Patents by Inventor Brian Roberts

Brian Roberts 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: 20260126950
    Abstract: A method for a control device is disclosed. The method comprises configuring the control device to control a first networked device and while controlling the first networked device and while operating in a first mode, receiving, via the control device, first input data, the first input data indicative of a command to control an illumination device of the first networked device. After receiving the first input data, the method comprises controlling the illumination device of the first networked device. While controlling the first networked device and while operating in a second mode, the method comprises receiving, via the control device, second input data, the second input data indicative of a command to control a playback device of the first networked device. After receiving the second input data, the method comprises controlling the playback device of the first networked device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2025
    Publication date: May 7, 2026
    Inventors: Alexia Delhoume, Sara Lincoln, Brian Roberts
  • Patent number: 12611228
    Abstract: A geared-motor assembly for use in a spatial frame is disclosed. Each of the geared-motor assemblies being selectively attachable and detachable from a manually adjustable strut in a spatial frame. In use, with the geared-motor assemblies detached, the struts can be manually adjusted (e.g., rotated) to, for example, facilitate initial construction of the spatial frame in the operating room, to allow patients to manually adjust the struts if desired, etc. Thereafter, with the geared-motor assemblies coupled to the struts, motorized and/or automated adjustment of the struts according to a treatment plan can be achieved. In use, each of the geared-motor assemblies is configured as a stand-alone device including all of the needed intelligence (e.g., microprocessor, printed-circuit board, etc.) and power supply to control and power the geared-motor assembly so that no external wires or centralized controller is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2023
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2026
    Assignees: SMITH & NEPHEW, INC., SMITH & NEPHEW ORTHOPAEDICS AG, SMITH & NEPHEW ASIA PACIFIC PTE. LIMITED
    Inventors: Paul Bell, Sied Janna, Darren J. Wilson, Andrew P. Noblett, Brian Roberts, Johnny R. Mason, Scott Smyth
  • Publication number: 20260108275
    Abstract: A spatial frame apparatus for positioning on a patient to treat an injury. The apparatus includes a frame having one or more motorized struts. One or more motorized struts include one or more motors configured to cause movement of one or more motorized struts in one or more directions in accordance with one or more treatment plans. The apparatus includes one or more processing 2024/102351 components communicatively coupled to one or more motorized struts and/or one or more motors. One or more processing components determine one or more loading parameters on the one or more motorized struts. The loading parameters define loading on the one or more motorized struts resulting from the frame being positioned and/or adjusted on the patient. The processing components execute at least one adjustment of one or more motorized struts based on the determined loading parameters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2023
    Publication date: April 23, 2026
    Applicants: Smith & Nephew, Inc., Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics AG, Smith & Nephew Asia Pacific Pte. Limited
    Inventors: Brian Roberts, Sied W. Janna, Andrew P. Noblett, Johnny R. Mason, Scott Smyth, Paul Bell
  • Publication number: 20260019760
    Abstract: A playback device comprising a processor; and a communication interface operably connected to the processor and configured to facilitate communication over a network; and a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising program instructions that are executable by the processor such that the playback device is configured to establish a Broadcast Isochronous Group (BIG) comprising another playback device, the BIG comprising a Broadcast Isochronous Stream (BIS) communicating an audio channel; establish a bidirectional link with the other playback device; play back, at a volume level, the audio channel in synchrony with the other playback device; receive, via the bidirectional link, a request to change the volume level; change the volume level to a new volume level in response to reception of the request; and play back, at the new volume level, the audio channel in synchrony with the other playback device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2025
    Publication date: January 15, 2026
    Inventors: William Bennett Schoeler, Brian Roberts
  • Publication number: 20260012731
    Abstract: A media system comprises one or more non-wearable playback devices, a gateway device, and a wearable playback device. The one or more non-wearable playback devices are configured to receive media content and to play the media content in synchrony with one another. The gateway device is commutatively coupled with at least one of the non-wearable playback devices and is configured to receive the media content. The wearable playback device comprises a microphone and a transducer and is commutatively coupled to the gateway device. The wearable playback device is configured to receive the media content and to simultaneously play ambient audio received via the microphone and the media content via the transducer while the one or more non-wearable playback devices play the media content.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2025
    Publication date: January 8, 2026
    Inventors: Alexia Delhoume, Brian Roberts, Elizabeth Dolman
  • Patent number: 12471955
    Abstract: An automated spatial frame is disclosed. The spatial frame may include a master controller unit arranged and configured as a centralized controller for exchanging data with a remote computing system, exchanging data with a plurality of automated struts, and delivering power to the automated struts. Thus arranged, the master-controller unit may be configured as a fully integrated, rechargeable power supply/controller unit for powering and controlling the automated struts. In one embodiment, the master-controller unit is coupled to an external surface of a platform. The platform acting as a conduit for coupling the master-controller unit to the automated struts. As such, at least one of the platforms provides integrated connectivity to the automated struts. In one embodiment, the struts may be wireless automated strut including a motor, a power source, and a wireless communications module for communicating with an external computing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2025
    Assignees: SMITH & NEPHEW, INC., SMITH & NEPHEW ORTHOPAEDICS AG, SMITH & NEPHEW ASIA PACIFIC PTE. LIMITED
    Inventors: Joseph M. Ferrante, Daniel Farley, Darren Wilson, Sied W. Janna, Brian Roberts
  • Patent number: 12439499
    Abstract: A method for a control device is disclosed. The method comprises configuring the control device to control a first networked device and while controlling the first networked device and while operating in a first mode, receiving, via the control device, first input data, the first input data indicative of a command to control an illumination device of the first networked device. After receiving the first input data, the method comprises controlling the illumination device of the first networked device. While controlling the first networked device and while operating in a second mode, the method comprises receiving, via the control device, second input data, the second input data indicative of a command to control a playback device of the first networked device. After receiving the second input data, the method comprises controlling the playback device of the first networked device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2025
    Assignee: Sonos, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexia Delhoume, Sara Lincoln, Brian Roberts
  • Patent number: 12390250
    Abstract: An adjustment compliance device and systems and methods for use with an external fixator are disclosed. The adjustment compliance device can be attached to a strut of an external fixator and may include at least one indicator element to indicate adjustment parameters for an active step of an adjustment process for the external fixator. The adjustment parameters may include an active strut and/or a direction of adjustment for the strut. The adjustment compliance device may receive the adjustment parameters from a user device. The at least one indicator element may include a light element operative to emit light in a color corresponding to the active strut. The at least one indicator element may include a light element configured to indicate a direction of rotation of the active strut. As a result, a patient can more effectively comply with an adjustment prescription, thereby improving the likelihood of successful bone alignment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2025
    Assignees: SMITH & NEPHEW, INC., SMITH & NEPHEW ORTHOPAEDICS AG, SMITH & NEPHEW ASIA PACIFIC PTE. LIMITED
    Inventors: Brian Roberts, Johnny R. Mason, Paul Bell, Andrew P. Noblett, Haden Janda, Charles C. Heotis
  • Patent number: 12377249
    Abstract: A fluid displacement and pressurization device which provides both a substantial amount of thread engagement as well as provides for single hand control for all operational manipulations including maintaining a set fill volume, rapid filling and displacement, and pressurization and retention of evacuation positioning during balloon depressurization. The device allows for the use of one hand to not only transition the device from micro-movement control to macro-movement control, but also regarding rotating, pushing or pulling the handle of the plunger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2024
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2025
    Assignee: ATRION MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Jonathan Collins, Rowland W. Kanner, Brian Roberts
  • Publication number: 20250227414
    Abstract: A method of determining whether a first playback device is to rejoin a group is disclosed. The method comprises playing back, by the first playback device, media content in synchrony with at least a second playback device, wherein the first and second playback devices are playing back the media content as members of a group. While playing back the media content, and after a loss of power at the first playback device, the method comprises stopping, by the first playback device, playback of the media content. After the loss of power, and after a resumption of power to the first playback device the method comprises automatically determining to rejoin the group and joining the first playback device to the group.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2025
    Publication date: July 10, 2025
    Inventors: Alexia Delhoume, Sara Lincoln, Brian Roberts
  • Patent number: 12356162
    Abstract: A media system comprises one or more non-wearable playback devices, a gateway device, and a wearable playback device. The one or more non-wearable playback devices are configured to receive media content and to play the media content in synchrony with one another. The gateway device is commutatively coupled with at least one of the non-wearable playback devices and is configured to receive the media content. The wearable playback device comprises a microphone and a transducer and is commutatively coupled to the gateway device. The wearable playback device is configured to receive the media content and to simultaneously play ambient audio received via the microphone and the media content via the transducer while the one or more non-wearable playback devices play the media content.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2023
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2025
    Assignee: Sonos, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexia Delhoume, Brian Roberts, Elizabeth Dolman
  • Publication number: 20250177005
    Abstract: A geared-motor assembly for use in a spatial frame is disclosed. Each of the geared-motor assemblies being selectively attachable and detachable from a manually adjustable strut in a spatial frame. In use, with the geared-motor assemblies detached, the struts can be manually adjusted (e.g., rotated) to, for example, facilitate initial construction of the spatial frame in the operating room, to allow patients to manually adjust the struts if desired, etc. Thereafter, with the geared-motor assemblies coupled to the struts, motorized and/or automated adjustment of the struts according to a treatment plan can be achieved. In use, each of the geared-motor assemblies is configured as a stand-alone device including all of the needed intelligence (e.g., microprocessor, printed-circuit board, etc.) and power supply to control and power the geared-motor assembly so that no external wires or centralized controller is required.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2023
    Publication date: June 5, 2025
    Applicants: Smith & Nephew, Inc., Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics AG, Smith & Nephew Asia Pacific PTE. Limited
    Inventors: Paul Bell, Sied Janna, Darren J. Wilson, Andrew P. Noblett, Brian Roberts, Johnny R. Mason, Scott Smyth
  • Patent number: 12200454
    Abstract: A method of determining whether a first playback device is to rejoin a group is disclosed. The method comprises playing back, by the first playback device, media content in synchrony with at least a second playback device, wherein the first and second playback devices are playing back the media content as members of a group. While playing back the media content, and after a loss of power at the first playback device, the method comprises stopping, by the first playback device, playback of the media content. After the loss of power, and after a resumption of power to the first playback device the method comprises automatically determining to rejoin the group and joining the first playback device to the group.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2025
    Assignee: Sonos, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexia Delhoume, Sara Lincoln, Brian Roberts
  • Publication number: 20240238567
    Abstract: A fluid displacement and pressurization device which provides both a substantial amount of thread engagement as well as provides for single hand control for all operational manipulations including maintaining a set fill volume, rapid filling and displacement, and pressurization and retention of evacuation positioning during balloon depressurization. The device allows for the use of one hand to not only transition the device from micro-movement control to macro-movement control, but also regarding rotating, pushing or pulling the handle of the plunger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2024
    Publication date: July 18, 2024
    Inventors: Jonathan Collins, Rowland W. Kanner, Brian Roberts
  • Patent number: 11980729
    Abstract: A fluid displacement and pressurization device which provides both a substantial amount of thread engagement as well as provides for single hand control for all operational manipulations including maintaining a set fill volume, rapid filling and displacement, and pressurization and retention of evacuation positioning during balloon depressurization. The device allows for the use of one hand to not only transition the device from micro-movement control to macro-movement control, but also regarding rotating, pushing or pulling the handle of the plunger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2024
    Assignee: Atrion Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Collins, Rowland Kanner, Brian Roberts
  • Patent number: 11913682
    Abstract: An apparatus for selectively heating or cooling a food product includes a housing including a shell and a thermally-conductive liner coupled to the shell. The shell defines a housing cavity, and the thermally-conductive liner defines a receptacle. The apparatus also includes a removable tray and a plurality of thermoelectric heating/cooling devices disposed within the housing cavity. The removable tray is sized and shaped to be received within the receptacle such that the removable tray is coupled in thermal communication with the thermally-conductive liner. Each of the thermoelectric heating/cooling devices is selectively operable in a heating mode and a cooling mode and is coupled in thermal communication with the thermally-conductive liner such that the liner draws heat away from the removable tray when the thermoelectric devices are operated in the cooling mode, and the liner transfers heat to the removable tray when the thermoelectric devices are operated in the heating mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: Chillware, LLC
    Inventor: Brian Roberts
  • Publication number: 20240040313
    Abstract: A media system comprises one or more non-wearable playback devices, a gateway device, and a wearable playback device. The one or more non-wearable playback devices are configured to receive media content and to play the media content in synchrony with one another. The gateway device is commutatively coupled with at least one of the non-wearable playback devices and is configured to receive the media content. The wearable playback device comprises a microphone and a transducer and is commutatively coupled to the gateway device. The wearable playback device is configured to receive the media content and to simultaneously play ambient audio received via the microphone and the media content via the transducer while the one or more non-wearable playback devices play the media content.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2023
    Publication date: February 1, 2024
    Inventors: Alexia Delhoume, Brian Roberts, Elizabeth Dolman
  • Patent number: 11875957
    Abstract: A high voltage electric switch includes contacts with graphite carbon electrode forming the arc gap. In addition, the carbon contacts are located in a chamber containing at least 60% carbon dioxide (CO2) as a dielectric gas to achieve improved arc interrupting performance. In conventional switches, the metallic contacts introduce metallic vapors into the arc plasma that inhibits the ability of the dielectric gas to interrupt high voltage, high current arcs. As the element carbon is inherently present in CO2 gas, the addition of vapors from the carbon electrodes into the dielectric gas does not significantly interfere with the dielectric arc-interrupting performance of the CO2 dielectric gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: SOUTHERN STATES LLC
    Inventors: Brian Berner, Joseph R Rostron, Brian Roberts
  • Patent number: 11758326
    Abstract: A media system comprises one or more non-wearable playback devices, a gateway device, and a wearable playback device. The one or more non-wearable playback devices are configured to receive media content and to play the media content in synchrony with one another. The gateway device is commutatively coupled with at least one of the non-wearable playback devices and is configured to receive the media content. The wearable playback device comprises a microphone and a transducer and is commutatively coupled to the gateway device. The wearable playback device is configured to receive the media content and to simultaneously play ambient audio received via the microphone and the media content via the transducer while the one or more non-wearable playback devices play the media content.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2023
    Assignee: Sonos, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexia Delhoume, Brian Roberts, Elizabeth Dolman
  • Publication number: 20230233232
    Abstract: An adjustment compliance device and systems and methods for use with an external fixator are disclosed. The adjustment compliance device can be attached to a strut of an external fixator and may include at least one indicator element to indicate adjustment parameters for an active step of an adjustment process for the external fixator. The adjustment parameters may include an active strut and/or a direction of adjustment for the strut. The adjustment compliance device may receive the adjustment parameters from a user device. The at least one indicator element may include a light element operative to emit light in a color corresponding to the active strut. The at least one indicator element may include a light element configured to indicate a direction of rotation of the active strut. As a result, a patient can more effectively comply with an adjustment prescription, thereby improving the likelihood of successful bone alignment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2021
    Publication date: July 27, 2023
    Applicants: Smith & Nephew, Inc., Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics AG, Smith & Nephew Asia Pacific Pte. Limited
    Inventors: Brian Roberts, Johnny R. Mason, Paul Bell, Andrew P. Noblett, Haden Janda, Charles C. Heotis