Patents by Inventor Louis D. Williamson

Louis D. Williamson 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: 10631026
    Abstract: In accordance with aspects of the present invention, a technique is implemented to effectively receive streaming multimedia content in digital form, parse and segment the received transport stream and process the segmented content. Such treatment of received programming content provides for efficient storage of such programming content, and effectively provides for access to such content by administrators of a broadband system as well as users of such systems. In accordance with the invention, a technique enables, among other things: the creation of reference frames for, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: John B. Carlucci, Louis D. Williamson, Jon C. Honhart
  • Patent number: 10462797
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for using communications channels corresponding to frequency bands subject to cellular network, e.g., LTE, interference and/or other interference are described. The methods are well suited for use of cable networks where communications over a coax cable or via cable device may be subject to LTE interference. In various embodiments data traffic is classified based on whether the traffic corresponds to a protocol that supports a retry communications mechanism in the event of a communication error, the type of traffic data and/or the priority of the traffic data. In some embodiments data being communicated using a protocol which supports a retry mechanism are routed over channels subject to interference even if, in some cases, the packets correspond to data which has a higher priority or QoS requirements than packets, e.g., best effort packets, which are transmitted using a protocol that does not support a packet retry mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Louis D. Williamson, Michael Kelsen
  • Publication number: 20180338314
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for using communications channels corresponding to frequency bands subject to cellular network, e.g., LTE, interference and/or other interference are described. The methods are well suited for use of cable networks where communications over a coax cable or via cable device may be subject to LTE interference. In various embodiments data traffic is classified based on whether the traffic corresponds to a protocol that supports a retry communications mechanism in the event of a communication error, the type of traffic data and/or the priority of the traffic data. In some embodiments data being communicated using a protocol which supports a retry mechanism are routed over channels subject to interference even if, in some cases, the packets correspond to data which has a higher priority or QoS requirements than packets, e.g., best effort packets, which are transmitted using a protocol that does not support a packet retry mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2018
    Publication date: November 22, 2018
    Inventors: Louis D. Williamson, Michael Kelsen
  • Patent number: 10129577
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for controlled distribution of program content are described where program content for certain regions may be selectively blocked. The described methods and apparatus allow content distribution to authorized regions while providing control to the content provider to effectively block program content delivery to regions not entitled to receive the program content.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Louis D Williamson, Tom Gaebel
  • Patent number: 10091795
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for using communications channels corresponding to frequency bands subject to cellular network, e.g., LTE, interference and/or other interference are described. The methods are well suited for use of cable networks where communications over a coax cable or via cable device may be subject to LTE interference. In various embodiments data traffic is classified based on whether the traffic corresponds to a protocol that supports a retry communications mechanism in the event of a communication error, the type of traffic data and/or the priority of the traffic data. In some embodiments data being communicated using a protocol which supports a retry mechanism are routed over channels subject to interference even if, in some cases, the packets correspond to data which has a higher priority or QoS requirements than packets, e.g., best effort packets, which are transmitted using a protocol that does not support a packet retry mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Louis D. Williamson, Michael Kelsen
  • Patent number: 10045070
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for centralized content, media and data delivery and access within a premises such as, e.g., a residence. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a remotely manageable premises device that acts as a centralized client networking platform, providing gateway services such as network management as well as traditional content and high-speed data delivery functions. The device also acts as the shared internet connection for all devices in the premises via a cable modem, sharing personal and DVR content such as video, music and photos (and any associated metadata) throughout the premises, and providing both a wired and wireless network in the home. Telephony services utilizing e.g., embedded multimedia terminal adapter (eMTA) and/or Wi-Fi architectures may also be provided via the device. The device can also provide a trusted domain for content or data, as well as allowing a subscriber total mobility in the home.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: TIME WARNER CABLE ENTERPRISES LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Markley, Louis D. Williamson, John B. Carlucci
  • Patent number: 9992520
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing content to IP-enabled devices in a content distribution network. In one embodiment, a network architecture is disclosed which enables delivery of content to such IP-enabled devices without the use of a high-speed data connection This capability allow the managed network operator to provide content services to an IP-enabled device associated with a non-data subscriber. In one implementation, requests for content from user IP-enabled devices are received, authenticated, and content processed into a series of encrypted segments. Once the requesting user/device is authenticated, the segments are provided with a playlist. The rendering device is also provided access to a decryption key (e.g., via a URL to a managed key server). Variants providing (i) user access to the MSO distribution network via an indigenous modem or gateway; and (ii) user access to the MSO core via a gateway and a third party unmanaged network are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Louis D. Williamson, William L. Helms, Howard Pfeffer, Noah Paci, Tushar Nakhre, Andrew Danforth, Charles Hasek, Shan Huang
  • Patent number: 9942590
    Abstract: Segmentation messages indicative of locations of upcoming events, such as the start and end of programs and program portions, and/or rights related to the programs and program portions, are used by cable systems and the like to store programs and program portions for later retrieval and transmission to customers on request. Storage, retrieval and management of programming is thereby facilitated. Methods and systems are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: John B. Carlucci, Louis D. Williamson, John W. Callahan, Erik G. Urdang, David M. Kimble, Thomas Gonder, Joseph Buehl
  • Patent number: 9723267
    Abstract: A method and apparatus to create and transmit transport multiplexes comprising one or more levels of service over a network. In one embodiment, the level of service comprises high definition (HD) content or programs, and the transmitted multiplexes are distributed over a plurality of downstream RF carriers in a cable network simultaneously. A head-end architecture for performing the multiplexing and distribution of multiple HD programs over the multiple carriers (i.e., in a “wideband” configuration) is disclosed. CPE having one or more wideband tuners is also disclosed, the CPE being adapted to receive the multiplexed HD content from the various RF carriers, and demultiplex it in order to permit decoding and subsequent viewing by the user. The use of multiple HD source programs with the multiplex advantageously provides for enhanced statistical multiplexing by providing a larger “pool” of constituent inputs and available carriers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: TIME WARNER CABLE ENTERPRISES LLC
    Inventors: John B. Carlucci, William Helms, Louis D. Williamson
  • Patent number: 9706238
    Abstract: Segmentation messages indicative of locations of upcoming events, such as the start and end of programs and program portions, and/or rights related to the programs and program portions, are used by cable systems and the like to store programs and program portions for later retrieval and transmission to customers on request. Storage, retrieval and management of programming is thereby facilitated. Methods and systems are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: John B. Carlucci, Louis D. Williamson, John W. Callahan, Erik G. Urdang, David M. Kimble, Thomas Gonder, Joseph Buehl
  • Publication number: 20170118497
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for controlled distribution of program content are described where program content for certain regions may be selectively blocked. The described methods and apparatus allow content distribution to authorized regions while providing control to the content provider to effectively block program content delivery to regions not entitled to receive the program content.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2017
    Publication date: April 27, 2017
    Inventors: Louis D. Williamson, Tom Gaebel
  • Patent number: 9578353
    Abstract: In accordance with aspects of the present invention, a technique is implemented to effectively receive streaming multimedia content in digital form, parse and segment the received transport stream and process the segmented content. Such treatment of received programming content provides for efficient storage of such programming content, and effectively provides for access to such content by administrators of a broadband system as well as users of such systems. In accordance with the invention, a technique enables, among other things: the creation of reference frames for, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: John B. Carlucci, Louis D. Williamson, Jon C. Honhart
  • Publication number: 20170048873
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for using communications channels corresponding to frequency bands subject to cellular network, e.g., LTE, interference and/or other interference are described. The methods are well suited for use of cable networks where communications over a coax cable or via cable device may be subject to LTE interference. In various embodiments data traffic is classified based on whether the traffic corresponds to a protocol that supports a retry communications mechanism in the event of a communication error, the type of traffic data and/or the priority of the traffic data. In some embodiments data being communicated using a protocol which supports a retry mechanism are routed over channels subject to interference even if, in some cases, the packets correspond to data which has a higher priority or QoS requirements than packets, e.g., best effort packets, which are transmitted using a protocol that does not support a packet retry mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2016
    Publication date: February 16, 2017
    Inventors: Louis D. Williamson, Michael Kelsen
  • Patent number: 9538224
    Abstract: Segmentation messages indicative of locations of upcoming events, such as the start and end of programs and program portions, and/or rights related to the programs and program portions, are used by cable systems and the like to store programs and program portions for later retrieval and transmission to customers on request. Storage, retrieval and management of programming is thereby facilitated. Methods and systems are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: John B. Carlucci, Louis D. Williamson, John W. Callahan, Erik G. Urdang, David M. Kimble, Thomas Gonder, Joseph Buehl
  • Patent number: 9538206
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for controlled distribution of program content are described where program content for certain regions may be selectively blocked. The described methods and apparatus allow content distribution to authorized regions while providing control to the content provider to effectively block program content delivery to regions not entitled to receive the program content.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: TIME WARNER CABLE ENTERPRISES LLC
    Inventors: Louis D Williamson, Tom Gaebel
  • Patent number: 9503767
    Abstract: Segmentation messages indicative of locations of upcoming events, such as the start and end of programs and program portions, and/or rights related to the programs and program portions, are used by cable systems and the like to store programs and program portions for later retrieval and transmission to customers on request. Storage, retrieval and management of programming is thereby facilitated. Methods and systems are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: Time Warner Cable Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: John B. Carlucci, Louis D. Williamson, John W. Callahan, Erik G. Urdang, David M. Kimble, Thomas Gonder, Joseph Buehl
  • Patent number: 9479452
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for using communications channels corresponding to frequency bands subject to cellular network, e.g., LTE, interference and/or other interference are described. The methods are well suited for use of cable networks where communications over a coax cable or via cable device may be subject to LTE interference. In various embodiments data traffic is classified based on whether the traffic corresponds to a protocol that supports a retry communications mechanism in the event of a communication error, the type of traffic data and/or the priority of the traffic data. In some embodiments data being communicated using a protocol which supports a retry mechanism are routed over channels subject to interference even if, in some cases, the packets correspond to data which has a higher priority or QoS requirements than packets, e.g., best effort packets, which are transmitted using a protocol that does not support a packet retry mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: TIME WARNER CABLE ENTERPRISES LLC
    Inventors: Louis D Williamson, Michael Kelsen
  • Publication number: 20160234546
    Abstract: Segmentation messages indicative of locations of upcoming events, such as the start and end of programs and program portions, and/or rights related to the programs and program portions, are used by cable systems and the like to store programs and program portions for later retrieval and transmission to customers on request. Storage, retrieval and management of programming is thereby facilitated. Methods and systems are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Publication date: August 11, 2016
    Inventors: John B. CARLUCCI, Louis D. WILLIAMSON, John W. CALLAHAN, Erik G. URDANG, David M. KIMBLE, Thomas GONDER, Joseph BUEHL
  • Publication number: 20160219314
    Abstract: Segmentation messages indicative of locations of upcoming events, such as the start and end of programs and program portions, and/or rights related to the programs and program portions, are used by cable systems and the like to store programs and program portions for later retrieval and transmission to customers on request. Storage, retrieval and management of programming is thereby facilitated. Methods and systems are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2016
    Publication date: July 28, 2016
    Inventors: John B. CARLUCCI, Louis D. WILLIAMSON, John W. CALLAHAN, Erik G. URDANG, David M. KIMBLE, Thomas GONDER, Joseph BUEHL
  • Publication number: 20160165268
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing content to IP-enabled devices in a content distribution network. In one embodiment, a network architecture is disclosed which enables delivery of content to such IP-enabled devices without the use of a high-speed data connection This capability allow the managed network operator to provide content services to an IP-enabled device associated with a non-data subscriber. In one implementation, requests for content from user IP-enabled devices are received, authenticated, and content processed into a series of encrypted segments. Once the requesting user/device is authenticated, the segments are provided with a playlist. The rendering device is also provided access to a decryption key (e.g., via a URL to a managed key server). Variants providing (i) user access to the MSO distribution network via an indigenous modem or gateway; and (ii) user access to the MSO core via a gateway and a third party unmanaged network are described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2015
    Publication date: June 9, 2016
    Inventors: LOUIS D. WILLIAMSON, WILLIAM L. HELMS, HOWARD PFEFFER, NOAH PACI, TUSHAR NAKHRE, ANDREW DANFORTH, CHARLES HASEK, SHAN HUANG