Resource Planning, Allocation Or Scheduling For A Business Operation Patents (Class 705/7.12)
- Skill based matching of a person or a group to a task (Class 705/7.14)
- Status monitoring or status determination for a person or group (Class 705/7.15)
- Schedule adjustment for a person or group (Class 705/7.16)
- Staff planning in a project environment (Class 705/7.17)
- Calendar-based scheduling for a person or group (Class 705/7.18)
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Publication number: 20140058775Abstract: A Global Supply Chain Intelligence system (“GSCI”) adapted to predict, discover and verify commodity trade flows. Creating and maintaining a dataset that tracks real and near real-time commodity flows as they happen as an input to the GSCI. The dataset used in a business intelligence process within the GSCI to arrive at an output, such as a predicted price behavior, a price alert, a risk alert, etc. A Commodity Flow Intelligence (CFI) component that collects and analyzes information with the timeliness, detail and accuracy required to track, forecast and predict supply and demand imbalances at the discrete flow level to aid market participants in making operational trading and investment decisions, for example, in connection with a financial services system or offering providing enhanced data and tools to promote market transparency.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2012Publication date: February 27, 2014Inventors: Ole Siig, Geoffrey C. Smith, Jonathan A. Leff, Jochen Lothar Leidner, Yan Chong Yaw
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Publication number: 20140058774Abstract: Aspects of the invention provide for business process management using a real time strategy game. In one embodiment, a system including a platform for business process management is provided. The system includes: a core operational real time strategy game for process improvement; a business process management system for receiving a business process model; and a real time data access and analytics system for tracking and analyzing real data of the core operational game and modifying, in response to the tracking, the business process model.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2012Publication date: February 27, 2014Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: Phaedra K. Boinodiris, Brian C. DiCola, Janis A. Morariu
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Patent number: 8660878Abstract: A computer implemented method, system, and/or computer program product assigns work to a software factory for implementing a project. A project model of a project is generated. Project model subcomponents are mapped to work packets that are available to a software factory, thus leading to the generation of a work plan for performing the project via an execution of the available work packets.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2011Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Fausto Bernardini, Jarir K. Chaar, Yi-Min Chee, Krishna C. Ratakonda
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Patent number: 8660877Abstract: Technician control, in which a control system is configured to control scheduling and dispatch operations for work orders being handled by technicians. Multiple technician devices are each associated with one or more technicians, are configured to communicate, over a network, with the control system, and also are configured to provide output in response to communications that are received from the control system and that are related to the scheduling and dispatch operations performed by the control system. A set of scheduling configuration options may be pre-defined and user input weighting at least one of the scheduling configuration options relative to other of the scheduling configuration options may be received. A scheduling application used by the control system to perform scheduling operations may be configured based on configuration data that reflects the weighting and scheduling operations may be performed using the configured scheduling application.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2012Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Accenture Global Services LimitedInventors: Clarence Mitchell, Ankur Mathur
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Patent number: 8660874Abstract: In general, the present invention provides a technique for IT estimation modeling of any organization. Although this estimation model is applied to SOA herein, it is not limited to solely estimating SOA activities; the maturity-based estimation modeling can be applied to other areas and disciplines, even beyond the IT industry. The maturity-based model of the present invention also offers executives and project managers a very effective estimating tool to analyze the impact of project variances. Resources do not need to be taken off projects and assigned to perform estimations, as this model acquires knowledge over time and delivers ever more precise estimates with each successive project. Executives and project managers may analyze the effects of additional staff, function changes, or other events to an overall project. Additionally, new projects may be estimated without utilizing current personnel with this adaptive learning model.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2009Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Abdul Allam, Kishore Channabasavaiah, Kerrie L. Holley, Pawan Khera, Subhash K. Kothuru, William D. James, Sri Ramanathan, Siljan H. Simpson, Matthew B. Trevathan, Raghu Varadan, Nevenko Zunic
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Patent number: 8660875Abstract: A method and system for automated corrective and predictive maintenance is described herein. In one embodiment, a failure notification associated with a tool is received, wherein the failure notification indicates one or more failure events for the tool. Maintenance data associated with the tool is obtained, wherein the maintenance data includes one or more maintenance events for the tool. An optimal schedule is created for the tool by merging the failure notification and the maintenance data.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2010Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.Inventors: Manjunath Yedatore, Deepak Bhatia, John Prescott
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Publication number: 20140052483Abstract: A computerized method for providing a service is described. The method may instantiate an instance of a process object. The process object may be configured to manage two or more business process objects of one or more backend systems to provide the service. The service may be performed utilizing the process object.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2012Publication date: February 20, 2014Inventors: Werner Laber, Ralf Besinger, Andreas Heinzmann, Christian Hoffmann, Jens-Peter Jensen
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Patent number: 8655742Abstract: A system and method for optimizing order fulfillment by considering multiple supply modes in one aspect, plans supply of inventory by forecasting demand, estimating accuracy of said forecasted demand, and establishing reorder point policy based at least on said accuracy of said forecasted demand and a plurality of supply transportation modes. Current inventory position is monitored and if the current inventory position is below the reorder point policy, orders are placed according to a selected shipping method. The selected shipping method may be based at least on customer order priority and transportation budget.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2008Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Feng Cheng, Young Min Lee
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Patent number: 8655751Abstract: A data processing system and method are provided in the form of a livestock management system for specifically managing feeding tasks for a group of animals within a designated location. The system and method incorporate a data processing function wherein comprehensive data is gathered and maintained on individual feed rations which are selectively used to feed a selected group of animals. Functionality of the management system and method include the ability to track amounts of ingredients used for each type of feed ration and any excess or surplus ingredients which may have been withdrawn from storage locations. The management system and method results in improved commodity inventory control to prevent waste of ingredients and to prevent potential cross contamination between different types of feed ration.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Animal Health International, Inc.Inventor: Steve Renz
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Patent number: 8655693Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosed invention include an apparatus, method, and computer program product for automating travel related features based on location information of a mobile device associated with a user. For example, in one embodiment, a computer executed method is disclosed for configuring an out of office auto-reply email message. The method comprises receiving an out of area message from a mobile device associated with a user; identifying a user associated with the mobile device; accessing an email account associated with the user; and configuring an out of office auto-reply email message based on configurations prespecified by the user.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2009Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: CenturyLink Intellectual Property LLCInventor: Shekhar Gupta
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Patent number: 8655699Abstract: A method and apparatus for identifying overdue patients using standard billing or other office management data, so that patients can be contacted and invited to make an appointment. The invention begins by querying the diagnosis codes for each visit from the billing or other encounter tables, and matching these with a set of target medical conditions requiring regular care. Procedure codes and encounter dates for past visits are queried for these patients, to determine when each patient was last seen, and what was done. These procedure codes are matched against a set of exam codes to determine last medical examination dates, and against a set of procedures known to resolve each medical condition. Each condition requiring regular care is matched against any resolving procedures, leaving a set of untreated conditions requiring regular care. Based on the date of the last exam or treatment and accepted standards of care or office policies, a due date is calculated for each patient.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2007Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Brevium, Inc.Inventors: Brian William Perrin, Brett Cornell Gerlach
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Patent number: 8655630Abstract: A design workflow construction apparatus is provided for supporting design of an object having a plurality of design elements. In constructing the design workflow, the apparatus uses input variables, design variables, and intermediate variables. The design workflow construction apparatus includes means for acquiring object design elements and means for determining an order of designing the object design elements. The apparatus also includes means for determining the important design variables.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Osaka UniversityInventors: Yoshiharu Iwata, Ryohei Satoh, Keiji Kudo, Atsushi Taya, Kazuya Okamoto, Hidenori Murata, Koichiro Atsumi, Eiji Arai, Eiji Morinaga
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Patent number: 8655704Abstract: A technique for performing commercial venture analysis involves establishing an empirically-derived structure and evaluating companies using analytical techniques within that structure. The technique may involve defining jobs, or goals a customer is attempting to reach, with dozens or even hundreds of outcomes. Ideally, the structure and tools facilitate analysis that would not be possible otherwise. Moreover, the nature of the system enables real-time input for changing conditions and the ability to calculate returns for new markets in which products or services do not exist.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Strategyn Holdings, LLCInventors: James M. Haynes, III, Anthony W. Ulwick
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Patent number: 8655698Abstract: This invention relates to an automated method and system for forming and implementing a performance-based logistic contract through managing the maintenance an item of equipment in accordance with a maintenance plan. Embodiments of the present invention include a method and system for maintaining an item of equipment supports the provision of predictive maintenance in a manner which eliminates or reduces downtime of the equipment. The method includes tracking performance data on the equipment or a particular component of the equipment. At least one required maintenance activity is predicted based upon the performance data with respect to a defined performance standard. Performance of the required maintenance activity is scheduled at a defined respective time based upon the prediction.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2007Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Accenture Global Services LimitedInventors: David P. West, II, Sherman Baldwin, Michael Wetzer, Patrick E. Weir, Gary R. Garrow, Charles P. Newton, III
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Patent number: 8655918Abstract: A process of transforming data residing in databases, such as relational databases, into forms suitable as input to data analysis tools, such as predictive modeling tools includes the steps of defining a business process problem to be solved and identifying data requirements. For example, the business process problem may relate to predicting a customer's propensity to make purchases in the future or a store's requirements for inventory in the future. In the process, a computer implemented method is used for automatically transforming data for data analysis such as predictive modeling. Database metadata that describe database tables, their interrelationships, dimensional information, fact tables and measures are accessed. A mining transformation profile is created to encapsulate aggregations and transformation on data stored in relational databases in order to convert the data to forms suitable for predictive mining tools.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2007Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Upendra Chitnis, Christoph Lingenfelder, Edwin Peter Dawson Pednault
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Patent number: 8655697Abstract: A method, apparatus and program product are provided for generating an allocation table in a computerized procurement system. The method comprises receiving first data from a purchase order regarding a plurality of articles to be allocated, and receiving second data from an assortment regarding the plurality of articles and a plurality of stores identified for receiving the articles at specified times. The method further comprises determining a fixed quantity of each article to be allocated to each store based on at least one of the first and second data, wherein the fixed quantity of each article is the same for all stores. The method also comprises determining a variable quantity of each article to be allocated to each store, wherein the variable quantity of each article is individually set for each store, and wherein the variable quantity of each article is determined based on analysis of historical data.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2005Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: SAP AktiengesellschaftInventors: Thomas Gabelmann, Berthold Simon
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Patent number: 8655705Abstract: The disclosure relates generally to methods and apparatus to optimize a supply plan through a hybrid meta-heuristic approach based on genetic algorithms to optimize inventory and generate a supply plan. The apparatuses include a supply chain planner that interacts with the processes of a supply chain network. To provide a complete optimization for the type of platform being deployed in theater a heuristic algorithm is devised to decompose the supply plan problem into a production center schedule and an asset routing problem, which will be tackled one after the other. The decomposed supply plan problem is solved with different heuristic algorithms. Namely, genetic algorithms are used to optimize the supply plans based on ever changing set of operational demands from in theater and the priority of those demands to the assigned depots, while efficient constructive heuristics are used to deal with footprint and timing constraints.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Robert D. Riepshoff, Phillip Klinefelter
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Publication number: 20140046712Abstract: A method and apparatus for developing a product. A product development environment comprises a system. The system further comprises a virtual product online world manager and a transformer. The virtual product online world manager is configured to manage elements for a product under development in a virtual product online world. The transformer is configured to exchange the elements with a number of product development systems developing the elements over a network.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2012Publication date: February 13, 2014Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANYInventor: Matthew M. Symmonds
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Patent number: 8649486Abstract: A method for providing confirmation of a request for a target communicated using text messaging includes receiving, by a sending system, a request for a target. The method further includes selecting, by the sending system, a telephone number from a list of telephone numbers, wherein a mapping is created between the request, the selected telephone number, the target, and a target contact. Additionally, the method includes sending, by the sending system to the target contact using the selected telephone number, a text message indicating the request for the target. Moreover, the method includes receiving a reply message from the target contact using the selected telephone number, and determining that the reply message comprises a reply to the request for the target by comparing the target contact and the selected telephone number for the reply message to the mapping.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2012Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: ShowingTimeInventors: William Kellogg, Andrew Ofisher, Timothy Perry, Robert Overman, Scott Woodard
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Patent number: 8650058Abstract: A system and method for manpower planning for operating vehicles such as, for example, airplanes, according to which, in several exemplary embodiments, the availability of adequate manpower to operate the vehicles over a period of time is ensured; in several exemplary embodiments, the operation of the vehicles over the period of time includes the flying of airplanes in accordance with an airline flight schedule.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2009Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: American Airlines, Inc.Inventors: Remi Salam, Abhinav Sharma
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Patent number: 8650057Abstract: Methods and systems for structuring and operating an integrated energy merchant enterprise are provided. Enterprise core value creation functions are first identified. The core value creation functions are those that are primary profit and loss drivers and are generally market facing entities. The core value creation functions are then integrated with one or more integration functions. The integration functions and core value creation functions are controlled with one or more governance functions.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2007Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: Accenture Global Services GmbHInventor: Andrew S Webster
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Patent number: 8650101Abstract: Utilities that allow organizations to implement “best practices” life-cycle management, asset disposition and asset tracking with enhanced visibility and accountability. In one aspect, a utility for use with managing inventory within the infrastructure of a technology service provider includes receiving a first bill of materials (BOM) from a first physical location, accessing an asset inventory listing for the technology service provider, first allocating assets in the asset inventory listing associated with the first physical location to the quantity of the first requested part of the first line item, and second allocating assets in the asset inventory listing associated with one or more additional physical locations within the first market to the quantity of the first requested part responsive to the first using failing to result in fulfillment of the quantity of the first requested part of the first line item.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2011Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: TSN LLCInventors: Robert Glustrom, Richard Schafer
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Publication number: 20140039958Abstract: Handling problem tickets in a computing environment, in one aspect, may comprise identifying a plurality of tickets generated in the computing environment that are candidates for consolidation. The identifying may be done based on whether the tickets have the same or similar root cause, whether they are generated from virtual machines having same configuration, and/or one or more other criteria. The tickets which are candidates for consolidation may be grouped into a bundled group, and marked as bundled. Resolving a ticket from the bundled group may potentially resolves all tickets from the bundled group.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2012Publication date: February 6, 2014Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: John A. Bivens, Valentina Salapura
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Publication number: 20140039957Abstract: Handling problem tickets in a computing environment, in one aspect, may comprise identifying a plurality of tickets generated in the computing environment that are candidates for consolidation. The identifying may be done based on whether the tickets have the same or similar root cause, whether they are generated from virtual machines having same configuration, and/or one or more other criteria. The tickets which are candidates for consolidation may be grouped into a bundled group, and marked as bundled. Resolving a ticket from the bundled group may potentially resolves all tickets from the bundled group.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 3, 2012Publication date: February 6, 2014Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: John A. Bivens, Valentina Salapura
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Patent number: 8645251Abstract: A method and a system to assist wireless telecom service providers to make strategic investment decisions in their wireless networks is provided. Geographical profitability information in a wireless network is determined to decide where to invest capital funds in order to increase the revenue and profit for wireless service providers. The profitability of a geographical area or a sector is calculated based on network Operation Measurements and subscriber CDR (Call Detail Record) data. The system prioritizes the geographical areas and sectors for capital investments based on the profitability of the areas and sites. Similar information may be determined to assist wireless service providers in developing a decommissioning strategy. Embodiments of the present invention may also be used to reduce network churn by understanding where dissatisfied subscribers experience poor service and where network investments need to be made to improve the services and reduce churn.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2013Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Cerion Optimization Services, Inc.Inventors: Will A. Egner, Vinay Mallapu, Wei Yuan
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Patent number: 8645177Abstract: The subject matter of this specification can be embodied in, among other things, a method that includes generating a first graph including possible flight segments between airline stations for an airline and determining a set of permissible crew pairings based on a traversal of the first graph. The method also includes generating a second graph comprising the determined set of permissible crew pairings and determining a set of permissible aircraft routings based on a traversal of the second graph. The method includes generating a set of optimized aircraft routings using an integer-programming algorithm that accepts the determined set of permissible aircraft routings as input, and outputting the set of optimized aircraft routings for use in a flight schedule.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2008Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Accenture Global Services LimitedInventors: Julian Pachon, Stuart H. Smith
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Publication number: 20140032253Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are provided for workforce planning models. Technologies are described to manage human capital decisions. Decision making models and related tools are described that support the development and implementation of workforce strategies, programs and policies. In one model, resources may be allocated to specific practices (policies, programs, initiatives, organizational culture) used to attract and retain valued employees. Resources may be increased or decreased until the optimal allocation of resources is found that is most likely to enable the achievement of specific goals (e.g., attraction, retention, readiness, and representation).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2013Publication date: January 30, 2014Applicant: OPTIMIZATION TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventor: Optimization Technologies, Inc.
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Patent number: 8639548Abstract: A system, method and program product are provided for performing assortment planning. The comprises receiving data representing a plurality of articles, an assortment, and a display area. The method further comprises assigning a first subset of the plurality of articles to the assortment for a first validity period to define a first assortment version. The method also comprises linking the display area to the assortment, wherein a first display area version is automatically created corresponding to the first assortment version.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2004Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: SAP AktiengesellschaftInventors: Christine Fotteler, Klaus Kopecz, Thomas Collet
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Patent number: 8639549Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for designing a supply chain distribution network. A network design tool may be configured to facilitates strategic decision making for a producer/distributor of a commodity products (e.g., molecular gas mixtures stored in cylinders) by incorporating transportation costs (i.e., operational decisions) into the strategic decision making process. Further, the network design tool may also integrate investment decision costs, which are usually considered ‘tactical decisions’, into the strategic decision process (e.g., which filling tools are assigned to which plant/hub location). The network design tool implements different algorithm approaches allowing a user to obtain optimal, near-optimal, and approximate solutions.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2010Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: L'Air Liquide Société Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventors: Sujata S. Pathak, Philippe Briet, Franck Mornet, Nicoleta Neagu, Tejinder Pal Singh
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Publication number: 20140025414Abstract: Systems and methods for scoring, ranking, and allocating mobile and/or fixed client assets. Embodiments of the present invention relate to the characterization or assessment of client assets with respect to the health of the client assets, the ranking of the client assets according to the characterization or assessment, and the allocating of the client assets to tasks or missions based on the ranking and/or mission parameters.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2012Publication date: January 23, 2014Inventors: Bret Dwayne Worden, Nicholas Edward Roddy, Feng Xue, Dustin Garvey
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Publication number: 20140025413Abstract: Methods and systems for identifying potential simultaneous operational conflicts among a plurality of assets in a project. One method includes storing operational scheduling data for a project having one or more project assets, the project assets able to perform a plurality of operational activities at defined coordinates, in a scheduling database, and storing project-specific variables for the project in an external data source. A database query is then performed of the scheduling database and the external data source using a computer, returning all possible combinations of the operational activities, including defining a common reference, calculating distances from each defined coordinate to each other defined coordinate, and filtering the calculated distances to filter out potential operational conflicts, for example distances greater than one or more user-defined buffer distances.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2012Publication date: January 23, 2014Inventor: Justin Yeager
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Patent number: 8635689Abstract: An embodiment of the invention is directed to a data processing system having a plurality of users, a portion of which were previously assigned permissions respectively corresponding to system resources. The embodiment includes acquiring data from a first data source, containing information pertaining to the portion of users and their permissions, and further includes acquiring data from a second data source, containing information pertaining to attributes of each user of the plurality. A set of permissions is determined for a given role, from both first and second data sources. First and second criteria are determined for assigning users to the given role, from information in the first and second data sources, respectively. A particular user is selected for admission to the given role only if the particular user is in compliance with both the first criterion and second criterion.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2011Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Milton H. Hernandez, Jim A. Laredo, Supreet R. Mandala, Yaoping Ruan, Vugranam C. Sreedhar, Maja Vukovic
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Patent number: 8635110Abstract: A marketing system, also referred to as a platform, is disclosed which facilitates centralized management of marketing activities among multiple participants of multiple channel marketing networks, where the marketing activities may include determination of one or more consumers to which marketing content is to be presented and a provision of marketing content thereto. In particular, the disclosed technology platform allows members of a channel marketing network, including, for example, sponsors/OEMs, distributors, buying groups, and resellers, to link to each other to create connections that allow a secure and managed exchange of marketing content, funding and contact data, for the purpose of executing shared business processes, such as co-marketing related processes, and having access to the results thereof.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2011Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: Revenew Systems, LLC.Inventors: Nasrin S. Thierer, Kevin M. Souers
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Publication number: 20140019180Abstract: A method and system is provided to manage and track changes in enterprise architectures. The invention provides a hierarchical visual management tool to manage and update relational information within an enterprise in a controlled fashion. The relationship may be maintained in a database and displayed via graphical user interface. Enterprise assets are categorized into such categories as goals, customer values or requirements, capabilities, resources, and the like. A hierarchy is constructed so that relationships between these various categories are identified and captured using the invention. Weights may be assigned to each element of the categories so that any proposed change to an enterprise architecture may be viewed so that a value can be ascertained and compared between other values of other proposed changes. In this manner, tracking and management of evolutionary changes to an architecture may be accomplished using relational information.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2013Publication date: January 16, 2014Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: Marybeth AHERN, Michael J. LAW
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Publication number: 20140019091Abstract: In certain embodiments, a system may include a condition based replacement life (CBRL) approval system configured to receive a turbomachinery component data and to approve a turbomachinery component for CBRL based on the turbomachinery component data. The system further includes a CBRL validation system configured to repair the turbomachinery component into a repaired turbomachinery component, wherein the repaired turbomachinery component is configured to operate in a turbomachinery beyond a service time of the turbomachinery component.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2012Publication date: January 16, 2014Applicant: General Electric CompanyInventors: Christopher Dean Higgins, Thomas Bradley Beddard, David Stephen Muench, Michael Edward Bernard, Patrick Clinton Bowling
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Publication number: 20140012612Abstract: A computer implemented warehouse operations forecasting system includes a series of user navigable displays hierarchically organized based on level of detail from more general to more detailed in terms of information presented. One of the displays in the series includes an indication of projected warehouse space utilization over a period of time in the future.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2012Publication date: January 9, 2014Applicant: MICROSOFT CORPORATIONInventors: Mirza Abdic, Ievgenii Korovin, Maciej Plaza, Maciej Krzysztof Zarzycki, Oleksandr Moskalyuk
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Patent number: 8626540Abstract: A computer, for planning moves of freight using vehicles, determines one or more attributes of a mission, based on a group of shipments being consolidated into the mission, computes a total amount of freight to be moved, and decides on feasibility of performing the mission, using a vehicle of a given type based at least on each of (A) the amount of freight, (B) one or more attributes of the mission, and (C) multiple effective capacities of freight moveable by the type of vehicle being selected, which depend on the mission attribute(s). Multiple effective capacities for each vehicle type, and corresponding values of mission attribute(s) at which they are to be applied are stored in the computer ahead of time, based on industry experience. Examples of mission attribute(s) include (1) number of stops, (2) type of stops (whether pooling or not), and (3) a combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2005Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Oracle International CorporationInventors: Roy I. Peterkofsky, Hema Budaraju, Mei Yang, Rongming Sun
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Patent number: 8626547Abstract: A work support method is adapted to a work support apparatus having a skill information storage section to store skill information of workers, a work item information storage section to store work item information with respect to a work, and a work information storage section to store worker information of each work item with respect to the work. The work support method extracts a worker corresponding to each work item by referring to the skill information storage section and storing the extracted worker in the work information storage section, with respect to each work item stored in the work item information storage section, in response to a work order.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2003Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventors: Atsushi Hirano, Kenji Kumano
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Patent number: 8626553Abstract: A method for updating an electronic calendar in a vehicle involves uploading an appointment to the electronic calendar, where the appointment includes a description of an event, a time block for the event, and a travel time preceding the time block. An alert is set in a telematics unit of the vehicle, where the alert notifies a vehicle occupant of the appointment. The alert is configured to be activated in response to a trigger. At a time subsequent to the time block of the event, one of i) a memo is uploaded to the electronic calendar indicating that the alert was activated, or ii) another memo is uploaded to the electronic calendar indicating that the alert was not activated.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2010Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: General Motors LLCInventors: Steven C. Tengler, Steven P. Schwinke
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Patent number: 8626544Abstract: A control methodology and component in Business Performance Management (BPM) Systems. This enables firms to exploit control theoretic techniques for Business Performance Management. Information from BPM systems is used to calibrate models of the business process. This model is then used to assess and optimize control actions to manage business performance, on the basis of which a control action is selected for business process execution.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2008Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Lianjun An, Bala Ramachandran, Karthik Sourirajan
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Patent number: 8626561Abstract: A system and method is provided that provides an early indication of consensus of opinion among a number of users regarding an event or observation indicated by a user. Such an opinion may be interesting to an information consumer, who may be interested in determining the outcome of the consensus relating to the event or observation, or may otherwise desire to perform surveillance or survey of a particular issue or subject. Such recognition of early events or observations may be useful in different areas, such as healthcare, finance, etc., where initial observations, if provided early, allow resulting decisions to be made much earlier. The opinion may, for instance, be used as an early indicator of problem with a product, company, etc. that would permit an information consumer to perform an action at a much earlier point than if he/she relied on traditional sources of information. Thus, such opinion information may be invaluable as a tool for monitoring events.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2011Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Sermo, Inc.Inventors: Daniel Palestrant, Graham Gardner
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Patent number: 8626556Abstract: A method, system and apparatus for visualizing multiple time zones can include a C&S application, an event schedule managed by the C&S application, and multiple time zone processing logic coupled to the C&S application. The multiple time zone processing logic can determine a time zone for each participant to a defined event. The multiple time zone processing logic further can render a user interface showing a local time in the determined time zone corresponding to a preferred time for the defined event for each the participant. For instance, the user interface can include an arrangement of juxtaposed time ranges for each participant, where the time ranges have a staggered appearance so that a local time for each of the time ranges corresponds to the preferred time.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2005Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Vaughn T. Tokosz, Patrick O'Sullivan
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Publication number: 20140006089Abstract: A business object model, which reflects data that is used during a given business transaction, is utilized to generate interfaces. This business object model facilitates commercial transactions by providing consistent interfaces that are suitable for use across industries, across businesses, and across different departments within a business during a business transaction. In some operations, software creates, updates, or otherwise processes information related to a project and a sales order business object.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2012Publication date: January 2, 2014Inventors: Jan Penning, Heide von Lindequist, Volker Paul, Dieter Krisch, Joerg Goeppert, Volker Schott, Otfried von Geisau, Peter Latocha, Thilo Kraehmer, Sandra Schmidt, Ralph Rillig, Katharina Sorge
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Patent number: 8620709Abstract: A computer-implemented method for handling a microflow includes receiving a workflow request that includes a task associated with the workflow and a contact address associated with the task, performing an operation associated with receiving the workflow request that includes at least one of opening a communication session with the contact address and sending a response to the workflow request to the contact address. The method further includes storing the task, prioritizing the task, and performing an operation associated with execution of the workflow including at least one of opening a communications session with the contact address, sending a status associated with performance of the task, and sending a completion status of the task.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2012Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Avaya, IncInventors: Francis A. Ovenden, Silvana D. Romagnino, Jodee Varney, Bradley R. Black, Thomas P. Chmara
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Patent number: 8620720Abstract: Systems and methods for automatically forecasting the future availability of one or more resources, such as Internet advertising opportunities, are described herein. In accordance with various embodiments, a forecasting model that accounts for event-driven resource availability is trained based both on historical supply data and calendar information specifying events and event duration. The trained forecasting model is then used to forecast the availability of resources at one or more specified future time periods. In accordance with certain embodiments, the forecasting model comprises a Gaussian process model that has an event-driven kernel as a covariance function.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2011Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Yahoo! Inc.Inventors: Konstantin Salomatin, Datong Chen, Qi He, Peiji Chen
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Patent number: 8620714Abstract: Methods and systems for prognostic condition assessment decision aid of a fleet of vehicles are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes providing a schedule of missions and maintenance of a fleet of vehicles, comprising receiving data from the fleet of vehicles for missions and maintenance activity, determining mission and maintenance requirements, processing the received data and requirements to provide an operational allocation of the fleet of vehicles, determining an alternative allocation of the operational allocation of the fleet of vehicles, the alternative allocation satisfying at least one operational objective for the fleet of vehicles, and generating a schedule for the alternative allocation of the fleet of vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2006Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Zachary C. Williams, James L. Poblete
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Patent number: 8620707Abstract: Systems and methods systems and methods for allocating inventory in a fulfillment network are disclosed. In some embodiments, a method may include identifying orders fulfilled by a fulfillment center, where each of the identified orders specifies one or more of a plurality of items. The method may also include determining, for each identified order, a probability that the identified order will occur in the future and calculating, for each identified order, a cost savings. Items may then be selected based, at least in part, upon the determined probability and cost savings of each identified order. Additionally or alternatively, a method may include, for a selected item, receiving a customer demand forecast, determining a bind factor, and calculating a target inventory for the selected item to be stored in the fulfillment center based, at least in part, upon the customer demand forecast and the bind factor.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2011Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Dmitriy Belyi, Xiao Yu Li
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Patent number: 8620706Abstract: A method of estimating an employment level receiving a first set of payroll data that includes at least one payroll record associated with at least one entity and identifying a format associated with the at least one payroll record of the first plurality of payroll data. The format associated with the at least one payroll record of the first plurality of payroll data may be normalized to substantially conform to a format associated with a second set of payroll data. A regression coefficient associated with the normalized first set of payroll data may be calculated. An employment level is estimated based on the first set of normalized payroll data and the regression coefficient. The regression coefficient comprises a value indicative of a difference in growth rates between the first set of payroll data and the second set of payroll data and is based at least on a number of initial unemployment claims filed during a portion of a time period associated with the first set of payroll data.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2013Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Macroeconomic Advisers, LLCInventors: Joel L Prakken, Benjamin T Herzon
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Patent number: 8620776Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of a self healing andon system. One embodiment of the present disclosure includes a system comprising at least one server. The system further includes logic executed on the at least one server that retrieves a defect history associated with a vendor and at least one product from an inbound shipment from a memory. The at least one product is stocked in a materials handling facility, and the defect history is associated with a specified time period. The at least one server extracts at least one inventory defect from the defect history in a computer system and calculates an inventory defect rate. The at least one server imposes remedial measures if the inventory defect rate exceeds a specified threshold of the inventory defect rate.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2012Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Amazon TechnologiesInventors: Devesh Mishra, Eric C. Young, Sameer Vinod Shah, Timothy Jesse Tien, Jun Zhao
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Publication number: 20130346127Abstract: A site mapping system for use with a machine having a work tool is disclosed. The site mapping system may have a locating device mountable on the machine and configured to generate a first signal associated with a three-dimensional position of the machine at the site, at least one sensor mountable on the work tool and configured to generate a second signal indicative of a characteristic of material being moved by the work tool, and a controller in communication with the locating device and the at least one sensor. The controller may be configured to determine a composition of the material based on the second signal. The controller may also be configured to update an electronic map of the site based on the composition and the first signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2012Publication date: December 26, 2013Inventor: Jeffrey E. JENSEN