Patents by Inventor David Howell

David Howell 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: 20070230439
    Abstract: A method and system for communicating a variable set of contextual information relating to a conversation over a communication channel is provided. When the contextual information is exchanged, any authorized sending party of the contextual information can change the scope, content, or amount of the contextual information that is transmitted to a next receiving party in a determined communication channel path. Before transmitting the contextual information, a desirable scope of the contextual information may be determined based on the next receiving party, in conjunction with the sending party's rules. The contextual information may be updated by adding new contextual information and/or deleting part of the contextual information which is outside of the scope. No contextual information may be transmitted if the next destination desires no contextual information or does not have capabilities to receive any contextual information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: David Milstein, David Howell, Linda Criddle, Michael Malueg, Philip Chou
  • Patent number: 7253792
    Abstract: Method for controlling stroke video generation components by creating a program to command the video generation components to provide video signals and integrating high level software constructs into the program. Integration of the high level software constructs into the program may entail integrating a GOTO command to enable repetition of a section of the program and repetition of a display sequence provided by implementation of that section, integrating a GOSUB and RETURN command to enable multiple use of a single section of the program at different locations within the program, integrating a conditional command to enable one portion of the program to be implemented when the condition is satisfied and another portion to be implemented when the condition is not satisfied, and/or integrating a DO-WHILE loop to enable repetition of a section of the program when a condition is satisfied and continuation of the program when the condition is not satisfied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Advanced Testing Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: William Biagiotti, David Howell
  • Publication number: 20070156682
    Abstract: A system for identifying an object corresponding to user input including a first grammar, a user specific file and a controller. The first grammar is a list of objects. The user specific file designates a subset of the list of objects in the first grammar which are related to the user. The controller receives the user input and compares the user input to the objects of at least the user specific file. The controller identifies to the user the object corresponding to the user input, giving preference to those objects designated in the user specific file.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2005
    Publication date: July 5, 2007
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: David Howell, Clifford Didcock
  • Publication number: 20070153989
    Abstract: Improved systems and methods are provided for transcribing audio files of voice mails sent over a unified messaging system. Customized grammars specific to a voice mail recipient are created and utilized to transcribe a received voice mail by comparing the audio file to commonly utilized words, names, acronyms, and phrases used by the recipient. Key elements are identified from the resulting text transcription to aid the recipient in processing received voice mails based on the significant content contained in the voice mail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2005
    Publication date: July 5, 2007
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: David Howell, Sridhar Sundararaman, David Fong, Frank Seide
  • Publication number: 20070146388
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention provide a method for presenting computer-generated characters. The method defines several frames for a character and sequentially presents the frames. Each frame depicts a particular representation of the character. Also, at least two of the frames provide different representations of the character. Some embodiments provide a method for applying effects to computer-generated characters. This method applies an effect to the computer-generated characters by first generating an effect script. It then selects the generated effect script to apply to the computer-generated characters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Publication date: June 28, 2007
    Inventors: Tom Langmacher, Mary Massey, David Howell
  • Publication number: 20070124384
    Abstract: The subject innovation pertains to filtration of voice, facsimile and the like communications. These messages can be analyzed to determine if they are unsolicited bulk communications (i.e., spam) or include malicious code. Analysis or filtration can be accomplished by, among other things, transforming the message into an email. The email can include the message as an attachment and a body that provides at least a portion of the content. Conventional and novel analysis tools can subsequently be applied to the email to scan for spam and viruses, among other things.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Publication date: May 31, 2007
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: David Howell, Srinivasa Manda, Clifford Didcock, Sridhar Sundararaman, Roy Williams
  • Publication number: 20070115360
    Abstract: Programmable video generation and analyzer including a video asset for generating video signals having a primary composite video module for producing different types of a primary video signal and outputting the primary video signal via output channels, and a secondary video source module for producing a secondary composite video signal and outputting the secondary composite video signal via output channels. The secondary video source module produces the secondary composite video signal in an identical or different format than the primary video signal and different than the primary video signal. An NTSC/PAL converter is included, for example, as part of the secondary video source module, for generating video in NTSC format and PAL format. The NTSC/PAL converter accepts a stream of data from the primary composite video module and the secondary video source module and converts it into Composite Baseband Video, Y/Pr/Pb Component Video, Y/C Video (S_Video) or RGB Video.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Publication date: May 24, 2007
    Inventors: William Biagiotti, David Howell
  • Patent number: 7199805
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention provide a method for presenting computer-generated characters. The method defines several frames for a character and sequentially presents the frames. Each frame depicts a particular representation of the character. Also, at least two of the frames provide different representations of the character. Some embodiments provide a method for applying effects to computer-generated characters. This method applies an effect to the computer-generated characters by first generating an effect script. It then selects the generated effect script to apply to the computer-generated characters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: Apple Computer, Inc.
    Inventors: Tom Langmacher, Mary E. Massey, David Howell
  • Publication number: 20070064110
    Abstract: Video processing arrangement including a host computer having a monitor, a video asset coupled to the computer for generating video signals and an interface for connecting the video asset to the computer to enable the display of video signals on the monitor. The video asset includes various primary elements including a primary composite video module for producing different types of a primary video signal and outputting the primary video signal via output channels, a stroke generator module for generating a stroke XYZ video signal and outputting the stroke video signal via output channels and a real time capture module for capturing video signals in a plurality of different modes. The video asset also includes a common distributed time base module for generating and distributing clock signals to all of the primary elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Publication date: March 22, 2007
    Inventors: William Biagiotti, David Howell
  • Publication number: 20070055751
    Abstract: The subject invention relates to systems and methods that enable dynamic programming and execution of an electronic communications dialog. In one aspect, a configurable messaging system is provided. The system includes a configuration file to describe interface options of a computerized dialog session, wherein the configuration file specifies interface activities and state transitions between the interface options within the configuration file. A state controller executes the interface options during communications activities with the dialog session. The configuration file can also describe prompt elements to solicit information from users or applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Publication date: March 8, 2007
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Sridhar Sundararaman, Srinivasa Manda, David Howell, James Lyon
  • Publication number: 20070050166
    Abstract: Method and system to configure a common set of electronic components using software in order to simulate different electronic, mechanical and/or electro-mechanical instruments or instrument functions. For each instrument function or traditional mode of operation to be simulated, software models are created which when directed to the electronic components, cause the electronic components to respond to input in the same manner that the actual, traditional physical instrument would respond to satisfy the same test requirement input. The software models are preferably stored in a model repository which is searchable to enable a user to select the instrument function or traditional mode of operation to be simulated with the corresponding model being provided to the electronic components. Once the model, i.e., a function for each synthetic element, is downloaded and the electronic components configured according to the model functions, testing of the assemblies or other UUTs can begin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2006
    Publication date: March 1, 2007
    Inventors: Robert Spinner, Eli Levi, William Leippe, Emery Korpi, Michael Lai, James Kuveikis, Richard Chalmers, Richard Engel, Peter Britch, William Biagiotti, David Howell
  • Patent number: 7180477
    Abstract: Portable automatic video device tester including a programmable video generator and analyzer, a signal conditioner/switching device, a command module, a portable computer (laptop) with an integral monitor and a portable VXI chassis for housing the video generator and analyzer, the signal conditioner/switching device and the command module. The programmable video generator and analyzer is connected to one or more video devices being tested and includes a generating mechanism for generating various forms of video test signals. The signal conditioner/switching device is also arranged in connection with the chassis and adapted to be connected to one or more of the video devices being tested. The computer communicates with the video generator and analyzer and the signal conditioner/switching device via the command module in order to conduct test operations and enable display of test results on the monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Advanced Testing Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: David Howell
  • Publication number: 20070029873
    Abstract: A brake system that uses a quick release valve in place of a double check valve to optimize the timing of the release of pressurized air from the brake chambers and supply lines is provided. The quick-release valve further includes a threaded exhaust port that functions as a second supply port. By using the threaded exhaust port as a second supply port, the diaphragm in the quick release valve acts similar to an unbiased diaphragm double check valve during periods of increasing air pressure, but retains the functionality of a quick release valve during periods of decreasing air pressure by favoring release through the threaded exhaust port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2005
    Publication date: February 8, 2007
    Applicant: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventor: David Howell
  • Publication number: 20060232371
    Abstract: A winding for a toroidal electrodynamic machine is formed by providing a set of bobbins in a rectilinear array, winding the bobbins so that each phase is of one continuous wire, with each set of phases wound one bobbin at a time, the completed rectilinear array then being formed into a circular array for the machine. The rectilinear array has bobbins formed and is wired in such a way that bending into a torus is possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Publication date: October 19, 2006
    Inventors: David Howell, Drazen Jaksic
  • Publication number: 20060083357
    Abstract: A system that concurrently provides multiple user interface (UI) mechanisms that facilitate control of an application state machine (e.g., unified message system). More particularly, the invention can create two relatively distinct user experiences, one via dual tone multi-frequency (DTMF) navigation and another through speech recognition navigation of a unified message system. In accordance therewith, one single underlying state machine can be used. Navigation and flow control (e.g., state transitions) in the state machine can be leveraged by multiple UI mechanisms that actively co-exist. The invention introduces speech recognition features together with other input mechanisms to drive the UI of an application state machine (e.g., unified messaging system). The speech recognition UI can be designed to provide a natural navigation through the application independent of a DTMF UI.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Publication date: April 20, 2006
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: David Howell, David Fong
  • Publication number: 20060083358
    Abstract: A system and/or methodology that unifies a telephonic communication component and/or system with a data (e.g., messaging) server component and/or system. The system can facilitate telephonically accessing rich information in the server (e.g., messaging server). This rich information can include email content, calendar content, contacts information, or the like. Moreover, with access to an application programming interface, the invention can add functionality to initiate email communications as well as to accept or cancel meetings. Furthermore, the invention can synchronize messages of disparate formats. By way of example a user can set an “Out of Office” (OOF) status on both an email systems and telephone voicemail system from one location in one action. In another aspect, it will be appreciated that any message or data component can be analyzed, transformed, matched and/or communicated from one system to another (e.g., server to telephone) in accordance with the subject invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Publication date: April 20, 2006
    Applicant: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: David Fong, David Howell
  • Publication number: 20060023570
    Abstract: A sonar imaging system for a watercraft is disclosed. The sonar imaging system comprises a transducer coupled to the watercraft and having at least one side scanning element and at least one bottom scanning element, an electronic control head unit coupled to the transducer and configured to display sonar images. The downward acoustic elements may be circular and the side scan acoustic elements may be rectangular. A software filter may be provided to remove noise generated by a spark plug or other operation of a motor for the watercraft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Publication date: February 2, 2006
    Applicant: Johnson Outdoors Inc.
    Inventors: David Betts, Robert Derrow, David Howells
  • Publication number: 20060017317
    Abstract: A vehicle has a primary braking system and a secondary braking system. The vehicle has a dual brake valve with a primary circuit for pressurizing the primary system in response to application of force to a brake pedal, and a secondary circuit for pressurizing the secondary system in response to application of the primary circuit or force to a brake pedal. The vehicle also has an actuator for actuating the secondary circuit of the dual brake valve independently of the primary circuit, to provide for advanced braking functions such as roll stability and yaw stability. The actuator may be pneumatic or electric. The actuator can be energized by a vehicle electronic control unit in response to receiving a sensor output indicative of a vehicle condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2004
    Publication date: January 26, 2006
    Inventors: David Howell, Jeffrey Krause
  • Publication number: 20050178774
    Abstract: A whistle for a water or drink bottle may be either combination whistle and drink bottle closure or a whistle with an annular body portion that fits over the neck of the bottle without interefering with the existing cap or closure. The whistle includes a stem that projects from an upper part of the cap portion. One or more internal windways extend around the neck of the bottle, and lead from the stem to one or more fipple holes to generate sound from air flow exiting the windway. Each fipple hole has its own respective chamber that determines pitch of the sound. A gap in one side of an annular body allows the whistle to snap fit onto the bottle neck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2005
    Publication date: August 18, 2005
    Inventor: David Howell
  • Publication number: 20050166143
    Abstract: The system and method for collecting and converting documents sets and related metadata accepts a file or set of files that represent the content of a work and collects and manages metadata associated with that work. The system then automatically converts the work into a variety of different output formats, including embedding or attaching necessary metadata, and distributes it to other internal or external organizations (like wholesalers or retailers) along with any further metadata required by the recipient organization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2004
    Publication date: July 28, 2005
    Inventor: David Howell