Patents by Inventor John D. Spencer

John D. Spencer 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).

  • Patent number: 9430945
    Abstract: A system for mounting in a vehicle and for providing route information calculated by a remote source (116) to a display is provided. The system includes a display interface (124) for providing a signal to the display (108). The system further includes a communications device (120). The system yet further includes a processor (122) operatively coupled to the communications device (120) and the display interface (124), wherein the processor (122) is configured to cause vehicle position information to be sent to the remote source (116) via the communications device (120). The processor is further configured to receive route information from the remote source (116) via the communications device (120). The processor (122) is yet further configured to provide a representation of the route information to the display interface (124), the route information conveying directions from a position of the vehicle to a destination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Rodger W. Eich, Brian L. Douthitt, Richard J. Chutorash, John D. Spencer
  • Patent number: 9007168
    Abstract: A wireless control system is configured to be trainable to control any number of remotely controlled devices. The system can be configured to gather and learn information relating to a signal transmitted by the original transmitter in a manner that is blind to a user of the system. The system can be designed to learn signals automatically such that fewer steps are necessary for a user to train the system to control a particular remotely controlled device. The system can train to remotely controlled devices in this manner with little or no user action required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventors: Jeremy Bos, Carl Shearer, David A. Blaker, John D. Spencer, Todd R. Witkowski
  • Patent number: 8760267
    Abstract: A wireless control system is configured to be trainable to control any number of remotely controlled devices. The system can be configured to gather and learn information relating to a signal transmitted by the original transmitter in a manner that is blind to a user of the system. The system can be designed to learn signals automatically such that fewer steps are necessary for a user to train the system to control a particular remotely controlled device. The system can train to remotely controlled devices in this manner with little or no user action required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventors: Jeremy Bos, Carl L. Shearer, David A. Blaker, John D. Spencer, Todd R. Witkowski
  • Patent number: 8174357
    Abstract: A method for training a trainable RF transmitter to transmit variable code signals used to actuate a remote device having a receiver where the transmitter includes a memory that has stored variable code characteristics for a plurality of different remote devices includes initiating a training sequence and generating at least one RF carrier signal having the variable code characteristics associated with one remote device of the plurality of different remote devices. The method further includes transmitting the at least one RF carrier signal to the receiver of the remote device and repeating the generating and transmitting steps for the variable code characteristics of each remote device in the plurality of different remote device until feedback is received from a user that the remote device is activated. Upon receiving an indication that the remote device is activated, the transmitter stores an identifier of the variable code characteristics that activated the remote device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Steven L. Geerlings, Loren D. Vredevoogd, David A. Blaker, John D. Spencer
  • Patent number: 7911358
    Abstract: A wireless control system is configured to be trainable to control any number of remotely controlled devices. The system can be configured to gather and learn information relating to a signal transmitted by the original transmitter in a manner that is blind to a user of the system. The system can be designed to learn signals automatically such that fewer steps are necessary for a user to train the system to control a particular remotely controlled device. The system can train to remotely controlled devices in this manner with little or no user action required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Jeremy Bos, Carl Shearer, David A. Blaker, John D. Spencer, Todd R. Witkowski
  • Patent number: 7902994
    Abstract: A method for training a trainable RF transmitter to transmit variable code signals used to actuate a remote device having a receiver where the transmitter includes a memory that has stored variable code characteristics for a plurality of different remote devices includes initiating a training sequence and generating at least one RF carrier signal having the variable code characteristics associated with one remote device of the plurality of different remote devices. The method further includes transmitting the at least one RF carrier signal to the receiver of the remote device and repeating the generating and transmitting steps for the variable code characteristics of each remote device in the plurality of different remote device until feedback is received from a user that the remote device is activated. Upon receiving an indication that the remote device is activated, the transmitter stores an identifier of the variable code characteristics that activated the remote device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Steven L. Geerlings, Loren D. Vredevoogd, David A. Blaker, John D. Spencer
  • Publication number: 20110025456
    Abstract: A wireless control system is configured to be trainable to control any number of remotely controlled devices. The system can be configured to gather and learn information relating to a signal transmitted by the original transmitter in a manner that is blind to a user of the system. The system can be designed to learn signals automatically such that fewer steps are necessary for a user to train the system to control a particular remotely controlled device. The system can train to remotely controlled devices in this manner with little or no user action required.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventors: Jeremy Bos, Carl Shearer, David A. Blaker, John D. Spencer, Todd R. Witkowski
  • Publication number: 20110018694
    Abstract: A method for training a trainable RF transmitter to transmit variable code signals used to actuate a remote device having a receiver where the transmitter includes a memory that has stored variable code characteristics for a plurality of different remote devices includes initiating a training sequence and generating at least one RF carrier signal having the variable code characteristics associated with one remote device of the plurality of different remote devices. The method further includes transmitting the at least one RF carrier signal to the receiver of the remote device and repeating the generating and transmitting steps for the variable code characteristics of each remote device in the plurality of different remote device until feedback is received from a user that the remote device is activated. Upon receiving an indication that the remote device is activated, the transmitter stores an identifier of the variable code characteristics that activated the remote device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventors: Steven L. GEERLINGS, Loren D. Vredevoogd, David A. Blaker, John D. Spencer
  • Publication number: 20100100310
    Abstract: A system for mounting in a vehicle and for providing route information calculated by a remote source (116) to a display is provided. The system includes a display interface (124) for providing a signal to the display (108). The system further includes a communications device (120). The system yet further includes a processor (122) operatively coupled to the communications device (120) and the display interface (124), wherein the processor (122) is configured to cause vehicle position information to be sent to the remote source (116) via the communications device (120). The processor is further configured to receive route information from the remote source (116) via the communications device (120). The processor (122) is yet further configured to provide a representation of the route information to the display interface (124), the route information conveying directions from a position of the vehicle to a destination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventors: Rodger W. Eich, Brian L. Douthitt, Richard J. Chutorash, John D. Spencer
  • Publication number: 20100007516
    Abstract: A wireless control system is configured to be trainable to control any number of remotely controlled devices. The system can be configured to gather and learn information relating to a signal transmitted by the original transmitter in a manner that is blind to a user of the system. The system can be designed to learn signals automatically such that fewer steps are necessary for a user to train the system to control a particular remotely controlled device. The system can train to remotely controlled devices in this manner with little or no user action required.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventors: Jeremy Bos, Carl L. Shearer, David A. Blaker, John D. Spencer, Todd R. Witkowski
  • Patent number: 7493140
    Abstract: A system for providing communication between a vehicle and a plurality of wireless devices includes a receiver configured to receive wireless signals from the wireless devices. The received wireless signals are provided in accordance with a communication standard from the plurality of communication standards. The system also includes a wireless data transfer module coupled to the receiver and configured to support the plurality of communication standards, process the wireless signals and direct the data of the wireless signals to a corresponding vehicle system. The system may include a transmitter coupled to the wireless data transfer module. The transmitter is configured to transmit wireless signals from the vehicle to the wireless devices. The wireless data transfer module receives data from a vehicle system and provides the data to the transmitter in accordance with a communication standard from the plurality of communication standards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Mark Michmerhuizen, Timothy J. Syfert, John D. Spencer, Joseph W. Strazanac
  • Publication number: 20080186155
    Abstract: An instrument cluster includes a display using persistence of vision. The display includes a moving portion and light sources carried by the moving portion. The persistence of vision effect gives the display a resolution that is greater than the number of light sources carried by the moving portion. The display may be connected to a vehicle bus such that it can communicate with sensors and other devices connected to the vehicle bus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: John D. Spencer, Richard J. Chutorash, Steven L. Geerlings, Jeffrey Golden, Michael J. Sims, Rodger W. Eich
  • Patent number: 7186118
    Abstract: An electrification system for use with an article slidably supported on a track within a vehicle is provided. The electrification system comprises a conductor assembly including a positive conductive interface supported parallel and adjacent to a negative conductive interface. The conductor assembly is configured to extend substantially the length of the track. The electrification system further comprises a contact assembly including a positive contact in electrical communication with the positive conductive interface and a negative contact in electrical communication with the negative conductive interface. The contact assembly is configured to be fixed relative to the article. The contact assembly remains in electrical communication with the conductor assembly as the article is selectively moved along the track to provide continuous electrical power to the article as the article is moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: Scott A. Hansen, John D. Spencer, Jeremy J. Gauthier, Miklos A. Kovach, Elindo G. Castro
  • Patent number: 5345935
    Abstract: A non-invasive medical probe for monitoring a patient's condition in particular an intra-uterine device for monitoring fetal condition is featured. The medical probe includes a resilient walled suction cup having a peripheral rim for application to a patent's skin, a pump adapted for connection to the cup for evacuating the cup to adhere the cup to the patient's skin, and a pair of non-invasive skin contact electrodes for connection to diagnostic apparatus. One of the electrodes is disposed on a mounting located centrally within the cup to leave a channel to be evacuated by the pump and the second electrode is disposed externally of the cup adjacent to the cup to provide a second contact in the vicinity of the first electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1994
    Assignee: Egnell Ameda Limited
    Inventors: Harold D. Hirsch, John A. D. Spencer, Ilan Z. Samson
  • Patent number: 5229925
    Abstract: A housing for electronic apparatus, including an enclosure for housing power supply and amplifier circuits that are common to a number of different functional devices. A replaceable, hinged, modular front panel is provided and carries a control circuit on its inner face and switches, indicators, and control knobs on its outer face. Several front panels can be provided having different control circuits for connection with the power and amplifier circuits in the enclosure to thereby change the function of the device or the types of outputs and control functions that it can provide. The front panel is pivotable relative to the enclosure to permit quick and easy access to the interior of the enclosure for inspection and servicing, as well as ready accessibility to the control circuit that is mounted on the control panel. A metallic channel extends from the back panel to the control panel to provide a shielded wireway for input conductors connected with the control circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Assignee: Valcom, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Spencer, John W. Mason
  • Patent number: 5107128
    Abstract: A method of detecting flame within a region where flame is expected. Radiation emissions from the region are measured within selected portions of the visible and infra-red frequency bands. Spectral characteristics of the two measurements, including their auto spectra, coherency and transfer function, are derived. The derived spectral characteristics are compared with prestored spectral signatures representative of the spectral characteristics of radiation emitted from the region within the selected portions of the visible and infra-red frequency bands while known flame conditions prevail within the region--thereby estimating the deviation of the derived spectral characteristics from the prestored spectral signatures. The deviations aforesaid are compared with predetermined threshold alarm values to assess the presence or absence of flame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Assignee: Saskatchewan Power Corporation
    Inventors: Peter W. N. Davall, John D. Spencer
  • Patent number: 4983853
    Abstract: A method of detecting flame within a region where flame is expected. Radiation emissions from the region are measured within selected portions of the visible and infra-red frequency bands. Spectral characteristics of the two measurements, including their auto spectra, coherency and transfer function, are derived. The derived spectral characteristics are compared with prestored spectral signatures representative of the spectral characteristics of radiation emitted from the region within the selected portions of the visible and infra-red frequency bands while known flame conditions prevail within the region--thereby estimating the deviation of the derived spectral characteristics from the prestored spectral signatures. The deviations aforesaid are compared with predetermined threshold alarm values to assess the presence or absence of flame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 8, 1991
    Assignee: Saskatchewan Power Corporation
    Inventors: Peter W. N. Davall, John D. Spencer
  • Patent number: 4482891
    Abstract: A robust electronic liquid level gauge apparatus, particularly suitable for use with boiler drum water column, comprises simple probe sensors in the water column, differential amplifier sensors, detectors responsive only to the simultaneous presence of a minimum level signal and a certain frequency, and logic circuits continuously processing outputs from four detectors: its associated probe detector, the one below, and the two above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 13, 1984
    Inventor: John D. Spencer
  • Patent number: 4157506
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing signals produced by a flame detector. A phase-locked loop is used to generate a binary indication of whether the signal from a flame probe is within a predetermined frequency band. A signal indicative of the average analog value of the resulting pulse train is produced and tested to determine whether it is in a range consistent with flame presence. The resultant binary signal is ANDed with a binary determination of whether the average DC value of the probe signal is within a range consistent with flame presence, and if both the DC and the frequency indications imply possible flame presence, then flame presence is indicated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1977
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1979
    Assignee: Combustion Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: John D. Spencer