Patents by Inventor M. Ward

M. Ward 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: 20210070223
    Abstract: A catwalk includes a mounting frame or other connection to a side of a vehicle/equipment, a floor, and at least one railing/railing-portion; an actuator system to move the catwalk enclosure between retracted and deployed positions; and a guide arm for guiding/controlling pivoting of the at least one railing/railing-portion relative to the floor. The actuator system and guide arm are preferably substantially or entirely outside of the catwalk walkway space, for easy movement along the walkway, easy access to the walkway at one or both ends, and obstacle/barrier-free passage from one catwalk to another on the same vehicle/equipment. The actuator system prevents the catwalk from collapsing/retracting when a person is on the catwalk, for example, by the lift capacity of a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder being controlled/tuned so that the cylinder does not have the capacity/capability to lift and retract the catwalk when the catwalk is occupied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2020
    Publication date: March 11, 2021
    Inventors: FRED S. OLIVER, MICHAEL R. BRUETT, CHASE C. OLIVER, LEE M. WARD
  • Patent number: 10930285
    Abstract: A method to select a response in a multi-turn conversation between a user and a conversational bot. The conversation is composed of a set of events, wherein an event is a linear sequence of observations that are user speech or physical actions. Queries are processed against a set of conversations that are organized as a set of inter-related data tables, with events and observations stored in distinct tables. As the multi-turn conversation proceeds, a data model comprising an observation history, together with a hierarchy of events determined to represent the conversation up to at least one turn, is persisted. When a new input (speech or physical action) is received, it is classified using a statistical model to generate a result. The result is then mapped to an observation in the data model. Using the mapped observation, a look-up is performed into the data tables to retrieve a possible response.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: Drift.com, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey D. Orkin, Christopher M. Ward
  • Patent number: 10930272
    Abstract: A technique for semantic search and retrieval that is event-based, wherein is event is composed of a sequence of observations that are user speech or physical actions. Using a first set of conversations, a machine learning model is trained against groupings of utterances therein to generate a speech act classifier. Observation sequences therein are organized into groupings of events and configured for subsequent event recognition. A set of second (unannotated) conversations are then received. The set of second conversations is evaluated using the speech act classifier and information retrieved from the event recognition to generate event-level metadata that comprises, for each utterance or physical action within an event, one or more associated tags. In response to a query, a search is performed against the metadata. Because the metadata is derived from event recognition, the search is performed against events learned from the set of first conversations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: Drift.com, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey D. Orkin, Christopher M. Ward, Elias Torres
  • Patent number: 10913021
    Abstract: A water purification device includes a heavy metal removal layer configured to remove heavy metal ions and perfluorinated compounds from contaminated water. The water purification device may further include a biological species removal layer configured to remove biological species from the contaminated water and a support layer configured to provide support for the water purification device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Zhiyong Xia, Brad M. Ward
  • Publication number: 20210022492
    Abstract: A multi-level cabinet storage system includes a multi-level storage container that includes a number of shelves, each with horizontal planar surfaces, coupled between the vertical opposing members. The horizontal planar surfaces of respective shelves may be aligned vertically in parallel planes. The vertical opposing members may include a rear vertical member and a front vertical member. The multi-level cabinet storage system also includes a first slide member coupled with a base of the multi-level storage container and a second slide member coupled at a first end with the rear vertical member and extending parallel with, and along, a horizontal planar surface of an upper shelf included among the shelves. The multi-level cabinet storage system also includes an external frame formed as a contiguous rigid structure coupled with the first slide member and the second slide member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2020
    Publication date: January 28, 2021
    Applicant: Rev-A-Shelf Company, LLC
    Inventors: Bryan Keith Tingle, Paul Franklin Chambers, Kevin M. Ward, Leeman Elliot Stevens
  • Publication number: 20200373743
    Abstract: A cabinet system may include a storage container mountable in a cabinet to be movable between being extended out of the cabinet, and being disposed inside the cabinet. The system may include a pair of slide members, and a power connection point. The slide members may slidably connect the storage container and the cabinet. The power connection point includes a cover and an electric outlet. The cover is moveable between a closed position where the electric outlet is inaccessible by a power plug, and an open position where the electric outlet is accessible by the power plug. Slidable movement of the storage container to move the power connection point from outside to inside the cabinet is denied due the cover, in the open position, extending away from the storage container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2019
    Publication date: November 26, 2020
    Applicant: Rev-A-Shelf Company, LLC
    Inventors: Paul Franklin Chambers, Kevin M. Ward, Lauren Klaire Wilson, Leeman Elliot Stevens
  • Patent number: 10818293
    Abstract: A method to select a response in a multi-turn conversation between a user and a conversational bot. The conversation is composed of a set of events, wherein an event is a linear sequence of observations that are user speech or physical actions. Queries are processed against a set of conversations that are organized as a set of inter-related data tables, with events and observations stored in distinct tables. As the multi-turn conversation proceeds, a data model comprising an observation history, together with a hierarchy of events determined to represent the conversation up to at least one turn, is persisted. When a new input (speech or physical action) is received, it is classified using a statistical model to generate a result. The result is then mapped to an observation in the data model. Using the mapped observation, a look-up is performed into the data tables to retrieve a possible response.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: Drift.com, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey D. Orkin, Christopher M. Ward
  • Patent number: 10799020
    Abstract: A multi-level cabinet storage system includes a multi-level storage container that includes a number of shelves, each with horizontal planar surfaces, coupled between the vertical opposing members. The horizontal planar surfaces of respective shelves may be aligned vertically in parallel planes. The vertical opposing members may include a rear vertical member and a front vertical member. The multi-level cabinet storage system also includes a first slide member coupled with a base of the multi-level storage container and a second slide member coupled at a first end with the rear vertical member and extending parallel with, and along, a horizontal planar surface of an upper shelf included among the shelves. The multi-level cabinet storage system also includes an external frame formed as a contiguous rigid structure coupled with the first slide member and the second slide member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: Rev-A-Shelf Company, LLC
    Inventors: Bryan Keith Tingle, Paul Franklin Chambers, Kevin M. Ward, Leeman Elliot Stevens
  • Patent number: 10780830
    Abstract: A catwalk includes a mounting frame or other connection to a side of a vehicle/equipment, a floor, and at least one railing; an actuator system for moving the catwalk enclosure between retracted and deployed positions; and a guide arm for guiding/controlling pivoting of the railing relative to the floor. The actuator system and guide arm are preferably substantially or entirely outside of the catwalk walkway space where a user walks or stands, thereby providing easy access to the walkway at one or both ends and obstacle- and barrier-free passage from one catwalk to another on the same vehicle/equipment. The actuator system prevents the catwalk from collapsing/retracting when a person is on the catwalk, for example, by the lift capacity of a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder being controlled/tuned so that the cylinder does not have the capacity/capability to lift and retract the catwalk when the catwalk is occupied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Inventors: Fred S. Oliver, Michael R. Bruett, Chase C. Oliver, Lee M. Ward
  • Patent number: 10780831
    Abstract: A catwalk includes a mounting frame or other connection to a side of a vehicle/equipment, a floor, and at least one railing/railing-portion; an actuator system to move the catwalk enclosure between retracted and deployed positions; and a guide arm for guiding/controlling pivoting of the at least one railing/railing-portion relative to the floor. The actuator system and guide arm are preferably substantially or entirely outside of the catwalk walkway space, for easy movement along the walkway, easy access to the walkway at one or both ends, and obstacle/barrier-free passage from one catwalk to another on the same vehicle/equipment. The actuator system prevents the catwalk from collapsing/retracting when a person is on the catwalk, for example, by the lift capacity of a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder being controlled/tuned so that the cylinder does not have the capacity/capability to lift and retract the catwalk when the catwalk is occupied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Inventors: Fred S. Oliver, Michael R. Bruett, Chase C. Oliver, Lee M. Ward
  • Patent number: 10737647
    Abstract: A retractable under-guard, for example for dual-purpose trucks that travel on-road and off-road, provides impact protection to other vehicles colliding with the truck, but is raised for off-road travel to avoid obstacles. The under-guard connects by a frame wrap to horizontal frame beam(s) of many different trucks and does not hang down in its retracted position to an extent that it interferes with off-road travel. For entering the road, the guard frame pivots downward to the desired position at or near the outer perimeter of the truck, and typically about half way between the truck frame and the ground in the space into which a lower vehicle would enter in a collision. Hook and pin systems, and/or impact plates, maintain the under-guard in proper position upon an impact. The under-guard system may automatically deploy above a predetermined truck speed, to ensure deployment when the truck re-enters the roads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: ANDERSON & WOOD CONSTRUCTION CO., INC.
    Inventors: Fred S. Oliver, Michael R. Bruett, Chase C. Oliver, Lee M. Ward
  • Patent number: 10677867
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for an electrocardiogram (ECG) cable suitable for use inside a Magnetic Resonance (MR) scanner during a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) operation. In particular, the present invention relates to a patient safe (MRI-conditional) 12-lead ECG cable capable of use inside an MR scanner during an MRI scan. The ECG cable does not heat up to a degree that would burn a patient undergoing an MRI scan, but also enables the conventional 12-lead ECG electrode placement required for diagnostic monitoring of the patient. Specifically, the ECG cable electrodes can be placed on a patient in the traditional configuration as 12-lead ECG cable designed for use outside of an MR scanner and take diagnostic level readings, during operation of an MR device or system. Additionally, the cable provides a continuous shield which maintains zero emissions while satisfying defibrillation requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: MIRTLE MEDICAL, LLC
    Inventors: Jay M. Ward, Bill Bartula, James K. Robertson, Ronald D. Watkins, Ehud J. Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20200140448
    Abstract: A temozolomide compound according to formula (I) is described, wherein R1, L1, and X are defined herein. The temozolomide compound can be used to prepare polymers comprising temozolomide. Additionally, the polymers comprising temozolomide can be particularly useful in the treatment of certain diseases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2020
    Publication date: May 7, 2020
    Inventors: Todd Emrick, Matthew Skinner, Sarah M. Ward, Banishree Saha
  • Patent number: 10562901
    Abstract: A temozolomide compound according to formula (I) is described, wherein R1, L1, and X are defined herein. The temozolomide compound can be used to prepare polymers comprising temozolomide. Additionally, the polymers comprising temozolomide can be particularly useful in the treatment of certain diseases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignee: THE UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS
    Inventors: Todd Emrick, Matthew Skinner, Sarah M. Ward, Banishree Saha
  • Patent number: 10525368
    Abstract: In an aspect, a character figure is provided, and includes a body, a hair holder and a clump of hair. The hair holder is mounted to the body and encloses an interior volume therewith. The hair holder at least in part defines hair pass-through apertures including at least first and second hair pass-through apertures. The clump of hair has a central region with a knot that is positioned in the interior volume. The clump of hair further includes a first and second end portions extending from the central region. The first end portion passes through the first hair pass-through aperture to an exterior of the character figure. The second end portion passes through the second hair pass-through aperture to the exterior of the character figure. The knot is unable to pass-through any of the hair pass-through apertures that hair from the clump of hair passes through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: SPIN MASTER LTD.
    Inventors: Mercedeh M. Ward, Oliver L. Pope
  • Publication number: 20190365437
    Abstract: Bone plates for engaging bone members are described herein. The bone plates can receive one or more screws to secure the bone plates to an underlying bone member. The one or more screws can be inserted into bone plate holes that can be considered locking or non-locking. The bone plates described herein can have particular combinations of locking and/or non-locking holes. In addition, instruments such as distal and proximal aiming guides can accompany the bone plates to guide one or more screws into the bone plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2019
    Publication date: December 5, 2019
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Lueth, David R. Jansen, Kathryn M. Ward, David Machamer
  • Patent number: 10421025
    Abstract: In an aspect, a kit of parts is provided for assembling at least a portion of a character figure. The kit includes first and second kit member each having a body having a representation of a body portion of the character figure thereon. The first kit member has a hook extending outwardly from the body, and the second kit member body has a first hook-receiving aperture which has an interior surface that frictionally engages the exterior surface of the first hook, and is free of any bight pass-through members that engage the bight of the first hook to prevent removal of the first kit member from the second kit member. The kit members are joinable together to form at least a portion of a character figure. The bight of the first hook permits the first kit member to be hung on a first storage bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignees: SPIN MASTER LTD., FUSE LONDON LTD
    Inventors: Mercedeh M. Ward, Oliver L. Pope, Mark A. Buckley
  • Patent number: 10368928
    Abstract: Bone plates for engaging bone members are described herein. The bone plates can receive one or more screws to secure the bone plates to an underlying bone member. The one or more screws can be inserted into bone plate holes that can be considered locking or non-locking. The bone plates described herein can have particular combinations of locking and/or non-locking holes. In addition, instruments such as distal and proximal aiming guides can accompany the bone plates to guide one or more screws into the bone plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Assignee: Globus Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Lueth, David R. Jansen, Kathryn M. Ward, David Machamer
  • Publication number: 20190135213
    Abstract: A retractable under-guard, for example for dual-purpose trucks that travel on-road and off-road, provides impact protection to other vehicles colliding with the truck, but is raised for off-road travel to avoid obstacles. The under-guard connects by a frame wrap to horizontal frame beam(s) of many different trucks and does not hang down in its retracted position to an extent that it interferes with off-road travel. For entering the road, the guard frame pivots downward to the desired position at or near the outer perimeter of the truck, and typically about half way between the truck frame and the ground in the space into which a lower vehicle would enter in a collision. Hook and pin systems, and/or impact plates, maintain the under-guard in proper position upon an impact. The under-guard system may automatically deploy above a predetermined truck speed, to ensure deployment when the truck re-enters the roads.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2019
    Publication date: May 9, 2019
    Inventors: FRED S. OLIVER, MICHAEL R. BRUETT, CHASE C. OLIVER, LEE M. WARD
  • Publication number: 20190135185
    Abstract: A catwalk includes a mounting frame or other connection to a side of a vehicle/equipment, a floor, and at least one railing/railing-portion; an actuator system to move the catwalk enclosure between retracted and deployed positions; and a guide arm for guiding/controlling pivoting of the at least one railing/railing-portion relative to the floor. The actuator system and guide arm are preferably substantially or entirely outside of the catwalk walkway space, for easy movement along the walkway, easy access to the walkway at one or both ends, and obstacle/barrier-free passage from one catwalk to another on the same vehicle/equipment. The actuator system prevents the catwalk from collapsing/retracting when a person is on the catwalk, for example, by the lift capacity of a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder being controlled/tuned so that the cylinder does not have the capacity/capability to lift and retract the catwalk when the catwalk is occupied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2018
    Publication date: May 9, 2019
    Inventors: FRED S. OLIVER, MICHAEL R. BRUETT, CHASE C. OLIVER, LEE M. WARD