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French, US

Amanda J. French, Farmington Hills, MI US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120041660ACTIVE SHIMMY MITIGATION - A system mitigates shimmy of a wheel of a vehicle. The wheel is rotatable about an axis and is steerable by varying a steering angle of the wheel about a steering axis. The system includes a shimmy detection device that detects whether an oscillation/shimmy of the steering angle of the wheel occurs. The system also includes a brake that applies a braking load to decelerate rotation of the wheel about the axis. Furthermore, the system includes a controller that controls the brake to selectively apply the braking load to reduce the oscillation/shimmy of the steering angle of the wheel.02-16-2012

Barry French, Bay Village, OH US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110112771Wearable sensor system with gesture recognition for measuring physical performance - A wearable sensor system with gesture recognition for measuring physical performance 05-12-2011

Barry J. French, Bay Village, OH US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090046893SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRACKING AND ASSESSING MOVEMENT SKILLS IN MULTIDIMENSIONAL SPACE - Accurate simulation of sport to quantify and train performance constructs by employing sensing electronics for determining, in essentially real time, the player's three dimensional positional changes in three or more degrees of freedom (three dimensions); and computer controlled sport specific cuing that evokes or prompts sport specific responses from the player that are measured to provide meaningful indicia of performance. The sport specific cuing is characterized as a virtual opponent that is responsive to, and interactive with, the player in real time. The virtual opponent continually delivers and/or responds to stimuli to create realistic movement challenges for the player.02-19-2009
20090300551INTERACTIVE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND INFORMATION-IMPARTING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method of imparting information includes interactively selectively displaying information to a person or user, based on the physical location of the person relative to a display screen upon which the information is displayed. A tracking system is operatively coupled to the display that selectively displays the information. The tracking system tracks the physical location of the person, and displays different information depending upon the physical location of the person. The display may include displays of virtual objects, such as cubes or other shapes. The view of the objects may be varied within the display as the user moves within physical space, varying the apparent position of the virtual objects as the user moves. The varying of the apparent position of the virtual objects may reveal information that was not visible to the user in other virtual positions (corresponding to other physical positions of the user).12-03-2009
20100302142SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRACKING AND ASSESSING MOVEMENT SKILLS IN MULTIDIMENSIONAL SPACE - Accurate simulation of sport to quantify and train performance constructs by employing sensing electronics for determining, in essentially real time, the player's three dimensional positional changes in three or more degrees of freedom (three dimensions); and computer controlled sport specific cuing that evokes or prompts sport specific responses from the player that are measured to provide meaningful indicia of performance. The sport specific cuing is characterized as a virtual opponent that is responsive to, and interactive with, the player in real time. The virtual opponent continually delivers and/or responds to stimuli to create realistic movement challenges for the player.12-02-2010

Patent applications by Barry J. French, Bay Village, OH US

Barry James French, Bay Village, OH US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110270135Augmented reality for testing and training of human performance - A system for continuously monitoring a user's motion and for continuously providing realtime visual physical performance information to the user while the user is moving to enable the user to detect physical performance constructs that expose the user to increased risk of injury or that reduce the user's physical performance. The system includes multiple passive controllers 11-03-2011

Catherine A. French, Olympia, WA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090257483DUAL CORRELATION FRAME SYNCHRONIZATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and method utilize a dual correlation, one for the synchronization pattern (sync correlation) and one for the channel equalization pattern (CE correlation), to determine where the channel equalization pattern starts and thus establish frame synchronization. The system and method compare the two correlations and decides on the start of the channel equalization symbols when the CE correlation is larger than the sync correlation.10-15-2009

Patent applications by Catherine A. French, Olympia, WA US

Charles French, Chicago, IL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090182682Bank-eligible investment product and a system and method for designing, implementing, monitoring and managing the same - A computer system and computative process for designing, implementing, processing, communicating and managing a bank-eligible investment product that invests in other bank-eligible investments wherein the risk-based capital exposure of each investment is compared to a limit database and processed using a plurality of risk-weight percentages stored in the database. The computer system receives as its inputs performance data and asset allocation data for each investment and processes that data in order to calculate the risk-based capital exposure of each investment inside the product, determine the risk-based capital assessment of an investor's total investment in the product, and as part of its output, provides sufficient reporting information for investors as required by federal, state, and local regulations. In one embodiment, the constraints of each investment inside the product are frequently and periodically reprocessed, according to prescribed system parameters in order to achieve desired risk-based capital output for communication to users and for adjustment of the composition of the bank-eligible investment product.07-16-2009

Christopher French, Boston, MA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110213012Treatment of Cancers Characterized by Chromosomal Rearrangement of the NUT Gene - The present invention is directed, inter alia, to methods of treating NUT midline carcinoma (NMC) by administering compounds that promote increased histone acetylation. The invention also includes assay methods for determining the responsiveness of NMC to specific histone deacetylases and other compounds.09-01-2011

Daniel French, Charlotte, NC US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110138310REMOTE DEVICE MANAGEMENT INTERFACE - A network for remotely managing a plurality of remote devices that are each individually configurable to have selected operating characteristics includes a server connected to the network and to the plurality of remote devices, and a display coupled to a computer which is connected to the network. Also included are means for assigning a common icon to each remote device of the same type and displaying the icons on the server display, and means for coloring each icon to indicate a current configuration status of each remote device and for displaying the color on the icon on the display.06-09-2011

David L. French, Bellevue, WA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080311765ELECTRICAL CONNECTION BETWEEN DEVICES - Concepts for forming an electrical connection between devices are disclosed. A cord for transferring electrical power and signals can be provided to connect a first device to a second device. One or more magnetic couplings can be provided to exert magnetic forces between the cord and the first device and/or between the cord and the second device. The one or more magnetic couplings can allow transfer of electrical power and signals therethrough.12-18-2008
20100194350ELECTRICAL CONNECTION BETWEEN DEVICES - Concepts for forming an electrical connection between devices are disclosed. A cord for transferring electrical power and signals can be provided to connect a first device to a second device. One or more magnetic couplings can be provided to exert magnetic forces between the cord and the first device and/or between the cord and the second device. The one or more magnetic couplings can allow transfer of electrical power and signals therethrough.08-05-2010

David M. French, Ann Arbor, MI US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110204785CROSSED FIELD DEVICE - A crossed field device, such as a magnetron or crossed field amplifier, that includes a cathode, an anode, one or more magnetic elements, and one or more extraction elements. In one embodiment, the crossed field device includes an annular cathode and anode that are axially spaced from one another such that the device produces an axial electric (E) field and a radial magnetic (B) field. In another embodiment, the crossed field device includes an oval-shaped cathode and anode that are radially spaced from one another such that the device produces a radial electric (E) field and an axial magnetic (B) field. The crossed field device may produce electromagnetic (EM) emissions having a frequency ranging from megahertz (MHz) to terahertz (THz), and may be used in one of a number of different applications.08-25-2011

Donald Terry French, Warren, MI US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090254262FUEL INJECTION MEASUREMENT AND DIAGNOSTICS - A system and method comprises operating an engine during a first cycle to drive a piston in a cylinder without energizing a fuel injector of the cylinder; acquiring first pressure data of the cylinder for a predetermined crank angle window during the first cycle; energizing the fuel injector for an energizing time during a second cycle; acquiring second pressure data of the cylinder for the predetermined crank angle window during the second cycle; calculating a pressure ratio difference average (PRDA) from the first pressure data and the second pressure data; and modifying the operation of the fuel injector based on the PRDA value.10-08-2009
20090299605FUEL IGNITION QUALITY DETECTION - An engine control system comprises a fuel diagnostic module and a fuel control module. The fuel diagnostic module determines a pressure-ratio difference average (PRDA) based on a pressure in at least one cylinder and determines a cetane number (CN) of a fuel based on the PRDA. The fuel control module actuates fuel injectors based on the CN.12-03-2009
20100228463FUEL IGNITION QUALITY DETECTION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An engine control system includes an engine calibration module that sets fuel injection timing based on one of N cetane number (CN) values, wherein N is an integer greater than one. A combustion noise module generates a combustion noise signal based on cylinder pressure in a compression ignition (CI) engine during combustion. A fuel quality determination module compares the combustion noise signal to N predetermined combustion noise levels corresponding to the N CN values, and that selects the one of the N CN values based on the comparison.09-09-2010
20110224886ON-BOARD FUEL PROPERTY DETECTION USING PATTERN RECOGNITION AND POWER SPECTRAL ANALYSIS OF CYLINDER PRESSURE SIGNAL - Combustion pressure in a diesel combustion chamber is monitored to determine a combustion parameter as a function of the monitored pressure. A cetane number of the fuel combusted is determined as a function of a predetermined correlation between the combustion parameter and the cetane number.09-15-2011
20120024270METHOD OF MODEL-BASED MULTIVARIABLE CONTROL OF EGR AND BOOST FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES - A method to control an exhaust gas recirculation and a manifold air pressure in an engine includes utilizing a decoupling matrix within a multiple input and multiple output controller to determine an exhaust gas recirculation command and a manifold air pressure command, wherein the decoupling matrix is configured based upon a diagonally dominant model of the engine compensated by the determined exhaust gas recirculation command and the manifold air pressure command. The exhaust gas recirculation and manifold air pressure are controlled based upon the determined exhaust gas recirculation command and the determined manifold air pressure command.02-02-2012

Patent applications by Donald Terry French, Warren, MI US

Douglas J. French, Fort Myers, FL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100108703REMOVABLY ATTACHABLE HOLDING DEVICE FOR BEVERAGE CONTAINERS - A removably attachable holding device (05-06-2010

Floyd R. French, Manchester, MO US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110036872AEROSOL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DISPENSING TEXTURE MATERIAL - An aerosol texturing system for applying a layer of texture material on an uncoated portion of a substrate substantially to match a coated portion of the substrate. The aerosol texturing system comprises an aerosol assembly, texture material, and bi-phase propellant material. The texture material comprises a base portion and a particulate portion, where the particulate portion is made of at least one of urethane foam and melamine foam. The propellant material acts on the texture material to force the texture material to out of the aerosol assembly onto the uncoated portion of the substrate such that the layer of texture material on the uncoated portion of the substrate substantially matches the portion of the substrate coated with stucco material.02-17-2011
20120097703Aerosol Systems and Methods for Dispensing Texture Material - Aerosol material for applying a repair coat to an uncoated portion of a substrate substantially to match a coated portion of the substrate using an aerosol assembly comprising a container defining a product chamber and a valve assembly operable in open and closed modes, the aerosol material comprising a base portion, a particulate portion, and a propellant portion. The particulate portion is made of at least one of urethane foam and melamine foam. With the valve assembly in the open mode, the propellant portion in the gas state gas state forces at least part of the base portion, the particulate portion, and the propellant portion in the liquid state out of the product chamber and onto the uncoated portion of the substrate to form the repair coat such that the repair coat substantially matches the coated portion of the substrate.04-26-2012

Francis W. French, Harvard, MA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120111190AIR PURIFICATION AND DECONTAMINATION SYSTEM - A closed loop air handling system for monitoring and cleaning air from corrosive contaminants. Commonly occurring corrosive elements found in air can react in combination together and with other environmental conditions to increase the propensity for corrosion to occur. The higher corrosive level of air can react with metals causing degradation, wear and often lead to premature failure. This is especially prevalent in environments using forced air convection for cooling, such as data centers. The electronic circuitry is especially vulnerable to such corrosion and requires an environmentally controlled atmosphere with mild corrosiveness for long term reliability. The invention involves circulating the air in a closed loop and monitors and adjusts parameters of active filtration and purification to minimize corrosive agents. The system maintains a milder corrosive environment and better accommodates the use of “free cooling” from outside air for improved energy efficiency and lower carbon emissions. Air quality data is also collected and used to estimate equipment life time expectancy and substantiate warranty claims over exceeding manufacturers recommended environmental operating conditions.05-10-2012

Ian French, Berlin, NJ US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080236779VERTICAL HEAT TREATMENT SYSTEM - A system and method for forming and heat treating metal castings is provided with a vertical heat treatment unit positioned adjacent and downstream from a pouring station at which a series of molds are filled with a molten metal to form the castings. The vertical heat treatment unit includes a vertically oriented furnace chamber in which the castings are received, and which has a reduced footprint to reduce the manufacturing floor space required for the vertical heat treatment unit, and to enable the vertical heat treatment unit to be positioned in close proximity to the pouring station.10-02-2008

Ian French, Kennesaw, GA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080264527INTEGRATED METAL PROCESSING FACILITY - An integrated metal processing facility in which molten metal is poured into a series of molds at a pouring station to form metal castings, which are then transferred to a heat treatment line. Prior to introduction of the castings into a heat treatment station of the heat treatment line, the castings are subjected to heating sufficient to arrest cooling of the castings at or above a process control temperature for the metal thereof.10-30-2008
20090206527HIGH PRESSURE HEAT TREATMENT SYSTEM - A furnace for heat treating a metal workpiece is provided. A method and system for processing a workpiece also are provided.08-20-2009

Patent applications by Ian French, Kennesaw, GA US

Irvin L. French, North Vernon, IN US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100205990INTEGRATED PORTABLE UNIT FOR PROVIDING ELECTRICITY, AIR-CONDITIONING, AND HEATING - Disclosed is an integrated unit packaged on a vehicle for providing electricity, air-conditioning and heating to a space remote from the vehicle. The unit includes an electric generator system, a ventilation system, a refrigeration cycle system, each of which is powered by the electric generator system, a heater that is also powered by the electric generator system and electrical outlets that are also powered by the electric generator.08-19-2010

James B. French, Carmel, IN US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100280636BUILDING AUTOMATION SYSTEM CONTROLLER INCLUDING NETWORK MANAGEMENT FEATURES - A controller for use with a plurality of BAS devices and a plurality of IT devices includes a housing and communications interfaces for connecting to the plurality of BAS devices and for connecting to the plurality of IT devices. The controller further includes a network communication module configured to serve as a network switch for the BAS devices and the IT devices. The controller yet further includes a BAS module configured to manage the BAS devices.11-04-2010
20100281387SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING BUILDING AUTOMATION SYSTEMS AND IT SYSTEMS - A system for managing building automation systems and information technology systems includes an IT management server in communication with a plurality of IT sites and a BAS integration server in communication with a plurality of BAS sites. The system further includes a user application server that communicates with the IT management server and the BAS integration server to provide at least one application for managing the plurality of IT sites and the plurality of BAS sites.11-04-2010

Joe French, Cedar Rapids, IA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110113882Defective wheel bearing detection device - A front wheel drive bearing defect amplifier is attached to a wheel gauge mount. The amplifier includes a magnet which is positioned approximately at the center of the wheel assembly. A spacing block, including a hollow aluminum handle, is pivotally mounted onto the magnet. A shaft or pin interconnects the magnet and the aluminum block and allows rotation of the magnet, in fixed engagement with the wheel assembly. The shaft is loosely fitted through a hole in the block. Opposite ends of the shaft are rigidly secured with the magnet so as to rotate with the magnet. An aluminum tube defines a handle having one end of the handle force fitted into an opening in the aluminum block. An opposite end of the aluminum tube or handle is to be held by the hand of the operator.05-19-2011

John B. French, Reno, NV US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090048026SMART CARD HOLDER FOR AUTOMATED GAMING SYSTEM AND GAMING CARDS - Methods and systems for intelligent tracking and/or play and/or management of card gaming use an intelligent card distribution or holding device with detectors for determine the value and unique identity of individual cards and for recording card play. In specific embodiments, the system utilizes various types of sensors and electronic circuits and software to scan, track, monitor, compute, and interface with electronic devices, to enable the automatic operation of Casino table games. The system can scan playing cards, scan gaming chips, indicate a players win/loss/draw, increase and or decrease player betting positions. Compute awards to players based on their playing activity, photograph individual players, and transmit player's images to casino security/surveillance departments and or other authorized casino personnel. The system may activate table displays that indicate each player's win/loss/draw of their bets, and or dealers card count, indicate in the game of blackjack when a dealer has blackjack, or any other significant event that occurs such as indicating when a player has a winning/loss/draw on specific card combinations.02-19-2009
20090191933TABLE WITH SENSORS AND SMART CARD HOLDER FOR AUTOMATED GAMING SYSTEM AND GAMING CARDS - Methods and systems for intelligent tracking and/or play and/or management of card gaming use an intelligent card distribution or holding device with detectors for determining the value and unique identity of individual cards and for recording card play. Playing cards are equipped with a read/write data storage connected to a transponder and/or incorporated into electromagnetic writable particles or smart particles (smart dust). A system of the invention records various game play events on the playing cards themselves during game play and optionally also in a database on the system. In specific embodiments, the principal scanning and writing elements and electronic and optical interfaces are embodied into a hand-held card holder (HHCH). In specific embodiments, the system utilizes various types of sensors and/or indicators and/or and electronic circuits and software to scan, track, monitor, compute, and interface with electronic devices, to enable the automatic operation of Casino table games. The system can scan playing cards, scan gaming chips, indicate a players win/loss/draw, increase or decrease player betting positions, compute awards to players based on their playing activity, photograph individual players, and transmit player's images to casino security/surveillance departments and or other authorized casino personnel. The system may activate table displays that indicate each player's win/loss/draw of their bets, and/or dealers card count, indicate in the game of blackjack when a dealer has blackjack, or any other significant event that occurs such as indicating when a player has a winning/loss/draw on specific card combinations.07-30-2009

John M. French, Eagle, ID US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110099880GUN BARREL AND TUBE CLEANING DEVICE - A gun barrel cleaning device comprises a weight, a cord, a boreguide sleeve, a sheath, a brush, a cleaning element, and a lubrication element. The weight provides a mass that helps to insert the device into the barrel of a gun. The weight may be coupled to the high tensile strength cord, which in turn may be coupled to the tubular sheath. The boreguide sleeve may cover the sheath where it is coupled to the cord to smooth the transition from the cord to the sheath. The brush may be connected to the cord and encased by the sheath. The cleaning element, also encased by the sheath, may remove dirt from the gun barrel. The lubrication element, coupled to the sheath, may deposit lubrication in the gun barrel. The gun barrel may be cleaned and lubricated by pulling the device through the barrel.05-05-2011

John Robert French, Arden, NC US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090173705DAMPENED SPRING-OPERATED VERTICALLY ACCUMULATING CONTAINER STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM - A vertically accumulating storage and retrieval apparatus has a first and second plurality of substantially vertically spaced shelf assemblies supported by support structure. Each of the shelf assemblies includes a shelf tray for receiving, storing, and discharging containers. Spring biasing structure is provided for urging the shelf to the receiving position. Dampening structure dampens the movement of the shelf between the upwardly tilted receiving position and the downwardly tilted discharge position. A transfer control and transfer control linkage are provided for retaining the shelf when a shelf of a next lower shelf assembly is not prepared to receive a container, and allowing the shelf to move to the discharge position under the weight of a container disposed on the shelf when the shelf of the next lower shelf assembly is prepared to receive a container. A method for storing and retrieving containers is also disclosed.07-09-2009

John S. French, Arlington Heights, IL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090094817Directional Microphone Assembly - A directional microphone assembly for a hearing aid is disclosed. The hearing aid has one or more microphone cartridge(s), and first and second sound passages. Inlets to the sound passages, or the sound passages themselves, are spaced apart such that the shortest distance between them is less than or approximately equal to the length of the microphone cartridge(s). A sound duct and at least one surface of a microphone cartridge may form each sound passage, where the sound duct is mounted with the microphone cartridge. Alternatively, each sound duct may be formed as an integral part of a microphone cartridge.04-16-2009

Jordan R. French, Evansville, IN US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110284403PACKAGING ASSEMBLY - A packaging nexus that drives a predetermined message to facilitate a consumer message is described. The nexus formed from the one or more components of the packaging assembly is configured to collectively signal and/or reinforce a predetermined message and at least partially facilitate a consumer impression.11-24-2011
20110287146PACKAGING ASSEMBLY - A packaging nexus that drives a predetermined message to facilitate a consumer message is described. The nexus formed from the one or more components of the packaging assembly is configured to collectively signal and/or reinforce a predetermined message and at least partially facilitate a consumer impression.11-24-2011
20110287149PACKAGING ASSEMBLY - A packaging nexus that drives a predetermined message to facilitate a consumer message is described. The nexus formed from the one or more components of the packaging assembly is configured to collectively signal and/or reinforce a predetermined message and at least partially facilitate a consumer impression.11-24-2011

Justin French, Cedar Rapids, IA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100112167Soluble Oat Or Barley Flour And Method Of Making Utilizing A Continuous Cooker - Preparing soluble oat or barley flour in one-step using an extrusion (continuous cooking) process to dextrinize and gelatinize cook the oat or barley flour.05-06-2010

Justin French, Fox River Grove, IL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100112127Soluble Oat Or Barley Flour And Method Of Making Utilizing Enzymes - Producing soluble oat or barley flour by using enzymes to precondition whole oat or barley flour prior to an extrusion (continuous cooking) process.05-06-2010
20100112176Expansion of Extruded Cereals with Good Source of Fiber - A cereal composition comprising a waxy starch in an amount from about 5 to about 15% by weight of the total composition and a cereal mixture comprising a fiber source in an amount from about 1 to about 15% by weight of the total composition. The cereal composition is mixed with water and expanded by extrusion to form a high-fiber cereal product. Also, a method of producing a high fiber expanded cereal product comprising the step of combining a waxy starch in an amount from about 5 to about 15% by weight of the total composition and a cereal mixture comprising a fiber source in an amount from about 1 to about 15% by weight of the total composition to form a total cereal composition. The total cereal composition is mixed with water and extruded to form an expanded cereal product.05-06-2010
20110189341Soluble Oat Or Barley Flour And Method Of Making Utilizing Enzymes - Producing soluble oat or barley flour by using enzymes to precondition whole oat or barley flour prior to an extrusion (continuous cooking) process.08-04-2011
20110281007Soluble Oat or Barley Flour and Method of Making Utilizing a Continuous Cooker - Preparing soluble oat or barley flour in one-step using an extrusion (continuous cooking) process to dextrinize and gelatinize cook the oat or barley flour.11-17-2011

Lawrence James French, Wallingford, CT US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110132236Panel Structure with Scored and Folded Facing - A panel structure having a low-density core that can withstanding loads normal to a first primary surface, and a first facing of high-density sheet material that can extend along the first primary surface. The high-density sheet material can be laminated on the core such that the laminated core and facing cooperatively resist bending loads and loads along the primary surface. The first facing can extend from the first primary surface on a side of the core along a secondary surface, which can be non-parallel to the first primary surface. The first facing can bend along a score line between the first primary surface and the secondary surface.06-09-2011
20110132238Pallet Structure with Protective Shell - A pallet structure having a deck having an upper surface that can hold or bear a load, a first runner core below the deck, and a shell of sheet material that can cover a portion of a surface of the first runner core or deck, wherein the shell comprises a material that provides a higher impact resistance than the material comprising the first runner core or deck covered by the shell.06-09-2011

Leslie French, Princeton, NJ US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100317365Data Services Via Receivers Independent of Navigation Systems - A system and method for providing a suite of data services in non-navigation based electronic devices such as head units, that can provide similar levels of functionality to navigation-based systems are presented. In exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a non-navigation data system for providing data services in a mobile environment can include a data decoder for decoding a digital data stream from a digital audio radio transmission source, a location determining means for determining a current location of a mobile receiver receiving the digital data stream, a display for displaying data corresponding to the current location, and a plurality of static maps wherein the data corresponding to the current location is overlaid at least over a portion of the static maps. In exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a method of providing a data service in a mobile environment without the need for a navigation system can include decoding a digital data stream from a digital audio radio transmission source, determining a current location of a mobile receiver receiving the digital data stream, displaying data corresponding to the current location, and overlaying the data corresponding to the current location over at least a portion of a plurality of static maps.12-16-2010

Maria French, Strongsville, OH US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100312723PAINT HARDENING COMPOSITIONS AND ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS METHODS FOR RECYCLING PAINT AND PAINT CONTAINERS - The present invention relates to environmentally conscious methods for the distribution and collection of recyclable paint containers, methods for environmentally conscious painting using recyclable paint and paint containers, and compositions for hardening paint for purposes of recycling paint and paint containers. A consumer can employ a paint hardener to harden unused paint, dispose the hardened paint at curbside, and return the empty paint container to a collection area at a business establishment. The paint hardened can be contained in an encapsulating layer which dissolves and releases the paint hardener into the paint. The business establishment can recycle the empty paint container into a new paint container.12-09-2010

Mark French, Raleigh, NC US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120026171PARALLEL ARRAY ARCHITECTURE FOR A GRAPHICS PROCESSOR - A parallel array architecture for a graphics processor includes a multithreaded core array including a plurality of processing clusters, each processing cluster including at least one processing core operable to execute a pixel shader program that generates pixel data from coverage data; a rasterizer configured to generate coverage data for each of a plurality of pixels; and pixel distribution logic configured to deliver the coverage data from the rasterizer to one of the processing clusters in the multithreaded core array. A crossbar coupled to each of the processing clusters is configured to deliver pixel data from the processing clusters to a frame buffer having a plurality of partitions.02-02-2012

Mark French US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110314706ATHLETIC SHOE SOLE COATING FOR TRACTION ENHANCEMENT - An athletic shoe coating for traction enhancement includes a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) and a tackyfying resin and a film former initially in solution within a solvent suitable for application to the surface of a shoe sole in liquid form, such as by spraying, rolling and brushing the solution onto the shoe sole. After the solvent evaporates a film or coating attaches or is bonded to the shoe sole that exhibits the property of dynamically modifying the traction properties of the shoe sole when pressure and shear forces are applied to the coating. Such modification causes the exterior surface of the film or coating to “refresh” the exposed surface upon impact. This imparts continued tackiness over extended use. Impact modifiers may be added for controlled release of a solvent to temporarily dissolve or soften the film or coating to promote such refreshment of the coating outer surface.12-29-2011

Mark French, Larchmont, NY US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120011749DEVICE ATTACHABLE TO ITEM OF CLOTHING FOR DISPENSING MATERIAL FOR ENHANCING GRIPPING PROPERTIES OF SHOE SOLE - A wiping device may be a friable layer or an absorbent pad made of a material that can absorb and retain a fluid composition and can be attached or is attached to an item of clothing, such as a sock, shoe, compression sleeve, etc. The device is impregnated with an adhesive-type tacky substance that is released when a shoe sole is wiped against it to clean the shoe sole and allow surface dust and debris to be removed from the shoe sole. The deposited substance also forms a film or coating that remains adhered to the surface of the shoe sole to improve traction by imparting tackiness to the shoe sole.01-19-2012
20120066938SHOE SOLES FOR ENHANCING GRIPPING WITH A SMOOTH HARD SURFACE - Shoe soles with and without removable/replaceable gripping pods for athletic or sport shoes are provided with enhanced traction. The sole portions or gripping pods may be provided with a supply of a substance that exhibits a tackiness for enhancing friction between the shoe sole and the any hard floor. The tackiness-enhancing substance may be time-released or discharged from within the shoe sole onto the lower surface(s) of the sole that make(s) contact with the smooth hard playing surface or may be in response to compression or shear forces acting on the sole during play to prolong the tacky properties and reduce slippage. A visual indicator may be provided for notifying the player that it is time to replace the worn or used pod and insert a fresh pod or insert into the pod(s) to maintain high levels of gripping.03-22-2012

Maryellen French, Bay Village, OH US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090300551INTERACTIVE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND INFORMATION-IMPARTING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method of imparting information includes interactively selectively displaying information to a person or user, based on the physical location of the person relative to a display screen upon which the information is displayed. A tracking system is operatively coupled to the display that selectively displays the information. The tracking system tracks the physical location of the person, and displays different information depending upon the physical location of the person. The display may include displays of virtual objects, such as cubes or other shapes. The view of the objects may be varied within the display as the user moves within physical space, varying the apparent position of the virtual objects as the user moves. The varying of the apparent position of the virtual objects may reveal information that was not visible to the user in other virtual positions (corresponding to other physical positions of the user).12-03-2009

Mat French, Avon, IN US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110283708LANDFILL GAS UTILIZATION - A method for utilizing landfill gas is disclosed herein. The method includes the step of collecting landfill gas. The method also includes the step of fueling a turbine engine that is at least part of a power generation system with the landfill gas to generate power. The method also includes the step of cooling one or more components of the power generation system with the landfill gas prior to the fueling step. A power generation system capable of practicing the method is also disclosed. A landfill gas utilization system capable of practicing the method is also disclosed.11-24-2011

Matthew French, Groton, CT US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110001323ROTARY MAGNUS ENERGY HARVESTER - An energy harvester capable of providing motion from fluid flow, which comprises at least one Magnus cylinder driven to rotate by the movement of the fluid past a fin device. This causes the Magnus cylinder to rotate, and further interactions between the rotating Magnus cylinder and the moving fluid generate a Magnus lifting force. A channel or system may be also provided to direct the fluid flow to the Magnus cylinder. This rotating Magnus cylinder configuration is integrated into a mechanical device that is designed to transfer the Magnus lifting forces into a rotary mechanical motion to drive an electric generator. The device can be utilized in either air or hydraulic environments. A modification of the energy harvester can also be configured to utilize the generated electricity to produce hydrogen for use in fuel cells, or for combustion.01-06-2011

Melissa French, Lynnwood, WA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110161142TARGETED RESTRICTION OF ELECTRONIC OFFER REDEMPTION - Methods for permitting advertising entities to cap the distribution of electronic offers or coupons and to monitor active electronic advertising campaigns and receive real-time feedback on the success thereof are provided. Advertising entities are further permitted to modify electronic advertising campaigns, while they are active, based upon at least one success metric. Permitting advertising entities to cap distribution of electronic offers and to monitor and modify electronic advertising campaigns, while they are active, provides increased control to advertising entities that elect to advertise electronically.06-30-2011

Michael French, Raleigh, NC US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110044008TOP ACTUATED, FORCE LIMITING HEATSINK RETENTION SYSTEM - Apparatus for securing or retaining a heatsink. The heatsink retention apparatus includes a heatsink module that cooperates with first and second spring loaded latches secure to a circuit board on opposing sides of a heat-generating component. The heatsink module includes a handle pivotally secured to opposing sides of the heatsink body, and bails pivotally secured to the handle. In addition, the bails extend downward to dispose a lower bail member adjacent the spring loaded latches. As the handle pivots between a first position to raise the bails and a second position to lower the bails, the bails automatically move from a locked position to an unlocked position. Each of the spring loaded latches include a hook and at least one pre-loaded spring to transfer a minimum downforce to the lower bail members when the bails are raised. Accordingly, embodiments may be operated from the top of the heatsink without the use of tools, while providing a desired downforce over a range of heatsink heights.02-24-2011

Michael French, Adair Village, OR US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080257871Ablation device - Embodiments of an ablation device and an ablation process are disclosed.10-23-2008

Michael French, Pleasant Prairie, WI US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080257324INDUCTIVE IGNITION SYSTEM FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE - An inductive ignition system for an internal combustion engine is disclosed. The inductive ignition system includes an ignition coil having a primary coil and a secondary coil, the secondary coil providing high-voltage directly to a spark plug mounted in a cylinder of the internal combustion engine; the secondary coil having a rise time to its output voltage of less than 10 microseconds to deliver the high-voltage to the spark plug to produce a spark.10-23-2008

Michael D. French, Raleigh, NC US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100079936TOOL-LESS BACKPLANE RETENTION FOR COMPUTER HARDWARE - An apparatus is provided and includes a housing, including a housing mating device, through which an installation path for an assembly is defined with a space in which a first part is positioned, a backplane body having opposing faces on which a second part and a backplane mating device are respectively disposed, and a hub, in which a hub mating device is defined, and from which a two-stage mating device extends, the two-stage mating device including first and second elastically coupled stages. The hub and the backplane body are coupled to form the assembly and the assembly is installed/removed in/from the space with the second stage of the two-stage mating device elastically hooked by the housing mating device or released from the housing mating device and the first and second stages of the two-stage mating device biasing the hub and the backplane body to remain coupled.04-01-2010

Michael T. French, Lake In The Hills, IL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090034736WIRELESS DEVICE AUTHENTICATION AND SECURITY KEY MANAGEMENT - A method and wireless device for updating at least one cryptographic security key (02-05-2009

Robert French US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080249872Systems and Methods for Enabling Users to Sample and Acquire Content - A system for sampling content and presenting targeted marketing and advertising content, comprising: a sample/advertising server; a retail server receiving sample content from the sample server; media sample tablets for receiving sample content and targeted advertising content for display to a user; and means for collecting data from users.10-09-2008

Robert N. French, Chillicothe, OH US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110317728LASER SAFETY VIEWING WINDOW - An apparatus includes a window to absorb and/or reflect a radiation of a laser light. The apparatus may include a continuous material affixed to the window to transfer energy through the continuous material in a continuous pattern such that an alteration of the continuous material from the laser light of a laser adjusts a power of the laser light of the laser. The window may be a transparent shield to allow a user to view the laser process and to protect the user from the radiation of the laser light. The continuous material may be a wire. The wire may be a string of a conductive material. Examples of the conductive material may include platinum, silver, iron, copper, aluminum, gold, brass, bronze, conductive plastic, and/or semiconductor. The alteration may be damage to the wire to interrupt the current of the electricity through the wire.12-29-2011

Robert R. French, Wellington, CO US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080222947Method To Improve The Efficiency Of Removal Of Liquid Water From Solid Bulk Fuel Materials - The invention provides methods to efficiently reduce the water concentration of raw solid fuels, including low rank coals such as brown coal, lignite, subbituminous coal, and other carbonaceous solids. Efficiently drying these materials at low temperatures significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and allows the production of low-rank coals for gasification and liquifaction.09-18-2008
20090158645Methods of Producing Water-Resistant Solid Fuels - The invention provides a method by which high moisture low rank coal or other carbonaceous material may be transformed into a high-energy, water resistant product. The raw feed is comminuted then mechanically compacted by a roller press with rolls of a specified profile to mobilize the inherent moisture and collapse most of the interstitial pore space. The mobilized moisture is then removed by low-temperature drying and the material is sized and shaped to form a product that is resistant to re-absorption of water or other liquids. The present invention will promote the use of low rank coal for liquefaction and gasification.06-25-2009
20110167715METHOD TO TRANSFORM BULK MATERIAL - The invention provides low-cost, non-thermal methods to transform and beneficiate bulk materials, including low rank coals such as peat, lignite, brown coal, subbituminous coal, other carbonaceous solids or derived feedstock. High pressure compaction and comminution processes are linked to transform the solid materials by eliminating interstitial, capillary, pores, or other voids that are present in the materials and that may contain liquid, air or gases that are detrimental to the quality and performance of the bulk materials, thereby beneficiating the bulk products to provide premium feedstock for industrial or commercial uses, such as electric power generation, gasification, liquefaction, and carbon activation. The handling characteristics, dust mitigation aspects and combustion emissions of the products may also be improved.07-14-2011

Patent applications by Robert R. French, Wellington, CO US

Roger Harquail French, Cleveland Heights, OH US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110120525MOLDING PROCESSES FOR LIGHT CONCENTRATING ARTICLES THAT ARE USED IN SOLAR CELL MODULES - Light concentrating articles capable of concentrating about 1.02 to about 2000 sun equivalents of solar energy onto a solar cell comprise a thermoplastic composition, preferably an ionomer composition. The light concentrating articles may be made by a variety of processes, which are provided herein, such as for example an injection molding process, an injection overmolding process, an extrusion process, a cast film or sheet process, a blown film or sheet process, a vacuum forming process, a compression molding process, a transfer molding process, or a profile extrusion process. Secondary forming processes, such as bending, stamping, embossing, machining, laminating, adhering, metallizing, and the like may also be used in forming the light concentrating articles.05-26-2011
20120055551PHOTOVOLTAIC ASSEMBLIES INCORPORATING AN OPTICAL ELEMENT HAVING INTERNAL INCLUSIONS CONFIGURED FOR MAXIMUM CONVERSION EFFICIENCY - A photovoltaic assembly includes an optical element comprising a body having opposed planar major surfaces with a plurality of open-mouthed inclusions (grooves) formed on the light output surface. Each groove has a closed apex with an included apex angle. The body is formed from a material having an index of refraction of at least 1.3 and an induced absorbance rate ΔAbs/Dose less than or equal to about 0.4. The optical element is attached to a photovoltaic cell using an adhesive having an index of refraction in the range from about 1.34 to 1.50. The apex angle is selected such that light incident upon the body is conveyed the light output surface by the mechanism of total internal reflection from the boundary walls of the grooves and/or without retro-reflection toward the incident surface. The thickness of the adhesive layer and the dimension of the mouth of the grooves are selected such that light incident on the surface of the photovoltaic cell is not obscured by conductor lines on the cell's surface.03-08-2012
20120067400PHOTOVOLTAIC APPARATUS INCLUDING AN OPTICAL ELEMENT PRODUCING A MODULATED REGION OF LIGHT INTENSITY - Various photovoltaic apparatus such as an optical coupling arrangement, an integrated photovoltaic cell assembly, a photovoltaic module or a concentrating photovoltaic system each include an optical element having a plano-piano body formed of a first material having a greater refraction index n03-22-2012
20120069580OPTICAL ELEMENT PRODUCING A MODULATED REGION OF INCREASED LIGHT INTENSITY AND OPTICALLY ENHANCED PHOTOVOLTAIC CELL AND LED LIGHTING DEVICE INCLUDING THE SAME - An optical element has a plano-piano body formed of a first material having a greater refraction index n03-22-2012

Roger Harquail French, Wilmington, DE US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090079953USE OF PERFLUOROALKANES IN VACUUM ULTRAVIOLET APPLICATIONS - This invention concerns liquid perfluoro-n-alkanes for use in applications demanding high transparency at UV wavelengths ranging from about 150 to 165 nm, especially 157 nm. Uses include optical couplants, optical cements, optical elements, optical inspection media for photolithography at 157 nm exposure wavelength.03-26-2009
20090270627AROMATIC AND AROMATIC/HETEROAROMATIC MOLECULAR STRUCTURES WITH CONTROLLABLE ELECTRON CONDUCTING PROPERTIES - Aromatic and aromatic/heteroaromatic molecular structures with controllable electron conducting properties are derived from the incorporation of electron active substituents in selective positions.10-29-2009
20100154863CONCENTRATOR SOLAR CELL MODULES WITH LIGHT CONCENTRATING ARTICLES COMPRISING IONOMERIC MATERIALS - A concentrator solar cell module comprises at least one solar cell and at least one light concentrating article. The at least one light concentrating article is capable of concentrating about 1.02 to about 2000 sun equivalents of solar energy onto the solar cell(s) and comprises an ionomer composition. The ionomer composition comprises or is produced from an ionomer that has a temperature of onset of creep that is significantly greater than its peak melting temperature.06-24-2010
20110024691AROMATIC AND AROMATIC/HETEROAROMATIC MOLECULAR STRUCTURES WITH CONTROLLABLE ELECTRON CONDUCTING PROPERTIES - Aromatic and aromatic/heteroaromatic molecular structures with controllable electron conducting properties are derived from the incorporation of electron active substituents in selective positions.02-03-2011

Patent applications by Roger Harquail French, Wilmington, DE US

Scott French, Natick, MA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090019273Exception-based error handling in an array-based language - A computer-readable medium stores computer-executable instructions. The medium may hold: one or more instructions for executing a first code block; one or more instructions for generating an exception object based on the executing of the first code block; one or more instructions for receiving the exception object at a second code block; and one or more instructions for storing the exception object in a memory.01-15-2009

Susan J. French US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110270756SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SCREENING PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS - Methods and systems for anti money laundering screening are provided. A risk score and a first validation code is determined based on information related to a funds transfer transaction. The first validation code is associated with the risk score. Thereafter, a second validation code is calculated and compared with the first validation code. The risk score and the validation score are included in a payment authorization message sent to a payment processing network. The payment processing network extracts the validation code and communicates the payment authorization message including the risk score to a receiving financial institution. The receiving financial entity accepts or denies the incoming funds transfer based on the risk score included in the payment authorization message.11-03-2011

Thomas W. French, Imlay City, MI US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120017413VEHICLE CLOSURE MEMBER MOUNTING - A system and method for mounting a vehicle closure member (01-26-2012

Timothy Bernard French, Dubuque, IA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100078896FACE SEAL BREAK-IN COMPOUND - The present disclosure provides a vehicle assembly, such as a metal face seal, that includes a break-in lubricant compound. The assembly lubricant compound may reduce friction and scoring between contacting surfaces of the assembly, especially during the initial break-in of the assembly. During the initial break-in period, the compound may permit the contacting surfaces of the assembly to seat, or establish a pattern of surface mating, with limited wear and with limited material transfer or scoring.04-01-2010

William M. French, Boise, ID US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100053644System and method for printing user documentation - Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with printing user documentation are described. One example method includes receiving a print request and determining if the print request is for printing a user guide. If the request is for printing a user guide, then the method may retrieve an updated version of the user guide. The print request may be modified by adding the updated version to the print request. The user guide is printed using the updated version.03-04-2010

Patent applications by William M. French, Boise, ID US