Patents Issued in January 26, 2016
  • Patent number: 9242135
    Abstract: A portable lifesaving device that prevents a falling weight bar from injuring the neck while a weightlifter performs a bench press, including, two rods forming a “V” shape guard that rests horizontally over the neck (chest height) and is supported by two pillars at one end and by the chest at the other end, two pillars resting on the bench closely on each side of the neck, a crossbeam(s) that secures the pillars, a cushion under the converging end of the rods protecting the chest, two hooks positioned under the bottom of the bench, two bars the hooks to the top outside of the pillars preventing lateral collapse of the device, elastic straps pulling the bars and hooks inward to secure the hooks under the bench, and a bar on the crossbeam preventing a fallen weight bar from rolling onto the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Andrew Schmidt
  • Patent number: 9242136
    Abstract: An exercise assembly for selectively providing resistance to a user's hand includes an article of apparel that may be worn on a user's hand. A resistance band is operationally coupled to the article of apparel. A handle is operationally coupled to the article of apparel. The handle is coupled to the resistance band. The handle selectively places the resistance band in a resisting position. The resistance band provides resistance to the user's hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Ivan Perez
  • Patent number: 9242137
    Abstract: A door-mounted exercise apparatus, comprising: a) a first strap, operable to removeably circumnavigate a door along its width even when the door is closed, said first strap comprising: (i) a first fastener operable to adjustably tighten the first strap circumferentially around the door's width, such that a user's feet can be inserted between the first strap and the door to securely adhere the feet up against a front or back surface of the door along the door's width, and; b) a second strap affixed to the first strap along a length of the first strap, and; c) a third strap, affixed at the two ends of its length along a width of the first strap, such that the second strap is operable to loop in between the first strap and the third strap, such that each of the user's feet fits between the second strap and the first strap on either side of the third strap, and such that the balls of the user's feet touch the first strap instead of the door's surface; Whereby the door-mounted exercise apparatus enables the user t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Holden Properties, LLC
    Inventor: Ned Hoffman
  • Patent number: 9242138
    Abstract: A multifunctional elliptical trainer equipped with steps that have an increased size transverse to the motion trajectory thereof, allowing the foot of the user to be positioned perpendicular to the motion trajectory of said steps, wherein the steps can have an increased length allowing the user to take a wide stance for side-step movement, or normal size steps which can be rotated and repositioned to achieve the same result. In addition to imitating forward walking, the invention allows the user to do the following exercises: Lunges, side steps and crossover side steps, thus training the inner and outer leg muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Erzhan Karymgazyuly Mukenev
  • Patent number: 9242139
    Abstract: Disclosed is an exercise apparatus for use in developing strength and flexibility in all muscular groups of a person's core as well as the major muscle groups of in the arms, legs and neck. The device uses an elastic ball and ball support to evenly distribute contact forces between the person's body and the device while preventing ball motion during stretching, exercising, and physical therapy. The exercise apparatus also comprises a torso support and a foot ladder to that are configured to provide stability and comfort to a user while enabling the user to undertake a multitude of optimal stretching, exercising and rehabilitation regimens. Additionally, the device may be used with free weights or elastic members. In some embodiments the exercise device further comprises elastic members comprised of elastic straps, wherein the exercise apparatus is configured to provide resistance directions, planes of motion, and range of motion to a user that are not achievable with other devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Terry Reed Holley
  • Patent number: 9242140
    Abstract: A stepping exerciser having a connecting device for training balance includes two stepping units and a connecting unit disposed between the two stepping units. Through the connecting unit, the two stepping units can be used in a stable state to enhance safety of use. Furthermore, because the connecting unit provides an angle adjustment function, the relative position of the two stepping units can be changed. The use of the stepping exerciser can be adjusted according to the user's own physical status and age. The present invention provides a variety of changes for use so as to train balance and muscles throughout the body. The exercise effect and amusement of use can be enhanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Chung-Chin Yang
  • Patent number: 9242141
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a base, support and resistive band to provide consumers a method for conditioning, preventing or rehabilitating injuries from running, sports and fitness activities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Charles Gillis
  • Patent number: 9242142
    Abstract: Sports electronic training systems with sport ball and electronic gaming features are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method of transferring data from a sport ball to an electronic game includes the sport ball determining the occurrence of an event and the sport ball transmitting data related to the event to the electronic game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: ADIDAS INTERNATIONAL MARKETING B.V.
    Inventors: Stephen Michael Vincent, Christian Dibenedetto, Mark Arthur Oleson, Paul Gaudio
  • Patent number: 9242143
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a substantially flat, rigid platform for supporting a user during exercise. An inflatable tubular support having an upper portion with a first radial outside diameter, and a lower portion with a second radial outside diameter that is greater than the first radial outside diameter, is coupled to the platform by a fastener. The tubular support defines a central opening that communicates between the platform and a support surface. The platform includes a venting structure for releasing air from the central opening during use. The inflatable support includes an intermediate portion between the upper portion and the lower portion of the tubular support, the intermediate portion including a support feature to restrain the intermediate portion from radial expansion induced by an air pressure internal to the integral inflatable support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: iStep Global, LLC
    Inventors: John Cole, David C. Pratson, Tien Le, Axel Mnich, Jeff Harlan
  • Patent number: 9242144
    Abstract: A golf ball having a good rebound and excellent flight performance can be obtained using a golf ball composition which includes a diene polymer having a molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) of less than 1.9.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignees: BRIDGESTONE SPORTS CO., LTD., BRIDGESTONE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hideo Takeichi, Takashi Ohira, Yuichiro Ozawa, Tsuyoshi Nakajima, Satoru Tamaki, Yusuke Yamagata, Teppei Mori
  • Patent number: 9242145
    Abstract: A golf ball endowed with a good rebound and an excellent flight performance can be obtained using a golf ball composition of good workability which contains a diene polymer having a peak top molecular weight (Mp) on a molecular weight distribution curve measured using gel permeation chromatography (GPC) of at least 40×104 and not more than 100×104.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignees: BRIDGESTONE SPORTS CO., LTD., BRIDGESTONE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hideo Takeichi, Takashi Ohira, Yuichiro Ozawa, Tsuyoshi Nakajima, Satoru Tamaki, Yusuke Yamagata, Teppei Mori
  • Patent number: 9242146
    Abstract: A golf ball having a good rebound and excellent flight performance can be obtained using a golf ball composition which contains a diene polymer having a smallest molecular weight value of at least 3,000.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignees: BRIDGESTONE SPORTS CO., LTD., BRIDGESTONE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hideo Takeichi, Takashi Ohira, Yuichiro Ozawa, Tsuyoshi Nakajima, Satoru Tamaki, Yusuke Yamagata, Teppei Mori
  • Patent number: 9242147
    Abstract: A golf ball has a non-uniform density. When the golf ball is divided into 10 layers whose volumes are the same and which are concentric with each other, a layer having the highest weight is any one of six layers including a first layer 28 from a center to a sixth layer 38 from the center. The layer having the highest weight may be two or more layers. The ratio of the distance between a point at which a local density is highest and the central point of the golf ball with respect to the radius of the golf ball is equal to or less than 85%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: DUNLOP SPORTS CO. LTD.
    Inventor: Masahide Onuki
  • Patent number: 9242148
    Abstract: A thermoplastic multi-layer golf ball has a core center having a diameter from about 21 mm to about 29 mm and including a first thermoplastic material having a first flexural modulus of less than about 15,000 psi, a core layer disposed radially outward from the core center with a thickness of at least about 4 mm and a second thermoplastic material having a second flexural modulus of up to about 15,000 psi that is greater than the first flexural modulus, and a cover disposed radially outward from the core layer. The cover comprises a third thermoplastic material having a third flexural modulus. The first thermoplastic material and the second thermoplastic material each includes an ionomer resin, and these ionomer resins may be the same as or different from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventors: Chen-Tai Liu, Chien-Hsin Chou
  • Patent number: 9242149
    Abstract: A medicine ball system is disclosed. The system includes a medicine ball and a closure cover configured to receive the medicine ball, where the closure cover includes weighted material that enables a person to simply increase the weight of the medicine ball without having to change to another medicine ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Abdul Sean Carter
  • Patent number: 9242150
    Abstract: A system for identifying ball movement and position is disclosed. The system includes a ball for use in a sport activity comprising a lace or thread on, or adjacent to, an outer surface of the ball, and a communication element such as a wire or antenna disposed within the lace or thread, the ball's communication element being adapted to communicate via a signal received from, or sent to, one or more communication elements, such as a transmitter or receiver, disposed at or near a playing area. The playing area communication elements are adapted to communicate ball position based upon the signals sent and/or received. A processor is provided which is adapted to translate or process information received by the playing area communication elements into position, trajectory and/or movement of the ball. A method of identifying ball movement, trajectory and position and a ball for use with a ball movement and position identification system are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Just Rule, LLC
    Inventor: Gregory W. Gale
  • Patent number: 9242151
    Abstract: A golf club head with an adjustable hosel that sits within a cavity loaded with filler material. The cavity may generally extend from crown to sole or, in the alternative, extend only a partial amount of the distance from the crown to the sole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Acushnet Company
    Inventor: Steve Murphy
  • Patent number: 9242152
    Abstract: Golf club heads with ribs that protrude from a rib surface of a body, the ribs having rib axes that intersect each other and are tangent to a locus defined by a conic section perimeter are described herein. Other embodiments and related methods are also disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Karsten Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Eric V. Cole, Martin R. Jertson
  • Patent number: 9242153
    Abstract: A golf bag includes at least one pouch for containing at least two golf clubs, each club having a shaft of length Lcg, a cross-section having an area of a given value, and a club head secured to one end of the shaft, the pouch being of oblong shape defined along a longitudinal axis and including a bottom and an opening situated at the end of the pouch remote from the bottom, substantially centered on the axis, the opening having a rim of given shape and an area greater than the sum of the two areas of the cross-sections of the two shafts, the depth of the pouch defined along the axis from the opening having a value that is not less than Lcg; a bearing surface; and elements for mounting the bearing surface in the pouch at a distance from the opening that is less than the value Lcg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: BAGOLF Limited
    Inventor: Bertrand Jacquelot
  • Patent number: 9242154
    Abstract: A golf club length adjustment device for use in a golf club, comprising a first member affixed to a main shaft, said main shaft configured to couple to a golf club head, a second member slideably coupled to said first member, said second member adapted to couple to a golf club grip, said golf club grip including an internal cavity configured to receive a golf club shaft, wherein said first member is configured to slide relative to said second member to change the length of said golf club, wherein said first member and said second member are configured to limit rotation of said first member relative to said second member, a locking system configured to selectively limit said first member from sliding relative to said second member, wherein said locking system comprises a locked position and an unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Acushnet Company
    Inventor: Scott A. Knutson
  • Patent number: 9242155
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a barrel comprising cast metal, composite or plastic for use in a bat assembly; a bat assembly comprising a barrel portion, an end cap and a handle; and a ball bat. The barrel may have uniform wall thickness or may include structural elements disposed on an inner surface to improve stiffness and reduce weight. The barrel and bat may further comprise a weighted insert for an asymmetrical center of gravity, allowing controlled spin to be imparted on a struck ball based on the angular orientation of the bat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Vyatek Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard Alvin Lindsay, Richard S. Meitz, III
  • Patent number: 9242156
    Abstract: A ball bat includes a handle portion having a generally uniform outer diameter with respect to a longitudinal axis, a barrel portion and an element coupled to the handle member. The barrel portion has a proximal and distal regions spaced apart by a central region. The element has a tapered proximal region and barrel engaging region. The element has a tubular wall defining a bore for receiving the handle member, and an outer wall extending over a portion of its length. The outer wall is spaced apart from the tubular wall by at least one rib. The barrel engaging region non-removably engages the proximal region of the barrel portion. The bat has a total length measured from a proximal end of the handle portion to a distal end of the barrel portion. The handle portion has a length that is less than 70 percent of the total length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Wilson Sporting Goods Co.
    Inventors: Ty B. Goodwin, Jeffrey A. Flood, Mark A. Fritzke, Glen R. Mason
  • Patent number: 9242157
    Abstract: An arrangement, a computer system, and/or a method for playing a game include a playing area, a first set of scoring structures arranged at a perimeter of the playing area and that are active throughout the game, and a second set of scoring structures arranged at the perimeter of the playing area and that are active only during penalty periods of the game, where each pair of adjacent ones of structures of the first set is separated by one of the structures of the second set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: NEW SPORTS GROUP LLC
    Inventor: Arthur Piccolo
  • Patent number: 9242158
    Abstract: A virtual golf simulation apparatus and method are provided. A sensing device senses hitting a ball by a user with a golf club and a ball trajectory is simulated in a virtual golf course according to sensing results, allowing the user to enjoy a virtual golf on a virtual golf course to provide the same sense of realism as when playing golf on a real golf course.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: GOLFZON CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chang Heon Woo, Hyung Wook Jang, Heung Ryul Zo
  • Patent number: 9242159
    Abstract: A method of training a baseball player with a sports training apparatus having a fastener removably affixable to a defined portion of a user; a generally stationary batter's wall with vertically spaced attachment points; an elastic connector connecting the fastener and the attachment points; a belt strap having a front hip fastener, a rear hip fastener, and a forward fastener; an anchor having an anchoring device for anchoring into a ground surface and an anchor fastener as the attachment; an elastic connector connecting the rear hip fastener with an attachment point on the wall; a bat having a barrel; and a bat barrel cuff strapped to a barrel of a bat held by the user, with an elastic connector connecting the bat barrel cuff to an attachment point approximately bat barrel height directly behind the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventors: Gregg Lacoste, Chris Yeager
  • Patent number: 9242160
    Abstract: The present invention provides a portable pitching mat having a first side with a first end and a second end, wherein the first side is substantially flat and has a weight attached proximal to the first end; a second side, wherein the second side engages an artificial turf substrate with a plurality of anchors; and a pitching rubber on the first side proximal to the first end. Also provided is a portable mat having a first side with a first end and a second end, wherein the first side is substantially flat; a second side, wherein the second side has a plurality of recessed regions; and a plurality of substrates, wherein each of the plurality of substrates comprises a first face that reversibly engages one of the plurality of recessed regions on the second side; and a second face that engages an artificial turf surface with a plurality of anchors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Lauren Tyndall
  • Patent number: 9242161
    Abstract: A method, system and computer program product for improving accuracy and experience of a game. Hot zone areas are determined using game rules. “Hot zone areas” are areas on the playing field where a call may be made based on the rules of the game. Signals are sent from a computer system to appropriate sensors to activate connected light-emitting fibers that are blended with grass on the playing field to indicate when a player and/or game object enters or exits a hot zone area. The light-emitting fibers are activated in such a manner as to display an image (e.g., footprint) indicating the entrance/exiting of a player and/or game object in/from a hot zone area (e.g., out of bounds line) thereby ensuring the game is fair and accurate and enhancing the experience of the game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Lisa Anne Seacat, Travis M. Grigsby, Steven Michael Miller
  • Patent number: 9242162
    Abstract: A bicycle roller assembly, comprising a frame having a length and including two parallel rods running in the lengthwise dimension of said frame and having a front roller and a pair of rear rollers mounted between said parallel rods. In addition, a base assembly including a set of feet is adapted to rest on a surface. Finally, a support assembly is supported by said base assembly, and includes a set of linear bearings, into which said parallel rods are mounted, so as to permit movement in said lengthwise dimension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Larry Papadopoulos
  • Patent number: 9242163
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a golf alignment device that holds alignment rods at multiple positions to provide indicators for a golfer's target line, swing, and setup. The base piece has two arms on each end that hold an alignment rod parallel to the base piece, but with a gap between the two rods. These rods are pointed at the golfer's desired target, and this forms the target line. The base piece has multiple holes for a third alignment rod to be inserted. This third rod provides a golfer with a ball, clubface, and hand position indicator. A golfer uses the base piece to align their body up parallel with the target line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Corey Kronzer
  • Patent number: 9242164
    Abstract: A mouthguard assembly is provided. The mouthguard assembly includes a generally curved mouthguard for insertion into a user's mouth having an outer portion and inner portion, a channel formed within the outer or inner portion of the mouthguard, and an attachment means housed within the channel. The user can extend the attachment means out of the channel to temporarily attach the mouthguard assembly to clothing or apparatus of the user for storage of the mouthguard when it is not used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: John Maurello
  • Patent number: 9242165
    Abstract: A cycling suit (1) comprising a seat pad (2) in the crotch area, wherein the cycling suit comprises a plurality of fabric panels, which are associated along structural seams, and the seat pad is attached by means of a front panel (8) which is fixed to the suit along structural seams (11-15) of the same; a corresponding method for manufacturing the cycling suit is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: ASSOS OF SWITZERLAND S.A.
    Inventor: Roger Maier
  • Patent number: 9242166
    Abstract: A gliding device includes a gliding board, a mechanism for binding a boot to the gliding board; the binding mechanism including a retaining device allowing rotation of the boot about an axis transverse to the gliding board; and an arrangement for applying a pulling force on the shovel of the gliding board. The arrangement for applying a pulling force on the shovel is not elastic; and the gliding device further includes a device for adjusting the length of the pulling arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: SALOMON S.A.S.
    Inventor: Bertrand Krafft
  • Patent number: 9242167
    Abstract: An apparatus for selective holding of a footwear heel to a snow travel aid is provided. The apparatus is of the kind that comprise a base mountable to the snow travel aid, an upper portion slidable relative to the base and at least one forward connector for connecting the upper portion to the heel. The upper portion is rotatable on a generally vertical axis between a downhill position and at least one lateral release position. In this invention, the upper portion comprises at least one camming surface positioned such that rotation of the upper portion toward the lateral release position results in the upper portion translating rearwardly against an opposing force provided by a forward biasing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: G3 Genuine Guide Gear Inc.
    Inventors: Cameron Allan Shute, Robert Erik Moore
  • Patent number: 9242168
    Abstract: A snowboard boot and binding system is disclosed which facilitates the engagement and disengagement of a snowboard boot and binding. The snowboard boot may include a boot engagement member extending from a rear of the boot. The boot engagement member is moved downwardly into a corresponding binding engagement member to provide an arrangement which prevents forward movement of the boot. The boot engagement member also may include one or more serrations to engage with one or more pawls on the binding to prevent upward movement of the boot. A snap-in arrangement may be provided in a boot toe region. The boot has protrusions extending outwardly from each side of the boot to engage with catches on the binding sidewalls. As the boot is pressed downwardly into the binding, the protrusions splay the catches until reaching recesses, at which point the catches rebound to capture the protrusions against upward movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: The Burton Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond Robert Kavarsky, Jr., Christopher M. Doyle, Scott T. Keller
  • Patent number: 9242169
    Abstract: Provided is a heeling apparatus. The heeling apparatus includes a sole including a forefoot portion and a heel portion. The heel portion has an opening formed therein. In one embodiment, the sole includes a removable portion. The heeling apparatus further includes a wheel assembly including wheel rotably mounted to an axle and a mounting structure, wherein the wheel extends through the opening in the heel portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: HEELING SPORTS LIMITED
    Inventor: Roger R. Adams
  • Patent number: 9242170
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of interactive gaming applied to an interactive case and a tablet, wherein the interactive case is arranged to be attached on the tablet, and the interactive case includes a transmission port arranged to communicate with the tablet and a plurality of notches. The method of interactive game includes determining whether at least one accessory medal is connected to the notch; when one of the accessory medals is connected to one of the notches, retrieving a predetermined data stored in the connected accessory medal; identifying the connected accessory medal according to the predetermined data of the connected accessory medal; and performing an application corresponding to the connected accessory medal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: QUANTA COMPUTER INC.
    Inventors: Te-Chun Lee, Yu-Liang Shih, Jyun-Jie Chen, Jung-Wen Chang
  • Patent number: 9242171
    Abstract: Real-time camera tracking using depth maps is described. In an embodiment depth map frames are captured by a mobile depth camera at over 20 frames per second and used to dynamically update in real-time a set of registration parameters which specify how the mobile depth camera has moved. In examples the real-time camera tracking output is used for computer game applications and robotics. In an example, an iterative closest point process is used with projective data association and a point-to-plane error metric in order to compute the updated registration parameters. In an example, a graphics processing unit (GPU) implementation is used to optimize the error metric in real-time. In some embodiments, a dense 3D model of the mobile camera environment is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Newcombe, Shahram Izadi, David Molyneaux, Otmar Hilliges, David Kim, Jamie Daniel Joseph Shotton, Pushmeet Kohli, Andrew Fitzgibbon, Stephen Edward Hodges, David Alexander Butler
  • Patent number: 9242172
    Abstract: A game device includes: an image processing unit operative to display a screen image of a game field including vertical land features; a passage forming unit operative to form a passage in the game field through which fluid can move, in accordance with an instruction by a user; fluid control unit operative to control fluid supplied to the passage; and a terrestrial character control unit and an aquatic character control unit operative to control an action of a character disposed in the game field. The aquatic character control unit moves the character, which exists in the passage in which the fluid exists, together with the fluid when the fluid is moved along the passage to a lower position by the fluid control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
    Inventors: Masami Yamamoto, Haruyuki Ohashi, Satoru Koyama
  • Patent number: 9242173
    Abstract: A game scrap system associated with a game progress includes: a data table setting setup information by recording at least one game environment associated with a generation of a predetermined event signal; an event signal generation unit generating the event signal when a game environment according to a game progress corresponds to at least a portion of the setup information; an image capturing unit, in response to the event signal, capturing a game image to generate game image information; and an image transmission unit transmitting the generated game image information to a remote location in a network using a network address.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: NHN Entertainment Corporation
    Inventor: Mi Jin Kwon
  • Patent number: 9242174
    Abstract: A gaming device having a controller allows a user of the device to play a multiplayer on-line game as a member of a team. The controller identifies the team members, and generates strategic data for distribution to the team members. The strategic data may be tactical data used by the team to achieve a predetermined objective of the on-line game. The controller also detects the occurrence of a predetermined event. Whenever a predetermined event occurs, the controller distributes the strategic data to one or more of the other team members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Mobile Communications AB
    Inventor: Troed Nils Rickard Sångberg
  • Patent number: 9242175
    Abstract: Embodiments are presented for executing an online game. One method includes an operation for creating an animation on a game board that is associated with a player. The animation includes a non-player character that delivers an invitation to start a master mission having quests. If the player accepts, an application from the player is received to start the master mission, the application including the selection of a specialty from a plurality of specialties available for the master mission. The method further includes an operation for delivering a quest reward after completing at least one of the quests from the plurality of quests, where the quest reward includes a wearable status item for an avatar of the player in the game board. In addition, a master reward is delivered after the completion of the master mission. The master reward includes the ability to perform game operations associated with the specialty.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Zynga Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Taylor John, William Graham, Xian Yang (Kenji) Low, Josh Wickham, Alexi Chialtas
  • Patent number: 9242176
    Abstract: A method for providing remote control of a user's gameplay is provided. A live video feed of a first user's gameplay is presented to a remote second user. A request to transition control of the first user's gameplay to the second user is processed. Control of the first user's gameplay by the second user is initiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC
    Inventors: Victor Octav Suba Miura, David Perry, Philippe Dias, Kelvin Yong
  • Patent number: 9242177
    Abstract: Described herein are methods, systems, apparatuses and products for simulating events utilizing authentic event information. One aspect provides receiving event data associated with one or more real-world events at one or more event data software modules being executed on a computing device; and formatting the event data via the one or more event data software modules into a form utilized by one or more video game applications operable on the computing device. Other embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Lori Marie Bistis, Christiaan Cokas, Michael Gay, Jesse Pringle, Marc William Rowley, Aaron Watson
  • Patent number: 9242178
    Abstract: A method is given for providing a visualization of a scene corresponding to game play. The method includes steps of receiving at a visualization server information about a scene corresponding to game play at a client computer, receiving additional information about the scene at the visualization server; and constructing a visualization at the visualization server based on the scene, the constructing based at least in part on the received information and the received additional information. In another embodiment, the visualization may be composed by the user rather than being a scene corresponding to game play. In a further embodiment, a method is given for providing a visualization of a scene corresponding to game play, including: receiving at a visualization server information about a scene corresponding to game play at a client; modifying the scene information; and constructing a visualization at the visualization server based on the modified scene information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: SONY COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT AMERICA LLC
    Inventor: Gregory Short
  • Patent number: 9242179
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an application provision method in a client-server type system providing a game application to a plurality of users via a network. The method causes a computational resource of a server to perform the steps of: providing, to a first user using a client terminal connected to the server, a game application selected by the first user; providing, to a second user specified by the first user, the game application provided to the first user after the game application is ended by the first user; and notifying achievement levels of the first and second users to the client terminals of the first and second users after the game application is ended by the second user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
    Inventors: Tatsuya Suzuki, Hiromasa Ohkubo, Ryota Akao, Eiji Yamada, Kensaku Sanda
  • Patent number: 9242180
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a powered children's swing. In various embodiments, the swing includes a seat, swing frame, one or more swing arms, a first magnetic component, second magnetic component, swing motion sensor, and swing control circuit. The magnetic components are configured to generate a magnetic force that drives the seat along a swing path. The swing control circuit is configured to control the magnetic components based at least on input from the swing motion sensor and generate control signals causing the seat to swing with substantially constant amplitude as specified by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Kids II, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Gilbert, Stephen R. Burns, Peter D. Jackson, Charles Simons, Chen Jing Ru
  • Patent number: 9242181
    Abstract: A cable driven elevator system having an elevator platform with an integral motion system is provided using one or multiple actuators. Each actuator includes a support plate attached to the elevator platform, a planetary gearbox engaged with and driven by an electric servo motor, and a drive shaft driven by the servo motor and engaged with a one crank. Connecting rods are connected between the crank and a frame. The frame supports a passenger platform. A control system is operable with each electric servo motor of each actuator for providing a simulated motion to the passenger platform including a heaving (vertical) motion such that the vertical downward acceleration experienced by persons riding the elevator exceeds 1 g, by way of example. The motion system is also capable of directly imparting vibrations to the elevator platform of up to at least 100 Hz without additional vibration generating equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Dynamic Motion Group GmbH
    Inventors: David J. Vatcher, Simon A. James, Andrew J. Cox
  • Patent number: 9242182
    Abstract: A toy gun construction, comprising a gun housing, a reciprocating assembly and a latch member. The reciprocating assembly has a sliding curve plate and a first elastic unit. The latch member is assembled with a connecting rod, an engaging portion, an extension portion and a second elastic member. The sliding curve plate moves from a dynamic position to a static position, and when the sliding curve plate is at dynamic position the engaging portion is stuck in the indention. By pushing the extension portion the latch member moves toward the sliding curve plate to release the engaging portion from the indention and the sliding curve plate is pulled back to the static position by the first elastic member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: KRISS Industries Asia LTD.
    Inventor: Li-Te Cheng
  • Toy
    Patent number: 9242183
    Abstract: When one motor rotates a rotating disk, the rotating disk rotates a first moving body, and the rotating disk moves a second moving body from an initial position against a bias force of a bias unit, a protrusion of the rotating disk engages with allowance with a recess portion of the first moving body so that the rotating disk does not rotate reversely when the second moving body returns to the initial position. With this device, it is possible to move only either one of two moving bodies operated by one motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignees: TOMY COMPANY, LTD., GANG CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tomohito Nagai, Yasuhiro Yamasaki
  • Patent number: 9242184
    Abstract: A building system toy preferably includes a double female connector, a male-female connector, a male connector, a right angle connector, a split male-female connector, a split opposing male-female connector, an angle connector and a double angle connector. The double female connector includes a base female connector and four female connection rings. The male-female connector includes the base female connector and four cylinders. The male connector includes a star base and four small cylinders. The right angle connector includes a base, a small cylinder, a first cylinder and a second cylinder. The split male-female connector and the split opposing male-female connector both include the base female connector, two female connection rings and two cylinders. An angle connector includes a first connection portion and a second connector portion. The double angle connector includes a first connector portion, a second connector portion and a third connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Inventor: Gustavo Mosquera