Patents by Inventor Mark Pitchford

Mark Pitchford 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: 20120284209
    Abstract: A customer-based electronic device (such as a cell phone or an embedded RFID chip in a vehicle's electronics) is combined with a facility-dispensed ticket to control vehicle entrance and exit to a controlled property. In one embodiment, a cell phone is used to provide a unique RFID number utilizing Near Field Communication (NFC) or similar technology for establishing entry and exit times, parking space control and automatic billing technology for each vehicle. In such an embodiment, a backup paper ticket is dispensed to each vehicle upon entry to the controlled property. The paper ticket contains a broadcast electronic signal (for example, an RFID signal) which is matched to the unique cell phone RFID number of the cell phone. The electronic system then controls all aspects of the vehicle's movement while on the property. This movement, in one embodiment, includes access to parking areas, access to special parking spots, such as reserved spaces, premium VIP, and handicapped areas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventors: Douglas Duffy, Mark Pitchford