Patents by Inventor Kenneth Johnson

Kenneth Johnson 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).

  • Patent number: 7588405
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for unloading grain bins. The apparatus (10) comprises an endless conveyor belt (18) supported on a set of rollers. A first section of the supported conveyor belt (18) is adapted for insertion at or near the bottom of a grain bin. A second section is adapted for extension out of the grain bin to an outlet. The conveyor belt (18) is supported in a manner that allows transport of the grain with a minimization of friction, trauma or interaction between the grain to maintain quality of the grain. The speed of the conveyor belt (18) is selected to make for efficient throughput of unloading. Other aspects of the invention include a structure to incline the output end of a conveyor belt (18), support the conveyor belt (18), adapt the conveyor to different sizes, and assist in movement of the conveyor, and ancillary parts to allow selective use of the conveyor relative to the bin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Grainway, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Eric Johnson, Kenneth Johnson, Clarence T. Sherfield
  • Patent number: 7562408
    Abstract: The sleeper storage apparatus is partially made of a pliable rectangular panel substantially sized to match a length and width dimension of a bunk in a sleeper cab. The first round rigid spine is removably affixed within the panel top, with a plurality of spaced apart upper straps removably affixed to the first rigid spine. The second rigid spine is removably affixed within the panel bottom with a plurality of spaced apart lower straps removably affixed to the second spine. Each of the upper straps is selectively hooked to one of each of the lower straps, each attached upper and lower strap forming a strap pair. Each strap pair is removably wrapped around the bunk. A plurality of pliable pockets is affixed to the panel, including a hamper pocket with lower opening and trap door to ease in emptying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventors: Kenneth Johnson, Kenneth Johnson
  • Patent number: 7492173
    Abstract: Probe accessories, and methods for routing signals between a target and a test instrument using the probe accessories, are disclosed. Some of the probe accessories include a flexible circuit and first and second pairs of contacts. Flexible circuit design varies, but one embodiment has first and second regions, a first conductor and a second conductor, and a separation feature. The first conductor extends into the first region while the second conductor extends into both the first and second regions and has a fixed spacing with respect to the first conductor. A separation feature extends between first and second regions and is operable to create two independently maneuverable legs, each leg comprising an end portion of the first and second regions, while maintaining a fixed spacing between the first and second conductors. The first and second pairs of contacts electrically couple the probe accessories between test points and test instruments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Brock J. LaMeres, Brent A. Holcombe, Kenneth Johnson
  • Publication number: 20080298796
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an image capture device and a technique for capturing an image. The technique includes selecting at least one subject displayed on an image capture device as an image trigger condition and entering a threshold level corresponding to the at least one image trigger condition. The technique further provides monitoring a signal from at least one sensor detecting the at least one image trigger condition and obtaining at least one digital image upon detecting the sensed image trigger condition meeting the threshold level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Cheryl J. Kuberka, David C. Barnum, Frances C. Williams, John N. Border, Kenneth A. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20080298795
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an image capture device and a technique for capturing an image. The technique includes configuring an image capture device in a learning mode for sensing at least one variable in the device's surroundings and defining a normal state of the at least one variable. Further, the technique includes initiating image capture upon detecting a transition of the at least one variable from the normal state to a new condition, wherein the transition exceeds a predetermined threshold level, and redefining the normal state to the new condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Cheryl J. Kuberka, David C. Barnum, Frances C. Williams, John N. Border, Kenneth A. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20080255485
    Abstract: The invention provides a cuff (20) which comprises an expandable pneumatic bladder (202, 203, 204) and means to secure the bladder to a calf of a person, wherein the cuff (200) is arrangable, in use, to apply pressure to the calf. Also provided are a cuff assembly and a kit including a cuff or cuff assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: NOCLOTS LIMITED
    Inventors: Richard Kenneth Johnson, Nile Allaf
  • Publication number: 20080071600
    Abstract: Systems and computer implemented methods of managing a plurality of tasks is described. The system includes a module to receive a request by the system for a service. The module further includes a module to divide the service into an at least one task of the plurality of tasks on the system. The module further includes a module to assign a subgroup of the at least one task to a specialist. In addition, systems and methods for automatically determining a settlement payment option is described. The system includes a module to receive a personal information for a client. The system further includes a module to calculate a monthly disposable income from the personal information. The system further includes a module to calculate an estimated installment payment from the monthly disposable income.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Inventor: Kenneth Johnson
  • Patent number: 7333200
    Abstract: A method of controlling the lithography process used to fabricate patterns on layers of a semiconductor wafer is disclosed. The method includes providing at least two scatterometry targets, each target having a first pattern formed in an upper layer substantially aligned with a second pattern formed in a lower layer. The targets are optically inspected. A theoretical model of each target is created, with each model including a plurality of unknown parameters defining the target and wherein at least one of the parameters is common to each of the targets. A regression analysis is performed wherein the measured optical response of the targets is compared to calculated optical responses generated by varying the values of the parameters applied to the model. During the regression analysis, a common value for the common parameter is maintained. The results are used to control the lithography process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Abdurrahman Sezginer, Kenneth Johnson
  • Publication number: 20080039026
    Abstract: A method of performing a frequency correction of a radio module. Multiple samples of frequency data during a quiescent portion of the base station transmission is taken to estimate the amount of frequency correction needed. An embodiment applies the frequency data to a median filter to eliminate invalid data. Next, a new reference frequency is applied to a radio transceiver in the radio module to provide the frequency correction. If the frequency was corrected by greater than a pre-determined amount, the process performs a large shift frequency correction, including verifying that the first frequency correction was satisfactory and verifying that the radio transceiver is able to receive data after the frequency correction has been performed. If the frequency was corrected by smaller than a pre-determined amount, the process performs a small shift frequency correction, including updating a total of all frequency corrections made since a stored reference frequency was updated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Kenneth Johnson, John Brown, Edward Vertatschitsch
  • Patent number: 7330110
    Abstract: Systems and methods for a user to receive dynamic business information on a wireless communication device via a wireless connection are presented. The wireless communication device can be a hand-held personal computer, a paging device, a wireless telephone, or other wireless communication device. Dynamic business information comprising subscription-based content that is tailored to an individual is delivered to the device. The systems and methods provide a mechanism for setting personalized thresholds for data items maintained by an application. These thresholds can then be used to enact an event (or alert) via the application when the threshold is met. For example, the alert can be an audible sound or a display of a message that appears on the wireless communication device. As a further example, the alert can comprise an e-mail received on the wireless communication device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Carlson Companies, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Brooks Heintzman, Robert John Richards, David Newell Sjolander, Thomas Gerald Nalley, Carol Ruth Nissen, Jeffrey Dean Heine, Timothy Kenneth Johnson, Michael Murphy
  • Publication number: 20080012255
    Abstract: A combined desk and article carrier assembly for transporting at least one article in one mode and for serving as a work desk in another mode. The assembly includes wheels at its lower end with the upper end including an upwardly telescopical handle assembly for manually moving the frame on its wheels. A desk-top shelf is pivotally connected to an opposite side of the frame near its top end and is adapted to pivot outwardly and upwardly to a generally horizontal position to provide a support surface for supporting a lap top computer or the like. A telescoping support strut is attached to the desk-top shelf for providing additional support thereto in conjunction with a deployable foot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2007
    Publication date: January 17, 2008
    Inventors: Kenneth Johnson, Melissa Johnson
  • Publication number: 20070296317
    Abstract: A compactable wheeled transport system with a first pivotal shelf for ease of transporting a first object in a first mode of operation. A compactable wheeled transport system with a second pivotal shelf for use as a work surface and support a second object thereon. Additionally, a pivotal foot is disclosed for stabilization of the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Publication date: December 27, 2007
    Inventors: Kenneth Johnson, Melissa Johnson
  • Publication number: 20070295171
    Abstract: A generally cylindrical shaped tool handle holds multiple sizes of tools. The handle includes one or more holding slots each positioned on one of multiple outer surface faces into which tools are inserted and held. Each holding slot includes one or more contoured compartments in which tools rest when engaged with the handle. Each contoured compartment is of a size and dimension which corresponds to one or more tool sizes. In the preferred embodiment of the tool handle, three of its outer surface faces have a continuous holding slot with multiple receiving holes for inserting therein hexagonal wrenches of multiple sizes. The continuous holding slots of the preferred embodiment of the handle include multiple contoured compartments for holding an inserted hexagonal wrench. Each contoured compartment is formed about a corresponding receiving hole. A lock is positioned over the contoured compartment to irremovably confine the short leg of the hexagonal wrench within the contoured compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Publication date: December 27, 2007
    Inventors: Kenneth Johnson, Robert Johnson, Ronald Johnson
  • Publication number: 20070263342
    Abstract: An apparatus and method includes an integrated circuit disposed in a ball grid array (“BGA”) package having interconnects on at least one corner without signal assignments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2006
    Publication date: November 15, 2007
    Inventor: Kenneth Johnson
  • Publication number: 20070248625
    Abstract: A vaccine for preventing or treating Orthopoxvirus infection that induces a protective or therapeutic immune response, wherein the vaccine comprises (1) an amino acid sequence of 20 amino acid or less (preferably 12 amino acid or less and most preferably 11 amino acid or less) of the formula X1-SEQ ID NO:1-X2, wherein X1 and X2 are peptides of 0-11 amino acid in length comprising either native or non-native amino acid sequences, (2) an antigen-presenting cell pulsed with the peptide, or (3) a cell sensitized in vitro to the peptide is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Publication date: October 25, 2007
    Inventors: Gregory Poland, Inna Ovsyannikova, David Muddiman, Kenneth Johnson
  • Patent number: 7272369
    Abstract: Frequency correction of a radio module. An estimate is made of the amount of frequency correction needed while applying an original reference frequency. If the frequency correction needed is greater than a pre-determined amount, a large shift frequency correction is performed, including applying a new reference frequency and verifying that the large shift frequency correction is satisfactory. If the large shift frequency correction is unsatisfactory, the original reference frequency is restored. If the frequency correction needed is smaller than a pre-determined amount, a small shift frequency correction is performed, including applying a new reference frequency and updating a total of all frequency corrections made since a stored reference frequency was updated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Palm, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth Johnson, John Brown, Edward Vertatschitsch
  • Publication number: 20070191194
    Abstract: A jump rope simulator for aerobic and anaerobic exercise having a hand-held unit comprising a handle, a base length connected to the handle, and one or more concatenated extension lengths attached to the base length. To exercise, the user grasps one or two units, imitates the motions of swinging a conventional jump rope, and jumps up and down, but there is no risk to the user of tripping over a rope as with a conventional jump rope. If the user desires, two units may also be linked together with an easily attachable connector to form a device similar to a conventional jump rope. A user can quickly convert between the two configurations of the jump rope simulator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2007
    Publication date: August 16, 2007
    Inventors: Cynthia Joy, Kenneth Johnson, F. Sophir
  • Publication number: 20070176611
    Abstract: A probe for an array of interconnecting leads between a PCA and an IC has one or more contacts extending laterally from or plated upon one or more arms formed of a flexible printed circuit, and connected by traces along the arm(s) to a header that itself affords connection to measurement equipment. The flexible printed circuit is thin enough to loosely slide between the top of the PCA or PCB and the bottom of the IC. The arm or arms is/are narrow enough to slide between the adjacent leads forming the array, while the normally flat contacts will successively interfere with, to engage and electrically contact, consecutive layers of leads as the probe is progressively inserted. An arm is not so stiff that it cannot yield by a slight compressive warping as the contacts encounter leads. Indexing may be ‘by feel’ or by visible indicia along a top surface of the probe or by a reticle device that moves over the top of the IC, which then has a pattern of indicia corresponding to lead location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Publication date: August 2, 2007
    Inventors: Brent Holcombe, Brock LaMeres, Kenneth Johnson
  • Publication number: 20070173080
    Abstract: A board-to-board interconnect is presented. The interconnect is fashioned from solder beads or hemi-ellipsoidal surface features on a surface of a printed circuit board and contact pads on a second printed circuit board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Publication date: July 26, 2007
    Inventors: Kenneth Johnson, Brock LaMeres
  • Patent number: D556066
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Lecroy Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Hoang, Matthew Evans, Christopher Busso, Tyler Cox, Kenneth Johnson