Patents by Inventor Gene Robert Obie
Gene Robert Obie 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).
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Patent number: 10884478Abstract: An asynchronous state machine (ASM) for managing deep sleep state of a device and related methods are described. One method includes the ASM automatically detecting a request to wake up the device based on either a change in a status of a power user-interface element associated with the device or upon a detection of an attachment of an external power source to the device. The method further includes the ASM automatically initiating a wake-up sequence including turning on a battery pack associated with the device. The method further includes the ASM automatically detecting whether a power management function associated with the device is enabled and automatically transferring control of a remaining portion of the wake-up sequence to the power management function and the ASM passing the status of the power user-interface element to the power management function as needed.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2018Date of Patent: January 5, 2021Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLCInventors: Yen Ying Lee, Gene Robert Obie, Jay A. Kuehny
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Patent number: 10656693Abstract: Power management contracts for accessory devices are described. In one or more implementations, a power management contract is established for a system including a host computing device and an accessory device based at least in part upon power exchange conditions observed for the system. The power management contracts define operating constraints for power exchange between components of the system, including at least a power exchange direction and current limits. The host computing device and accessory devices are each configured to renegotiate the power management contract to dynamically change operating constraints in “real-time.” Additionally, different power management contracts may be associated with identifying data corresponding to different types of accessory devices.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2018Date of Patent: May 19, 2020Assignee: Micrsoft Technology Licensing, LLCInventors: Gene Robert Obie, Heng Huang, Yi He, Duane Martin Evans
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Publication number: 20200103955Abstract: An asynchronous state machine (ASM) for managing deep sleep state of a device and related methods are described. One method includes the ASM automatically detecting a request to wake up the device based on either a change in a status of a power user-interface element associated with the device or upon a detection of an attachment of an external power source to the device. The method further includes the ASM automatically initiating a wake-up sequence including turning on a battery pack associated with the device. The method further includes the ASM automatically detecting whether a power management function associated with the device is enabled and automatically transferring control of a remaining portion of the wake-up sequence to the power management function and the ASM passing the status of the power user-interface element to the power management function as needed.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2018Publication date: April 2, 2020Inventors: Yen Ying Lee, Gene Robert Obie, Jay A. Kuehny
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Publication number: 20200064899Abstract: The described technology provides an apparatus including a battery gas gauge configured to monitor fuel level in a fuel cell of a battery pack, a standby circuit connected to a power output of the battery, the standby circuit configured to receive an enable signal and in response to receiving the enable signal, generate a wake input signal to wake up the battery gas gauge from a shut-down state.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2018Publication date: February 27, 2020Inventors: Gene Robert OBIE, Yen Ying LEE, Sachin R. CHANDRA, Jay A. KUEHNY, Jason M. BATTLE
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Patent number: 10317983Abstract: Accessory device power management techniques are described in which a power exchange state for a system including a host computing device, an accessory device, and an adapter is recognized. Power exchange states may be defined according to relative states of charge (RSOC) and connection status for the system components and mapped to power management control actions. Responsive to the recognition of a current power exchange state, corresponding power management control actions may be ascertained and applied to jointly manage power for the system. For instance, the host device may draw supplemental power from a power source associated with an accessory device (e.g., a battery or power adapter) or supply power for use by the accessory device according to different states. Power exchanges may also be managed in accordance with capabilities of the accessory device identified based on authentication of the accessory device.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2017Date of Patent: June 11, 2019Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLCInventors: Gene Robert Obie, Yi He, Duane Martin Evans, Heng Huang, Michael Earl Gruber, Thitipant Tantasirikorn
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Publication number: 20180136705Abstract: Power management contracts for accessory devices are described. In one or more implementations, a power management contract is established for a system including a host computing device and an accessory device based at least in part upon power exchange conditions observed for the system. The power management contracts define operating constraints for power exchange between components of the system, including at least a power exchange direction and current limits. The host computing device and accessory devices are each configured to renegotiate the power management contract to dynamically change operating constraints in “real-time.” Additionally, different power management contracts may be associated with identifying data corresponding to different types of accessory devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 15, 2018Publication date: May 17, 2018Applicant: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLCInventors: Gene Robert Obie, Heng Huang, Yi He, Duane Martin Evans
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Patent number: 9874914Abstract: Power management contracts for accessory devices are described. In one or more implementations, a power management contract is established for a system including a host computing device and an accessory device based at least in part upon power exchange conditions observed for the system. The power management contracts define operating constraints for power exchange between components of the system, including at least a power exchange direction and current limits. The host computing device and accessory devices are each configured to renegotiate the power management contract to dynamically change operating constraints in “real-time.” Additionally, different power management contracts may be associated with identifying data corresponding to different types of accessory devices.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2014Date of Patent: January 23, 2018Assignee: MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGY LICENSING, LLCInventors: Gene Robert Obie, Heng Huang, Yi He, Duane Martin Evans
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Publication number: 20170160790Abstract: Accessory device power management techniques are described in which a power exchange state for a system including a host computing device, an accessory device, and an adapter is recognized. Power exchange states may be defined according to relative states of charge (RSOC) and connection status for the system components and mapped to power management control actions. Responsive to the recognition of a current power exchange state, corresponding power management control actions may be ascertained and applied to jointly manage power for the system. For instance, the host device may draw supplemental power from a power source associated with an accessory device (e.g., a battery or power adapter) or supply power for use by the accessory device according to different states. Power exchanges may also be managed in accordance with capabilities of the accessory device identified based on authentication of the accessory device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2017Publication date: June 8, 2017Applicant: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLCInventors: Gene Robert Obie, Yi He, Duane Martin Evans, Heng Huang, Michael Earl Gruber, Thitipant Tantasirikorn
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Patent number: 9594415Abstract: Accessory device power management techniques are described in which a power exchange state for a system including a host computing device, an accessory device, and an adapter is recognized. Power exchange states may be defined according to relative states of charge (RSOC) and connection status for the system components and mapped to power management control actions. Responsive to the recognition of a current power exchange state, corresponding power management control actions may be ascertained and applied to jointly manage power for the system. For instance, the host device may draw supplemental power from a power source associated with an accessory device (e.g., a battery or power adapter) or supply power for use by the accessory device according to different states. Power exchanges may also be managed in accordance with capabilities of the accessory device identified based on authentication of the accessory device.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2013Date of Patent: March 14, 2017Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLCInventors: Gene Robert Obie, Yi He, Duane Martin Evans, Heng Huang, Michael Earl Gruber, Thitipant Tantasrikorn
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Patent number: 9477625Abstract: Reversible connectors for accessory devices are described. In one or more implementations, a connector cable for an accessory of a host computing device is configured such that a head of the connector cable may be plugged into a corresponding port of the host in either orientation (straight or reverse). The host computing device is configured to sample signals associated with allocated pins of the connector to detect connection of the connector to an accessory port and to ascertain an orientation of the connector. A combination of high and low values of signals conveyed via these allocated pins upon insertion of the connector may be used by a controller of the host to distinguish between different types of devices and to resolve the orientation of the connector cable. A switching mechanism of the host computing device may then be configured to automatically route signals accordingly.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2016Date of Patent: October 25, 2016Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLCInventors: Heng Huang, Duane Martin Evans, Yi He, Gene Robert Obie
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Publication number: 20160217092Abstract: Reversible connectors for accessory devices are described. In one or more implementations, a connector cable for an accessory of a host computing device is configured such that a head of the connector cable may be plugged into a corresponding port of the host in either orientation (straight or reverse). The host computing device is configured to sample signals associated with allocated pins of the connector to detect connection of the connector to an accessory port and to ascertain an orientation of the connector. A combination of high and low values of signals conveyed via these allocated pins upon insertion of the connector may be used by a controller of the host to distinguish between different types of devices and to resolve the orientation of the connector cable. A switching mechanism of the host computing device may then be configured to automatically route signals accordingly.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2016Publication date: July 28, 2016Applicant: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLCInventors: Heng Huang, Duane Martin Evans, Yi He, Gene Robert Obie
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Patent number: 9367490Abstract: Reversible connectors for accessory devices are described. In one or more implementations, a connector cable for an accessory of a host computing device is configured such that a head of the connector cable may be plugged into a corresponding port of the host in either orientation (straight or reverse). The host computing device is configured to sample signals associated with allocated pins of the connector to detect connection of the connector to an accessory port and to ascertain an orientation of the connector. A combination of high and low values of signals conveyed via these allocated pins upon insertion of the connector may be used by a controller of the host to distinguish between different types of devices and to resolve the orientation of the connector cable. A switching mechanism of the host computing device may then be configured to automatically route signals accordingly.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2014Date of Patent: June 14, 2016Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLCInventors: Heng Huang, Yi He, Duane Martin Evans, Gene Robert Obie
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Publication number: 20150363339Abstract: Reversible connectors for accessory devices are described. In one or more implementations, a connector cable for an accessory of a host computing device is configured such that a head of the connector cable may be plugged into a corresponding port of the host in either orientation (straight or reverse). The host computing device is configured to sample signals associated with allocated pins of the connector to detect connection of the connector to an accessory port and to ascertain an orientation of the connector. A combination of high and low values of signals conveyed via these allocated pins upon insertion of the connector may be used by a controller of the host to distinguish between different types of devices and to resolve the orientation of the connector cable. A switching mechanism of the host computing device may then be configured to automatically route signals accordingly.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2014Publication date: December 17, 2015Inventors: Heng Huang, Yi He, Duane Martin Evans, Gene Robert Obie
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Publication number: 20150331463Abstract: Power management contracts for accessory devices are described. In one or more implementations, a power management contract is established for a system including a host computing device and an accessory device based at least in part upon power exchange conditions observed for the system. The power management contracts define operating constraints for power exchange between components of the system, including at least a power exchange direction and current limits. The host computing device and accessory devices are each configured to renegotiate the power management contract to dynamically change operating constraints in “real-time.” Additionally, different power management contracts may be associated with identifying data corresponding to different types of accessory devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2014Publication date: November 19, 2015Applicant: Microsoft CorporationInventors: Gene Robert Obie, Heng Huang, Yi He, Duane Martin Evans
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Publication number: 20150089248Abstract: Accessory device power management techniques are described in which a power exchange state for a system including a host computing device, an accessory device, and an adapter is recognized. Power exchange states may be defined according to relative states of charge (RSOC) and connection status for the system components and mapped to power management control actions. Responsive to the recognition of a current power exchange state, corresponding power management control actions may be ascertained and applied to jointly manage power for the system. For instance, the host device may draw supplemental power from a power source associated with an accessory device (e.g., a battery or power adapter) or supply power for use by the accessory device according to different states. Power exchanges may also be managed in accordance with capabilities of the accessory device identified based on authentication of the accessory device.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 22, 2013Publication date: March 26, 2015Inventors: Gene Robert Obie, Yi He, Duane Martin Evans, Heng Huang, Michael Earl Gruber, Thitipant Tantasrikorn
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Patent number: 8935774Abstract: Accessory device authentication techniques are described. In one or more embodiments, connection of an accessory device to a host computing device is detected. Responsive to the detection, an authentication sequence may occur to verify an identity and/or capabilities of the accessory device. Upon successful authentication of the accessory device, the host device may authorize the accessory device for power exchange interactions with the host device. The host device may then draw supplemental power from a power source associated with the authorized accessory device, such as a battery or power adapter. The host device may also enable the accessory device to obtain and use power supplied by the host device in some scenarios. Power exchange between a host device and an authorized accessory may be managed in accordance with capabilities of the accessory device that are identified during authentication.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2012Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: Jim Tom Belesiu, Gene Robert Obie, James Charles Marshall, Robert D. Young, Nathan C. Sherman, Edward C. Giaimo, III, David Neff, Jose R. Sousa
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Patent number: 8928499Abstract: An input device is disclosed that includes keys on a first surface and a second surface of the input device. At least some of the keys are operably coupled to a matrix including a switch for each key therein. When one of the keys is pressed, the corresponding switch is activated to provide a signal indicative thereof.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2007Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: Gary Rensberger, Gene Robert Obie, Mike Franks, Vincent Ball, Steven W. Fisher
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Publication number: 20140132550Abstract: Electrical contact and connector techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a computing system includes a computing device and an input device that are configured to be physically and communicatively coupled using a projection that is configured to be disposed within a channel, communication contacts that are configured to contact contacts within the channel to support the communicative coupling; and a protrusion disposed on the projection, the protrusion configured to be received within a cavity formed as part of the channel. The protrusion includes an electrical contact that is configured to be self-cleaning due to movement of the protrusion in relation to the cavity and is configured to transfer power between the input device and the computing device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2014Publication date: May 15, 2014Applicant: Microsoft CorporationInventors: Ivan Andrew McCracken, Robyn Rebecca Reed McLaughlin, Anthony Ernest Hillyerd, Summer L. Schneider, Duane Martin Evans, Yazan Aldehayyat, Brian David Bitz, David Paul Platt, Gene Robert Obie
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Patent number: 8719603Abstract: Accessory device authentication techniques are described. In one or more embodiments, connection of an accessory device to a host computing device is detected. Responsive to the detection, an authentication sequence may occur to verify an identity and/or capabilities of the accessory device. Upon successful authentication of the accessory device, the host device may authorize the accessory device for power exchange interactions with the host device. The host device may then draw supplemental power from a power source associated with the authorized accessory device, such as a battery or power adapter. The host device may also enable the accessory device to obtain and use power supplied by the host device in some scenarios. Power exchange between a host device and an authorized accessory may be managed in accordance with capabilities of the accessory device that are identified during authentication.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2012Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: Jim Tom Belesiu, Gene Robert Obie, James Charles Marshall, Robert D. Young, Nathan C. Sherman, Edward C. Giaimo, III, David Neff, Jose R. Sousa
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Patent number: 8614675Abstract: Automatic mode determination for an input device is disclosed. Depending on conditions of the input device, the input device can transition from a first mode to a transition mode and/or a second mode.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2007Date of Patent: December 24, 2013Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: Gary Rensberger, Gene Robert Obie, Mike Franks, Vincent Ball