Patents by Inventor Thomas W. Osborne
Thomas W. Osborne 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: 8773577Abstract: An example image capture device determines a region of interest using a first image captured while a light source is powered off and a second image captured while a light source is powered on and uses the region of interest to automatically set configurations. In one example, an image capture device includes a controlled light source, an image sensor configured to capture images, and a processing unit configured to cause the image sensor to capture a first image of a scene while the controlled light source is powered off, cause the image sensor to capture a second image of the scene while the controlled light source is powered on, calculate luminance differences between a plurality of regions in the first image and a plurality of collocated regions in the second image, and determine that a region of interest includes those regions for which the luminance differences exceed a threshold.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2010Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: QUALCOMM IncorporatedInventors: Ruben M. Velarde, Thomas W. Osborne, Szepo Robert Hung, Haiyin Wang, Liang Liang, Ying X Noyes, Edward G. Atrero
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Patent number: 8208049Abstract: A digital imaging device is provided that includes a high modulation transfer function lens and a multicolor pixel array sensor. The lens is operable to receive an incoming signal and to provide a focused signal based on the incoming signal. The multicolor pixel array sensor, which is adjacent to the lens, is operable to receive the focused signal from the lens and to generate a sensor signal based on the focused signal. The device may also include an interpolator coupled to the multicolor pixel array sensor. The interpolator is operable to receive the sensor signal from the multicolor pixel array sensor and to interpolate the sensor signal to generate an interpolated signal.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2004Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Inventor: Thomas W. Osborne
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Patent number: 7144391Abstract: Kits of feminine hygiene products are disclosed. In particular, kits which may be used as learner kits are disclosed. Such kits preferably include at least an absorbent tampon having an absorbency of less than or equal to about 6 grams according to the syngina test. Also included are a backup feminine hygiene article such as a pantiliner, sanitary napkin, or absorbent interlabial device. Other optional components such as a mirror, finger cover, glove, lubricant, bonus product, an instruction booklet, may also be included in the kit. Also disclosed are non-absorbent training tampons which may be used to assist a new tampon user in getting the feel for proper tampon insertion technique.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2000Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Assignee: The Proctor & Gamble CompanyInventors: Karen A. Kreutz, Lisa A. Mackay, Donna R. Hill, Thomas W. Osborn, III
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Patent number: 7109907Abstract: A bi-directional isolation scheme is described in which digital data, including clock information, may be communicated bi-directionally across a single isolation barrier without requiring a phase locked loop (PLL) based clock recovery procedure. In this way, the lead-time needed by the receiving circuit to recover the data clock signal may be reduced and the polarity (or 180° phase) ambiguities often associated with PLL-based methods may be avoided.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2005Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Assignee: Infineon Technologies North America Corp.Inventor: Thomas W. Osborne
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Patent number: 6965336Abstract: A bi-directional isolation scheme is described in which digital data, including clock information, may be communicated bi-directionally across a single isolation barrier without requiring a phase locked loop (PLL) based clock recovery procedure. In this way, the lead-time needed by the receiving circuit to recover the data clock signal may be reduced and the polarity (or 180° phase) ambiguities often associated with PLL-based methods may be avoided.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2002Date of Patent: November 15, 2005Assignee: Infineon Technologies North America Corp.Inventor: Thomas W. Osborne
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Publication number: 20040012515Abstract: A bi-directional isolation scheme is described in which digital data, including clock information, may be communicated bi-directionally across a single isolation barrier without requiring a phase locked loop (PLL) based clock recovery procedure. In this way, the lead-time needed by the receiving circuit to recover the data clock signal may be reduced and the polarity (or 180° phase) ambiguities often associated with PLL-based methods may be avoided.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2002Publication date: January 22, 2004Inventor: Thomas W. Osborne
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Publication number: 20030191443Abstract: This invention relates to absorbent tampons. More particularly, the invention relates to an improved absorbent tampon having improved leakage performance. Tampons, having a primary absorbent member and a mass of secondary absorbent material are disclosed. The mass of secondary absorbent material is preferably located generally proximate the withdrawal end of the primary absorbent member. The primary absorbent member is preferably compressed to a degree greater than the secondary absorbent material.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2003Publication date: October 9, 2003Applicant: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Fiona M. Taylor, Thomas W. Osborn, Karen A. Kreutz, George A. M. Butterworth
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Patent number: 6599279Abstract: This invention relates to an improved absorbent tampon having improved leakage performance. Tampons, having a primary absorbent member which is constructed from an absorbent material compressed to a self-sustaining form and a mass of secondary absorbent material are disclosed. The mass of secondary absorbent material may be a multiple pieces or one piece. The secondary absorbent material may be attached to the primary absorbent member, the withdrawal cord, or both, or may be integral with one or both of these members. The withdrawal cord of the tampon may have absorbent and non-absorbent zones, especially when the mass of secondary absorbent material is attached to the withdrawal cord. The mass of secondary absorbent material preferably has a lower total absorbency than the primary absorbent member. Preferably, the mass of secondary absorbent material is provided with a driving force to direct fluid toward the primary absorbent member.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Fiona M. Taylor, Thomas W. Osborn, III, Karen A. Kreutz, George A. M. Butterworth
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Patent number: 6432096Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent devices such as sanitary napkins, pantiliners, interlabial devices, and incontinence devices. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention relates to an improved absorbent device that is insertable into the interlabial space of a female wearer for catamenial purposes (including menses and mid-cycle discharges), incontinence protection (including urine), or both. The absorbent interlabial device has at least on body-contacting surface and a backsheet having an integral protrusion formed therein of sufficient dimensions to aid in insertion into the interlabial space. An apparatus for forming the integral protrusion in the backsheet is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a female forming member having an opening therein, and a compression member having and opening therethough in operative aligned relationship with the opening of the female forming member.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2000Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Ron R. McFall, Wilfried M. Kollner, Thomas W. Osborn, Pamela J. Brown, Lee M. Hines
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Patent number: 6355022Abstract: An absorbent interlabial device worn by female wearers for catamenial purposes, incontinence protection, or both, is disclosed. The absorbent interlabial device has at least one body-contacting surface which comprises a substance that contacts the wearer's body for assisting the interlabial device in staying in place in the desired position in the interlabial space. The substance can be either adhesive or non-adhesive. In embodiments in which the substance is non-adhesive, it may have no initial tack so that it will not stick to the wrong portions of the wearer's body when the device is placed between the labia. Non-adhesive substances include moisture-activated substances which become viscous and develop a tack when contacted by relatively small amounts of moisture.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 1999Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Thomas W. Osborn, III, Thomas J. Klofta, Pamela J. Brown
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Patent number: 6287288Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent articles such as sanitary napkins worn by women. More particularly, the present invention relates to absorbent articles, such as thin sanitary napkins, that are stretchable, especially in the longitudinal direction.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1997Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Thomas W. Osborn, III, Bruce W. Lavash, Kazuko Sugahara, Charles W. Chappell, Katherine L. Mayer, Letha M. Hines, Jacqueline W. Charrier
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Publication number: 20010011169Abstract: This invention relates to absorbent tampons. More particularly, the invention relates to an improved absorbent tampon having improved leakage performance. Tampons, having a primary absorbent member which is constructed from an absorbent material compressed to a self-sustaining form and a mass of secondary absorbent material are disclosed. The mass of secondary absorbent material is preferably located generally proximate the withdrawal end of the primary absorbent member, and is preferably substantially non-compress, and preferably of a smaller diameter than the primary absorbent member. The mass of secondary absorbent material may be a multiple pieces or one piece. The secondary absorbent material may be attached to the primary absorbent member, the withdrawal cord, or both, or may be integral with one or both of these members. The withdrawal cord of the tampon may have absorbent and non-absorbent zones, especially when the mass of secondary absorbent material is attached to the withdrawal cord.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2001Publication date: August 2, 2001Applicant: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Fiona M. Taylor, Thomas W. Osborn, Kevin C. Strong, Gavin J. Broad, Karen A. Kreutz, George A.M. Butterworth
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Patent number: 6258075Abstract: This invention relates to absorbent tampons. More particularly, the invention relates to an improved absorbent tampon having improved leakage performance. Tampons, having a primary absorbent member which is constructed from an absorbent material compressed to a self-sustaining form and a mass of secondary absorbent material are disclosed. The mass of secondary absorbent material is preferably located generally proximate the withdrawal end of the primary absorbent member, and is preferably substantially non-compress, and preferably of a smaller diameter than the primary absorbent member. The mass of secondary absorbent material may be a multiple pieces or one piece. The secondary absorbent material may be attached to the primary absorbent member, the withdrawal cord, or both, or may be integral with one or both of these members. The withdrawal cord of the tampon may have absorbent and non-absorbent zones, especially when the mass of secondary absorbent material is attached to the withdrawal cord.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 1999Date of Patent: July 10, 2001Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Fiona M. Taylor, Thomas W. Osborn, III, Karen A. Kreutz, George A. M. Butterworth
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Patent number: 6206867Abstract: This invention relates to catamenial tampons, and more particularly to an improved tampon which has a compressed core portion and at least one flexible panel for improved coverage of the interior of the vaginal cavity and for directing fluid toward the tampon core. The tampon of the present invention combines the advantages of an absorbent material compressed to a self-sustaining form with an absorbent portion which is uncompressed and relatively flexible. This tampon has a central absorbent core having a first (insertion) end, a second (withdrawal) end disposed opposite the first end, and a side surface which extends between the first end and the second end. The central absorbent core is constructed from an absorbent material which has been compressed to a self-sustaining form. The tampon also includes at least one flexible panel which is joined to the central absorbent core along at least a portion of the side surface of the core.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 1999Date of Patent: March 27, 2001Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Thomas W. Osborn, III, Jerry E. Carstens
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Patent number: 6152905Abstract: The present invention provides an absorbent device insertable into the interlabial space of a female wearer. The absorbent device comprises a main absorbent portion comprising an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion has a top surface facing toward the vestibule floor of the wearer during insertion into the interlabial space. The upper portion leads the lower portion during insertion of the absorbent device; i.e., the lower portion is spatially opposed to the upper portion, and upon insertion of the absorbent device into a wearer's interlabial space, the lower portion faces away from the vestibule floor of the wearer. Additionally, a fluid acquisition/transfer complex is positioned about and extends at least from the upper portion of the main absorbent portion. The fluid acquisition/transfer complex is configured to be in intimate contact with the folds and creases of the interlabial space of the female wearer.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 1997Date of Patent: November 28, 2000Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Thomas W. Osborn, III, Ronald B. Visscher
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Patent number: 6059764Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent articles such as sanitary napkins worn by women. More particularly, the present invention relates to absorbent articles, such as thin sanitary napkins, that are stretchable, especially in the longitudinal direction.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 1997Date of Patent: May 9, 2000Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Thomas W. Osborn, III, Kazuko Sugahara, Charles W. Chappell, Letha M. Hines
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Patent number: 5951536Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent articles such as sanitary napkins worn by women. More particularly, the present invention relates to absorbent articles, such as thin sanitary napkins, that are stretchable, especially in the longitudinal direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 1996Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Thomas W. Osborn, III, Kazuko Sugahara, Charles W. Chappell, Letha M. Hines
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Patent number: 5849003Abstract: An absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin, that is for attaching to and wearing in an undergarment is provided. The sanitary napkin of the present invention has a fastener that aids the sanitary napkin in assuming a body-conforming configuration during wear. The fastener comprises at least two zones of fastener material located only in the end regions of the sanitary napkin. In one embodiment, the zones of fastener material are arranged in an overall configuration that resembles a modified letter "X" without any fastener material in the portion of the configuration that would form the center of the letter X, and the ends of the "X" located in the corner regions of the sanitary napkin.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1994Date of Patent: December 15, 1998Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Robb E. Olsen, Theresa L. Johnson, Letha M. Hines, Thomas W. Osborn, III
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Patent number: 5824004Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent articles such as sanitary napkins worn by women. More particularly, the present invention relates to absorbent articles, such as thin sanitary napkins, that are stretchable, especially in the longitudinal direction.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 1992Date of Patent: October 20, 1998Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Thomas W. Osborn, III, Kazuko Sugahara, Charles W. Chappell, Letha M. Hines
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Patent number: 5772648Abstract: An absorbent article such as a sanitary napkin, having flaps and a recessed area wherein the flaps may be tucked.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1996Date of Patent: June 30, 1998Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Thomas W. Osborn, III, Bruce William Lavash