Patents by Inventor James B. Long

James B. Long has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20090015426
    Abstract: A designation based system (1000) is used with a network (530) to provide for a reconfigurable working environment. The system (1000) employs at least one control wand (892) for transmitting spatial programming signals (890) to IR receivers (844) associated with switches (967) and connector modules (144). The connector modules (144) are connected to application devices, and controlled and controlling relationships can be configured and reconfigured between the switches (967) and the connector modules (144), thereby controlling interconnected application devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2005
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventors: James B. Long, W. Daniel Hillis, Russel Howe
  • Publication number: 20080302033
    Abstract: A split bus rail system (100) is employed within a commercial interior (102). The system (100) includes a main rail (114) with a power bus assembly (116) and a communications bus assembly (112). Application devices (512) are selectively energized through connector modules (400) coupled to the bus assemblies (116, 118).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Inventors: Robert W. Insalaco, James B. Long, W. Daniel Hillis, Russel Howe
  • Patent number: 7455535
    Abstract: A rail system (100) is disclosed which may be employed within a commercial interior (102). The rail system (100) comprises a series of primary-tracks (130) in a spaced apart configuration. The rail system (100) also comprises a series of cross rails (132) releasably interconnectable to the primary tracks (130). The rail system (100) permits electrical and mechanical interconnections and reconfiguration of electrical and mechanical interconnections, for various functional accessories and communications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Insalaco, Russel Howe, James B. Long, W. Daniel Millis
  • Publication number: 20080266842
    Abstract: A LED ladder system (650) includes strip units (674) with spaced apart LED elements. Network connection configurations (810, 850, 856, 868) receive AC power and selectively apply DC power to the strip units (674) based on control signals. A concertina visual shield configuration (902) is positioned adjacent the ladder system (650) to affect visual lighting properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2005
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventors: Marsha Skidmore, Sheila Kennedy, Robert W. Insalaco, James B. Long, W. Daniel Hillis, Russel Howe
  • Publication number: 20080155915
    Abstract: A structural channel system (100) includes a main structural channel rail (102), cross-channels (104) and cross-rails (106). A modular plug assembly (130) couples electrical power and communication signals to connector modules (132, 140, 144) which, in turn, control application of power to application devices (939, 969) based on the communication signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventors: Russel Howe, Daniel W. Hillis, Robert W. Insalaco, James B. Long
  • Patent number: 6746035
    Abstract: An anti-jackknifing apparatus is disclosed for reducing articulation between a tractor having a fifth wheel and a trailer having a king pin. The anti-jackknifing apparatus comprises a rotatable shaft, a lug mounted on the shaft and a rotary actuator operatively engaged with the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: Semi Transportation Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Norman L. Williams, Colin V. Hall, Patrick Riebalkin, Richard P. Craig, Ian Pallett, James B. Long
  • Patent number: 6367570
    Abstract: A parallel hybrid electric vehicle design delivers smooth, high power performance while decreasing harmful exhaust emissions and maximizing fuel economy. An electric motor strategically assists the internal combustion engine. This arrangement can increase driveability and make for a very smooth driving vehicle. Decreased emissions are realized by helping the engine to run in a fashion which inherently minimizes emissions. Fuel economy is significantly enhanced by efficiently producing power needed to make the car meet the demands of the driver while leveling the load demands placed on the internal combustion engine. When the internal combustion engine is operating very efficiently under light loading or deceleration, the power source is charged as the motor turns into a generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Electromotive Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander J. Long, III, James B. Long, Frank J. Samstag