Patents by Inventor Steven M. Pierce

Steven M. Pierce 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: 7674966
    Abstract: The invention provides a software framework that allows real-time computer-generated music to be used in interactive applications, particularly video games, by “modularizing” music-producing and music-modifying computer procedures into musically logical and programmatically convenient structures, as well as providing a communication mechanism between the application and the music-generating system which will allow the music to reflect the appropriate mood given the current application state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Steven M. Pierce
  • Patent number: 4134700
    Abstract: The zero backlash spline coupling for a pair of shafts includes a first shaft having an integral flange and an internal frusto conical surface mateable with the frusto conical surface of a radially cut collar. The collar has internal spline teeth with one tooth on either side of the radial cut eliminated. The collar encircles a second shaft which has externally cut splines and abuts an internally spline-toothed keeper which also encircles the second shaft. Bolts passing through the keeper and into the flange draw the two together and force the collar to friction seat in the first shaft and lock onto the splines of the second shaft while providing a positive torque retention load on the bolts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1978
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1979
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Robert W. Nelson, Steven M. Pierce