Patents by Inventor Ronald L. Johnson
Ronald L. Johnson 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).
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Patent number: 7673391Abstract: A utility tool comprising a body having a first and a second end position on opposite ends of the body; a removable device; as well as a first tool and a second tool configured to be selectively coupled to each other or one of either the first end and second end of the body.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2007Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: Wagic, Inc.Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik, Skye David Barcus
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Publication number: 20100050816Abstract: A light bulb changing tool comprising a holding structure configured to engage a light bulb, the holding structure configured along an axis, the motorized holding structure configured to actuate in a first direction and a second direction. The light bulb changing tool further includes a force generator configured to selectively force the light bulb against the holding structure and a control unit configured to remotely communicate with the holding structure and the force generator, wherein the electronic control unit sends control signals to drive the holding structure to selectively move in the first direction and the second direction and/or to activate the force generator. The tool further comprises an arm member for positioning the holding structure in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb, wherein the arm member is coupled to the holding structure. The holding structure further comprises a rotator mechanism configured to rotate the holding structure in the first direction about the axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2009Publication date: March 4, 2010Applicant: WAGIC, INC.Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Robert J. Gallegos, Steven Simas Escobar, Anders Scot Hudson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik Ruiz, Yugen Patrick Lockhart, Howard Allen Wilson, Eric M. Colton
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Patent number: 7659371Abstract: Methods for isolating patched genes, including the mouse and human patched genes, as well as invertebrate patched genes and sequences, are provided. Decreased expression of patched is associated with the occurrence of human cancers, particularly basal cell carcinomas of the skin. The patched and hedgehog genes are useful in creating transgenic animal models for these human cancers. The patched nucleic acid compositions find use in identifying homologous or related proteins and the DNA sequences encoding such proteins; in producing compositions that modulate the expression or function of the protein; and in studying associated physiological pathways. In addition, modulation of the gene activity in vivo is used for prophylactic and therapeutic purposes, such as treatment of cancer, identification of cell type based on expression, and the like. The DNA is further used as a diagnostic for a genetic predisposition to cancer, and to identify specific cancers having mutations in this gene.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2007Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignees: The Regents of the University of California, The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior UniversityInventors: Matthew P. Scott, Lisa V. Goodrich, Ronald L. Johnson, Ervin Epstein, Jr.
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Patent number: 7631579Abstract: A light bulb changing tool comprises a holding structure configured to engage a light bulb. In some embodiments, the holding structure includes a suction cup configuration and in some embodiments, the holding structure includes a creased gripping configuration. An interconnect is configured to couple the holding structure with an arm member. The interconnect includes a receiving member for receiving a protruding member of the holding structure. In some embodiments, a securing member is included for securing the protruding member with the receiving member. The arm member is configured for positioning the holding structure in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2007Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: Wagic, Inc.Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Robert J. Gallegos, Steven Simas Escobar, Anders Scot Hudson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik Ruiz, Yugen Patrick Lockhart, Howard Allen Wilson, Eric M. Colton
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Publication number: 20090266731Abstract: A circular, cylindrically shaped tool handle holds multiple sizes of tools. The handle includes one or more holding slots each positioned on the outer surface into which tools are inserted and held. Each holding slot includes one or more contoured compartments in which tools rest when engaged with the handle. Each contoured compartment is of a size and dimension which corresponds to one or more tool sizes. Each contoured compartment is formed about a corresponding receiving hole. A lock is positioned over the contoured compartment to irremovably confine the short leg of the hexagonal wrench within the contoured compartment. Hexagonal shaped tools other than wrenches are able to be used with the handle of the present invention such as screwdrivers and socket wrenches. A tool container stores the tools and the tool handle.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2009Publication date: October 29, 2009Applicant: WAGIC, INC.Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Robert J. Gallegos, Steven Simas Escobar, Anders Scot Hudson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik Ruiz, Yugen Patrick Lockhart, Howard Allen Wilson, Eric M. Colton
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Publication number: 20090183608Abstract: A circular, cylindrically shaped tool handle holds multiple sizes of tools. The handle includes one or more holding slots each positioned on the outer surface into which tools are inserted and held. Each holding slot includes one or more contoured compartments in which tools rest when engaged with the handle. Each contoured compartment is of a size and dimension which corresponds to one or more tool sizes. Each contoured compartment is formed about a corresponding receiving hole. A lock is positioned over the contoured compartment to irremovably confine the short leg of the hexagonal wrench within the contoured compartment. Hexagonal shaped tools other than wrenches are able to be used with the handle of the present invention such as screwdrivers and socket wrenches. A tool container stores the tools and the tool handle.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2008Publication date: July 23, 2009Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Robert J. Gallegos, Steven Simas Escobar, Anders Scot Hudson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik Ruiz, Yugen Patrick Lockhart, Howard Allen Wilson, Eric M. Colton
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Publication number: 20090183604Abstract: A universal ratcheting tool provides improved handling of tools that are difficult to use on their own, specifically, hexagonal wrenches. The universal ratcheting tool includes a handle and a body with a ratcheting mechanism within the handle. The body includes a first aperture for receiving a tool, and the first aperture includes slots to accept a plurality of sizes of tools. The body also includes a second aperture where the tool extends out of the body. A retaining component is coupled with the body to retain the tool and a retaining tab is able to be used to open and close the retaining component. Once the tool is positioned and retained within the universal ratcheting tool, a user is able to easily install or remove an object such as a screw with the benefit of a comfortable handle and the ease of use of the ratcheting mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2008Publication date: July 23, 2009Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Robert J. Gallegos, Steven Simas Escobar, Anders Scot Hudson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik Ruiz, Yugen Patrick Lockhart, Howard Allen Wilson, Eric M. Colton
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Publication number: 20090183609Abstract: A radial foldout tool includes a body with opposing ends and one or more sets of tool drivers. A first set of tool drivers are positioned on/near a first end and a second set of tool drivers are positioned on/near a second end. The tool drivers are contained within channels of the body when in a closed position. The tool drivers are also contained in a plurality of planes. The tool drivers open by rotating/moving in a direction at least perpendicular to a neighboring tool driver. When they are in an open position, each of the tool drivers are in/near the center of the end of the body. By being positioned in/near the center of the end, the radial foldout tool is able to be gripped and turned in a fashion similar to a standard screwdriver.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2008Publication date: July 23, 2009Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Robert J. Gallegos, Steven Simas Escobar, Anders Scot Hudson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik Ruiz, Yugen Patrick Lockhart, Howard Allen Wilson, Eric M. Colton
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Publication number: 20090183607Abstract: A tool handle includes a cavity to receive a T-handle tool. When the tool handle is placed on the T-handle tool, the tool handle provides a better grip of the tool handle to apply greater torque. The tool handle includes a protrusion which is able to detachably couple with the T-handle tool. Once coupled with the T-handle tool, the tool handle is able to be grasped by a user to rapidly turn the T-handle tool. In some embodiments, the T-handle tool includes an added tool. A tool container is able to store T-handle tools and the tool handle. The tool container includes a locking mechanism to lock the tools in place and a tamper prevention mechanism to ensure the locking mechanism is not tampered with while the tool container is in the store.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2008Publication date: July 23, 2009Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Robert J. Gallegos, Steven Simas Escobar, Anders Scot Hudson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik Ruiz, Yugen Patrick Lockhart, Howard Allen Wilson, Eric M. Colton
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Patent number: 7465552Abstract: Methods for isolating patched genes, including the mouse and human patched genes, as well as invertebrate patched genes and sequences, are provided. Decreased expression of patched is associated with the occurrence of human cancers, particularly basal cell carcinomas of the skin. The patched and hedgehog genes are useful in creating transgenic animal models for these human cancers. The patched nucleic acid compositions find use in identifying homologous or related proteins and the DNA sequences encoding such proteins; in producing compositions that modulate the expression or function of the protein; and in studying associated physiological pathways. In addition, modulation of the gene activity in vivo is used for prophylactic and therapeutic purposes, such as treatment of cancer, identification of cell type based on expression, and the like. The DNA is further used as a diagnostic for a genetic predisposition to cancer, and to identify specific cancers having mutations in this gene.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2003Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignees: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University, The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Matthew P. Scott, Lisa V. Goodrich, Ronald L. Johnson, Ervin Epstein, Jr.
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Publication number: 20080302215Abstract: A light bulb changing tool comprises a holding structure configured to engage a light bulb. In some embodiments, the holding structure includes a suction cup configuration and in some embodiments, the holding structure includes a creased gripping configuration. An interconnect is configured to couple the holding structure with an arm member. The interconnect includes a receiving member for receiving a protruding member of the holding structure. In some embodiments, a securing member is included for securing the protruding member with the receiving member. The arm member is configured for positioning the holding structure in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2007Publication date: December 11, 2008Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Robert J. Gallegos, Steven Simas Escobar, Anders Scot Hudson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik Ruiz, Yugen Patrick Lockhart, Howard Allen Wilson, Eric M. Colton
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Publication number: 20080300167Abstract: Methods for isolating patched genes, including the mouse and human patched genes, as well as invertebrate patched genes and sequences, are provided. Decreased expression of patched is associated with the occurrence of human cancers, particularly basal cell carcinomas of the skin. The patched and hedgehog genes are useful in creating transgenic animal models for these human cancers. The patched nucleic acid compositions find use in identifying homologous or related proteins and the DNA sequences encoding such proteins; in producing compositions that modulate the expression or function of the protein; and in studying associated physiological pathways. In addition, modulation of the gene activity in vivo is used for prophylactic and therapeutic purposes, such as treatment of cancer, identification of cell type based on expression, and the like. The DNA is further used as a diagnostic for a genetic predisposition to cancer, and to identify specific cancers having mutations in this gene.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2007Publication date: December 4, 2008Applicants: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University, The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Matthew P. Scott, Lisa V. Goodrich, Ronald L. Johnson, Ervin Epstein, JR.
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Publication number: 20080276765Abstract: A hand tool and bit storage device configured to allow easy storage and access to a wide variety of bits. The hand tool comprises a body portion, a stem portion and a bit interface. The hand tool couples with the storage device. The storage device holds one or more tool frames or bit inserts each comprising a plurality of bits. The bit inserts are deformable to allow easy access to the bits contained therein. In some embodiments, the bit inserts may be locked in the storage device.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2007Publication date: November 13, 2008Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Robert J. Gallegos, Steven Simas Escobar, Anders Scot Hudson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik Ruiz, Yugen Patrick Lockhart, Howard Allen Wilson, Eric M. Colton
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Patent number: 7281454Abstract: A generally cylindrical shaped tool handle holds multiple sizes of tools. The handle includes one or more holding slots each positioned on one of multiple outer surface faces into which tools are inserted and held. Each holding slot includes one or more contoured compartments in which tools rest when engaged with the handle. Each contoured compartment is of a size and dimension which corresponds to one or more tool sizes. In the preferred embodiment of the tool handle, three of its outer surface faces have a continuous holding slot with multiple receiving holes for inserting therein hexagonal wrenches of multiple sizes. The continuous holding slots of the preferred embodiment of the handle include multiple contoured compartments for holding an inserted hexagonal wrench. Each contoured compartment is formed about a corresponding receiving hole. A lock is positioned over the contoured compartment to irremovably confine the short leg of the hexagonal wrench within the contoured compartment.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2005Date of Patent: October 16, 2007Assignee: Allen-Pal LLCInventors: Kenneth R. Johnson, Robert L. Johnson, Ronald L. Johnson
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Patent number: 7255024Abstract: A light bulb changing tool comprising a holding structure configured to engage a light bulb, the holding structure configured along an axis, the motorized holding structure configured to actuate in a first direction and a second direction. The light bulb changing tool further includes a force generator configured to selectively force the light bulb against the holding structure and a control unit configured to remotely communicate with the holding structure and the force generator, wherein the electronic control unit sends control signals to drive the holding structure to selectively move in the first direction and the second direction and/or to activate the force generator. The tool further comprising an arm member for positioning the holding structure in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb, wherein the arm member is coupled to the holding structure. The holding structure further comprises a rotator mechanism configured to rotate the holding structure in the first direction about the axis.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2006Date of Patent: August 14, 2007Assignee: Wagic, Inc.Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Robert Joseph Gallegos
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Patent number: 7237340Abstract: A utility tool comprising a body having a first end and a second end positioned on opposite ends of the body; a removable device; as well as a first tool and a second tool configured to be selectively coupled to each other or one of either the first end and second end of the body.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2004Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Assignee: Wagic, Inc.Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik, Skye David Barcus
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Patent number: 7179146Abstract: A swimmer's hand paddle simulating a human hand is formed from a generally planar member of PVC foam and has a central dome-shaped palm area for receiving the palm of the swimmer's hand. The paddle includes areas for receiving the thumb and fingers of the swimmer's hand. A wrist strap and one or more finger straps secures the user's hand to the paddle. The palm area, and also the areas which receive the swimmer's thumb and fingers, are provided with a series of apertures to allow the swimmer to feel passing water. The paddle is shaped to include an inwardly directed groove such that the peripheral portion of the paddle nearest the swimmer's second finger lies closer to the central palm area than do the peripheral portions nearest the index finger and ring finger. Also, an indented peripheral portion is formed between the swimmer's thumb and index finger.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2003Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Mentor Aquatics, LLCInventor: Ronald L. Johnson
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Patent number: 7143668Abstract: A light bulb changing tool comprising a motorized clasping mechanism configured to engage a light bulb, the motorized clasping mechanism configured along an axis, the motorized clasping mechanism configured to actuate in a first direction and a second direction; and a electronic drive unit configured to remotely communicate with the motorized clasping mechanism, wherein the electronic drive unit sends control signals to drive the motorized clasping mechanism to selectively move in the first direction and the direction. The tool further comprising an arm member for positioning the motorized clasping mechanism in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb, wherein the arm member is coupled to the motorized clasping mechanism. The motorized clasping mechanism further comprises a rotator mechanism configured to rotate the motorized clasping mechanism in the first direction about the axis.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2004Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Assignee: Wagic, Inc.Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Norio Sugano, Robert Joseph Gallegos, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik
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Patent number: 6946257Abstract: Methods are provided for identifying agents that decrease hedgehog signal transduction for ameliorating an effect of loss of function of a patched gene in a mammalian cell.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 1997Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Assignees: Regents of the University of California, Board of Trustees of the Leland S. Stanford, Jr. UniversityInventors: Matthew P. Scott, Lisa V. Goodrich, Ronald L. Johnson, Ervin Epstein, Jr.
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Patent number: D608086Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2009Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Assignee: Wagic, Inc.Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik Ruiz, Kevin Michael Childs, Josh Paul Defosset