Patents by Inventor Robert L. Ashlock

Robert L. Ashlock 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: 20020095662
    Abstract: One embodiment of the invention relates to a media adapter adapted for coupling a networking device to a power line. This embodiment of the media adapter comprises a physical layer coupled to the power line, a medium access control (MAC) layer in communication with the physical layer, and an inter-working unit in communication with the MAC layer. The inter-working unit is adapted to translate information from a first format into a second format, which differs from the first format, to enable information to be received and transmitted over the power line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventors: Robert L. Ashlock, Chirjeev Singh, Hossein Alavi, Mehdi Tavassoli
  • Patent number: 4393491
    Abstract: An automatic self-test apparatus for use in a digital multiplexed communication system and self-testing idle circuitry coupled to idle telephone lines. The apparatus utilizes a tone generator which generates digital words describing an analog test signal and a detector which detects digital data on the internal data bus which describes this self-test analog signal. The data from the tone generator is coupled to the circuitry connected to the idle line through a time division multiplexer under the control of a controller consisting of a programmed microprocessor. The microprocessor controls when the transfer is made and to which telephone line it is directed. This control is accomplished by writing a control word to a multiplexer naming the source and destination for the transfer and the time slot in which it is to occur. When the circuitry connected to the idle line functions properly, the controller proceeds to the next idle line. If a malfunction is detected, the controller sets an alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1980
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1983
    Assignee: Anaconda-Ericsson
    Inventors: Robert L. Ashlock, Carl E. Gabrielson, Douglas P. Kerr, David J. Rasmussen, Theodore M. Stump, Charles W. Thode