Patents by Inventor Thomas C. Oliver

Thomas C. Oliver 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: 9001229
    Abstract: New systems and methods are hereby provided that inherently and naturally resolve the challenges of synthesizing coordinated inputs from multiple cameras. For example, a multi-sensor mediator may collect the input data from multiple sensors, and generate a composite signal that encodes the combined data from the different sensors. The multi-sensor mediator may then relay the composite signal to a sensor controller, as if the signal were coming from a single sensor. A computing device that receives the input from the sensor controller may then generate an output based on the composite signal, which may include processing the composite signal to combine the separate signals from the different sensors, such as to provide a stereo image output, for example. The multi-sensor mediator makes such an output possible by ensuring coordinated input and processing of the input from the multiple sensors, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC
    Inventors: Chun Beng Goh, Raymond Xue, Thomas C. Oliver, Stephen C. Cooper
  • Publication number: 20140132714
    Abstract: New systems and methods are hereby provided that inherently and naturally resolve the challenges of synthesizing coordinated inputs from multiple cameras. For example, a multi-sensor mediator may collect the input data from multiple sensors, and generate a composite signal that encodes the combined data from the different sensors. The multi-sensor mediator may then relay the composite signal to a sensor controller, as if the signal were coming from a single sensor. A computing device that receives the input from the sensor controller may then generate an output based on the composite signal, which may include processing the composite signal to combine the separate signals from the different sensors, such as to provide a stereo image output, for example. The multi-sensor mediator makes such an output possible by ensuring coordinated input and processing of the input from the multiple sensors, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Chun Beng Goh, Raymond Xue, Thomas C. Oliver, Stephen C. Cooper
  • Publication number: 20140129394
    Abstract: A virtual closet stores and presents virtual representations of physical items. The virtual representations may include virtual representations of items owned by a user, items the user would like to own, and/or memorabilia items for the user. The virtual closet may provide a number of functions. In some embodiments, the virtual closet may be used to facilitate selling items on online selling platforms by providing information (including virtual representations of the items) from the virtual closet to the online selling platforms to place the items for sale. The virtual closet may also be used in some embodiments to facilitate providing advertising targeted to the user based on information available to the virtual closet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2014
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: MICROSOFT CORPORATION
    Inventors: THOMAS C. OLIVER, MEGAN LESLEY TEDESCO, JOHN CLAVIN, EYAL OFEK, DOUG BURGER
  • Patent number: 8645230
    Abstract: A virtual closet stores and presents virtual representations of physical items. The virtual representations may include virtual representations of items owned by a user, items the user would like to own, and memorabilia items for the user. The virtual closet may provide a number of functions. In some embodiments, the virtual closet may be used to facilitate selling items on online selling platforms by providing information (including virtual representations of the items) from the virtual closet to the online selling platforms to place the items for sale. The virtual closet may also be used in some embodiments to facilitate providing advertising targeted to the user based on information available to the virtual closet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas C. Oliver, Megan Lesley Tedesco, John Clavin, Eyal Ofek, Doug Burger
  • Patent number: 8558907
    Abstract: New systems and methods are hereby provided that inherently and naturally resolve the challenges of synthesizing coordinated inputs from multiple cameras. For example, a multi-sensor mediator may collect the input data from multiple sensors, and generate a composite signal that encodes the combined data from the different sensors. The multi-sensor mediator may then relay the composite signal to a sensor controller, as if the signal were coming from a single sensor. A computing device that receives the input from the sensor controller may then generate an output based on the composite signal, which may include processing the composite signal to combine the separate signals from the different sensors, such as to provide a stereo image output, for example. The multi-sensor mediator makes such an output possible by ensuring coordinated input and processing of the input from the multiple sensors, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Roy Chun Beng Goh, Raymond Xue, Thomas C. Oliver, Stephen C. Cooper
  • Publication number: 20120239513
    Abstract: A virtual closet stores and presents virtual representations of physical items. The virtual representations may include virtual representations of items owned by a user, items the user would like to own, and memorabilia items for the user. The virtual closet may provide a number of functions. In some embodiments, the virtual closet may be used to facilitate selling items on online selling platforms by providing information (including virtual representations of the items) from the virtual closet to the online selling platforms to place the items for sale. The virtual closet may also be used in some embodiments to facilitate providing advertising targeted to the user based on information available to the virtual closet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: MICROSOFT CORPORATION
    Inventors: THOMAS C. OLIVER, MEGAN LESLEY TEDESCO, JOHN CLAVIN, EYAL OFEK, DOUG BURGER
  • Publication number: 20110267427
    Abstract: New systems and methods are hereby provided that inherently and naturally resolve the challenges of synthesizing coordinated inputs from multiple cameras. For example, a multi-sensor mediator may collect the input data from multiple sensors, and generate a composite signal that encodes the combined data from the different sensors. The multi-sensor mediator may then relay the composite signal to a sensor controller, as if the signal were coming from a single sensor. A computing device that receives the input from the sensor controller may then generate an output based on the composite signal, which may include processing the composite signal to combine the separate signals from the different sensors, such as to provide a stereo image output, for example. The multi-sensor mediator makes such an output possible by ensuring coordinated input and processing of the input from the multiple sensors, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Roy Chun Beng Goh, Raymond Xue, Thomas C. Oliver, Stephen C. Cooper
  • Patent number: 8009200
    Abstract: New systems and methods are hereby provided that inherently and naturally resolve the challenges of synthesizing coordinated inputs from multiple cameras. For example, a multi-sensor mediator may collect the input data from multiple sensors, and generate a composite signal that encodes the combined data from the different sensors. The multi-sensor mediator may then relay the composite signal to a sensor controller, as if the signal were coming from a single sensor. A computing device that receives the input from the sensor controller may then generate an output based on the composite signal, which may include processing the composite signal to combine the separate signals from the different sensors, such as to provide a stereo image output, for example. The multi-sensor mediator makes such an output possible by ensuring coordinated input and processing of the input from the multiple sensors, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Roy Chun Beng Goh, Raymond Xue, Thomas C. Oliver, Stephen C. Cooper
  • Patent number: 7719517
    Abstract: A peripheral input device having a body configured to be stored within a housing of a computer device is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, a wireless input device is configured to be recharged within the housing. Further aspects of the invention relate to an input device configured to operatively connect to underutilized ports of a computer system. In one embodiment, the input device operatively connects to a PCMCIA port of a computer. Yet further aspects of the invention relate to an input device having an expandable body, wherein the body may be configured to have an increased surface area upon expansion of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Glen C. Larsen, Thomas C. Oliver, David D. Bohn, Steven N. Bathiche, Ceasar De Leon
  • Patent number: 7656395
    Abstract: A method, apparatus, and system for tracking movement of a device are described. The method includes steps of implementing a first tracking subsystem for tracking positions of a device against a surface, determining whether to implement a second tracking subsystem for tracking positions of the device against the surface, capturing data corresponding to a location on the surface, and determining a position of the device against the surface based on the captured data. The position of the device can then be transmitted to a host computer and used in an application program. The first and second tracking subsystems may be a relative and an absolute tracking subsystem respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Jeremiah Pope, Rajeev Badyal, Glen Larsen, Thomas C. Oliver, Randall T. Crane
  • Patent number: 7627703
    Abstract: An input device is provided for capturing handwriting strokes while in a handwriting mode and for providing audio-related functionality. The input device may be formed in the shape of a pen, and may or may not include an ink cartridge to facilitate movement of the input device in a familiar manner. In one configuration, an input device provides verbal messages, such as warnings to a user. In another configuration, an input device receives audible commands and performs related actions. In a further configuration, an input device recognizes specific movements, such as a word traced therewith, and provides audible information based on the movements. Methods for using input devices and computer-readable instructions for performing the methods are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas C. Oliver
  • Patent number: 7483018
    Abstract: Currently, a user may need to carry or otherwise keep track of both a mouse and electronic pen for a computer, such as a portable computing device. Carrying or otherwise keeping track of both devices can be tedious. Accordingly, systems and methods for providing a dual mode mouse pen are enabled, whereby the mouse pen may be used as both a pen, or alternatively, as a mouse. In one embodiment, the pen may include a switch to select one of two modes: pen or mouse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas C. Oliver
  • Publication number: 20080309774
    Abstract: New systems and methods are hereby provided that inherently and naturally resolve the challenges of synthesizing coordinated inputs from multiple cameras. For example, a multi-sensor mediator may collect the input data from multiple sensors, and generate a composite signal that encodes the combined data from the different sensors. The multi-sensor mediator may then relay the composite signal to a sensor controller, as if the signal were coming from a single sensor. A computing device that receives the input from the sensor controller may then generate an output based on the composite signal, which may include processing the composite signal to combine the separate signals from the different sensors, such as to provide a stereo image output, for example. The multi-sensor mediator makes such an output possible by ensuring coordinated input and processing of the input from the multiple sensors, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Roy Chun Beng Goh, Raymond Xue, Thomas C. Oliver, Stephen C. Cooper
  • Patent number: 7289104
    Abstract: A computer input device, such as an electronic mouse, having an optical projection system. The optical projection system is configured to project an image onto a supporting surface upon which the device rests. In one arrangement the optical projection system includes a light source, an image forming light blocker and optics. The optics may be collimating or non-collimating. In another arrangement the optical projection system may include an active LED matrix display. This system enables a use to personalize and/or customize his or her computer input device. Additionally, it permits the device to serve desirable notification functions if one or more of various events have occurred in a computer application being run on the computer. An example of event for notification includes the receipt of a message in a communications program such as an e-mail message.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: David D. Bohn, Thomas C. Oliver, Rajeev Badyal
  • Patent number: 7253838
    Abstract: An imaging device for document imaging may comprise a housing and an optical system having a lens system and an optical detector. The optical system is responsive to image light reflected by an object and produces image data representative of the image light. The optical system is pivotally mounted to said housing and is biased toward a vertical orientation inside said housing by gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Thomas C Oliver
  • Patent number: 7227532
    Abstract: A computer input device, such as an electronic mouse, having an optical projection system. The optical projection system is configured to project an image onto a housing wall surface, which may be on a side, top, or rear of the device. In one arrangement the optical projection system includes a light source, an image forming light blocker and optics. The optics may be collimating or non-collimating. In another arrangement the optical projection system may include an active LED matrix display. This system enables a use to personalize and/or customize his or her computer input device. Additionally, it permits the device to serve desirable notification functions if one or more of various events have occurred in a computer application being run on the computer. An example of event for notification includes the receipt of a message in a communications program such as an e-mail message.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: David D. Bohn, Thomas C. Oliver, Rajeev Badyal
  • Patent number: 7221356
    Abstract: A data input device for use with a tracking surface having light-scattering properties with respect to the device is disclosed. The device comprises a coherent light source for projecting a coherent light beam onto the tracking surface. The tracking surface scatters the coherent light beam striking the tracking surface. The device further comprises a detector associated with the coherent light source for detecting at least a portion of the scattered light. The detected portion of the scattered light comprising a speckle pattern. The device further comprises a controller configured to respond to the detected speckle pattern and operate the device in one of a tracking mode and a non-tracking mode, depending upon a speckle size characteristic of the detected speckle pattern as determined by the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas C. Oliver, Jeremiah M. Pope
  • Patent number: 6963060
    Abstract: Pixels in an array of image sensor pixels contain photo-sensors and circuits having inputs connected to the photosensors. The circuits have feedback loops for reducing fixed pattern noise in the array. Output from each pixel is used to latch a multibit counter value supplied by a global counter. Each feedback loop preferably includes a pair of alternately-toggling switching transistors to minimize unwanted charge injection. An image sensor according to the invention can be used for, e.g., motion sensing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Derek L. Knee, Thomas C. Oliver, Gary M. Rensberger
  • Patent number: 6917030
    Abstract: Pixels in an array of image sensor pixels contain photo-sensors. In response to illumination of a photo-sensor, an initial signal is generated. Multiple comparison signals are also generated based on the initial signal. One of the comparison signals remains internal to the pixel, and other comparison signals are transmitted to neighboring pixels. Within a pixel, the internal comparison signal is compared to a sum of comparison signals received from neighboring pixels. Based on the comparison, a data value may be latched and used for indicating a relative difference in pixel illumination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Derek L. Knee, Thomas C. Oliver
  • Patent number: 6906304
    Abstract: Pixels in an array of image sensor pixels contain photo-sensors and circuits having inputs connected to the photosensors. The circuits have feedback loops for reducing fixed pattern noise in the array. Output from each pixel is used to latch a multibit counter value supplied by a global counter. Each feedback loop preferably includes a pair of alternately-toggling switching transistors to minimize unwanted charge injection. An image sensor according to the invention can be used for, e.g., motion sensing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Derek L. Knee, Thomas C. Oliver, Gary M. Rensberger