Patents by Inventor Timothy J. Payne

Timothy J. Payne 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: 20230392760
    Abstract: A portable illumination apparatus such as, for example, a task light, that is lightweight and compact to provide enhanced illumination in an ambient environment when placed in one of a plurality of operating modes. The portable illumination apparatus includes a support base and a light module that includes one or more light sources and a rechargeable power source. The light module may be manually manipulated for movement between a collapsed, stowed position and a deployed position by rotation of about a first rotational axis. In the deployed position, the light module is rotatable about the second rotational axis that is perpendicular to the first rotational axis. The support base incorporates a carabiner clip member that facilitates secure attachment of the portable illumination apparatus to an object or surface in a manner that facilitates hands-free use of the portable illumination apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2023
    Publication date: December 7, 2023
    Inventors: Tao WANG, Karen M. BAUMEISTER, Jonathan KIRKPATRICK, Xiaotian ZENG, Ling YANG, Timothy J. PAYNE
  • Publication number: 20230383932
    Abstract: A portable flashlight apparatus is provided that is lightweight and compact to provide enhanced illumination in an ambient environment when placed in one of a plurality of operating modes. The portable flashlight apparatus includes a base housing defining an interior space and which includes structurally defined regions that include a front housing region, a rear housing region, an intermediate housing region extending between the front housing region and the rear housing region and an end cap that closes the interior space at the rear housing region. A light module includes a first light source operable to emit illuminating light, a second light source operable to emit laser light, and a third light source operable to emit illuminating light. A magnet are arranged at the rear face of the end cap, and is operable to magnetically bias the base housing on a working surface or support surface having magnetic properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2023
    Publication date: November 30, 2023
    Inventors: Mark COLTON, Jonathan KIRKPATRICK, Xiaotian ZENG, Karen M. BAUMEISTER, Ling YANG, Timothy J. PAYNE
  • Patent number: 11273028
    Abstract: A system includes a scleral prosthesis and an insert. The scleral prosthesis includes a first end configured to be pulled through a scleral tunnel in an eye and a second end. Each end is wider than a middle portion of the scleral prosthesis. Two portions form the first end of the scleral prosthesis, and the portions are separated along at least half of a length of the scleral prosthesis. The scleral prosthesis is formed from a single integrated piece of material. The second end is undivided. The insert is configured to be placeable between the two portions. The two portions may be separated from one another without external interference, and the two portions may be configured to be pushed towards each other in order to reduce a width of the first end and then separate after release.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: Refocus Group Inc.
    Inventors: Harry R. A. Jacobson, Jack C. Griffis, III, Mark A. Cox, Douglas C. Williamson, Gene W. Zdenek, Michael K. Smolek, Barrie D. Soloway, Rex O. Bare, Andrew J. Scherer, Timothy J. Payne, Peter J. Richardson
  • Publication number: 20210000589
    Abstract: A system includes a scleral prosthesis and an insert. The scleral prosthesis includes a first end configured to be pulled through a scleral tunnel in an eye and a second end. Each end is wider than a middle portion of the scleral prosthesis. Two portions form the first end of the scleral prosthesis, and the portions are separated along at least half of a length of the scleral prosthesis. The scleral prosthesis is formed from a single integrated piece of material. The second end is undivided. The insert is configured to be placeable between the two portions. The two portions may be separated from one another without external interference, and the two portions may be configured to be pushed towards each other in order to reduce a width of the first end and then separate after release.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2020
    Publication date: January 7, 2021
    Inventors: Harry R. A. Jacobson, Jack C. Griffis, III, Mark A. Cox, Douglas C. Williamson, Gene W. Zdenek, Michael K. Smolek, Barrie D. Soloway, Rex O. Bare, Andrew J. Scherer, Timothy J. Payne, Peter J. Richardson
  • Patent number: 10835372
    Abstract: An implantation device includes an elongated tube having a first end portion, an opposing second end portion, and a third tapered portion connecting the first and second end portions. The first end portion includes a first opening and an angled tip. The second end portion includes a second opening, and the second end portion is wider than the first end portion. The implantation device also includes a rod inserted through the first opening and extending out of and away from the first end portion. The rod includes a tapered and rounded end. The second end portion is configured to receive a scleral prosthesis into the second opening and to release the scleral prosthesis from the second opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: Refocus Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack C. Griffis, III, Gene W. Zdenek, Rex O. Bare, Andrew J. Scherer, Timothy J. Payne
  • Patent number: 10485653
    Abstract: A scleral prosthesis includes an elongated body having a first free end, a second free end opposite the first free end, a central portion extending between and coupling the ends, and a convex top surface extending lengthwise along at least part of the central portion. A maximum width of the body at each end is wider than a maximum width of the body along the central portion. The scleral prosthesis also includes an insert having a convex top surface extending lengthwise along at least part of the insert. The body includes multiple portions that form the first end and part of the central portion. The portions are separated lengthwise along part of a total length of the body by empty space, which tapers and then expands in width. The insert has a shape complementary to the empty space such that the insert tapers and then expands in width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: Refocus Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry R. A. Jacobson, Jack C. Griffis, III, Mark A. Cox, Douglas C. Williamson, Gene W. Zdenek, Peter J. Richardson, Michael K. Smolek, Barrie D. Soloway, Rex O. Bare, Andrew J. Scherer, Timothy J. Payne
  • Patent number: 10465366
    Abstract: A cleaning system for a sanitary fixture (e.g., toilet) can include a cleanser assembly, housing a compartment formed in the deck of the fixture in fluid communication with a waterway leading to the bowl. The cleanser assembly can receive a cartridge containing a cleaning product for insertion into the compartment and introduction into the waterway. The assembly can support the seat and cover of the fixture, and can have a low profile and curved shape that complements the corresponding shape of the seat and cover, and provides a balanced look that makes the assembly appear to be an integral part of the sanitary fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignee: AS AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: David Grover, Daigo Ishiyama, Timothy J. Payne, Mark Kurth, Scott Rote, Phil Anthony, Aaron B. Eiger, Chris Helmstetter, Christophe Bucher, Ki Bok Song, Jean-Jacques L'Henaff
  • Publication number: 20190216596
    Abstract: A scleral prosthesis includes an elongated body having a first free end, a second free end opposite the first free end, a central portion extending between and coupling the ends, and a convex top surface extending lengthwise along at least part of the central portion. A maximum width of the body at each end is wider than a maximum width of the body along the central portion. The scleral prosthesis also includes an insert having a convex top surface extending lengthwise along at least part of the insert. The body includes multiple portions that form the first end and part of the central portion. The portions are separated lengthwise along part of a total length of the body by empty space, which tapers and then expands in width. The insert has a shape complementary to the empty space such that the insert tapers and then expands in width.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2019
    Publication date: July 18, 2019
    Inventors: Harry R. A. Jacobson, Jack C. Griffis, III, Mark A. Cox, Douglas C. Williamson, Gene W. Zdenek, Peter J. Richardson, Michael K. Smolek, Barrie D. Soloway, Rex O. Bare, Andrew J. Scherer, Timothy J. Payne
  • Patent number: 10285804
    Abstract: A scleral prosthesis includes an elongated body having a first free end and a second free end opposite the first free end. A maximum width of the body at each end is wider than a maximum width of the body between the ends. The body includes multiple first portions that form the first free end of the body and a part of the body between the ends. The first portions are separated lengthwise along a substantial portion of a total length of the body. The first portions of the body are biased so that they maintain separation from one another without external interference but are configured to be pushed towards each other. The body is configured to receive and retain, between the first portions of the body, an insert that is configured to maintain the separation of the first portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Assignee: Refocus Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry R. A. Jacobson, Jack C. Griffis, III, Mark A. Cox, Douglas C. Williamson, Gene W. Zdenek, Peter J. Richardson, Michael K. Smolek, Barrie D. Soloway, Rex O. Bare, Andrew J. Scherer, Timothy J. Payne
  • Publication number: 20180325657
    Abstract: An implantation device includes an elongated tube having a first end portion, an opposing second end portion, and a third tapered portion connecting the first and second end portions. The first end portion includes a first opening and an angled tip. The second end portion includes a second opening, and the second end portion is wider than the first end portion. The implantation device also includes a rod inserted through the first opening and extending out of and away from the first end portion. The rod includes a tapered and rounded end. The second end portion is configured to receive a scleral prosthesis into the second opening and to release the scleral prosthesis from the second opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2018
    Publication date: November 15, 2018
    Inventors: Jack C. Griffis, III, Gene W. Zdenek, Rex O. Bare, Andrew J. Scherer, Timothy J. Payne
  • Publication number: 20180318886
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and techniques for cleaning shower-enclosures are provided. In some embodiments, a shower-cleaning showerhead comprises a diverter housed in the showerhead, wherein the diverter is configured to divert water toward either a shower face of the showerhead or toward a cleaning nozzle of the showerhead. Before being expelled from the cleaning nozzle, water from the water supply may be mixed with cleaning solution, which may be pumped into the water supply or may be drawn in by the Venturi effect. In some embodiments, the showerhead may be configured to direct the flow of water along different flow paths in accordance with a shower mode, a cleaning mode, a rinse mode, and/or a pause mode. In some embodiments, one or more valves of the showerhead may be electronically and/or manually controlled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2018
    Publication date: November 8, 2018
    Applicant: AS IP Holdco, LLC
    Inventors: Alanna Wing LIBBRECHT, Verne MYERS, Steven KAPPUS, Douglas LEAVITT, Scott ROTE, Mark KURTH, Nathan WICKER, David WYLEN, Timothy J. PAYNE
  • Publication number: 20170296329
    Abstract: A scleral prosthesis includes an elongated body having a first free end and a second free end opposite the first free end. A maximum width of the body at each end is wider than a maximum width of the body between the ends. The body includes multiple first portions that form the first free end of the body and a part of the body between the ends. The first portions are separated lengthwise along a substantial portion of a total length of the body. The first portions of the body are biased so that they maintain separation from one another without external interference but are configured to be pushed towards each other. The body is configured to receive and retain, between the first portions of the body, an insert that is configured to maintain the separation of the first portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2017
    Publication date: October 19, 2017
    Inventors: Harry R. A. Jacobson, Jack C. Griffis, III, Mark A. Cox, Douglas C. Williamson, Gene W. Zdenek, Peter J. Richardson, Michael K. Smolek, Barrie D. Soloway, Rex O. Bare, Andrew J. Scherer, Timothy J. Payne
  • Patent number: 9730785
    Abstract: A scleral prosthesis includes an elongated body configured to be implanted into scleral tissue of an eye. The body includes (i) opposing first and second free ends and (ii) multiple first portions that form the first end of the body and part of a remainder of the body between the ends. The first portions are separated along at least about half of a total length of the body by empty space such that the first portions meet at a point between the ends and are not connected to each other between that point and the first end. The ends are wider than the remainder. The scleral prosthesis also includes an insert configured to be placed between the first portions and to substantially fill the empty space. The body includes a convex upper surface extending lengthwise between the ends. The insert includes a convex upper surface extending lengthwise along the insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: Refocus Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry R. A. Jacobson, Jack C. Griffis, III, Mark A. Cox, Douglas C. Williamson, Gene W. Zdenek, Peter J. Richardson, Michael K. Smolek, Barrie D. Soloway, Rex O. Bare, Andrew J. Scherer, Timothy J. Payne
  • Patent number: 9717588
    Abstract: A scleral prosthesis includes an elongated body configured to be implanted into scleral tissue of an eye. The elongated body includes (i) opposing first and second free ends and (ii) multiple first portions that form the first end of the body and part of a remainder of the body between the first and second ends. The first and second ends are wider than the remainder of the body. The first portions are separated by empty space such that the first portions meet at a point between the first and second ends and are not connected to each other between that point and the first end. The first end projects beyond one or more sides of the remainder of the body and angles back towards the second end. The second end projects beyond the one or more sides of the remainder of the body and angles back towards the first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: REFOCUS GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Harry R. A. Jacobson, Jack C. Griffis, III, Mark A. Cox, Douglas C. Williamson, Gene W. Zdenek, Peter J. Richardson, Michael K. Smolek, Barrie D. Soloway, Rex O. Bare, Andrew J. Scherer, Timothy J. Payne
  • Patent number: 9700406
    Abstract: A scleral prosthesis includes an elongated body and an insert. The body includes (i) opposing first and second free ends and (ii) multiple first portions that form the first end and part of a remainder of the body between the ends. The first portions are separated along at least about half of a total length of the body by empty space such that the first portions meet at a point between the ends and are not connected to each other between that point and the first end. The ends are wider than the remainder. The insert is configured to be placed between the first portions and to substantially fill the empty space. The first portions are biased so that they maintain separation from one another without external interference but are configured to be pushed towards each other in order to reduce a width of the first end. The insert, when placed between the first portions, keeps the first portions separated and prevents the first portions from being pushed together and reducing the width of the first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: Refocus Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry R. A. Jacobson, Jack C. Griffis, III, Mark A. Cox, Douglas C. Williamson, Gene W. Zdenek, Peter J. Richardson, Michael K. Smolek, Barrie D. Soloway, Rex O. Bare, Andrew J. Scherer, Timothy J. Payne
  • Patent number: 9687339
    Abstract: A scleral prosthesis includes an elongated body configured to be implanted into scleral tissue of an eye. The body includes (i) opposing first and second free ends and (ii) a pair of first portions that form the first end and part of a remainder of the body between the ends. The first portions are separated along at least about half of a total length of the body by empty space such that the first portions meet at a point between the ends and are not connected to each other between that point and the first end. The ends are wider than the remainder. The scleral prosthesis also includes an insert configured to be placed between the first portions and to substantially fill the empty space. The insert, prior to insertion, includes one or more slots. The first portions include one or more ridges configured to engage with the one or more slots of the insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Refocus Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry R. A. Jacobson, Jack C. Griffis, III, Mark A. Cox, Douglas C. Williamson, Gene W. Zdenek, Peter J. Richardson, Michael K. Smolek, Barrie D. Soloway, Rex O. Bare, Andrew J. Scherer, Timothy J. Payne
  • Patent number: D811228
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Simon M. Conway, Linda J. Babinski, Kate Schreiber, Robert T. Wosewick, Aaron Eiger, Evan P. Thompson, Timothy J. Payne
  • Patent number: D978651
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: BLACK & DECKER INC.
    Inventor: Timothy J. Payne
  • Patent number: D987404
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: BLACK & DECKER INC.
    Inventor: Timothy J. Payne
  • Patent number: D991003
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: BLACK & DECKER INC.
    Inventor: Timothy J. Payne