frames and then send the image frames down an image processing pipeline to one or more image processing routines. Image metadata may include face location information, and the image processing routine may include an image filter that processes the image metadata in order to keep the central focus (or foci) of the image filter substantially coincident with one or more of the faces represented in the face location information. The generated and/or interpreted metadata may also be saved to a metadata track for later application to unfiltered image data.12-06-2012

Patent applications by Bradley D. Ford, San Jose, CA US

Brandi Ford, Los Angeles, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120294551DISPOSABLE BAG FOR FEMININE HYGEINE PRODUCTS - Provided is a disposable bag for feminine hygiene products, and a dispenser for these bags.11-22-2012

Craig Lee Ford, Beverly Hills, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100024487Surgical Instrument With Integrated Reduction And Distraction Mechanisms - Embodiments of a surgical instrument disclosed herein can include mechanisms for reduction and distraction as well as compression. Some embodiments of the surgical instrument may comprise a reducer knob having a first passage through which a first shaft of a driver is acceptable, a connecting element coupled to the reducer knob and having a second passage through which the first shaft of the driver is acceptable, a compressor handle coupled to the connecting element at a first end and having a through hole, and a common handle coupled to the compressor handle via the through hole and pivots between the reducer knob and the compressor handle. With embodiments of a surgical instrument disclosed herein, surgical personnel can distract and hold vertebrae in a distracted state and perform a reduction without having to switch or add instruments. Some embodiments disclosed herein can be particularly useful for reducing spondylolisthesis during posterior fixation.02-04-2010

Dana C. Ford, Santee, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120020397SYNTHETIC INSTRUMENT UNIT - Systems and other embodiments associated with synthetic instrumentation are presented. A reconfigurable synthetic instrumentation unit comprises an input module, with dual input/output ports and conditioning logic to condition an input signal. An RF down converter selectively down converts the conditioned input signal. A sampled RF down converter selectively samples the conditioned input signal. A pair of narrowband A/D converters are configured to convert one of the conditioned signal, the down converted signal and the sampled signal to produce a narrowband digital signal. A pair of broadband A/D converters convert at least one of the conditioned signal, the down converted signal and the sampled signal to produce a broadband digital signal. Signal processing logic selectively performs digital signal processing on the broadband digital signal or the narrow band digital signal.01-26-2012

Daniel A. Ford, Los Gatos, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090209228SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING PERSONAL AND EMERGENCY SERVICE HAILING IN WIRELESS NETWORK - A method and system for providing personal and emergency service hailing. A profile database stores profiles with individualized distance thresholds for each of a number of wireless devices. A wireless message proximity request is received from a requesting wireless device. Distances between a location of the requesting wireless device and locations of each of other wireless communications devices is computed and compared to individualized distance thresholds stored for the requesting wireless communications device. A set of wireless devices consisting of wireless devices that satisfy the individualized distance thresholds for the requesting wireless communications device is identified and a wireless message proximity response is sent to the requesting wireless communications device. The wireless message proximity response identifies the set of wireless communications devices that satisfy the at least one individualized distance threshold.08-20-2009

Daniel E. Ford, Granite Bay, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080222730Network service monitoring - Network devices, systems, and methods are described that perform network service monitoring. One method includes examining a number of packets received by a first network device to determine whether a protocol of a packet corresponds to a given network service, forwarding an event to a second network device in response to a determination that the protocol of the packet corresponds to the network service, determining whether the network service is an authorized service by comparing the network service to a list of network services, and executing a remedial action in response to a determination that the network service is an unauthorized service.09-11-2008
20080320257Network message logging and archival - A method includes receiving a message to be logged. The message is written to a stream corresponding to an active archive, wherein the active archive comprises compressed messages. The message is also written to an active log without compression.12-25-2008
20100157839NETWORK SERVICE MONITORING - Network devices, systems, and methods are described that perform network service monitoring. One method includes examining a number of packets received by a first network device to determine whether a protocol of a packet corresponds to a given network service, forwarding packet service type information and packet address information to a second network device in response to a determination that the protocol of the packet corresponds to the network service, comparing the packet service type information and an associated service type address to a list of service types and addresses on the second network device, and executing a remedial action if, based on the comparing, it is determined that the network service is an unauthorized service and that a provider of the network service is an unauthorized provider.06-24-2010
20110099236CESSATION OF SENDING NETWORK STATUS MESSAGES TO A SERVER - A system comprises a processor, a network interface coupled to the processor, and storage accessible to the processor. The network interface is configured to receive network status messages from a plurality of agents across a network. Each network status message indicates a status of a network. The storage comprises a plurality of queues with each queue corresponding to one of the agents. The network status messages from a given agent are stored in a queue corresponding to that agent pending processing by the processor. Upon a number of network status messages in a queue for a particular agent exceeding an agent high water mark, the processor sends a stop message through the network interface to such agent to cause such agent to cease sending network status messages.04-28-2011
20120033558SWITCH THAT MONITORS FOR FINGERPRINTED PACKETS - A switch comprises a switching module coupled to a plurality of ports. The switching module receives and forwards a plurality of packets through the ports. The switch also comprises a management unit comprising a processor and an agent executable by the processor. The agent causes the processor to monitor each packet received by the switching module and determine whether each such packet contains a predetermined fingerprint. Upon determining that a packet contains the predetermined fingerprint, the processor causes additional information to be included in a copy of the fingerprinted packet and forwarded to a predetermined address. The switching module also forwards the packet containing the predetermined fingerprint, but without the additional information, to an address corresponding to a destination address contained in the packet. A method of programming the switches is also described as well as a management workstation used to program the switches and analyze the fingerprinted packets.02-09-2012
20130031227TRANSMISSION OF CONFIGURATION TO A DEVICE FOR PROVISIONING IN A NETWORK - A method is provided that includes receiving a communication from a trusted device indicating that a device to be provisioned has been added to the network; obtaining identifying information of the device to be provisioned; accessing a stored configuration for the device based on the identifying information; and transmitting the configuration to the device for provisioning. Alternatively, a computer-readable medium is provided that stores instructions to perform a method to transmit a discovery communication to a trusted device, receive a communication originating at an administrative device including a configuration; and provision the device via reboot with the configuration. Alternatively, an apparatus is provided including a table of provisioning configurations, the table including a configuration for a device to be provisioned in a network and a provisioning module to retrieve the configuration of the device stored in the table of provisioning configurations based on identifying information received from a discovery communication.01-31-2013

Patent applications by Daniel E. Ford, Granite Bay, CA US

Daniel E. Ford, Roseville, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090083398Autonomous network device configuration method - An embodiment of the present invention comprises a method of configuring one or more target network devices for operation, that further comprises the steps of creating an object for deployment to a predetermined target network device, the object having configuration data for configuring the target network device, and at least one of identification data identifying the object, an autonomous encapsulated agent for executing necessary steps for installing the configuration data, identification data identifying the predetermined target network device, and authentication data for authenticating at least one of the predetermined target network device identification data and object identification data, transporting the object to the predetermined target network device, and the autonomous encapsulated agent begins an on-site process of installing the configuration data in the predetermined target network device.03-26-2009

Daniel F. Ford, Granite Bay, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080219247Network switch deployment - Network devices, systems and methods are described that may be used in network switch deployment. One method embodiment includes physically connecting a network switch to a network prior to booting the network switch, booting the network switch into a non-bridging mode, and providing the network switch with a configuration while the switch is in the non-bridging mode.09-11-2008

Daniel J. Ford, East Palo Alto, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110196901System and Method for Determining the Age of Objects in the Presence of Unreliable Clocks - A system and method for determining an age of an object is provided. A first index for a timestamp entry in a sequence of timestamps corresponding to a time at which an object was created is identified. At least one subsequence of timestamps from the sequence of timestamps having indexes for entries in the sequence of timestamps that are between the first index in the sequence of timestamps and a last index for a last timestamp entry in the sequence of timestamps is identified, wherein the at least one subsequence of timestamps conforms to a function of a time interval between storage of consecutive current timestamps reported by clock of the computer system. Timestamps from the sequence of timestamps that are not included in the at least one subsequence of timestamps are removed. An age of the object is determined based on the at least one subsequence of timestamps.08-11-2011

David K. Ford, Carmel, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20130073853METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR VALIDATING COMMUNICATIONS IN AN OPEN ARCHITECTURE SYSTEM - A system, methods, and apparatus for validating communications in an open architecture system are disclosed. In an example embodiment, a method includes selecting transactional information to transmit from a server to a communicatively coupled client device based on a request from the client device, selecting presentation information corresponding to the transactional information to transmit from the server to the client device, transmitting at least one message including the presentation and transactional information from the server to the client device, determining a prediction as to how the client device will render the transactional information based on the presentation information, receiving a response message from the client, and responsive to information in the response message not matching the prediction, providing an indication there is a malicious application affecting communications between the server and the client device.03-21-2013

Donna Ford, Malibu, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110247667Coffee Crutch - This invention is one piece molded coffee holder made out of plastic, rubber or any other molded material which will snap onto the crutch. The coffee holder snaps onto the crutch via 2 molded c-shaped protrusions on both sides of the holder which snap onto the 2 side rails of the crutch and is located between the intersection of the rails at the bottom half of the crutch and the hand bar of the crutch so that the holder sits securely in between the 2 side rails of the crutch and does not interfere with the use of the crutches and/or the crutch hand bar or bump into the user of the crutches while transporting coffee. The coffee holder has a vertical slot on the outside of the holder which is 1.5″ long, and 1″ wide at the top and tapering to 0.75″ wide at the bottom so that it can easily hold a coffee mug, cup or travel mug with a handle, as well as any disposable coffee cup, of any height or size, and the entire holder is slightly tilted with the outward edge lower than the inside edge to prevent any spilled coffee from getting on the users clothes during transit so that the coffee holder securely holds and carries coffee around the home or office while on crutches with minimal spillage on the user.10-13-2011

Don Ricardo Oniel Ford, Claremont, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120180383HIGH LUBRICITY FUEL REFORMULATION TO INCREASE MILEAGE AND REDUCE EMISSIONS - A fuel additive imparting high lubricity to gasoline and diesel fuels while concurrently increasing miles and reducing emissions. The fuel additive is formed of a plurality of individual components having individual and a combined synergistic effect along with components increasing fuel lubricity which are mixed with a liquid fuel-soluble carrier and added to the fuel supply of internal combustion engines.07-19-2012
20120180384FUEL ADDITIVE TO INCREASE FUEL EFFICIENCY AND REDUCE EMISSIONS - A fuel additive to gasoline and diesel fuels which when added in small quantities relative to total volume of fuel treated and burned as fuel in an internal combustion engine, enhances fuel burning to concurrently increase mileage and reduce emissions. The fuel additive is formed of a plurality of individual components having individual and a combined synergistic effect along a liquid fuel-soluble carrier and added to the fuel supply of the intended internal combustion engine.07-19-2012

Edward L. Ford, Santa Clara, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100162165User Interface Tools - Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer program products, for generating user interface tools are disclosed. In one aspect, a method includes identifying a resource (e.g., a web page) for display in an interface, identifying one or more user interface elements in the resource, generating a tool based on the one or more user interface elements, and combining the tool and the resource for display in the interface.06-24-2010
20120117105Collaborative Database Operations - Methods, program products, and systems implementing collaborative database operations are disclosed. Collaborative database operations can be facilitated by data notification, where a server notifies a client when data being viewed at the client are updated. Notification can be achieved through registration and polling. A client of a database can request data from a server. The request can include a data request and a registration request. The data request can include a query into a database. The registration request can include a specification on conditions upon which the client is to be notified. The condition can include an event type. Upon registration, the client can poll the server periodically to determine whether a result of the query has changed, and if so, what data record in the result has changed. If a data record has changed, the client can request the changed data using an identifier of the data record.05-10-2012
20120117121Browser-Based Database Manipulation - Methods, program products, and systems implementing browser-based database manipulation are described. A browser on a client device can receive a form definition that is generated based on a schema of a relational database and a layout. The schema in the form definition can specify properties of data fields. The browser can display the data fields and other components of the layout in a list. The browser can receive a drag-and-drop input, the drag-and-drop input selecting a data field or a layout component from the list and dropping the selected data field or layout component in a drop zone in a form area in the browser. The browser can determine the drop location, and use the drop location as a parameter to modify the form definition. The layout and the schema can be modified based on the modified form definition.05-10-2012
20120117509Intelligent Data Caching - Methods, program products, and systems implementing intelligent data caching are disclosed. A client can send a request for data to a server. The request can include a query and a query context. The query can retrieve more data than can be displayed in a current page. The query context can specify a quantity of data records that can be displayed in the current page. The client can receive from the server two sets of data in response to the request. The first set of data can include row identifiers of data records that satisfy the query. The second set of data can include data records that can be displayed in the current page. The client can store the two sets of data in one or more buffers (e.g., two buffers) and update buffer(s) when different data records are displayed (e.g., when a user scrolls through pages).05-10-2012

Eric Herlen Ford, La Canada, CA US

Eric Ford, Shadow Hills, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090231722VISOR HEADS-UP DISPLAY - A wearable system is shown that presents one or more heads-up displays to the wearer. A data source provides information to an image generator that is sufficient to generate one or more display images, which are still or moving, characters or graphical displays. The output image from the image generator passes through a lens, reflects off a curved mirror, and passes back through the lens the other way. The image then passes through two non-doublet lenses, between which an intermediate image exists. The image reflects off the “lens,” or visor, of the glasses and proceeds to pupil of the wearer's eye. Alternative embodiments use a helmet visor, mirror, or other (at least partially) reflective surface for the final reflection.09-17-2009
20090284832NIGHT VISION GLASSES - Image-intensifying glasses 11-19-2009
20100277792NIGHT VISION GLASSES - Image-intensifying glasses 11-04-2010
20100315720VISOR HEADS-UP DISPLAY - A wearable system is shown that presents one or more heads-up displays to the wearer. A data source provides information to an image generator that is sufficient to generate one or more display images, which are still or moving, characters or graphical displays. The output image from the image generator passes through a lens, reflects off a curved mirror, and passes back through the lens the other way. The image then passes through two lenses, between which an intermediate image exists. The image reflects off the “lens,” or visor, of the glasses and proceeds to the pupil of the wearer's eye. Alternative embodiments use a helmet visor, mirror, or other (at least partially) reflective surface for the final reflection.12-16-2010

Henri R. Ford, La Canada, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110224301HMGB1 EXPRESSION AND PROTECTIVE ROLE OF SEMAPIMOD IN NEC - Methods are described, which include the administration of semapimod or guanylhydrazone containing compounds, salt thereof, or a combination of the compound and a salt thereof for the inhibition, treatment, and/or prevention of any of NEC, a condition associated with the release of HMGB1, a condition associated with the release of iNOS protein, a condition associated with the release of Bax protein, a condition associated with the release of Bad protein, a condition associated with the release of COX-2 protein, or a condition associated with the release of RAGE, or a combination thereof to a subject in need thereof.09-15-2011

James Arthur Ford, Laguna Hills, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090104887Log-antilog mixer circuit and method for producing frequency conversion - According to one exemplary embodiment, a method for producing frequency conversion of a communication signal comprises performing a logarithmic transformation of the communication signal to form a logarithmically transformed communication signal, adding the logarithmically transformed communication signal to a logarithmic local oscillator signal, to form a sum signal, and performing an anti-logarithmic transformation of the sum signal. In one embodiment, the method may be used to down-convert a reception signal to baseband. In one embodiment, a log-antilog mixer circuit for producing frequency conversion of a communication signal comprises a signal log block configured to receive the communication signal as an input and to provide a logarithmically transformed communication signal as an output, and an antilog block configured to receive a sum signal of the logarithmically transformed communication signal and a logarithmic local oscillator signal.04-23-2009
20090122907Log-antilog circuit and method for producing an up-converted and amplified transmission signal - According to one exemplary embodiment, a method for producing an up-converted and amplified transmission signal comprises performing a logarithmic transformation of an input transmission signal to form a logarithmically transformed transmission signal, adding the logarithmically transformed transmission signal to a logarithmic local oscillator signal to form a sum signal, and performing an antilogarithmic transformation of the sum signal to produce the up-converted and amplified transmission signal. In one embodiment, a log-antilog circuit for producing an up-converted and an amplified transmission signal comprises a transmission log block configured to receive an input transmission signal and to provide a logarithmically transformed transmission signal as a transmission log block output, and an antilog block coupled to the transmission log block. The antilog block is configured to receive a sum signal of the transmission log block output and a logarithmic local oscillator signal.05-14-2009
20100111525Multiple Input, Multiple Output (MIMO) Communication via Multimode Media - Multiple input, multiple output (MIMO) communication systems and a method using multimode media are provided. A MIMO communication system includes an array of emitters that receives a data signal and outputs a plurality of signals (e.g., modulated light, or other signal types) representative of the data signal, a multimode medium (e.g., a multimode fiber, a fiber bundle, a bundle of cables) that receives the plurality of signals from the array of emitters and carries the plurality of signals in a plurality of modes, and an array of detectors that receives the plurality of signals carried by the multimode medium and outputs the data signal. The system can include a demultiplexer that demultiplexes a single high-speed data stream into the array of emitters as the data signal. The system can also include a multiplexer that multiplexes the data signal from the array of detectors back into the single high-speed data stream.05-06-2010
20110200142Up-Converted and Amplified Transmission Signal Using Log-Antilog - According to one exemplary embodiment, a method for producing an up-converted and amplified transmission signal comprises performing a logarithmic transformation of an input transmission signal to form a logarithmically transformed transmission signal, adding the logarithmically transformed transmission signal to a logarithmic local oscillator signal to form a sum signal, and performing an antilogarithmic transformation of the sum signal to produce the up-converted and amplified transmission signal. In one embodiment, a log-antilog circuit for producing an up-converted and an amplified transmission signal comprises a transmission log block configured to receive an input transmission signal and to provide a logarithmically transformed transmission signal as a transmission log block output, and an antilog block coupled to the transmission log block. The antilog block is configured to receive a sum signal of the transmission log block output and a logarithmic local oscillator signal.08-18-2011

Patent applications by James Arthur Ford, Laguna Hills, CA US

John H. Ford, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090043302Systems and methods for treating tissue regions of the body - Systems and methods deploy an electrode from a catheter assembly. The systems and methods provide a catheter handle having a trigger lever adapted to carry an actuator rod. The actuator rod is adapted to cause movement of the electrode between a retracted position and an extended position. A pinion is carried by the trigger lever for engagement with a rack carried by the actuator rod. Compression of the trigger lever moves the rack along the actuator rod between a first position corresponding to the electrodes being in the retracted position and a second position corresponding to either the primed electrode firing position or the electrodes being in an extended position.02-12-2009

John Hajime Ford, San Francisco, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100279822SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPTIMIZING ONE OR MORE AUDIO TRACKS TO A VIDEO STREAM - Disclosed are systems and methods for detecting the movements in an exerciser's repetitive movement pattern that, when pre-recorded audio footfall sound files are played, most closely support the illusion that the user is generating the sounds with their own “virtual” footfalls, thus creating an enhanced virtual exercise experience. The system generates a signal to communicate the virtual footfall timing with a media playback system, and plays back media files that support the virtual exercise experience.11-04-2010

John J. Ford, Oakland, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110256913Player Made Tournament Application and Method - Some embodiments of invention provide a method for creating a player made tournament. The method can comprise displaying a tournament creation page including a plurality of variables and at least one option for each of the plurality of variables. Some embodiments further provide receiving the at least one option for each of the plurality of variables. In some embodiments, operational parameters of the player made tournament can substantially comprise the at least one option for each of the plurality of variables received. Some further embodiments provide processing the operational parameters to create a player made tournament, and then displaying the player made tournament on a tournament main page.10-20-2011

John Walter Ford, Attadena, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100276382MODULAR MAGNETIC FIXTURE SYSTEM - A customizable modular magnetic wall system is provided for displaying items while allowing a user to aesthetically configure and tailor the system to the user's needs. The system includes a magnetic backing plate and at least one module. The module includes a base portion and a utility member. The base portion of the module is magnetically securable at a plurality of positions on the backing plate. In addition, the utility member projects outwardly from the base portion and is sized and configured to receive the item. The module may include a shelf, hooks, and other various devices for displaying the item.11-04-2010

Joseph Ford, Solana Beach, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100032005SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SOLAR ENERGY CAPTURE - A system and a method for capturing solar energy are disclosed herein. In at least one embodiment, the method includes receiving light at a plurality of lenses, communicating the light from respective ones of the plurality of lenses toward respective ones of a plurality of dichroic mirrors, and transmitting respective first portions of the light through the respective ones of the dichroic mirrors toward respective first photovoltaic cells. The method also includes reflecting respective second portions of the light off of the respective ones of the dichroic mirrors toward respective adjacent ones of the dichroic mirrors, where the first portions are within a first wavelength range and the second portions are within a second wavelength range, and reflecting the respective second portions of the light off of the respective adjacent ones of the dichroic mirrors toward respective second photovoltaic cells.02-11-2010
20100188856Multiple Reflective Lenses and Lens Systems - A variety of lenses, lens assemblies, imaging devices, applications for such lenses, assemblies and devices, and related methods of operation and manufacturing are disclosed. At least some embodiments of the invention relate to a lens that includes first and second inward-facing surfaces that are each at least partly reflective. The lens further includes a first aperture that is positioned around at least a portion of an outer periphery of one of the first and second inward-facing surfaces, and a second aperture existing proximate a central region of the lens. The light proceeding within the lens between the first and second inward-facing surfaces is reflected at least twice on at least one of the first and second inward-facing surfaces as it travels between the first aperture and the second aperture.07-29-2010

Joseph E. Ford, Solana Beach, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110226332SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SOLAR ENERGY CAPTURE AND RELATED METHOD OF MANUFACTURING - A system and method of capturing solar energy, and related method of manufacturing, are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the system includes a first lens array having a plurality of lenses, and a first waveguide component adjacent to the lens array, where the waveguide component receives light, and where the waveguide component includes an array of prism/mirrored facets arranged along at least one surface of the waveguide component. The system further includes at least one photovoltaic cell positioned so as to receive at least a portion of the light that is directed out of the waveguide. A least some of the light passing into the waveguide component is restricted from leaving the waveguide component upon being reflected by at least one of the prism/mirrored facets, hereby the at least some light restricted from leaving the waveguide component is directed by the waveguide toward the at least one photovoltaic cell.09-22-2011

Justin Michael Ford, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20130046787METHODS AND APPARATUS TO INTERFACE AN APPLICATION TO A DATABASE - Methods and apparatus to interface an application to a database are disclosed. An example method includes determining a query used by an application that is to communicate with a database via a database driver. The query is tested on the database via the database driver. Such testing includes storing a query template when a received result of the query matches an expected result of the query. A database access framework is generated to interface between the application and the database driver based on the stored query template.02-21-2013

Lisa Akerman Ford, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080288527User interface for graphically representing groups of data - A technique of operating a user interface that enables the user to graphically manipulate records of a dimensionally-modeled fact collection, which comprises the following: receiving a graphical selection of a subset from a set of data points, each data point representing at least one record of the dimensionally-modeled fact collection; receiving a graphical manipulation of the selected subset of data points; defining at least one data group using the selected subset of data points and based on the graphical manipulation, wherein each data group comprises between 0 to n records represented by the selected subset of data points, wherein n is the total number of data points in the set of data points; and graphically representing the at least one data group. Alternatively, the technique comprises the following: performing an operation on at least one data group as described above; and graphically representing a result of the operation.11-20-2008
20080294595VISUAL INTERFACE TO INDICATE CUSTOM BINNING OF ITEMS - Records representing items in a dimensionally-modeled fact collection are assigned to bins. A count-based portion of a user interface receives user bin assignment specification of the records based on user-specified counts of records. Actual counts for bin assignment are determined by constraining records having a same data value at a specified particular dimension to be within the same bin. A user-observable indication of the determined actual counts is provided. The user interface may include a value-based portion. The value-based portion of the user interface may be operated to receive user indication of bin assignment specification of records based on user-specified at least one value at the particular dimension. Determining actual counts includes reconciling the user indication of bin assignment specification in the count-based portion with the user indication of bin assignment specification in the value-based portion.11-27-2008

Matthew R. Ford, Laguna Beach, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100316245Sound Enhancement System - A speaker assembly mounted on a bracket extending from a ceiling comprises an enclosure that includes a bottom wall, side walls including opposing first and second side walls, a sleeve that receives a tubular member of the bracket, and an interior wall having a first segment that extends from the sleeve to the first side wall and a second segment that extends from the sleeve to the second side wall. The interior wall cooperates with the sleeve to divide the enclosure into two approximately equal sized compartments. Each of the speakers within the assembly either forms, or is mounted in or on, one of the side walls. A top plate is mounted on, and forms a top of, the enclosure and seals the two compartments, the top plate having an opening that is aligned with the sleeve when the top plate is mounted on the enclosure. A power unit and circuitry for the speakers are mounted on the top plate.12-16-2010

Palmer Ford, Carlsbad, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090312843Tissue Reconstruction Devices and Methods - The present invention provides an implantable prosthesis comprising a viscera separating barrier that defines a shell having a pocket with an opening that receives an insert. It is contemplated that the insert comprises at least one of an absorbable mesh, a non-absorbable mesh, or an absorbable and non-absorbable mesh combination inserted into the pocket through the opening. In preferred embodiments the viscera separating barrier is acellular collagen, and the absorbable mesh is selected from at least one of a polyglactin, a polyglycolic acid, a polyglactin and a polylactic acid, and the non-absorbable mesh comprises a polypropylene mesh. It is contemplated that the viscera separating barrier acts to reduce or even eliminate attachment of viscera to the prosthesis to encourage rapid cell penetration and revascularization; the non-absorbable mesh will provide immediate, reliable in-growth; and the absorbable mesh will give stability to the prosthesis.12-17-2009

Peter Ford, Laguna Niguel, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110206951HYBRID VEHICLE BATTERY HEATER BY EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION - An exhaust gas recirculation circuit with an engine having an intake manifold and an exhaust manifold, a heat exchanger having an inlet in selective fluid communication with the exhaust manifold and an outlet in fluid communication with the intake manifold, wherein the heat exchanger is in a heat exchange relationship with at least a portion of a battery. A method of managing a battery of a hybrid vehicle by sensing a temperature of the battery; comparing the sensed temperature with a lower threshold; if the battery temperature is less than a lower threshold, flowing exhaust gasses from an engine to a heat exchanger in a heat exchange relationship with at least a portion of the battery; if the battery temperature is greater than the lower threshold, utilizing the battery.08-25-2011

Peter C. Ford, Santa Barbara, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100121119Hydrocarbon Conversion Process Improvements - Improvements in previously disclosed methods of and apparatuses for converting alkanes, alkenes, and aromatics to olefins, alcohols, ethers, and aldehydes includes: safety improvements, use of alternative feedstocks, process simplification, improvements to the halogenation step, improvements to the reproportionation step, improvements to the solid oxide reaction, improvements to solid oxide regeneration, improvements in separations, maintenance, start-up, shut-down, and materials of construction.05-13-2010
20110034741HYDROCARBON CONVERSION PROCESS IMPROVEMENTS - Improvements in previously disclosed methods of and apparatuses for converting alkanes, alkenes, and aromatics to olefins, alcohols, ethers, and aldehydes includes: safety improvements, use of alternative feedstocks, process simplification, improvements to the halogenation step, improvements to the reproportionation step, improvements to the solid oxide reaction, improvements to solid oxide regeneration, improvements in separations, maintenance, start-up, shut-down, and materials of construction.02-10-2011
20110065814PROCESS FOR DIRECT CONVERSION OF BIOMASS TO LIQUID FUELS AND CHEMICALS - A method of catalytically preparing a fluid product from solid carbonaceous material is described. In the method, at least one of the following equilibria is established by one or more catalysts: a) CH03-17-2011

Patent applications by Peter C. Ford, Santa Barbara, CA US

Peter J. Ford, Los Angeles, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080261569Integrated messaging, contacts, and mail interface, systems and methods - Systems and methods for integrating and aggregating content for a mobile device are provided. Electronic content gathered from service providers over a network is presented in an intuitive, efficient and effective manner to easily allow a mobile device user seamless access to a variety of electronic content and functionality. An integrated message system for organizing information for registered accounts on a mobile device is also provided. The system includes an aggregated content interface presenting a number of service provider indicators. The system also includes submenus corresponding to each of the service provider indicators of the aggregated content interface. Each of the submenus includes a plurality of tabbed interfaces that replicate the functionality of a service provider.10-23-2008

Roger R.y. Ford, Beverly Hills, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120229598Method of Transmitting Holograms Electronically and Storing 3D Image in a Hologram and Restoring and Reproducing the 3D Image for Viewing - A high frequency modulated laser beam is used to illuminate an object and a suitable detector and/or CCD camera is used to record or photograph the interference pattern with proper optical resolution to produce a hologram that can store 3M image. The recorded or photographed image or interference pattern produced by the laser beam is then exposed to a reconstruction laser beam that is a high frequency modulated beam to restore the hologram and reproduce or transfer the image so that it can be viewed in full 3M on a suitable device such as a television or motion picture screen.09-13-2012

Russell Ford, Palo Alto, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090018653HYBRID AND PORTABLE POWER SUPPLIES FOR ELECTROLYTICALLY DETACHING IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICES - A medical system comprises a power supply coupled to an implant assembly, the power supply configured for detecting an energy delivery type of the implantable assembly and delivering electrical energy to the implant assembly in a mode corresponding to the detected energy delivery type, thereby electrolytically severing the joint. In another embodiment, a power supply is provided for use with a medical device having an elongated member and a terminal disposed on a proximal end of the elongated member. The power supply including power delivery circuitry, an electrical contact coupled to the power delivery circuitry, a port configured for receiving the proximal end of the elongated member, and an electrically insulative compliant member configured for urging the electrical terminal into contact with the electrical contact when the proximal end of the elongated member is received into the port.01-15-2009
20090062726MEDICAL IMPLANT DETACHMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An implant assembly comprises an elongated pusher member, and an implantable device (e.g., a vaso-occlusive device) mounted to the distal end of the pusher member. The implant assembly further comprises an electrolytically severable joint disposed on the pusher member, wherein the implantable device detaches from the pusher member when the severable joint is severed, and a return electrode carried by the distal end of the pusher member (e.g., a coil disposed about the pusher member) in proximity to, but electrically isolated from, the severable joint. The implant assembly further comprises a terminal carried by the proximal end of the pusher member in electrical communication with the severable joint.03-05-2009
20120271344MEDICAL IMPLANT DETACHMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An implant assembly comprises an elongated pusher member, and an implantable device (e.g., a vaso-occlusive device) mounted to the distal end of the pusher member. The implant assembly further comprises an electrolytically severable joint disposed on the pusher member, wherein the implantable device detaches from the pusher member when the severable joint is severed, and a return electrode carried by the distal end of the pusher member (e.g., a coil disposed about the pusher member) in proximity to, but electrically isolated from, the severable joint. The implant assembly further comprises a terminal carried by the proximal end of the pusher member in electrical communication with the severable joint.10-25-2012

Scott K. Ford, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110001316MULTI-MEDIA ROTARY UNION - A rotating union communicates with a rotor member and is operable with either compressible or incompressible coolant media that enters the union through a media inlet. The union includes a housing having a counterbore and a tubular carrier member axially moveable in the housing. The union includes a primary seal assembly having a rotating seal member mounted to the rotor member and a non-rotating member mounted to the carrier member and a secondary seal member positioned about the carrier member. The range of the balance ratio of the primary seal assembly is disclosed when the primary seal assembly has imposed upon it a closing force, an opening force or no force.01-06-2011

Sean Ford, Oceanside, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110097245Portable Microfluidic Radiosynthesis System for Positron Emission Tomography Biomarkers and Program Code - Methods and devices for a fully automated synthesis of radioactive compounds for imaging, such as by positron emission tomography (PET), in a fast, efficient and compact manner are disclosed. In particular, the various embodiments of the present invention provide an automated, stand-alone, hands-free operation of the entire radiosynthesis cycle on a microfluidic device with unrestricted gas flow through the reactor, starting with target water and yielding purified PET radiotracer within a period of time shorter than conventional chemistry systems. Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention is related to a microfluidic chip for radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound, comprising a reaction chamber, one or more flow channels connected to the reaction chamber, one or more vents connected to said reaction chamber, and one or more integrated valves to effect flow control in and out of said reaction chamber.04-28-2011

Shirin K. Ford, Redwood City, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090298701PREDICTORS OF PATIENT RESPONSE TO TREATMENT WITH EGF RECEPTOR INHIBITORS - The present invention provides methods and compositions to facilitate determining whether an EGFR-expressing cancer in an individual is an EGFR inhibitor-responsive cancer, as well as methods for determining the likelihood that a patient having an EGFR-expressing cancer will exhibit a beneficial response to an EGFR inhibitor therapy. The methods generally involve determining a normalized expression level of a gene product that correlates with EGFR inhibitor responsiveness.12-03-2009

Steven Ford, Laguna Beach, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120071970PHYSIOLOGIC TRICUSPID ANNULOPLASTY RING - A prosthetic tricuspid remodeling annuloplasty ring for use in tricuspid valve repairs to provide annular support after reconstructive valve surgery. The ring maintains an optimal annular dimension to prevent excessive dilatation of the natural valve annulus while adapting to the dynamic motion of the tricuspid annulus during the cardiac cycle. An exemplary ring features a waveform contour and may be constructed of a titanium core having a varying cross-section for selective flexibility for good Z-axis or out-of plane movement. The “waveform” contour and selective flexibility of the different segments of this ring are designed to adapt to the complex motion of the annulus. This reduces the stress on the anatomical structures and therefore minimizes the risk of arrhythmia and ring dehiscence.03-22-2012

Steven D. Ford, Fresno, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110294643Centrifugal Separator - A centrifugal separator having a separation chamber and a collection chamber utilizes an axially-oriented structure which extends from the spin structure, or spin plate, up and into the vortex finder. The axially-oriented structure decreases turbulence within portion of the separator in axial adjacency with the spin structure, including the separation chamber in which the solids are collected. The reduction of turbulence substantially reduces the entrainment of solids in the rising stream of liquid flowing to the vortex finder, and thus increases the efficiency of the separator. The spin structure may comprise a truncated cone mounted with a portion of the truncated cone in the separation chamber and the remainder in the collection chamber.12-01-2011
20120325738Centrifugal Separator - A centrifugal separator of the present invention comprises an upper inlet chamber and separation barrel connected thereto. The upper inlet chamber comprises an inlet through which a solids-laden fluid is introduced. An upper portion of the separation barrel extends into the upper inlet chamber below the inlet, such that the interior wall of the upper inlet chamber and the upper portion of the separation volume define a space, called the vestibular chamber. The vestibular chamber is defined at its upper end by a horizontally disposed plate larger in diameter than the separation barrel, but smaller in diameter than the internal diameter of the upper inlet chamber. The upper portion of the separation barrel comprises a plurality of generally axially-oriented slots which may penetrate through the wall of the separation barrel tangentially, so as to generally induce a tangential flow pattern to fluid entering the separation barrel from the vestibular chamber.12-27-2012

Thomas Davidson Ford, San Diego, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100313494Telescoping mast - A telescoping mast able to efficiently extend and retract multiple telescoping sections without jar and minimal energy. The telescoping mast has multiple telescoping sections, a position feedback sensor, a motor, a spring motor, and a computation unit. The position feedback sensor is coupled to at least one telescoping section and configured to identify a position of the telescoping sections. The motor is also coupled to the telescoping sections, and raises and lowers the telescoping sections. The computation unit controls the motor based on the position of the telescoping sections.12-16-2010
20100314503Telescoping mast cable storage system - A telescoping mast with a cabling system configured to cover and store cable within the structure of the mast and able to efficiently extend and retract multiple telescoping sections without jar and minimal energy. The telescoping mast has a hollow mast housing. A telescoping section is nested within the interior of the mast housing. A set of upper pulleys affixed to the upper end of the mast housing, while a set of lower pulleys affixed to the lower end of the telescoping section. A cable is threaded through the first upper pulleys and first lower pulleys such that a first end of the cable is attached to the mast housing and the cable remains taut when the telescoping section is raised or lowered.12-16-2010