Patents Assigned to Master Key, LLC
-
Patent number: 8843377Abstract: The present disclosure relates to foreign language instruction and translation methods. A system is provided which utilizes tonal and rhythm visualization components to allow a person to “see” their words as they attempt to speak a foreign language or a specific regional dialect. The system is also applicable to foreign language translation systems and allows students to improve their pronunciation by responding to visual feedback which incorporates both color and shape. The system may comprise a step-by-step instruction method, along with recording and playback features. Certain embodiments incorporate statistical analysis of student progress, remote access for teacher consultation, and video games for enhancing student interest.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 8127231Abstract: The present disclosure relates to audio equalization devices and methods. A system is provided that permits frequency equalization or balancing of frequency response for stereo or multiple surround sound channels through the use of visual representation of audio signals. The system also permits the balancing or “tuning” of concert venues and audio listening environments by generating visualizations for original and reflected audio signals.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventors: Kenneth R. Lemons, Hall Corey
-
Patent number: 8073701Abstract: The present disclosure relates to identity verification devices and methods. A system is provided that utilizes a system of tonal and rhythmic visualization of a spoken word to accurately identify the true owner of a credit or other personal card based on their voice.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 8018459Abstract: The present disclosure relates to broadcast signal calibration devices and methods. A system is provided that permits calibration or tuning of broadcast signal transmission and reception equipment through the use of visual representation of test signals. The generated visualizations, incorporating color and shape, are examined to determine whether any adjustments to the broadcast equipment are needed to compensate for equipment age, deterioration, and the like.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7994409Abstract: The present disclosure relates to audio mixing and editing devices and methods. A system is provided that permits mixing of and editing of multiple input audio tracks through the use of visual representation of audio signals. By viewing the visual representations of the audio inputs, a user is able to achieve a desired mix of signals with more accuracy and efficiency when compared with mixing based on hearing alone.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7960637Abstract: The present disclosure relates to sound recognition devices and methods. A system is provided that utilizes a system of tonal and rhythmic visualization methods to recognize different environmental sounds so as to accurately identify certain species of wildlife and other elements of nature.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventors: Kenneth R. Lemons, Tevlin Schuetz
-
Patent number: 7956273Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system and method for visualization of music and other sounds. In one embodiment, the twelve notes of an octave are labeled. When notes are played, the intervals between the notes are visualized by displaying a line between the labels corresponding to the note labels. In some embodiments, the lines representing the intervals are color coded with a different color for each of the six intervals.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2010Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7947888Abstract: The present disclosure relates computer music generation methods and devices. A method and associated apparatus is provided that operates with a computer to automatically create or “compose” music that is original as well as sufficiently complex to provide ongoing interest for listeners.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7935877Abstract: The present disclosure relates to music composition devices and methods. A system is provided which allows composers of all skill levels to easily create music that is pleasurable to the ear. The system may also assist more advanced composers in creating complex musical arrangements based off of partially completed compositions. The system also streamlines composition and arrangement in multi-instrument environments. The user is able to select from a variety of available music visualizations and instrument views, allowing comparison therebetween. The system may comprise composition error checking functions, free-play performance abilities, and recording and playback features. Certain embodiments incorporate remote access for collaboration between users.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7932454Abstract: The present disclosure relates to music instruction devices and methods. A system is provided which allows a user to more intuitively understand music theory and performance. The system also streamlines composition and arrangement in multi-instrument environments. The user is able to select from a variety of available music visualizations and instrument views, allowing comparison therebetween. The system may comprise a step-by-step instruction method, free-play performance abilities, and recording and playback features. Certain embodiments incorporate statistical analysis of student progress, remote access for teacher consultation, and video games for enhancing student interest.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2008Date of Patent: April 26, 2011Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7932455Abstract: The present disclosure relates to audio and music processing devices and methods. A system is provided that utilizes tonal and rhythmic visualization methods to accurately and empirically determine the level of similarity between two or more musical works.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: April 26, 2011Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7928306Abstract: The present disclosure relates to musical instruments and devices. A system is provided which utilizes tonal visualization components incorporating color and/or shape to allow a person to “see” a note or group of notes sounded by an instrument to determine whether the instrument is in tune and make appropriate adjustments if necessary.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: April 19, 2011Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7919702Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system and method for visualization of precise levels of measurement. In one embodiment, labels are placed around the perimeter of a circle. The difference between a target quantity and a measured quantity is visualized by displaying a line between two of the labels. In some embodiments, the lines representing the intervals are color coded with a different color for each of a chosen set of intervals. In other embodiments, a series of concentric circles are used, with the color within each circle indicating a level of measurement within a given range of measurement.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2009Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7880076Abstract: The present disclosure relates to child musical education devices and methods. Various toy instruments are provided which incorporate simplified forms of tonal and rhythmic music visualization. A child of very young age is able to select a certain ‘mood’ or feeling and hear music which corresponds to that mood. In addition, visual representations of the selected music can be displayed on the instrument. Recording and playback functionality is optionally provided, along with rhythm accompaniments and other adjustable audio features. Certain embodiments allow the various components to be interconnected to allow maximum flexibility and upgradeability.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2008Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7875787Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system and method for visualization of music and other sounds using note extraction. In one embodiment, the twelve notes of an octave are labeled around a circle. Raw audio information is fed into the system, whereby the system applies note extraction techniques to isolate the musical notes in a particular passage. The intervals between the notes are then visualized by displaying a line between the labels corresponding to the note labels on the circle. In some embodiments, the lines representing the intervals are color coded with a different color for each of the six intervals. In other embodiments, the music and other sounds are visualized upon a helix that allows an indication of absolute frequency to be displayed for each note or sound.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2009Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7820900Abstract: The present disclosure relates to sound and speech recognition devices and methods. A system is provided that utilizes a system of tonal and rhythmic visualization methods to recognize different sounds so as to accurately identify true security problems in a cost effective manner. The system can also be utilized to recognize different vocal characteristics so as to accurately identify individuals based on their speech.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7781662Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system and method for visualization of music and other sounds. In one embodiment, the twelve notes of an octave are labeled around a circle. When notes are played, the intervals between the notes are visualized by displaying a line between the labels corresponding to the note labels on the circle. In some embodiments, the lines representing the intervals are color coded with a different color for each of the six intervals. In other embodiments, the music and other sounds are visualized upon a helix that allows an indication of absolute frequency to be displayed for each note or sound.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2009Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7772476Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods and devices for visualizing the rhythmic structure of musical compositions. Circular symmetry and geometric shapes are utilized to visualize representations of rhythmic structures about a central axis. In general, lower frequency rhythm instruments are represented by small geometric shapes, while relatively higher frequency instruments are represented by shapes of larger diameter. The visualizations can be presented in two or three dimensions and may incorporate the use of animation. The result is a graphical representation that is more intuitive and entertaining than traditional music notation.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2009Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7671266Abstract: The present disclosure relates to speech therapy and voice training methods. A system is provided which utilizes tonal and rhythm visualization components to allow a person to “see” their words as they attempt to improve or regain their ability to speak clearly. The system is also applicable to vocal music instruction and allows students improve their singing abilities by responding to visual feedback which incorporates both color and shape. The system may comprise a step-by-step instruction method, live performance abilities, and recording and playback features. Certain embodiments incorporate statistical analysis of student progress, remote access for teacher consultation, and video games for enhancing student interest.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2008Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons
-
Patent number: 7589269Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods and devices for visualizing the rhythmic structure of musical compositions. Circular symmetry and geometric shapes are utilized to visualize representations of rhythmic structures about a central axis. In general, lower frequency rhythm instruments are represented by small geometric shapes, while relatively higher frequency instruments are represented by shapes of larger diameter. The visualizations can be presented in two or three dimensions and may incorporate the use of animation. The result is a graphical representation that is more intuitive and entertaining than traditional music notation.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2008Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: Master Key, LLCInventor: Kenneth R. Lemons