Inventors list

Assignees list

Classification tree browser

Top 100 Inventors

Top 100 Assignees


Mark, US

Adam Mark, Bethesda, MD US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080222675Pointing capability and associated user interface elements for television user interfaces - Systems and methods according to the present invention provide a user interface for television control functionality.09-11-2008
20110219395Pointing Capability and Associated User Interface Elements for Television User Interfaces - Systems and methods according to the present invention provide a user interface for television control functionality.09-08-2011

Betty Mark, Sunnyvale, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110178532System and method of automatic detection of obstructions for a robotic catheter system - An obstruction detection system for a robotic catheter system including a robotic catheter manipulator assembly including one or more catheter manipulation bases and one or more sheath manipulation bases. Each manipulation base may be generally linearly movable on one or more tracks relative to the robotic catheter manipulator assembly. The obstruction detection system may include one or more obstruction detection sensors disposed on the track or on the manipulation bases to detect an obstruction along a path of motion of one or more manipulation bases. A software system may be provided for monitoring movement of the catheter and sheath manipulation bases, and/or a status of the obstruction detection sensors.07-21-2011

Brian L. Mark, Fairfax, VA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090232121Wireless Communications Using Frequency Agile Radio - A frequency agile radio configured to determine an estimated coverage area of a primary transmitter is disclosed. The radio includes at least one position device configured to determine a position coordinate of the radio and generate a corresponding position signal. The radio also includes at least one frequency agile receiver configured to measure a power of a transmission at least one frequency and generate a corresponding signal. Additionally, the radio includes at least one controller in communication with the at least one position device and the at least one frequency agile receiver. The controller is configured to determine a plurality of position coordinates of the radio and a plurality of signal power datums. The controller is also configured to estimate the coverage area of the at least one primary transmitter, based on the determined plurality of position coordinates and the determined plurality of signal power datums.09-17-2009
20100142458Cognitive Channel Assignment in Wireless Networks - An apparatus and method for assigning subchannel(s) for communication between frequency agile mobile station(s) and a frequency agile base station. A received power level may be identified for each subcarrier in a set of subcarriers available for data transmission. A minimum power level needed to establish communications may be allocated. A detection threshold set to avoid interference with other devices currently transmitting on the set of subcarriers may be determined using the minimum uplink power level. A subset of subcarriers not already assigned may be selected where each subcarrier in the subset of subcarriers has a received power level that is less than the detection threshold. A subchannel that satisfies a bandwidth requirement may be formed where the subchannel consists of selected subcarriers in the set of subcarriers available for data transmission between the frequency agile mobile station(s) and the frequency agile base station.06-10-2010
20120063308Router Congestion Control - A router, implemented in hardware and/or hardware in combination with software for routing packets, so as to limit congestion. The router monitors incoming data flows as well as the queue length of its buffer to control the rate of incoming data flows via a flow controller. The flow controller uses at least one of: a Smith predictor, a proportional-integral controller, a proportional-derivative controller, and a proportional controller.03-15-2012

Patent applications by Brian L. Mark, Fairfax, VA US

Bruce Mark, Ojai, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110091853METHOD FOR SIMULATING A CATHETER GUIDANCE SYSTEM FOR CONTROL, DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING APPLICATIONS - A system is disclosed for incorporating a realistic simulated catheter or catheters within a catheter guidance and control system that operate from the same closed-loop position control feedback and geometric mapping data as the real position control system and are able to make contact with real and simulated datasets. These catheters may be operated in a pure simulation mode without interacting with real catheters and position control hardware, or may be used as control cursors to enhance the placement of catheter positioning targets. The catheter tip, which is focus of magnetic control, is realistically guided by the control system parameters, while the remainder of the catheter line is realistically constrained by the mapped chamber geometry and introducer sheath.04-21-2011

Christopher Andrew Mark, Park City, UT US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120191607Methods And Systems For Facilitating Or Executing Electronic Payment Transactions - A method for executing an electronic payment transaction may include initiating or receiving notification of the initiating of a communication session with a wireless data connection enabled computing device, sending a payment transaction request during the communication session for the wireless data connection enabled computing device, and receiving a payment confirmation or a rejection of the payment transaction request to conclude the payment transaction.07-26-2012

Darren Michael Mark, Cornelius, NC US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20130045623LANDSCAPE LIGHTING SYSTEMS - A connector includes a cable tray configured to receive and retain a cable in a stable position and couple with a top cap configured to create an electrical connection with the cable as the top cap is manipulated in a predetermined manner while coupled with the cable tray. An upper surface of the cable tray is configured to receive the cable (e.g., while the cable is generally parallel with the longitudinal axis of the cable tray). The cable tray also includes a finger extending beyond the first end for some distance longitudinally. The finger includes a protrusion that protrudes to some extent in a transverse direction so that a cable-accommodating gap is defined between the protrusion and the first end. The protrusion is configured to bear against the cable and retain the cable in the stable position when the cable is inserted between the protrusion and the first end.02-21-2013

David Fu-Chi Mark, West Windsor, NJ US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090298756FUNCTIONS AND USES OF GPR39 GENE IN MAMMALIAN CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM - The present invention provides mammalian GPR39 gene, its coded products, and the uses in regulating appetite and pain sensitivity. A pharmaceutical composition and a health product comprising GPR39 protein are also provided. The health product and the pharmaceutical composition for suppressing appetite or decreasing pain sensitivity comprise a safe and efficient amount of antagonists of mammalian GPR39 protein (for example, 0.01-99%) and a bromatologically or pharmaceutically acceptable carrier in a suitable amount (for example 1-99.99 wt %).12-03-2009

Dennis M. Mark, Buffalo Grove, IL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090072099CLAMP ASSEMBLY - Embodiments of the present invention provide a clamp assembly configured to securely clamp a tubular member to a structure. The clamp assembly includes a bracket configured to secure to the structure, and an inner bushing integrally connected to the bracket. The bracket and the inner bushing are pre-assembled together as a single unit.03-19-2009
20100259024ENCLOSED DECOUPLING STABILIZER - A stabilizer for a vehicle suspension system includes a fixed housing having a canister and end caps forming an enclosure. A rod moves axially relative to the housing. Abutment members on the rod are separated by a spring and confront or telescope into end stops in the housing, depending upon a rotated position of the end stops relative to the abutment members.10-14-2010
20120321375DIRECT ACTING END LINK - An end link suitable for connecting a direct acting stabilizer bar to a steerable strut includes a rod having first and second grommets thereon. Bearing assemblies are provided adjacent the grommets and include portions thereof connected to for rotation with the grommets and other portions thereof independently rotatable relative to the grommets.12-20-2012

Patent applications by Dennis M. Mark, Buffalo Grove, IL US

Dore Mark, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110237916AMBIENT TEMPERATURE SENSOR SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A first sensor may be configured to measure a sensed amount of a physiological parameter and to generate a first signal based on the sensed amount of the physiological parameter measured by the first sensor. A second sensor may be configured to measure a temperature and to generate a second signal based on the temperate measured by the second sensor. A housing may have heat-generating electronics including a processor that may be configured to determine an overall amount of the physiological parameter based on the first signal generated from the first sensor and the second signal generated from the second sensor. The second sensor may be thermally insulated from the heat-generating electronics.09-29-2011

Earl Mark, Deland, FL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120205488UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE LAUNCH SYSTEM - A system for launching an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) payload includes a launch tube, liquid rocket, and launch control assembly. The rocket is positioned in the launch tube and contains the UAV payload. A booster assembly may include a canister partially filled with liquid. A gas cylinder is filled with compressed gas. The liquid is pre-pressurized by the gas or mixed with the gas right before launch such that, upon launch, liquid and gaseous thrust stages launch the rocket to a threshold altitude. The UAV payload deploys after reaching the threshold altitude. Optional stability tubes may be connected to the launch tube, which may be buoyant for water-based operations. An optional tether may be connected to the liquid rocket for arresting its flight prior to reaching apogee. The UAV payload is not launched directly by the gas/liquid mix. A method of launching the UAV payload is also disclosed.08-16-2012

Edward F. Mark, Poughkeepsie, NY US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120036491Constraint Programming Based Method for Bus-Aware Macro-Block Pin Placement in a Hierarchical Integrated Circuit Layout - Assigning pins to macro-blocks of an Integrated Circuit (IC) chip is described. The macro-block pin assignments are automatically placed using Constraint Programming (CP) techniques to position the pins on the periphery of a macro-block. Bus-ordering and pin-spacing constraints are performed considering all the nets forming the IC design simultaneously. The CP formulation includes modeling detailed and discrete constraints required to achieve an optimal pin-assignment. A stochastic CSP solver is used to define the cost function on search points giving full assignments to all the variables. The macro-block pins are ultimately moved to computed locations.02-09-2012

Fisher Mark, Midland, MI US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100061063Process for Preparing Conductive Films and Articles Prepared Using the Process - A free standing film includes: i. a matrix layer having opposing surfaces, and ii. an array of nanorods, where the nanorods are oriented to pass through the matrix layer and protrude an average distance of at least 1 micrometer through one or both surfaces of the matrix layer. A method for preparing the free standing film includes (a) providing an array of nanorods on a substrate, optionally (b) infiltrating the array with a sacrificial layer, (c) infiltrating the array with a matrix layer, thereby producing an infiltrated array, optionally (d) removing the sacrificial layer without removing the matrix layer, when step (b) is present, and (e) removing the infiltrated array from the substrate to form the free standing film. The free standing film is useful as an optical filter, ACF, or TIM, depending on the type and density of nanorods selected.03-11-2010

George Mark, New York, NY US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110076232SPECIFIC BINDING PROTEINS AND USES THEREOF - The present invention relates to specific binding members, particularly antibodies and fragments thereof, which bind to amplified epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and to the de2-7 EGFR truncation of the EGFR. In particular, the epitope recognized by the specific binding members, particularly antibodies and fragments thereof, is enhanced or evident upon aberrant post-translational modification. These specific binding members are useful in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The binding members of the present invention may also be used in therapy in combination with chemotherapeutics or anti-cancer agents and/or with other antibodies or fragments thereof.03-31-2011
20110129483Membrane transporter NaPi2b (SCL34A1) epitope for antibody therapy, antibodies directed thereto, and target for cancer therapy - The present disclosure relates generally to the membrane transporter NaPi2b (SLC34A2) as a target for therapy, including immunotherapy, and particularly cancer therapy. The SLC34A2 epitope peptide encompassing amino acids 312-340 of SLC34A2 has been identified as an ovarian cancer epitope using the monoclonal antibody MX35. The invention also relates to the use of SLC34A2 and particularly SLC34A2 peptides in generating antibodies which have anti-tumor or anti-cancer activity or in stimulating an immunological response. The invention further relates to antibodies specifically directed against NaPi2b (SLC34A2) and the SLC34A2 peptide (s), including veneered, chimeric, single chain and humanized antibodies. Methods for generating an immune response and for treatment of tumors and cancer are also provided. Assays for screening and identifying compounds directed against SLC34A2, including the SLC34A2 epitope peptide, and additional antibodies are provided.06-02-2011
20110293511SPECIFIC BINDING PROTEINS AND USES THEREOF - The present invention relates to specific binding members, particularly antibodies and fragments thereof, which bind to EGFR on tumor cells that overexpress EGFR, and on tumor cells that express the truncated version of the EGFR receptor, de2-7 EGF. In particular, the epitope recognized by the specific binding members, particularly antibodies and fragments thereof, is enhanced or evident upon aberrant post-translational modification. These specific binding members are useful in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The binding members of the present invention may also be used in therapy in combination with chemotherapeutics or anti-cancer agents and/or with other antibodies or fragments thereof.12-01-2011
20110313230SPECIFIC BINDING PROTEINS AND USES THEREOF - The present invention relates to specific binding members, particularly antibodies and fragments thereof, which bind to EGFR on tumor cells that overexpress EGFR, and on tumor cells that express the truncated version of the EGFR receptor, de2-7 EGF. In particular, the epitope recognized by the specific binding members, particularly antibodies and fragments thereof, is enhanced or evident upon aberrant post-translational modification. These specific binding members are useful in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The binding members of the present invention may also be used in therapy in combination with chemotherapeutics or anti-cancer agents and/or with other antibodies or fragments thereof.12-22-2011
20120183471SPECIFIC BINDING PROTEINS AND USES THEREOF - The present invention relates to specific binding members, particularly antibodies and fragments thereof, which bind to amplified epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and to the de2-7 EGFR truncation of the EGFR. In particular, the epitope recognized by the specific binding members, particularly antibodies and fragments thereof, is enhanced or evident upon aberrant post-translational modification. These specific binding members are useful in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The binding members of the present invention may also be used in therapy in combination with chemotherapeutics or anti-cancer agents and/or with other antibodies or fragments thereof.07-19-2012

Gillian Mark, Houston, TX US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110248126Systems And Methods For Supporting A Pipe - Systems and methods for supporting one or more pipes are provided. The pipe support system can include a first isolator and a second isolator at least partially disposed about a pipe such that at least a portion of the first and second isolators oppose one another. The pipe support system can also include a third isolator at least partially disposed about the pipe between a first set of ends of the first and second isolators and a fourth isolator at least partially disposed about the pipe between a second set of ends of the first and second isolators such that at least a portion of the third and fourth isolators oppose one another. An inner surface of the combination of the first, second, third, and fourth isolators can surround a perimeter of the pipe to provide an insulated pipe. The pipe system can also include at least one clamp at least partially disposed about the insulated pipe.10-13-2011

Gregory Mark, Cambridge, MA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080293308Pivoting wafer connector - A multi-contact electrical connector wafer includes an insulating base and at least one bay on a first side of the base. A conductor is associated with the at least one bay and the conductor is adapted to contact a corresponding mating element. The wafer further includes a loading beam adapted to bias the first conductor toward the corresponding mating element upon deflection of the beam. A connector may be formed with a conductive component disposed in a connector housing defining a receptacle opening. The conductive component is arranged in the housing in a manner to allow the conductive component to move relative to the housing. As such, the connector can accommodate a mating connector of a first thickness or a mating connector of a second, different thickness. The connector may also be adapted to accommodate a mating connector that is inserted into the receptacle in a manner that is not collinear with respect to the receptacle.11-27-2008
20090197481WOUND COIL COMPRESSION CONNECTOR - A multi-contact electrical connector and method of making are provided. An embodiment of a multi-contact electrical connector includes multiple small-scale densely packed contacts in the form conductive coils with wire loops whose elastic deformation provides a normal contact force for each contact in the connectors. The connector also includes a body that is configured to position the conductive coils. In some embodiments, the body may be elongate and the wire loop may be wrapped around the elongate body. In other embodiments, the body may have channels that extend through the body in which the conductive coils are disposed.08-06-2009

Patent applications by Gregory Mark, Cambridge, MA US

Gregory T. Mark, Cambridge, MA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090197482STAMPED BEAM CONNECTOR - An electrical connector includes a first and second array of flexible beams that are overlapped within a hood and that define a substantially cylindrically cavity for receiving a mating connector. Contact areas of each of the flexible beams may be shaped to define multiple contact points, thus increasing the overall area available for current to pass.08-06-2009

Heather Lee Mark, Park City, UT US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120191607Methods And Systems For Facilitating Or Executing Electronic Payment Transactions - A method for executing an electronic payment transaction may include initiating or receiving notification of the initiating of a communication session with a wireless data connection enabled computing device, sending a payment transaction request during the communication session for the wireless data connection enabled computing device, and receiving a payment confirmation or a rejection of the payment transaction request to conclude the payment transaction.07-26-2012

Howard L. Mark, Suffern, NY US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110125459Testing linearity of methods of chemical analysis with various statistical tests - A method for testing the linearity or non-linearity of an actual analyte concentration and a test result, where the actual concentration of the analyte and a test result are determined so that a computation based upon an algorithm may be performed, which allows computation of various variables so that regression may be performed and the linear significance may be determined.05-26-2011
20110282628Testing Linearity Of Methods Of Chemical Analysis With Various Statistical Tests - A method for testing the linearity or non-linearity of an actual analyte concentration and a test result, where the actual concentration of the analyte and a test result are determined so that a computation based upon an algorithm may be performed, which allows computation of various variables so that regression may be performed and the linear significance may be determined.11-17-2011

Patent applications by Howard L. Mark, Suffern, NY US

Jacob Mark, Needham, MA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120042039WORKFLOW AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM WITH INTEGRATED BI-DIRECTIONAL COMMUNICATIONS - A system for controlling process pathways. The system includes a network, a system backend communicable with said network comprising a processor configured to generate a process pathway based on a predefined set of rules reflecting a predetermined condition, and a series of notifications corresponding to the process pathway, a mobile device communicable with said system backend via said network, the mobile device being configured to receive from said backend at least one notification, of said series of notifications, the notification defining a task of the process pathway, and upon which notification a user is authorized to act, allowing the user to modify a state of said the notification with a one-step action, the mobile device further communicating the modified state of the at least one notification to the system backend over said network and wherein said modified state of the notification causes said processor to effect a change to said process pathway.02-16-2012
20130074171AUTOMATED LOGIN INITIALIZATION ON DETECTION OF IDENTIFYING INFORMATION - A system for automating a data device login procedure having a network, a system backend communicable with the network having a backend processor configured to control a simplified login procedure and a database of login information accessible by the backend processor, a data reader communicable with the system backend configured to receive a credential data from an identification device, and a fungible portable data device communicable with the backend configured to receive a login information from the system backend for completing a login procedure. The data reader is configured to initiate the login procedure upon receipt of the credential data from the identification device and communicate the credential data to the backend. The backend is configured to determine the login information associated with the credential data comprising personalization information for the fungible portable data device and the system backend completes the login procedure to the fungible portable data device.03-21-2013

Jacob D. Mark, Newton, MA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110087497METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PROVIDING PERSONALIZED INFORMATION TO USERS IN A COMMERCIAL ESTABLISHMENT - The present invention provides systems for and methods providing a user in a commercial establishment with personalized information, which can include a personalized shopping list, targeted advertisements, health information, nutritional information, promotional offers, offers on sale items, offers on discounted items, manufacturer's coupons, storewide coupons, information on user specific favorite items, and information on user specific staple items. Also disclosed is a device for and method of providing the precise location of a user in a commercial facility comprising a signal receiver and position calculating system that uses one of biangulation and triangulation techniques. Also disclosed, is a system for and method of providing a user in a commercial establishment with personalized information, which can include targeted advertisements, health information, nutritional information, promotional offers, offers on sale items, offers on discounted items, manufacturer's coupons, storewide coupons, information on user specific favorite items, and information on user specific staple items using the user's precise location with respect to items for purchase in the user's immediate vicinity.04-14-2011

Jacqueline Gayle Mark, Kalamazoo, MI US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110150913TORQUE TENO VIRUS (TTV) ISOLATES AND COMPOSITIONS - The present invention is directed to novel nucleotide and amino acid sequences of Torque teno virus (“TTV”), including novel genotypes thereof, all of which are useful in the preparation of vaccines for treating and preventing diseases in swine and other animals. Vaccines provided according to the practice of the invention are effective against multiple swine TTV genotypes and isolates. Diagnostic and therapeutic polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies are also a feature of the present invention, as are infectious clones useful in the propagation of the virus and in the preparation of vaccines. Particularly important aspects of the invention include vaccines that provide TTV ORF1 protein, or peptide fragments thereof, as antigen.06-23-2011

James Edward Mark, Philadelphia, PA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110217490Protective Sheathing Apparatus - A protective sheathing apparatus comprising an elongated flexible member, first fastening elements, second fastening elements, an attachment section, and one or more third fastening elements is provided. The first fastening elements and the second fastening elements are affixed in proximity to a first lengthwise edge and a second lengthwise edge of the elongated flexible member respectively. The affixed second fastening elements detachably engage with the affixed first fastening elements for defining a generally cylindrical lengthwise channel within the elongated flexible member for accommodating one or more longitudinal objects. The attachment section is attached to and extends outwardly from a first widthwise edge and/or a second widthwise edge of the elongated flexible member for enabling detachable engagement with another protective sheathing apparatus. The third fastening elements are affixed on an exterior surface of the elongated flexible member for enabling detachable attachment of the protective sheathing apparatus to a support surface.09-08-2011

John Liam Mark, San Diego, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120017147METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR INTERACTING WITH PROJECTED USER INTERFACE - Aspect methods and systems enable interaction with projected user interface through user input gestures performed on a mobile device. The mobile device may project the user interface image on an external surface, such as from a pico projector, and detect user input gestures performed by users. The mobile device may interpret the detected user input gestures, and change the projected user interface image in response to the interpreted user input gestures. User input gestures may be in the form of touch gestures performed on a touchscreen of the mobile device and/or in the form of hand gestures performed by turning, rotating and/or hoping the mobile device.01-19-2012
20120044251GRAPHICS RENDERING METHODS FOR SATISFYING MINIMUM FRAME RATE REQUIREMENTS - Methods and devices enable rendering of graphic images at a minimum frame rate even when processing resource limitations and rendering processing may not support the minimum frame rate presentation. While graphics are being rendered, a processor of a computing device may monitor the achieved frame rate. If the frame rate falls below a minimum threshold, the processor may note a current speed or rate of movement of the image and begin rendering less computationally complex graphic items. Rendering of less computationally complex items continues until the processor notes that the speed of rendered items is less than the noted speed. At this point, normal graphical rendering may be recommenced. The aspects may be applied to more than one type of less computationally complex item or rendering format. The various aspects may be applied to a wide variety of animations and moving graphics, as well as scrolling text, webpages, etc.02-23-2012

John P. Mark, Oshkosh, WI US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110192934SYSTEM FOR AIRBORNE TRANSPORT OF FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS - A system for airborne transport of flammable liquids with an aircraft. A fuel tank and a reservoir, each for storing flammable liquids, are joined to the aircraft. A fuel jettison subsystem is coupled between an interior portion and an exterior of the reservoir to selectably expel fuel from the reservoir to an exterior portion of the aircraft. The fuel jettison subsystem includes a jettison valve opening formed in the reservoir. A lid selectably closes off the opening. A biasing member urges the lid away from the jettison valve opening. A solenoid retains the lid in the jettison valve opening when unactuated and releases the lid when actuated. A jettison linkage is coupled to the solenoid, the jettison linkage being operable to actuate the solenoid. The t lid is urged away from the jettison valve opening by the biasing member when the t solenoid is actuated by the jettison linkage.08-11-2011

Joseph L. Mark US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100094075Expandable medical devices with reinforced elastomeric members and methods employing the same - Expandable devices for placement within a patient comprising an elastomeric member in contact with at least one fiber that provide non-differential expansion. Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for performing brachytherapy employing expandable devices comprising an elastomeric member in contact with at least one fiber that provide non-differential expansion.04-15-2010

Kevin Mark, Westminster, CO US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080242978METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REGISTERING A PHYSICAL SPACE TO IMAGE SPACE - A method and apparatus for registering physical space to image space is disclosed. The system allows for determining fiducial markers as pixels or voxels in image data. The system can correlate and register the determined fiducial points with fiducial markers in physical space.10-02-2008
20120179026Method for Registering a Physical Space to Image Space - A method and apparatus for registering physical space to image space is disclosed. The system allows for determining fiducial markers as pixels or voxels in image data. The system can correlate and register the determined fiducial points with fiducial markers in physical space.07-12-2012

Kevin E. Mark, Westminster, CO US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090290771Method and Apparatus for Performing 2D to 3D Registration - A method and apparatus for performing 2D to 3D registration includes an initialization step and a refinement step. The initialization step is directed to identifying an orientation and a position by knowing orientation information where data images are captured and by identifying centers of relevant bodies. The refinement step uses normalized mutual information and pattern intensity algorithms to register the 2D image to the 3D volume.11-26-2009
20120027261Method and Apparatus for Performing 2D to 3D Registration - A method and apparatus for performing 2D to 3D registration includes an initialization step and a refinement step. The initialization step is directed to identifying an orientation and a position by knowing orientation information where data images are captured and by identifying centers of relevant bodies. The refinement step uses normalized mutual information and pattern intensity algorithms to register the 2D image to the 3D volume.02-02-2012

Lawrence Mark, Trumbull, CT US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090306984SYSTEM FOR AND METHOD OF AUTOMATED QUALITY MONITORING - A system and method according to the present invention automates call monitoring activities to evaluate and directly improve agent-customer interactions. Rather than listening to an entire call or monitoring only a small fraction of all the calls made in the contact center, the system performs highly accurate, automated evaluations of all customer interactions. By automating the time-consuming aspect of monitoring calls, the system empowers contact center operators to address quality issues, more accurately measure, coach and reward agents, and identify business-critical trends.12-10-2009

Patent applications by Lawrence Mark, Trumbull, CT US

Leavitt Mark, Irvine, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120152215DUAL FUEL SOURCE TRAILER TRACTOR - The present disclosure teaches a method to extend the distance interval between refueling for gaseous fueled tractor trailers. Recognizing the current dearth of a national gaseous refueling infrastructure to support long distance gaseous powered vehicle transport this disclosure provides a method and system of storing gaseous fuel in high pressure vessels on a tractor and on a trailer and operating an engine for the tractor (and trailer combination) with gaseous fuel feed from both tractor and trailer gaseous fuel supplies.06-21-2012

Melanie R. Mark, Burlingame, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100234576HUMAN TOLL HOMOLOGUES - The invention relates to the identification and isolation of novel DNAs encoding the human Toll proteins PRO285, PRO286, and PRO358, and to methods and means for the recombinant production of these proteins. The invention also concerns antibodies specifically binding the PRO285, or PRO286, or PRO358 Toll protein.09-16-2010

Michael Mark, Colorado Springs, CO US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090097462Deployable Cellular Communication Extension System - Embodiments of systems and methods provide deployable cellular telecommunication base stations capable of sending, receiving, and extending telephone calls in areas where commercial cellular communications are unavailable. The deployable base station can send and receive cellular telephone calls via cellular communication transceivers, and relay such calls to a distant teleport via a satellite communication link. The deployable base station includes routers for encoding voice calls in voice-over IP data format and for routing calls via the satellite communication link. The deployable base station may also include land mobile radio (LMR) communication interoperability circuits to enable LMR communications to be relayed to a distant teleport. At the teleport, received communications can be routed via a public switched telephone network to an intended receiver to enable telephone communications with the global commercial network from areas lacking commercial cellular communications.04-16-2009

Michael David Mark, Las Vegas, NV US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100209563Frozen beverage and method for making the same - A frozen beverage containing dissolvable substances. The frozen beverage is frozen solid, forming chambers for liquid to touch pertaining walls. The addition of liquid in these pathways causes the dissolvable substances to dissolve. This dissolving separates the particles in the frozen substance, leaving the high melting point substances to remain frozen. The frozen beverage may be mixed by hand or by mechanical means after separation.08-19-2010

Michael J. Mark, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090162570APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROCESSING A SUBSTRATE USING INDUCTIVELY COUPLED PLASMA TECHNOLOGY - The present invention generally provides apparatus and methods for processing a semiconductor substrate. Particularly, the present invention provides an inductively coupled plasma reactor having improved process uniformity. One embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for processing a substrate comprising a chamber body defining a process volume configured to process the substrate therein, an adjustable coil assembly coupled to the chamber body outside the process volume, a supporting pedestal disposed in the process volume and configured to support the substrate therein, and a gas injection assembly configured to supply a process gas towards a first process zone and a second process zone independently.06-25-2009
20090162952APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING EDGE PERFORMANCE IN AN INDUCTIVELY COUPLED PLASMA CHAMBER - The present invention generally provides methods and apparatus for controlling edge performance during process. One embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus comprising a chamber body defining a process volume, a gas inlet configured to flow a process gas into the process volume, and a supporting pedestal disposed in the process volume. The supporting pedestal comprises a top plate having a substrate supporting surface configured to receive and support the substrate on a backside, and an edge surface configured to circumscribe the substrate along an outer edge of the substrate, and a height difference between a top surface of the substrate and the edge surface is used to control exposure of an edge region of the substrate to the process gas.06-25-2009

Miller Mark, Marlborough, MA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120325073FLASH MEMORY BASED STORED SAMPLE ELECTRONIC MUSIC SYNTHESIZER - A flash-memory based stored-sample electronic music synthesizer enables the electronic reproduction of a large number of independent voices while accommodating the exacting demands of voice continuity, minimal note-start latency, and voice synchronicity. Error correction code associated with each page of a sound sample is stored with the sound sample and is retrieved with the sound sample during playback to thereby increase the overall sample retrieval rate.12-27-2012

Nizdil C. Mark, Montrose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100056256APPARATUS AND METHOD HAVING A SLIDER DISPLAY - An apparatus includes a slider controller that displays, prior to initiation of a base game, a slider display having a plurality of payline quantity indicia and a plurality of wager category indicia. In addition, the apparatus has a payline quantity adjuster that adjusts a potential payline quantity selection of at least a subset of the plurality of payline quantity indicia prior to initiation of the base game based on a potential payline quantity input from a player of the base game. The apparatus also has a wager category adjuster that adjusts a potential wager category selection of at least a subset of the plurality of wager category indicia prior to initiation of the base game based on a potential wager category input from the player of the base game.03-04-2010

Oliva Mark, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100240036NUCLEIC ACID PROBES AND METHODS FOR DETECTING PLASMODIUM PARASITES - This invention relates to novel nucleic acid-based probes and methods for detecting 09-23-2010
20110287422NUCLEIC ACID PROBES AND METHODS FOR DETECTING PLASMODIUM PARASITES - This invention relates to novel nucleic acid probes and methods for detecting 11-24-2011

Peter D. Mark, Seattle, WA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090316699NETWORK CLUSTERING - A network clustering facility is described. The network clustering facility receives a message having a location identification that identifies a destination for the message and comprises at least two components, selects a network node identified by the components of the location identification, determines whether a link exists to the selected network node, and identifies a best link to the selected network node. The network clustering facility comprises a clustering subsystem, an advertising subsystem, and a routing layer.12-24-2009
20120300671NETWORK CLUSTERING - A network clustering facility is described. The network clustering facility receives a message having a location identification that identifies a destination for the message and comprises at least two components, selects a network node identified by the components of the location identification, determines whether a link exists to the selected network node, and identifies a best link to the selected network node. The network clustering facility comprises a clustering subsystem, an advertising subsystem, and a routing layer.11-29-2012

Phillip Mark, Orlando, FL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080230415Dental base and tray - A dental base and disposable tray includes a base with a plurality of disposable tip holders and a disposable tray mating portion. The disposable tray includes a work surface with mixing wells, an instrument holder and disposable tip holders. The disposable tray also includes a base mating portion. When the base and disposable tray are mated together, the disposable tray protects the base from being contaminated by materials or instruments held on or in the work surface.09-25-2008
20080230561Micro-applicator for use with disposable tips - A micro-applicator includes a body and a tip holder located at an end of the body. A spring-loaded plunger extends through the body such that when sufficient force is applied to the end of the plunger extending out of the body, the plunger extends into the tip holder to eject a tip held therein. Another micro-applicator includes a grip, a tip holder located at an end of the grip and a spring-biased ejector configured such that compression of the spring causes the ejector to extend through tip holder and eject a tip held therein. Another micro-applicator includes a body, including a grip portion and a tip holding portion. The tip holding portion is configured to hold a disposable dental tip. A spring-biased ejector located within the body allows quick and efficient ejection of the disposable dental tip.09-25-2008
20110097684Biodegradable micro-applicator - A disposable dental micro-applicator includes an elongated, rigid, biodegradable handle with first and second ends and an applicator mechanically fastened to the first end of the handle. The applicator includes a chemically resistant application tip.04-28-2011

Patent applications by Phillip Mark, Orlando, FL US

Phillip E. Mark, Orlando, FL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090266362Rapid Production of Customized Masks - Disclosed herein is a system designed for the rapid preparation of anatomically customized mask employing data from a patient. The data may take the form of a multidimensional image of a target area of a patient's face obtained by optical 3 dimensional imaging, or a dot or line scan form laser imaging, pattern laser photography or stereo photography. Also disclosed is a mask that is designed so as to be unobtrusive and comfortable for the user. The body of the mask is made of a thin layer, so it is lightweight and closely hugs the targeted region upon which it rests (e.g. the nasal region). Methods for producing anatomically customized masks are also described.10-29-2009
20090267261Rapid Production of Customized Masks - Disclosed herein is a system designed for the rapid preparation of anatomically customized mask employing data from a patient. The data may take the form of a multidimensional image of a target area of a patient's face obtained by optical 3 dimensional imaging, or a dot or line scan form laser imaging, pattern laser photography or stereo photography. Also disclosed is a mask that is designed so as to be unobtrusive and comfortable for the user. The body of the mask is made of a thin layer, so it is lightweight and closely hugs the targeted region upon which it rests (e.g. the nasal region). Methods for producing anatomically customized masks are also described.10-29-2009
20120204901BRUSH DEVICE FOR CLEANING A SUBMERGED SURFACE - A brush device is provided for cleaning an interior of a pool. The brush device includes a brush component having a base with a back portion and a front portion. Bristles are configured to extend from the front portion. Additionally, the brush device includes a flap portion pivotally mounted to the back portion of the base. During the cleaning of the interior of the pool, the flap portion pivots from a first position to a second position, during a first direction of motion of the brush component along the interior of the pool. Additionally, during the cleaning of the interior of the pool, the flap portion pivots from the second position to the first position, during a second direction of motion of the brush component along the interior of the pool. The second direction is opposite in direction to the first direction.08-16-2012
20120305003RAPID PRODUCTION OF CUSTOMIZED MASKS - Disclosed herein is a system designed for the rapid preparation of anatomically customized mask employing data from a patient. The data may take the form of a multidimensional image of a target area of a patient's face obtained by optical 3 dimensional imaging, or a dot or line scan form laser imaging, pattern laser photography or stereo photography. Also disclosed is a mask that is designed so as to be unobtrusive and comfortable for the user. The body of the mask is made of a thin layer, so it is lightweight and closely hugs the targeted region upon which it rests (e.g. the nasal region). Methods for producing anatomically customized masks are also described.12-06-2012

Patent applications by Phillip E. Mark, Orlando, FL US

Richard L. Mark, Foster City, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110255776METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ENABLING DEPTH AND DIRECTION DETECTION WHEN INTERFACING WITH A COMPUTER PROGRAM - One or more images can be captured with a depth camera having a capture location in a coordinate space. First and second objects in the one or more images can be identified and assigned corresponding first and second object locations in the coordinate space. A relative position can be identified in the coordinate space between the first object location and the second object location when viewed from the capture location by computing an azimuth angle and an altitude angle between the first object location and the object location in relation to the capture location. The relative position includes a dimension of depth with respect to the coordinate space. The dimension of depth is determined from analysis of the one or more images. A state of a computer program is changed based on the relative position.10-20-2011

Robert J. Mark, Lawrenceville, NJ US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100113415EPHA4 RTK INHIBITORS FOR TREATMENT OF NEUROLOGICAL AND NEURODEGENERATIVE DISORDERS AND CANCER - The present invention is directed to compounds of generic formula (I)05-06-2010

Roger Mark, Barrington, RI US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090096296RELIEVING STRESS IN A FLEXURE - A flexure includes a shaped sheet of material having a middle portion coupled to a magnet, an end portion, and a corner portion between the end portion and the middle portion, the corner portion including a curve with a concave curvature relative to a point of view outside the corner portion. The flexure may be used in a linear motor.04-16-2009

Patent applications by Roger Mark, Barrington, RI US

Roger G. Mark, Cambridge, MA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090149724SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREDICTING SEPTIC SHOCK - A model uses variables that are normally collected from a subject during treatment to determine whether the subject may be progressing toward septic shock.06-11-2009

Roger Greenwood Mark, Cambridge, MA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080287753SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREDICTION AND DETECTION OF CIRCULATORY SHOCK - Systems and methods for prediction and detection of circulatory shock using estimates or measurements of arterial blood pressure, heart rate, stroke volume, cardiac output, total peripheral resistance, cardiac ejection fraction, cardiac contractility and ventricular end-diastolic volume are provided. These estimates and measurements are used to determine a type of circulatory shock. In some embodiments, the type of circulatory shock is determined to be one of septic shock, hypovolemic shock, anaphylactic shock, hemorrhagic shock, and cardiogenic shock.11-20-2008
20120306884SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREDICTION AND DETECTION OF CIRCULATORY SHOCK - Systems and methods for prediction and detection of circulatory shock using estimates or measurements of arterial blood pressure, heart rate, stroke volume, cardiac output, total peripheral resistance, cardiac ejection fraction, cardiac contractility and ventricular end-diastolic volume are provided. These estimates and measurements are used to determine a type of circulatory shock. In some embodiments, the type of circulatory shock is determined to be one of septic shock, hypovolernic shock, anaphylactic shock, hemorrhagic shock, and cardiogenic shock.12-06-2012

Stephen Mark, Dublin, OH US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20130129899MILK PROTEIN CONTAINING LIQUID BEVERAGE PRODUCTS - The present invention relates to beverage products. In particular, the invention is concerned with a partially denaturated protein system induced by controlled denaturation of milk protein which imparts outstanding sensory attributes on beverage product, in particular when containing low fat. A method of producing such beverage and the products obtainable from the method are also part of the present invention.05-23-2013
20130129900NON-DAIRY PROTEIN BEVERAGE PRODUCTS - The present invention relates to a non dairy beverage products including products manufactured with superior creaminess. In particular, the invention is concerned with a partially denatured protein system induced by controlled denaturation of protein which imparts outstanding sensory attributes RTD beverage. A method for producing such beverage and product obtainable from the method are also part of the invention.05-23-2013

Stephen T. Mark, Redding, CT US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110131065METHOD, SOFTWARE PROGRAM, AND SYSTEM FOR STRUCTURING RISK IN A FINANCIAL TRANSACTION - A computer-implemented method, system, apparatus, and media is directed to minimizing a risk associated with an anticipated value of an investment. An insurer establishes a capital structure within a computer memory of a computer system, the capital structure designed to minimize risk and structured with regulatory capital and a cash stream that is pledged to fund a default associated with the investment. Establishing the capital structure can include allocating regulatory capital based on a coverage factor multiplied by an average annual depression scenario default percentage for the investment and determining a portion of the capital structure for a pledged insuring investment that produces at least a portion of the cash stream. A determination of whether the established capital structure is sufficient to obtain a minimal target credit rating for the insurer is generated. The desired target rating is electronically provided based on the determination.06-02-2011
20110131066METHOD, SOFTWARE PROGRAM, AND SYSTEM FOR STRUCTURING RISK IN A FINANCIAL TRANSACTION - The invention relates to a computer-implemented method, system and non-transitory medium for managing debt instrument. Insuring for a default of a debt is managed by establishing an insuring debt related to an insured debt of a debtor based on an insured debt amount of the insured debt. The debts can be bonds issued by a municipality. A first loss class and a second loss class can be allocated in an insuring trust. A first class holder can be entitled to a payment from the insuring debt based on a debt owed to the first class holder from an established insuring fund of the insuring trust. The insuring fund is used to insure for a default of the insured debt. If the insured debt is not in default, the payment is diverted to the first class holder. Otherwise, the payment is intercepted, and an insuring payment from the insuring fund is paid to a holder of the insured debt to cure the default.06-02-2011
20110131067METHOD, SOFTWARE PROGRAM, AND SYSTEM FOR STRUCTURING RISK IN A FINANCIAL TRANSACTION - A computer-implemented method, system, apparatus, and non-transitory media is directed to providing a graphical user interface for insuring a default of debts specified in financial instruments. A computer system establishes a capital structure which includes an insuring debt related to an insured debt of a debtor based on an insured debt amount representing at least a proportion of the insured debt. A first loss class and a second loss class is allocated for an insuring trust. The capital structure is simulated, including a payment payable from the insuring debt to a first class holder in the first class, wherein the first class holder is entitled to the payment based on a debt to the first class holder of an insuring fund of the insuring trust. An user interface provides a simulation of the capital structure including an insuring scenario based on various alterable inputs.06-02-2011

Terilyn Mark, Layton, UT US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100306013SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SCHEDULING A MEDICAL SERVICE - A method for scheduling a medical service employing at least one computer system is described. A request for a medical service is received at the computer system. The medical service is scheduled for a requested date. At least one nonpayment exposure factor is analyzed to determine whether providing the medical service involves a nonpayment exposure to a medical service provider. The medical service may then be rescheduled for a date after the requested date if the analysis indicates nonpayment exposure to the medical service provider.12-02-2010

Timothy Mark, Goffstown, NH US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090210458Tag based backup and recovery - Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with selective tag-based file backup and recovery are described. One example method includes selectively tagging a file for inclusion in a snapshot-based backup image by associating a tag with the file. The associating may include encoding file metadata with a tag. The method may include selectively adding a file to the backup image upon determining that the file has experienced a write event and that the file is associated with a tag. The method may also include receiving a request to provide a recovery file from the backup image and selectively providing the recovery file upon determining that the recovery file is associated with a recovery tag specified in the request.08-20-2009
20090254585Method for Associating Administrative Policies with User-Definable Groups of Files - A method and apparatus for associating administrative policies with user-definable groups of files is provided. The groups of files are defined by assigning tags to files or directories. Tags are a part of metadata stored by an operating system for the files and directories. Tags associated with files or directories remain as files or directories are moved or copied in the file system. Files created inside a directory that contains certain tags inherit tags of the parent directory. Command line and graphical interfaces for tag management are provided. The interfaces let users assign tags to files or directories, remove tags assigned to files or directories, or list tags already assigned to files or directories. The interfaces also let users associate services and administrative policies with tags.10-08-2009

Patent applications by Timothy Mark, Goffstown, NH US

Timothy J. Mark, San Francisco, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100063856APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING BUSINESS ACTIVITY MONITORING - Apparatus and methods for providing a business activity monitoring system. The apparatus and methods may involve monitoring a plurality of business activities that take place within a business communication network; formulating a monitoring program for activities that extend from inside the network to a platform outside the network; and, providing a business activity monitoring system that is configured to monitor activities on the business platform that is outside the network.03-11-2010

Timothy James Mark, Berkeley, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110184853TALKING TRANSACTIONS - Embodiments of the invention relate to systems, methods, and computer program products for providing audio messages relating to financial transactions. For example, one embodiment of the invention provides a financial institution's computer apparatus having a memory communicably coupled to a communication device and a processor. In one embodiment, the memory stores information about a financial account including information about a system to use to communicate a message comprising an audio component to a person associated with the financial account, and the processor is configured to receive an indication of a financial transaction affecting the financial account and use the communication device to communicate an audio message containing information relating to the financial transaction to the person associated with the financial account by using the system.07-28-2011
20110184865INTERACTING WITH USER AT ATM BASED ON USER PREFERENCES - Embodiments of the present invention provide apparatuses, methods, and computer program products that allow for interaction with a user at an automated teller machine (ATM) based on pre-established user preferences. For example, an ATM is provided having: (1) a user interface configured to receive user identifying information from a user; and (2) a processing device operatively coupled to the user interface and configured to use the user identifying information to determine a pre-established user preference, wherein the processing device is further configured to use the user interface to interact with the user based at least partially on the pre-established user preference.07-28-2011
20110191225CURRENCY EQUIVALENCY APPLICATION - Embodiments of the present invention provide apparatuses and methods for a currency equivalency application for a business activity monitoring (BAM) applications. The currency equivalency application monitors business activities across international processes and systems that deal with multiple types of currencies. The user enters into the currency equivalency application user defined preferences, such as, but not limited to, the BAM application to which to apply the preferences, the type of currencies, value amounts, dates for the actual currency exchange rate, dates for future currency exchange rates, confidence scores, etc. The currency equivalency application identifies the proper exchange rates and in some cases estimates future exchanges rates, and converts the output for currency values in BAM applications into the user defined currency values, which allows the users across the world to quantify and view the currency value outputs in a form that the user understands.08-04-2011
20110213658BANKING CENTER COMMUNITY DISPLAY - Embodiments of the present invention provide a system, method and computer program product for providing a new bank-based communication system. For example, embodiments of the invention provide a method for: (1) identifying a user interface, where the user interface is associated with a banking center accessible to a user; (2) identifying a banking center community associated with the banking center; (3) determining content to present on the user interface based at least partially on the banking center community; and (4) presenting the content to the user using the user interface.09-01-2011
20110213665Bank Based Advertising System - Embodiments of the invention include apparatuses, methods, and computer-program products that provide for a unique bank-based advertising system. In one embodiment, the bank-based advertising system receives an authentication request from a user. The system then compares information received with the authentication request to authentication information stored in a memory system to determine that the user is a customer of the bank and has access to a financial account maintained by a bank. The system then provides the user with access to a bank-based advertising system based at least partially on the determination that user is a customer of the bank and has access to the financial account. The system then allows the user to use the bank-based communication system to create an advertisement on behalf of an owner of the financial account for which the user was authenticated. The system then presents the advertisement through one or more banking outlets.09-01-2011
20110213703INDIVIDUAL CUSTOMER COMMUNITY HUB - The individual community hub provides individual customers the ability to access information related to events, businesses, offers, and activities that are a part of the individual customer's local community through the individual customer's online banking account. The individual customer can search, identify, receive offers or discounts from, review, etc. the events, businesses, and activities in which the individual customer might be interested. The information provided to the individual customer may be based on the customer's local community (e.g. geographic location), as well as the individual customer's transaction information captured by the bank each time the individual customer makes a purchase or completes a transaction through the bank. The information may also be based on information obtained from the bank's relationship with local businesses and/or other individual customers. In this way an individual customer's online banking account becomes the individual customer's source of local personalized community information.09-01-2011
20110213704BUSINESS CUSTOMER COMMUNITY HUB - The business community hub application provides a business customer the ability to add an event or offer to the community hub that can be accessed by individual customers or business customers. The business community hub application also notifies business customers of offers provided by other businesses or about local community events in which the business customer may be interested. The business customers have the ability to find contacts and network with other local businesses. The business community hub application also uses transaction information available to the bank to display market data and trends that may be of interest to the business customer. In this way, the business community hub works with the online banking application as a tool for local businesses, it allows business customers to interact with individual customers, the community in general, as well as other businesses, in a forum for exchanging products, services, and information.09-01-2011
20110213724COMMUNITY HUB REVIEW - The business review application provides a customer with a bank-hosted business review platform that provides an advertising and feedback service for the bank's business customers and provides a rating, review, feedback, and recommendation service for the bank's individual and business customers. Thus, the bank's customers can rate and review the bank's business customers. The bank uses its authentication systems used by its customers to access online banking services to authenticate the identity of the customer creating a business review in the business review platform. In some embodiments, the business review application only permits its customers to make one review of a business within a certain period of time or one review after a transaction with that business shows up in the customer's transaction information maintained by the bank. In this way, the bank can host a review platform that is much more accurate and trust-worthy than traditional business review platforms.09-01-2011
20110246272MERCHANT-BASED COMMUNITY REWARDS - Embodiments of the invention provide methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for providing community rewards. For example, systems and methods are provided for: (1) accessing transaction data associated with a particular financial institution; (2) determining a threshold; (3) identifying from the transaction data a group of transactions associated with a predefined community and time period; (4) aggregating a particular aspect of the group of transactions associated with the predefined community to determine a community total; and (5) determining that a reward should be provided to the community based on a comparison of the community total and the threshold. In some embodiments, the predefined community is defined at least in part by a particular one or more merchants.10-06-2011
20110246279COMMUNITY REWARDS - Embodiments of the invention provide methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for providing community rewards. For example, systems and methods are provided for: (1) accessing transaction data associated with a particular financial institution; (2) determining a threshold; (3) identifying from the transaction data a group of transactions associated with a predefined community and time period; (4) aggregating a particular aspect of the group of transactions associated with the predefined community to determine a community total; and (5) determining that a reward should be provided to the community based on a comparison of the community total and the threshold. In some embodiments, the predefined community is defined by a particular geographic area. In other embodiments, the predefined community is created by the consumers themselves.10-06-2011
20110270869COMMUNICATION MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - Embodiments of the invention relate to systems, methods, and computer program products for managing electronic communications and, specifically, monitoring electronic communications received from numerous communications sources associated with a user, identifying that certain ones of the communications are priority communications and communicating notice of the priority communications to the user. The priority communication may be identified by user defined criteria, such key words, phrases, key topics, key names and the like; timeframe of the communication; user-defined priority rules; business performance indicators/metrics and the like. Communication of the notice may provide for communicating a priority communication alert to the user or communicating the notice to a network-accessible communication monitoring portal.11-03-2011
20110295654CUSTOMER-LEVEL MACRO BUSINESS PERFORMANCE MONITORING - Embodiments of the invention relate to systems, methods, and computer program products for client/customer-centric macro (e.g., business-wide) monitoring of business performance and determination of business-wide customer impact trends associated with the client's/customer's composite relationship with the business. Additionally, embodiments provide for determining customer impact trends at other levels of the business relationship, such as at business unit/line of business levels, product/service levels and the like. Based on the determined customer impact trends, further determinations may be made regarding whether alerts are warranted based on the trends, and generating and communicating the alerts if warranted. Determining business-wide customer impact trends provides for the business to identify problems or potential problems that may adversely impact the global relationship between the overall client entity and the business implementing the performance monitoring system.12-01-2011

Timothy James Mark, Berkley, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120030112Generation And Use Of Cash Value Debit Cards - Systems and methods for generating and using a cash value debit card are described. A request from a user to add value to a cash value debit card account financially secured by a financial entity against an account of the user may be received. The user may be authenticated to the account of the user with the financial entity. Monetary funds may be debited from the account of the user by an amount to add to the cash value debit card account, and the debited amount may be added to the cash value debit card account. A request to withdraw monetary funds from the cash value debit card account may be received. A determination may be made as to whether to authorize the withdrawal from the cash value debit card account. The withdrawal may be authorized, and the cash value debit card account may be debited accordingly.02-02-2012
20120030113Generation And Use Of Negotiable Instruments - Systems and methods for generating and using negotiable instrument are described. A request from a user to generate a negotiable instrument financially secured by a financial entity against an account of the user is received, and the user is authenticated to the account of the user with the financial entity. Upon authenticating the user to the account, data representative of the negotiable instrument financially secured by the financial entity against the account of the user is transmitted. The data may include a printable image and barcode for scanning by a second computing device of the financial entity. The transmitted data representative of the negotiable instrument may be received by a computing device. The computing device may output the data representative of the negotiable instrument to a printer for local generation of the negotiable instrument on the printer without the need for special inks and/or other data.02-02-2012

Vernon W. Mark, Findlay, OH US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100206773Conversion of a light sweet refinery to a heavy sour refinery - This is a unique way of upgrading an existing refinery to process heavy sour crude. The system does not significantly modify an existing sweet refinery. Rather, a hydrocracker is used at the existing light sweet refinery location to create light sweet crudes from heavy sour crudes prior to processing in an existing sweet refinery.08-19-2010

Wenberg Mark, Newburgh, IN US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090075766ADAPTORS FOR MOUNTING ARROWHEADS TO ARROW SHAFTS - Adaptors for mounting arrowheads to arrow shafts are disclosed. Example embodiments include an outer attachment portion that engages the outer surface of a hollow arrow shaft, and an inner attachment portion that engages the inner surface of the hollow arrow shaft. Other embodiments may include single-piece adaptors configured to receive the end of a hollow arrow shaft, and adaptors with arrowhead receiving portions. Still other embodiments may include an inner attachment portion that is inserted into the hollow of a hollow arrow shaft and an outer attachment portion that surrounds and receives the outer surface of the hollow arrow shaft.03-19-2009

William Mark, Glen Allen, VA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090176884PHARMACEUTICAL SUSPENSION COMPOSITION - An aqueous oral liquid pharmaceutical composition system with reduced propensity for agglomeration and phase separation which is particularly amendable to the suspension of one or more pharmaceutical actives that are substantially insoluble in water. The oral liquid pharmaceutical composition may further comprise pharmaceutical actives that are soluble in water and dissolve in the aqueous medium. In the composition of the invention both suspended and any dissolved active agents are distributed homogeneously.07-09-2009

William Mark, Morgantown, WV US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080199534Stability in vitamin and mineral supplements - The invention provides a multivitamin and mineral nutritional supplement composition comprising at least one polyvalent metal and at least one oxidizable vitamin with substantially improved resistance to reactions that lead to darkening and/or spotting and reactions that may reduce the potency of oxidizable vitamins. The composition is a multivitamin and mineral composition comprising at least one polyvalent metal and at least one oxidizable vitamin wherein the composition is substantially free of mobile bound water. The invention also includes methods for making such a composition and methods of preventing or reducing oxidation, improving the stability of oxidizable vitamins, and stabilizing the disintegration time of a multi-vitamin and mineral nutritional supplement composition.08-21-2008

William Antonio Mark, Morgantown, WV US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110165237Protein Hydrolysate Excipients - A pharmaceutical composition comprising an effective amount of a pharmaceutical active and up to about 99.8% wt/wt water soluble protein hydrolysate to total weight of composition is provided. Whey protein hydrolysate is exemplary of a suitable soluble protein hydrolysate. A method for preparing such a composition is also provided.07-07-2011

William S. Mark, San Mateo, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120166365METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TAILORING THE OUTPUT OF AN INTELLIGENT AUTOMATED ASSISTANT TO A USER - The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for tailoring the output of an intelligent automated assistant. One embodiment of a method for conducting an interaction with a human user includes collecting data about the user using a multimodal set of sensors positioned in a vicinity of the user, making a set of inferences about the user in accordance with the data, and tailoring an output to be delivered to the user in accordance with the set of inferences.06-28-2012
20120173464METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EXPLOITING HUMAN FEEDBACK IN AN INTELLIGENT AUTOMATED ASSISTANT - The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for exploiting human feedback in an intelligent automated assistant. One embodiment of a method for conducting an interaction with a human user includes inferring an intent from data entered by the human user, formulating a response in accordance with the intent, receiving feedback from a human advisor in response to at least one of the inferring and the formulating, wherein the human advisor is a person other than the human user, and adapting at least one model used in at least one of the inferring and the formulating, wherein the adapting is based on the feedback.07-05-2012

William Scott Mark, San Mateo, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20130066921ADAPTIVE ONTOLOGY - A computing system has a user interface allowing a user to view and input data related to concepts in a knowledge area associated with the user, an observation sub-system to centralize data and to identify a plurality of knowledge concepts, a conceptualization sub-system to generate a plurality of nodes within an ontological mapping, wherein each of the nodes corresponds to a certain one of the plurality of identified knowledge concepts identified by the observation sub-system, a relationship identification sub-system to create relationships between at least some of the plurality of identified knowledge concepts, and attribute affinity weights to the relationships, a change refinement sub-system to modify at least one of the plurality of nodes, affinity weights and relationships based upon information associated with the user, and a non-transitory knowledge store to store the information associated with the user pertaining to a sub-plurality of the plurality of identified knowledge concepts.03-14-2013

Zachary Mark, Chicago, IL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090094251Virtualized data storage vaults on a dispersed data storage network - A system, method, and apparatus for implementing a plurality of dispersed data storage networks using a set of slice servers are disclosed. A plurality of information records are maintained, with each information record corresponding to a dispersed data storage network. The information record maintains what slice servers are used to implement the dispersed data storage network, as well as other information needed to administer a DDSN, such as the information dispersal algorithm used, how data is stored, and whether data is compressed or encrypted.04-09-2009
20090094320File system adapted for use with a dispersed data storage network - A file system interface to a dispersed data storage network is disclosed. The disclosed interface accepts read and write commands from a file system resident on a user's computer and generates network commands that are forwarded to slice servers that form the storage component of the dispersed data storage network. The slice servers then fulfill the read and write commands.04-09-2009
20100179966VIRTUALIZED DATA STORAGE VAULTS ON A DISPERSED DATA STORAGE NETWORK - A dispersed data storage system includes a plurality of slice servers. In the system, a first set of the slice servers supports a first virtual digital data storage vault and a second set of the slice servers supports a second virtual digital data storage vault. A slice server is in the first and second sets and functions to: receive a request to access a virtual digital data storage vault; determine whether the virtual digital data storage vault is the first or the second virtual digital data storage vault; when the virtual digital data storage vault is the first or the second virtual digital data storage vault, determine whether the request is valid; and when the request is valid, execute the request to generate a response.07-15-2010
20110202568VIRTUALIZED DATA STORAGE VAULTS ON A DISPERSED DATA STORAGE NETWORK - A slice server includes a network port, a central processing unit, and memory. The central processing unit (CPU) is operable to receive, via the network port, a request to access a virtual digital data storage vault. The CPU then determines whether the slice server supports the virtual digital data storage vault. When the slice server supports the virtual digital data storage vault, the CPU determines whether the request is valid. When the request is valid, the CPU executes the request to generate a response.08-18-2011
20110213940VIRTUALIZED DATA STORAGE VAULTS ON A DISPERSED DATA STORAGE NETWORK - A method begins with a slice server receiving a request to access a virtual digital data storage vault. The method continues by determining whether the virtual digital data storage vault is a first virtual digital data storage vault or a second virtual digital data storage vault. The slice server supports a portion of each of the first and the second virtual digital data storage vaults. When the virtual digital data storage vault is the first or the second virtual digital data storage vault, the method continues by determining whether the request is valid. When the request is valid, the method continues by executing the request to generate a response.09-01-2011

Patent applications by Zachary Mark, Chicago, IL US