Patents by Inventor Michael R. Brown

Michael R. Brown 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: 20160096266
    Abstract: A tool for disconnecting a cable from a railcar is disclosed. The tool includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end. The tool also includes a handle portion disposed about the first end of the elongated body. Moreover, the tool includes an engagement member disposed about the second end of the elongated body. The engagement member may be configured to engage the cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Publication date: April 7, 2016
    Applicant: GYPSUM MANAGEMENT AND SUPPLY, INC.
    Inventors: Michael R. Brown, Thomas A. Keely
  • Patent number: 9302387
    Abstract: A tool for disconnecting a cable from a railcar is disclosed. The tool includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end. The tool also includes a handle portion disposed about the first end of the elongated body. Moreover, the tool includes an engagement member disposed about the second end of the elongated body. The engagement member may be configured to engage the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: GYPSUM MANAGEMENT AND SUPPLY, INC.
    Inventors: Michael R. Brown, Thomas A. Keely
  • Patent number: 9248392
    Abstract: A system and process for extending turndown in a gas-liquid separator is presented. The system includes a first mist extractor with a first operating range and a second mist extractor with a second operating range. The mist extractors are generally of the same type, with the second operating range being different than the first operating range. A gas stream containing entrained liquid droplets flows through the first mist extractor and then through the second mist extractor. Each mist extractor coalesces and captures the liquid droplets within its own operating range, expanding the overall operating range of the separator. Additional mist extractors may be added to cover any gap between the first and second operating ranges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventor: Michael R. Brown
  • Patent number: 9112515
    Abstract: A phase-locked loop frequency synthesizer includes an L-state pulse width modulator configured to receive a reference frequency signal and at least one entry from a frequency table, and to output at least one N/N+1 modulus signals corresponding to the at least one entry from the frequency table. The synthesizer includes a divide by N/N+1 controllable modulus divider configured to receive the at least one N/N+1 modulus signals and to divide the output frequency signal by the at least one N/N+1 modulus signals to generate a second reference frequency signal. The synthesizer includes a phase frequency detector configured to receive the reference frequency signal and the second reference frequency signal and to generate an error signal. The synthesizer also includes a filter network configured to receive the error signal and to output a voltage; and a voltage controlled oscillator configured to receive the voltage and to generate the output frequency signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: SENSUS SPECTRUM LLC
    Inventors: H. Britton Sanderford, Jr., Robert E. Rouquette, Gary A. Naden, Marc L. Reed, Gordon J. Boudreaux, Michael R. Brown
  • Patent number: 9094022
    Abstract: A cellular network includes a node configured to transmit a data packet on a predetermined frequency, first and second base stations configured to receive signals transmitted on the predetermined frequency, and a data concentrator. The first base station and the second base station are arranged in a cellular configuration such that a first coverage area of the first base station at least partially overlaps a second coverage area of the second base station. The first base station and the second base station each receive the data packet transmitted by the node. The data concentrator is configured to collect the data packet received by the first base station and the data packet received by the second base station. The data packet includes latitude and longitude data received from a global positioning system receiver such that a location of the node may be determined from a remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: Sensus Spectrum LLC
    Inventors: H. Britton Sanderford, Jr., Robert E. Rouquette, Gary A. Naden, Marc L. Reed, Gordon J. Boudreaux, Michael R. Brown
  • Publication number: 20140320182
    Abstract: A phase-locked loop frequency synthesizer includes an L-state pulse width modulator configured to receive a reference frequency signal and at least one entry from a frequency table, and to output at least one N/N+1 modulus signals corresponding to the at least one entry from the frequency table. The synthesizer includes a divide by N/N+1 controllable modulus divider configured to receive the at least one N/N+1 modulus signals and to divide the output frequency signal by the at least one N/N+1 modulus signals to generate a second reference frequency signal. The synthesizer includes a phase frequency detector configured to receive the reference frequency signal and the second reference frequency signal and to generate an error signal. The synthesizer also includes a filter network configured to receive the error signal and to output a voltage; and a voltage controlled oscillator configured to receive the voltage and to generate the output frequency signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: Sensus Spectrum LLC
    Inventors: H. Britton SANDERFORD, JR., Robert E. ROUQUETTE, Gary A. NADEN, Marc L. REED, Gordon J. BOUDREAUX, Michael R. BROWN
  • Patent number: 8854217
    Abstract: A method and apparatus that monitors and controls the operation of an electricity meter, and modifies at least one temperature threshold for determining when an alarm message should be transmitted or an electrical connection in the meter should be disconnected. The method and apparatus includes a plurality of sensors that detect temperatures in various locations within the electricity meter. The method and apparatus compares at least one detected temperature to at least one threshold, and operates an alarm or a switch when the detected temperature exceeds the threshold. The method and apparatus determines an average rate of change for at least one temperature according to a short-term temperature average over a first number of samples of the temperature, and a long term-term temperature average over a second number of samples of the temperature. The second number of samples is different from the first number of samples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Sensus Spectrum LLC
    Inventors: Michael R. Brown, William R. Mazza, Jr., Andrew James Bryce Dudding
  • Publication number: 20140236338
    Abstract: A RFID printer for printing and determining the quality of RFID record members having transponders is provided. The RFID printer may be used to print RFID record members utilizing a continuous moving web. In particular, a RFID printer includes an integrated RFID data collector such that identifying RFID transponder information may be recorded and associated with a barcode for inventory tracking purposes. An association file created by the RFID printer may be transferred to a manufacturer or retailer brand owner. The association file may be deleted from the RFID printer upon acknowledgment of receipt of the transmitted association file to the manufacturer or retail brand owner. The RFID printer provides methods for determining quality of RFID printed record members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond A. BLANCHARD, JR., Michael R. BROWN, Regina A. DAVIS, Timothy J. ENTINGH, Clive G. JONES, Richard E. ROBERTS
  • Patent number: 8807439
    Abstract: A RFID printer for printing and determining the quality of RFID record members having transponders is provided. The RFID printer may be used to print RFID record members utilizing a continuous moving web. In particular, a RFID printer includes an integrated RFID data collector such that identifying RFID transponder information may be recorded and associated with a barcode for inventory tracking purposes. An association file created by the RFID printer may be transferred to a manufacturer or retailer brand owner. The association file may be deleted from the RFID printer upon acknowledgment of receipt of the transmitted association file to the manufacturer or retail brand owner. The RFID printer provides methods for determining quality of RFID printed record members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond A. Blanchard, Jr., Michael R. Brown, Regina A. Davis, Timothy J. Entingh, Clive G. Jones, Richard E. Roberts
  • Publication number: 20140225737
    Abstract: A method and apparatus that monitors and controls the operation of an electricity meter, and modifies at least one temperature threshold for determining when an alarm message should be transmitted or an electrical connection in the meter should be disconnected. The method and apparatus includes a plurality of sensors that detect temperatures in various locations within the electricity meter. The method and apparatus compares at least one detected temperature to at least one threshold, and operates an alarm or a switch when the detected temperature exceeds the threshold. The method and apparatus determines an average rate of change for at least one temperature according to a short-term temperature average over a first number of samples of the temperature, and a long term-term temperature average over a second number of samples of the temperature. The second number of samples is different from the first number of samples.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: Sensus USA Inc.
    Inventors: Michael R. Brown, William R. Mazza, JR., Andrew James Bryce Dudding
  • Publication number: 20140165833
    Abstract: A system and process for extending turndown in a gas-liquid separator is presented. The system includes a first mist extractor with a first operating range and a second mist extractor with a second operating range. The mist extractors are generally of the same type, with the second operating range being different than the first operating range. A gas stream containing entrained liquid droplets flows through the first mist extractor and then through the second mist extractor. Each mist extractor coalesces and captures the liquid droplets within its own operating range, expanding the overall operating range of the separator. Additional mist extractors may be added to cover any gap between the first and second operating ranges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: CAMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Michael R. Brown
  • Patent number: 8458263
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for verification of archived message information for electronic messages, such as email messages, from one or more sources in a computer system. An archive verification unit may be configured to receive information that identifies a plurality of electronic messages in a group located in one or more sources, determine which of the plurality of messages in the group are not archived on a message archive system, and provide a report identifying which of the plurality of messages in the group are not archived on the message archive system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: EMC Corporation
    Inventors: Darlene J. Ruben, James R. Harris, Michael R. Brown
  • Patent number: 8374228
    Abstract: A remote endpoint monitor device includes a remote endpoint device including a meter, a position locator, a frequency selector, and a communication unit. The meter is configured to measure a service parameter to provide a measured service parameter value. The position locator is configured to determine a position of the remote endpoint device. The frequency selector is configured to select a transmission frequency device based on the determined position. The transmitter is configured to transmit service information data including the service parameter value at the transmission frequency selected by the frequency selector. A method of a remote endpoint monitor device includes measuring a service parameter, determining a position of the remote endpoint device, selecting a transmission frequency of the remote end point device, and transmitting service information data at the transmission frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: M&FC Holding, LLC
    Inventors: H. Britton Sanderford, Jr., Robert E. Rouquette, Gary A. Naden, Marc L. Reed, Gordon J. Boudreaux, Michael R. Brown
  • Patent number: 8279027
    Abstract: A magnetic latching actuator operable to control the movement of at least a first contact and second contact between a closed position in which the contacts physically engage each other and an open position in which the contacts are spaced from each other. The magnetic latching actuator includes first and second stationary permanent magnets oriented such that the first magnetic field created by the first magnet and the second magnetic field created by the second magnet are in opposite directions. An actuation coil surrounds both the first and second magnets. Current is supplied to the actuation coil in a first direction to create a first magnetic field or a second direction to create a second actuation magnetic field opposite the first actuation magnetic field. A yoke is movable relative to the first and second magnets to cause the first and second contacts to move between the open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Sensus Spectrum LLC
    Inventors: Michael R. Brown, William R. Mazza, Jr., Oliver Burstall, Andrew Dames
  • Patent number: 7990239
    Abstract: At least one electrical contactor is provided that includes a fixed contact and a movable contact. The fixed contact includes a center leg and first and second arms that extend in opposite directions from the center leg. The movable contact associated with each fixed contact includes first and second blades positioned on opposite sides of the center leg. The first and second blades extend parallel to the center leg of the fixed contact such that when current flows through the electrical contactor, the current flow creates a force to push the first and second blades into the first and second arms of the fixed contact. The electrical contactor includes an actuating arrangement having a pair of cam members. The movement of the cam members causes pegs on each of the first and second blades to travel within the cam channel, thus opening and closing the contactor arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: M&FC Holding, LLC
    Inventors: Michael R. Brown, William R. Mazza, Jr., Oliver Burstall, Alan Syrop
  • Publication number: 20110172805
    Abstract: A RFID printer for printing and determining the quality of RFID record members having transponders is provided. The RFID printer may be used to print RFID record members utilizing a continuous moving web. In particular, a RFID printer includes an integrated RFID data collector such that identifying RFID transponder information may be recorded and associated with a barcode for inventory tracking purposes. An association file created by the RFID printer may be transferred to a manufacturer or retailer brand owner. The association file may be deleted from the RFID printer upon acknowledgment of receipt of the transmitted association file to the manufacturer or retail brand owner. The RFID printer provides methods for determining quality of RFID printed record members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: AVERY DENNISON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Raymond A. BLANCHARD, JR., Michael R. BROWN, Regina A. DAVIS, Timothy J. ENTINGH, Clive G. JONES, Richard E. ROBERTS
  • Patent number: 7931205
    Abstract: A RFID printer for printing and determining the quality of RFID record members having transponders is provided. The RFID printer may be used to print RFID record members utilizing a continuous moving web. In particular, a RFID printer includes an integrated RFID data collector such that identifying RFID transponder information may be recorded and associated with a barcode for inventory tracking purposes. An association file created by the RFID printer may be transferred to a manufacturer or retailer brand owner. The association file may be deleted from the RFID printer upon acknowledgment of receipt of the transmitted association file to the manufacturer or retail brand owner. The RFID printer provides methods for determining quality of RFID printed record members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond A. Blanchard, Jr., Michael R. Brown, Regina A. Davis, Timothy J. Entingh, Clive G. Jones, Richard E. Roberts
  • Publication number: 20100283561
    Abstract: A magnetic latching actuator operable to control the movement of at least a first contact and second contact between a closed position in which the contacts physically engage each other and an open position in which the contacts are spaced from each other. The magnetic latching actuator includes first and second stationary permanent magnets oriented such that the first magnetic field created by the first magnet and the second magnetic field created by the second magnet are in opposite directions. An actuation coil surrounds both the first and second magnets. Current is supplied to the actuation coil in a first direction to create a first magnetic field or a second direction to create a second actuation magnetic field opposite the first actuation magnetic field. A yoke is movable relative to the first and second magnets to cause the first and second contacts to move between the open and closed positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: M&FC HOLDING, LLC
    Inventors: Michael R. Brown, William R. Mazza, JR., Oliver Burstall, Andrew Dames
  • Publication number: 20100282579
    Abstract: At least one electrical contactor is provided that includes a fixed contact and a movable contact. The fixed contact includes a center leg and first and second arms that extend in opposite directions from the center leg. The movable contact associated with each fixed contact includes first and second blades positioned on opposite sides of the center leg. The first and second blades extend parallel to the center leg of the fixed contact such that when current flows through the electrical contactor, the current flow creates a force to push the first and second blades into the first and second arms of the fixed contact. The electrical contactor includes an actuating arrangement having a pair of cam members. The movement of the cam members causes pegs on each of the first and second blades to travel within the cam channel, thus opening and closing the contactor arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: M&FC HOLDING, LLC
    Inventors: Michael R. Brown, William R. Mazza, JR., Oliver Burstall, Alan Syrop
  • Patent number: 7705777
    Abstract: A mobile multifrequency transmitter includes a self-locator, a frequency selector, and a communication unit. The self-locator is configured to determine a current self location without transmitting an outgoing signal, and to provide the self location to the multifrequency transmitter. The frequency selector is configured to select a usable frequency based on the current self location. The communication unit is configured to transmit on said selected usable frequency. A mobile communication method includes the steps of obtaining a current self location from a self-locator without transmitting an outgoing signal, looking up in a database an allowable frequency band corresponding to the current self location, and transmitting on the allowable frequency band. Thus, the mobile multi-frequency transmitter is capable of handling an automatic frequency switchover without the need for higher level cellular direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: M&FC Holding, LLC
    Inventors: H. Britton Sanderford, Jr., Robert E. Rouquette, Gary A. Naden, Marc L. Read, Gordon J. Boudreaux, Michael R. Brown