Patents Examined by John T. Follansbee
  • Patent number: 5832287
    Abstract: A system and method for distributing video or audio or other interactive program information to multiple users includes master files of such program information that can be selectively distributed to community systems in which individual users are selectively coupled with computing microcells that process the selected program information from within the entire set of programs that are all contained in moving memory modules which cyclically and recurringly distribute the entire set of programs to multiple computing microcells. A microcell access switch controls coupling of users to computing microcells, and controls selective interaction between master files and moving memory modules for updating the set of programs stored therein. The microcell access switch provides network programs to users without requiring a computing microcell for enhanced versatility and reduced system costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Martin M. Atalla
  • Patent number: 5659779
    Abstract: A system for controlling multiple computer directed devices, comprises: a supervisor computer which receives input data serving as operand inputs to a set of logical operators implemented in the supervisor, where the logical operators provide output results; assignable resources, including an m number of planner computers, where m is a positive integer, and an operator station computer; a link server computer; a local area network operably coupled to provide data communications among the supervisor computer, planner computers, operator station computer, and link server computer; and a p number of the devices communicatively linked to the link server computer; wherein the supervisor computer assigns a subset of the assignable resources to direct the operation of at least one of the devices in accordance with the output results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Robin T. Laird, Gary A. Gilbreath, Hobart R. Everett