Patents by Inventor Kent Smith

Kent Smith 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: 11199048
    Abstract: A pivotable handle for an architectural covering is provided. The handle (400) includes first and second members (408,410) pivotably connected together at a hinge assembly (460). The first member (408) may be operable to connect the handle (400) to a movable rail (512). The second member (410) pivots between stored and use positions. In a stored position, the second member (410) may extend adjacent the first member (408). In a use position, the second member (410) may be pivoted away from the first member (408) to extend the movable rail (512) across an architectural structure. The handle includes a biasing member (470) operable to bias the second member (410) towards the first member (408).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2021
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Watkins, Kenneth W. Witherell, Stephen P. Smith, Michael True, Galen B. Rhodes, Tim Daviau, Kent Smith, Paula Cerna
  • Patent number: 10487572
    Abstract: A pivotable handle for an architectural covering is provided. The handle may include first and second members pivotably connected together at a hinge assembly. The first member may be operable to connect the handle to a movable rail. The second member may pivot between stored and use positions. In a stored position, the second member may extend adjacent the first member. In a use position, the second member may be pivoted away from the first member to extend the movable rail across an architectural structure. The handle may include a biasing member operable to bias the second member towards the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen P. Smith, Michael True, Galen B. Rhodes, Tim Daviau, Kent Smith, Paula Cerna
  • Publication number: 20180371834
    Abstract: A pivotable handle for an architectural covering is provided. The handle (400) includes first and second members (408,410) pivotably connected together at a hinge assembly (460). The first member (408) may be operable to connect the handle (400) to a movable rail (512). The second member (410) pivots between stored and use positions. In a stored position, the second member (410) may extend adjacent the first member (408). In a use position, the second member (410) may be pivoted away from the first member (408) to extend the movable rail (512) across an architectural structure. The handle includes a biasing member (470) operable to bias the second member (410) towards the first member (408).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2017
    Publication date: December 27, 2018
    Inventors: Richard Watkins, Kenneth W. Witherell, Stephen P. Smith, Michael True, Galen B. Rhodes, Tim Daviau, Kent Smith, Paula Cerna
  • Publication number: 20170211322
    Abstract: A pivotable handle for an architectural covering is provided. The handle may include first and second members pivotably connected together at a hinge assembly. The first member may be operable to connect the handle to a movable rail. The second member may pivot between stored and use positions. In a stored position, the second member may extend adjacent the first member. In a use position, the second member may be pivoted away from the first member to extend the movable rail across an architectural structure. The handle may include a biasing member operable to bias the second member towards the first member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2017
    Publication date: July 27, 2017
    Inventors: Stephen P. Smith, Michael True, Galen B. Rhodes, Tim Daviau, Kent Smith, Paula Cerna
  • Patent number: 9138615
    Abstract: Incline mechanisms are provided for adjusting an incline of an inclinable portion of an exercise device. The incline mechanism may include one or more racks disposed on a frame, such as a generally upright support structure of a treadmill. One or more pinions may be movably connected to the inclinable portion of the exercise device, such as a treadbase of a treadmill, and may engage the one or more racks. An incline motor may rotate the pinions, which causes the pinions to ride up or down the racks. As the pinions rides up or down the racks or linear gear bars, the incline of the inclinable portion of the exercise device is increased or decreased. The pinions may rotate between various positions on the racks which correspond to various inclines and declines, including fully inclined, fully declined, and neutral positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Assignee: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Olson, William T. Dalebout, Kent Smith, Trenton V. Larsen, Gordon Cutler
  • Publication number: 20110054366
    Abstract: A therapeutic pressure system includes a sealed actuator housing containing an electrolyte and one or more polymer actuators that actuate via movement of electrolyte components into, out of around or within the polymer matrix of the polymer actuators. The system also includes an actuator support structure for the polymer actuators, working and counter electrodes in working contact with the actuators, circuitry for connecting the electrodes to a power source, and a controller between the power source and the electrodes to control the electrical current to the electrodes. The system is particularly useful for use in a hospital bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventors: Kent Smith, Mark McWilliams, William Bloom, Mark P. Banister
  • Patent number: 7436338
    Abstract: Exemplary sigma-delta modulators include a summing block configured to receive an input signal, a noise shaping unit configured to process an output signal of the summing block, a quantizer configured to quantize an output signal of the noise shaping unit, and a current-mode digital-to-analog converter (“DAC”) configured to convert an output of the quantizer into an analog signal and input the analog signal into the summing block in a closed loop feedback manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Assignee: SLICEX, Inc.
    Inventors: Rex K. Hales, Kent Smith
  • Publication number: 20080014211
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and compositions for inducing, entraining, and/or amplifying the immune response to MHC class-I restricted epitopes of carcinoma antigens to generate an effective anti-cancer immune response. The methods and compositions disclosed herein, can be used for prophylactic or therapeutic purposes. Further embodiments provide methods of treating a cell proliferative disease, such as cancer by providing to a subject in need thereof a therapeutic strategy comprising an immunogenic composition in combination with a chemotherapeutic agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2007
    Publication date: January 17, 2008
    Applicant: MANNKIND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Adrian Bot, Kent Smith
  • Patent number: 7262476
    Abstract: An MOS device is formed including a semiconductor layer of a first conductivity type, and source and drain regions of a second conductivity type formed in the semiconductor layer proximate an upper surface of the semiconductor layer. The source and drain regions are spaced apart relative to one another. A drift region of the second conductivity type is formed in the semiconductor layer proximate the upper surface of the semiconductor layer and at least partially between the source and drain regions, the drift region having an impurity doping concentration greater than about 2.0e12 atoms/cm2. An insulating layer is formed on at least a portion of the upper surface of the semiconductor layer. The device further includes a gate formed on the insulating layer at least partially between the source and drain regions, and a buried layer of the first conductivity type formed in the semiconductor layer in close relative proximity to and beneath at least a portion of the drift region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Agere Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff D. Bude, Isik C. Kizilyalli, Kent Smith
  • Publication number: 20070139241
    Abstract: Exemplary sigma-delta modulators include a summing block configured to receive an input signal, a noise shaping unit configured to process an output signal of the summing block, a quantizer configured to quantize an output signal of the noise shaping unit, and a current-mode digital-to-analog converter (“DAC”) configured to convert an output of the quantizer into an analog signal and input the analog signal into the summing block in a closed loop feedback manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Publication date: June 21, 2007
    Inventors: Rex Hales, Kent Smith
  • Publication number: 20070003563
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of treating a cell proliferative disease such as cancer by providing to a subject in need thereof an immunogenic composition comprising plasmid and peptide(s) or analogues thereof. In embodiments of the present invention there is provided methods and compositions for inducing, entraining, and/or amplifying the immune response to MHC class-I restricted epitopes of carcinoma antigens to generate an effective anti-cancer immune response.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Publication date: January 4, 2007
    Inventors: Adrian Bot, Chih-Sheng Chiang, David Diamond, Jian Gong, Kent Smith, Liping Liu, Xiping Liu, Zhiyong Qiu
  • Publication number: 20060244478
    Abstract: Systems for reducing ringing of a signal generated by a digital signal source circuit include a number of driver circuits configured to incrementally increase an output impedance of the source circuit. The increase in output impedance is configured to reduce the ringing of the signal. Methods of reducing ringing of a signal generated by a digital signal source circuit include incrementally increasing an output impedance of the source circuit. The increase in output impedance is configured to reduce the ringing of the signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2006
    Publication date: November 2, 2006
    Inventors: Kent Smith, Tracy Johancsik
  • Publication number: 20060165711
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to methods and compositions for eliciting, enhancing, and sustaining immune responses, preferably multivalent responses, preferably against MHC class I-restricted epitopes. The methods and compositions can be used for prophylactic or therapeutic purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Publication date: July 27, 2006
    Inventors: Adrian Bot, Xiping Liu, Kent Smith
  • Publication number: 20060113625
    Abstract: An MOS device is formed including a semiconductor layer of a first conductivity type, and source and drain regions of a second conductivity type formed in the semiconductor layer proximate an upper surface of the semiconductor layer. The source and drain regions are spaced apart relative to one another. A drift region of the second conductivity type is formed in the semiconductor layer proximate the upper surface of the semiconductor layer and at least partially between the source and drain regions, the drift region having an impurity doping concentration greater than about 2.0e12 atoms/cm2. An insulating layer is formed on at least a portion of the upper surface of the semiconductor layer. The device further includes a gate formed on the insulating layer at least partially between the source and drain regions, and a buried layer of the first conductivity type formed in the semiconductor layer in close relative proximity to and beneath at least a portion of the drift region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Publication date: June 1, 2006
    Inventors: Jeff Bude, Isik Kizilyalli, Kent Smith
  • Publication number: 20050079152
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to methods and compositions for eliciting, enhancing, and sustaining immune responses, preferably against MHC class I-restricted epitopes. The methods and compositions can be used for prophylactic or therapeutic purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2004
    Publication date: April 14, 2005
    Inventors: Adrian Bot, Xiping Liu, Kent Smith
  • Patent number: 6751936
    Abstract: An apparatus for starting an engine comprises a frame and an internal combustion engine operatively mounted to the frame. A control member is operatively connected to the frame, wherein the control member has an activated position and a deactivated position. The control member adapted to complete an engine circuit when in the activated position. An energy storage medium is operatively associated with the engine such that release of energy stored in the energy storage medium turns the engine and facilitates its starting. A starting assembly is utilized to release the stored energy in the energy storage medium. As such, an operator must utilize two separate and distinct actions, activating the control member and activating the starting assembly, to restart the internal combustion engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: MTD Products Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Kucera, Kent Smith
  • Publication number: 20020073671
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for starting an engine. An apparatus comprises a frame and an internal combustion engine operatively mounted to the frame. A control member is operatively connected to the frame, wherein the control member has an activated position and a deactivated position. The control member adapted to complete an engine circuit when in the activated position. An energy storage medium is operatively associated with the engine such that release of energy stored in the energy storage medium turns the engine and facilitates its starting. A starting assembly is utilized to release the stored energy in the energy storage medium. As such, an operator must utilize two separate and distinct actions, activating the control member and activating the starting assembly, to restart the internal combustion engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Kucera, Kent Smith
  • Patent number: 6309890
    Abstract: A test sample card is provided with a locking feature for achieving a positive, locking engagement with a transfer tube that conducts fluid into the interior of the test sample card. The locking feature consists of a tubular channel inwardly disposed from the fluid intake port that has an inner annular rim defining a restriction. The annular rim is of a reduced diameter relative to the diameter of the transfer tube. A recessed region is positioned inwardly from the restriction that has an opening in one of the surfaces of the card body. When the transfer tube is inserted into the tubular channel, the first end is forced past the restriction into the recessed region, with the annular rim compressing the transfer tube. The user is able to sense with their hands when the first end is inserted past the restriction. Visual observation of the first end of the transfer tube through the opening in the card surface confirms that the transfer tube has been properly inserted into the test sample card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: bioMérieux, Inc.
    Inventors: Garry R. Tegeler, Kent Smith
  • Patent number: 5804437
    Abstract: A test sample card is provided with a locking feature for achieving a positive, locking engagement with a transfer tube that conducts fluid into the interior of the test sample card. The locking feature consists of a tubular channel inwardly disposed from the fluid intake port that has an inner annular rim defining a restriction. The annular rim is of a reduced diameter relative to the diameter of the transfer tube. A recessed region is positioned inwardly from the restriction that has an opening in one of the surfaces of the card body. When the transfer tube is inserted into the tubular channel, the first end is forced past the restriction into the recessed region, with the annular rim compressing the transfer tube. The user is able to sense with their hands when the first end is inserted past the restriction. Visual observation of the first end of the transfer tube through the opening in the card surface confirms that the transfer tube has been properly inserted into the test sample card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: bioMerieux Vitek, Inc.
    Inventors: Garry R. Tegeler, Kent Smith
  • Patent number: 5674454
    Abstract: A disposal system for stacking card-like objects neatly in a magazine. The cards enter the disposal system via a card entrance slot. A push plate located adjacent the slot pushes the cards past a pair of resilient snap elements in the sides of the magazine. A pressure plate is located behind the snap elements and biases the cards that have been pushed over the snap elements forward towards the rear of the snap elements. The cards are maintained in a stacked condition between the snap elements and the pressure plate. When a card is inserted into the card slot, the push plate is operated to an extended position, in which it pushes the card past the snap elements against the cards stacked between the snap elements and the pressure plate. The push plate then retracts, so as to enable another card to enter into the card slot. The user of the machine removes the magazine from the machine when the need arises or when the magazine is fully loaded with cards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Assignee: bio Merieux Vitek, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifford W. Karl, Kent Smith, Arthur Rousmaniere, David Porat, Thomas Burchard, Gregg Flender