Patents by Inventor Brian Funke

Brian Funke 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: 20140300826
    Abstract: A method and system for providing remote vision to a remote operator with respect to one or more machines includes a remote vision system and a wireless transmitter/receiver for communicating with each of the one or more machines. One or more video feeds are available from each machine upon demand. A controller console linked to the remote vision system receives machine data from each of the one or more machines and selects one or more video feeds for display based on the received machine data. The controller console also specifies a resolution for each selected video feed based on the received machine data, such that the transmission of the selected video feeds does not exceed the available bandwidth. The controller console may modify the video selection or resolution specification during operation of the one or more machines based on additional received machine data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Funke, Seth Redenbo, Daniel Dunn, Jason L. Smallenberger
  • Publication number: 20140176709
    Abstract: A method and system for remote monitoring of an earthmoving machine provide machine video with overlaid graphical indicators via a video display at an operator center. In an embodiment, video data and machine data encompassing machine operational parameters are captured at the machine. The video data and the machine data are transmitted to the operator center and graphical indicators are generated at the operator center, with each graphical indicator corresponding to a separate machine operational parameter. The machine video data is then displayed on a display screen at the operator center with the graphical indicators overlaid on the displayed video in multiple separate region of the display screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: Caterpillar, Inc.
    Inventors: Seth Redenbo, Brian Funke, Daniel Dunn
  • Publication number: 20070203630
    Abstract: A work machine uses an operator presence detection strategy to enable or disable the work machine. A plurality of sensors provide independent indications of operator presence. These sensors may include a seat sensor, an inching pedal sensor, a transmission output speed sensor and a conveyance gear sensor. The work machine is enabled if at least one sensor indicates the presence of an operator; however, the work machine is disabled if none of the sensors indicate an operator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Publication date: August 30, 2007
    Inventors: Andrew Vitale, Brian Funke