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U.S. Patents Awarded to Inventors in Texas (Feb. 25)
[February 25, 2013]

U.S. Patents Awarded to Inventors in Texas (Feb. 25)


(Targeted News Service Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Targeted News Service Targeted News Service ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- The following federal patents were awarded to inventors in Texas.

*** Weir SPM Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Weir SPM, Fort Worth, Texas, has been assigned a patent (8,376,723) developed by Vladimir Kugelev, Arlington, Texas, and Mark D. Matzner, Burleson, Texas, for "connecting rod without wrist pin." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A reciprocating pump assembly has a pump within a housing. The pump has a crankshaft that rotates and a crosshead that is connected to a plunger via a pony rod. The plunger pumps fluid through cylinders in the pump. A connecting rod connects at one end to the crankshaft and at another end to the crosshead to translate the crankshaft's rotational movement into linear movement of the crosshead and thereby the plunger. The end connected to the crosshead is secured to the crosshead by a bushing located within the crosshead that allows the connecting rod end to pivot during operation. The bushing extends more than 180 degrees, retaining the connecting rod with the crosshead without the need for a wrist pin. The end secured by the bushing can be retained within the bushing by a lock plate, and retainers without the need for a wrist pin." The patent application was filed on Jan. 7, 2010 (12/683,804). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,376,723&OS=8,376,723&RS=8,376,723 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.



*** Bobrick Washroom Equipment Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Bobrick Washroom Equipment, North Hollywood, Calif., has been assigned a patent (8,375,490) developed by Dikran Babikian, Glendale, Calif., and Branko Bem, Plano, Texas, for a baby changing station.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A baby supporting device is provided which includes a frame. The frame includes a first portion for mounting onto a wall and a second portion pivotally coupled to the first portion and rotatable between a first position and a second position. A first stop member extends from the first portion, and a second stop member extends from the second portion, such that when the second stop member engages the first stop member it stops the second portion at the second position. A first surface covers at least a portion of the first portion, and a second surface covers at least a portion of the second portion." The patent application was filed on Aug. 6, 2008 (12/221,918). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,375,490&OS=8,375,490&RS=8,375,490 Written by Neha Bharti; edited by Jaya Anand.


*** Osteomed Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Osteomed, Addison, Texas, has been assigned a patent (8,377,097) developed by Charles Gordon, Tyler, Texas, and Marc Yap, The Colony, Texas, for a bone tissue clamp.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Systems, methods, and kits incorporate a fusion member for vertebral processes. The fusion member may be unitary or modular. The fusion member comprises extensions configured to be crimped to vertebral processes. The extensions may comprise tabs configured to be deformed to further penetrate the vertebral processes. The tabs may also lock together modular components of the fusion member. The fusion member may comprise fasteners extending between the extensions. The fusion member may comprise a cage with a movable cover or a graft retention feature." The patent application was filed on June 22, 2010 (12/820,575). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,377,097&OS=8,377,097&RS=8,377,097 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** AMEI Technologies Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- AMEI Technologies, Wilmington, Del., has been assigned a patent (8,377,060) developed by Paul Vasta, McKinney, Texas, Miguel Franco, Addison, Texas, and Michael Thomas, Van Alstyne, Texas, for a "fixation device and multiple-axis joint for a fixation device." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A fixator system includes an active strut that that can be gradually or acutely adjusted. Adjustments can be made in six degrees of freedom. Embodiments of the active strut can provide for two of the six degrees of freedom being about a first common point of rotation, and another two of the six degrees of freedom being about a second common point of rotation. Embodiments of the fixator can include one or more active struts in combination with one or more passive struts. The passive struts can be rigidly locked or can be unlocked so as to be freely and acutely adjustable while gradual or acute adjustments are made using the one or more active struts." The patent application was filed on Nov. 13, 2009 (12/618,498). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,377,060&OS=8,377,060&RS=8,377,060 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Flexuspine Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Flexuspine, Pittsburgh, has been assigned a patent (8,377,098) developed by Michael E. Landry, Austin, Texas, Erik J. Wagner, Austin, Texas, and Michael S. Schular, Pittsburgh, for an "artificial functional spinal unit system and method for use." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A stabilization system for a human spine is provided. The stabilization system may include one or more dynamic interbody devices and/or one or more dynamic posterior stabilization systems. The dynamic interbody devices may allow for coupled axial rotation and lateral bending of vertebrae adjacent to the dynamic interbody devices. The dynamic posterior stabilization systems may provide resistance to movement that mimics the resistance provided by a normal functional spinal unit." The patent application was filed on Jan. 19, 2007 (11/655,724). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,377,098&OS=8,377,098&RS=8,377,098 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Production Resource Group Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Production Resource Group, New Windsor, N.Y., has been assigned a patent (8,376,589) developed by James Bornhorst, Dallas, for a layered dimmer system.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A layered dimmer formed of different layers. The front layer may be a scattering layer, and the back layer may be a reflective layer. The light beam is scattered prior to reflecting, to avoid reflection back to form hotspots." The patent application was filed on June 26, 2012 (13/533,336). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,376,589&OS=8,376,589&RS=8,376,589 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** Celanese International Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Celanese International, Dallas, has been assigned a patent (8,378,141) developed by Raymond J. Zinobile, Houston, and Ronald David Shaver, Houston, for a "process and system for supplying vapor from drying column to light ends column." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "The present invention is directed to a method of heating a light ends column through directing one or more vapor side streams from a drying column to the light ends column. The present invention is also directed to a carbonylation process for producing acetic acid, wherein one or more vapor streams from a drying column provide the external energy required to drive separation in the light ends column." The patent application was filed on Aug. 16, 2010 (12/857,323). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,78,141.PN.&OS=PN/83,78,141&RS=PN/83,78,141 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Baker Hughes Assigned Patent for Slurry Outlet in a Gravel Packing Assembly ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Baker Hughes, Houston, has been assigned a patent (8,376,038) developed by Aaron C. Hammer, Houston, for a "slurry outlet in a gravel packing assembly." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An outlet member is preferably made from a hardened material and is cut from a tubular shape at an angle of preferably 5 degrees. At its upper end it is cut away so that slurry flow can exit ports in a hardened sleeve and impinge directly onto the upstream portion of the insert. The impingement changes the flow stream angle as the flow continues through a fully tubular middle segment of the insert that leads out to an elongated exit ramp whose downstream end sits preferably flush with the outer housing wall so as to protect the insert from mechanical shocks and retain the insert axially when slurry flows through it. Other external details aid in fixation when in use." The patent application was filed on April 30, 2010 (12/771,556). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,376,038&OS=8,376,038&RS=8,376,038 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** ExxonMobil Chemical Patents Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- ExxonMobil Chemical Patents, Houston, has been assigned a patent (8,378,162) developed by nine co-inventors for a "process for methane conversion." The co-inventors are Larry L. Iaccino, Seabrook, Texas, Steven E. Silverberg, Seabrook, Texas, James R. Lattner, LaPorte, Texas, Andrea P. Wight, Huffman, Texas, Garth M. Norman, Houston, Douglas E. Smith, The Woodlands, Texas, Eric D. Nelson, Stavanger, Norway, Mark A. Nierode, Houston, and Moses K. Minta, Missouri City, Texas.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "The invention relates to the integration of a dehydroaromatization process with the processes for the utilization of associated gas; gases comprising methane and higher hydrocarbons, and/or liquefied natural gas (LNG) production or usage." The patent application was filed on March 5, 2010 (12/718,712). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,78,162.PN.&OS=PN/83,78,162&RS=PN/83,78,162 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Cameron International Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Cameron International, Houston, has been assigned a patent (8,376,050) developed by Mike Cumming, York, United Kingdom, Alan Dawson, Aberdeen, United Kingdom, and Roger Osborne, Houston, for "sampling skid for subsea wells." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A system for sampling production well production fluids from a manifold interface panel on a subsea production manifold. In some embodiments, the system includes a remotely operated vehicle, a skid coupled to the remotely operated vehicle, a sample tank supported on the skid, and a fluid transfer pump operable to convey production fluid from at least one of the production wells through the manifold interface panel into the sample tank." The patent application was filed on June 24, 2010 (12/822,728). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,376,050&OS=8,376,050&RS=8,376,050 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Halliburton Energy Services Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Halliburton Energy Services, Houston, has been assigned a patent (8,376,066) developed by David Joe Steele, Arlington, Texas, and Aditya Shailesh Deshmukh, Karnataka, India, for a "combination whipstock and completion deflector." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Assemblies can be disposed in a subterranean bore. An assembly can include a surface that can divert a cutting tool for creating a branch wellbore and that can divert a completion component for completing the branch wellbore without requiring the assembly or part of the assembly from being removed from a parent wellbore prior to the completion component being diverted." The patent application was filed on Nov. 4, 2010 (12/939,223). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,376,066&OS=8,376,066&RS=8,376,066 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Phillips 66 Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Phillips 66, Houston, has been assigned a patent (8,375,725) developed by Arnold P. Keller, Houston, and Subbaraman Viswanathan, Houston, for an "integrated pressurized steam hydrocarbon reformer and combined cycle process." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A process for the co-production of hydrogen and power through the integration of a hydrogen production unit and a power generation unit is provided. The hydrogen production unit comprises a gas heated reformer, a water gas shift reactor, and a hydrogen separator which produces a low-BTU hydrocarbon fuel stream and a purified hydrogen stream. The low-BTU hydrocarbon fuel stream, along with a compressed oxygen-containing stream extracted from the power generation unit, is combusted to provide heat to the reformer." The patent application was filed on March 14, 2008 (12/048,805). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,75,725.PN.&OS=PN/83,75,725&RS=PN/83,75,725 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Catalytic Distillation Technologies Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Catalytic Distillation Technologies, Pasadena, Texas, has been assigned a patent (8,378,150) developed by Mitchell E. Loescher, Houston, for a "process for the production of dimethyl ether." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A process for the production of dimethyl ether from a methanol reactor effluent is disclosed. The process may include: contacting an aqueous extractant comprising water and an effluent from a methanol synthesis reactor comprising methanol and one or more of methane, water, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and nitrogen. At least a portion of the methanol partitions into the aqueous extractant; recovering an extract fraction comprising the aqueous extractant and methanol. The extract fraction is fed to a catalytic distillation reactor system for concurrently: contacting the methanol with catalyst in a reaction zone thereby catalytically reacting at least a portion of the methanol to form dimethyl ether and water; and fractionating the resulting dimethyl ether and the water to recover a first overheads fraction comprising dimethyl ether and a first bottoms fraction comprising water." The patent application was filed on Aug. 12, 2009 (12/540,165). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,78,150.PN.&OS=PN/83,78,150&RS=PN/83,78,150 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** HRD Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- HRD, Houston, has been assigned a patent (8,378,155) developed by five co-inventors for a "method of hydrogenating aldehydes and ketones." The co-inventors are Abbas Hassan, Sugar Land, Texas, Ebrahim Bagherzadeh, Sugar Land, Texas, Rayford G. Anthony, College Station, Texas, Gregory Borsinger, Chatham, N.J., and Aziz Hassan, Sugar Land, Texas.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Methods and systems for hydrogenating an aldehyde or a ketone, including introducing a gas stream comprising hydrogen into a high shear device comprising a rotor and a stator; introducing a liquid stream comprising an aldehyde or ketone into the high shear device; forming a dispersion of the gas stream and the liquid stream in the high shear device; and hydrogenating at least a portion of the aldehyde or ketone in the dispersion." The patent application was filed on March 29, 2012 (13/433,421). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,78,155.PN.&OS=PN/83,78,155&RS=PN/83,78,155 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Scott Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Oscar T. Scott IV, Amarillo, Texas, has been assigned a patent (8,375,642) developed by Oscar T. Scott IV, for a "re-deployable mobile above ground shelter." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A protective shelter includes an enclosure having at least a floor, at least one sidewall coupled to the floor, a door, and a roof coupled to the at least one sidewall. The roof includes an aperture located proximate the shelter's point of minimum static air pressure during a high-velocity wind event. The protective shelter includes one or more members that elevate the floor above a substrate, a substantially enclosed sub-floor region bounded by the protective shelter and the substrate, and an air duct providing airflow communication between the substantially enclosed sub-floor region and an exterior region of the enclosure via the aperture." The patent application was filed on July 3, 2012 (13/540,795). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,75,642.PN.&OS=PN/83,75,642&RS=PN/83,75,642 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Schlumberger Technology Assigned Patent for Apparatus and Method for Engaging a Tubular ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Schlumberger Technology, Sugar Land, Texas, has been assigned a patent (8,376,041) developed by four co-inventors for an "apparatus and method for engaging a tubular." The co-inventors are Rod Shampine, Houston, Jean-Louis Pessin, Houston, Joseph K. Flowers, Houston, and Robin Mallalieu, Sugar Land, Texas.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An apparatus for engaging with an outside diameter of a tubular comprises a device body having an internal surface that defines an internal diameter in a first position and allowing the tubular to pass therethrough and an actuator operable to move the internal surface of the device body from the first position to a second position, the second position defining an internal diameter less than the first position internal diameter. The internal surface of the device body is sized with a predetermined grip length for engaging with the outside diameter of the tubular. The grip length is determined by a function of the outside diameter of the tubular and the coefficient of friction between of the outside diameter of the tubular and the interior surface of the device body and the device body is operable to engage with a tubular having a predetermined range of outside diameters." The patent application was filed on March 14, 2008 (12/048,335). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,376,041&OS=8,376,041&RS=8,376,041 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Aker Subsea Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Aker Subsea, Houston, has been assigned a patent (8,376,057) developed by five co-inventors for tubing hanger seal. The co-inventors are Andy Dyson, Scotland, United Kingdom, Charles Li, Spring, Texas, Oystein Mogedal, Oslo, Norway, Paulo Cezar Silva Paulo, Katy, Texas, and Nick Newlands, Oslo, Norway.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A wellhead assembly including a wellhead housing. The wellhead housing comprises a throughbore having a recessed sealing area and a tubing hanger positioned in the throughbore. A seal is positioned between the wellhead housing and the tubing hanger, the seal being positioned so as to form a gap between the seal and the wellhead housing. The wellhead assembly can further include a seal energizer capable of moving relative to the seal in a manner that forces the seal against the wellhead housing to bridge the gap. A method of installing a tubing hanger into a throughbore of a wellhead housing is also disclosed." The patent application was filed on Aug. 19, 2009 (12/543,912). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,376,057&OS=8,376,057&RS=8,376,057 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Climax Global Energy Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Climax Global Energy, Flanders, N.J., has been assigned a patent (8,378,161) developed by John Hemmings, Katy, Texas, Thomas Pinto, Long Valley, N.J., and Viktor Sharivker, Ottawa, for a "method and apparatus for microwave depolymerization of hydrocarbon feedstocks." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A method and apparatus is provided for the continuous microwave depolymerization of high molecular weight organic feedstock material, such as waste plastics and includes intermittent or continuous feeding of the processing material on the surface or into the bulk of the sensitized hot bed located under microwave irradiation. As a result of the interaction of electromagnetic field with processed materials, sensitizer is heated by microwave energy and feedstock material undergoes the depolymerization reactions. The reaction zone can be localized on the surface of the hot bed or distributed in the bulk of the reaction mass depending on the agitation conditions of the reaction mass, such as stirring, or other agitation means, for example by re-circulated gas. Products of the reactions are vaporized and transported to the collection system, which may include a combination of a scrubber, a condenser and a settler." The patent application was filed on May 15, 2012 (13/471,619). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,78,161.PN.&OS=PN/83,78,161&RS=PN/83,78,161 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Baker Hughes Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Baker Hughes, Houston, has been assigned a patent (8,376,065) developed by four co-inventors for "monitoring drilling performance in a sub-based unit." The co-inventors are Sorin G. Teodorescu, The Woodlands, Texas, Eric C. Sullivan, Houston, Matthew Meiners, Conroe, Texas, and John G. Evans, The Woodlands, Texas.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "In one aspect, a removable module or sub is provided for use in drilling a wellbore, which sub in one embodiment may include a body having a pin end and a box end configured for coupling between two members of a drill string, the body having a bore therethrough for flow of a fluid, and a sensor disposed in a pressure-sealed chamber in one of the pin end and the box end and configured to provide measurements relating to a downhole condition." The patent application was filed on Sept. 14, 2009 (12/559,012). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,376,065&OS=8,376,065&RS=8,376,065 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Schlumberger Technology Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Schlumberger Technology, Sugar Land, Texas, has been assigned a patent (8,376,067) developed by Geoffrey C. Downton, Minchinhampton, United Kingdom, and Brian Clark, Sugar Land, Texas, for a "system and method employing a rotational valve to control steering in a rotary steerable system." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A system and methodology provide improved control over the directional drilling of a wellbore. A rotational valve is mounted within a drill collar of a rotary steerable system to control flow of actuating fluid to one or more steering pads which are selectively moved in a lateral direction with respect to the rotary steerable system. The rotational valve is designed to provide enhanced control over the flow of actuating fluid to the steering pads to facilitate drilling of straight sections of wellbore and deviated or non-linear sections wellbore." The patent application was filed on Dec. 23, 2010 (12/977,239). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,376,067&OS=8,376,067&RS=8,376,067 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** General Electric Assigned Patent for Radiant Coolers and Methods for Assembling Same ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- General Electric, Schenectady, N.Y., has been assigned a patent (8,376,034) developed by four co-inventors for a "radiant coolers and methods for assembling same." The co-inventors are James Michael Storey, Houston, Aaron John Avagliano, Houston, Ashley Nicole Gerbode, Houston, and John Battaglioli, Clifton Park, N.Y.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A method of assembling a radiant cooler includes providing a vessel shell that defines a gas flow passage therein that extends generally axially through the vessel shell, forming a tube cage from coupling a plurality of cooling tubes together to form a tube cage defined by a plurality of chevron-shaped projections that extend circumferentially about a center axis of the tube cage, each chevron-shaped projection includes a first side and a second side coupled together a tip, circumferentially-adjacent pairs of projections coupled together such that a valley is defined between each pair of circumferentially-spaced projections, each of the projection tips is positioned radially outward from each of the valleys, and orienting the tube cage within the vessel shell such that the tube cage is in flow communication with the flow passage." The patent application was filed on Sept. 26, 2007 (11/862,021). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,376,034&OS=8,376,034&RS=8,376,034 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** TCP Reliable Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- TCP Reliable, Edison, N.J., has been assigned a patent (8,375,730) developed by Klaus H. Haarmann, Frisco, Texas, Anthony Alleva, Keansburg, N.J., and Eric Paul Mirabel, Houston, for "selecting packaging and coolant systems for shipment of biological products." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Disclosed is a process of selecting of a container and temperature-control system, such that biological products (including blood) requiring maintenance within a specified range of temperatures are so maintained during shipment. The process requires a prediction of the maximum period of shipment, and the predicted ambient temperature ranges and time of exposure thereto for the system during the period of shipment. With that information, a system of container(s) with temperature-control agents including dry ice, ice, frozen gel packs or a phase change material, is selected." The patent application was filed on Jan. 26, 2012 (13/358,662). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,75,730.PN.&OS=PN/83,75,730&RS=PN/83,75,730 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** ATC IP Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- ATC IP, Boston, has been assigned a patent (8,375,651) developed by Jaime Reyes, Grapevine, Texas, Hanming You, Carrollton, Texas, and Hernando Artista, Grand Prairie, Texas, for a modular guy anchor.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A modular guy anchor includes an anchor head and an anchor shaft. The anchor head includes a tubular region for receiving the anchor shaft. The anchor shaft has one end that extends into or through the tubular region and is retained therein. The anchor shaft is preferably galvanized steel coated over at least a portion of its length with a corrosion-resistant material. The corrosion-resistant material is preferably applied over any portion of the anchor shaft that is exposed to soil during normal use. The modularity of the guy anchor facilitates stocking, shipping, and installation, while the corrosion resistance of the anchor shaft promotes longevity." The patent application was filed on Oct. 7, 2010 (12/899,878). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,75,651.PN.&OS=PN/83,75,651&RS=PN/83,75,651 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Halliburton Energy Services Assigned Patent for Methods and Systems for Orienting in a Bore ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Halliburton Energy Services, Houston, has been assigned a patent (8,376,054) developed by Loc Lang, Arlington, Texas, David J. Steele, Arlington, Texas, and Dan P. Saurer, Richardson, Texas, for "methods and systems for orienting in a bore." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Assemblies that can be disposed in a subterranean bore are described. Certain assemblies can be used to orient a second pipe with respect to a first pipe in a bore. A second pipe can be rotationally oriented without breaking one or more control lines that may be associated or included with the second pipe by using a tool that orients the second pipe as the second pipe is moved toward a surface of the bore. In some embodiments, assemblies can be used to orient multiple portions of the second pipe with respect to multiple windows of the first pipe. The first pipe may be a casing string and the second pipe may be a tubing string." The patent application was filed on Feb. 4, 2010 (12/700,448). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,376,054&OS=8,376,054&RS=8,376,054 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Vitruvian Exploration Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Vitruvian Exploration, The Woodlands, Texas, has been assigned a patent (8,376,052) developed by Joseph A. Zupanick, Pineville, W.Va., and Monty H. Rial, Dallas, for a "method and system for surface production of gas from a subterranean zone." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A method and system for surface production of gas from a subterranean zone includes forming a drainage pattern in a subsurface zone. The drainage pattern includes a plurality of cooperating bores and has a coverage area extending between the cooperating bores. Water pressure is lowered throughout the coverage area of the subsurface zone without significant subsurface drainage by producing water through the cooperating bores of the drainage pattern to the surface. Gas is produced from the coverage area of the subsurface zone with at least some of the water." The patent application was filed on Nov. 1, 2001 (10/003,917). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,376,052&OS=8,376,052&RS=8,376,052 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Halliburton Energy Services Assigned Patent for Variable Flow Restrictor for Use in a Subterranean Well ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Halliburton Energy Services, Houston, has been assigned a patent (8,376,047) developed by Jason D. Dykstra, Carrollton, Texas, Michael L. Fripp, Carrollton, Texas, and Luke W. Holderman, Plano, Texas, for a "variable flow restrictor for use in a subterranean well." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having at least one inlet, an outlet, and at least one structure spirally oriented relative to the outlet, whereby the structure induces spiral flow of the fluid composition about the outlet. Another variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber including an outlet, at least one structure which induces spiral flow of a fluid composition about the outlet, and at least one other structure which impedes a change in direction of flow of the fluid composition radially toward the outlet." The patent application was filed on March 26, 2012 (13/430,507). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,376,047&OS=8,376,047&RS=8,376,047 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Raytheon Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Raytheon, Waltham, Mass., has been assigned a patent (8,375,620) developed by John R. Staley III, Dallas, for a "weapon sight having multi-munitions ballistics computer." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A device has structure that can support the device on a weapon, and a range portion that specifies a range to a target. A sensor portion provides sensor information representing an orientation of the device, and an electronic control portion is responsive to sensor information from the sensor portion and a range from the range portion for calculating how to hit the target with each of first and second munitions that are different." The patent application was filed on Dec. 23, 2004 (11/021,822). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,75,620.PN.&OS=PN/83,75,620&RS=PN/83,75,620 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** A.S. Jones & Co. Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- A.S. Jones & Co., Trophy Club, Texas, has been assigned a patent (8,375,977) developed by Andrew Scott Jones, Trophy Club, Texas, for a "ball valve with single access port." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A ball valve with single access port includes a ball valve body; a ball disposed inside the ball valve body, the ball having an open inside portion creating a primary passage, an operating position of the ball determining the flow of fluid and pressurized cleaning agent through the valve; a secondary passage configured to allow the flow of the pressurized cleaning agent into the open inside portion of the ball and an access port allowing an external source of the pressurized cleaning agent to be coupled to the ball valve." The patent application was filed on April 7, 2011 (13/082,335). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,375,977&OS=8,375,977&RS=8,375,977 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** World Factory Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- World Factory, Westlake, Texas, has been assigned a patent (8,375,966) developed by Gregory G. Kuelbs, Grapevine, Texas, for an umbrella apparatus.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An umbrella apparatus having a canopy portion hingedly coupled to a pole portion. The umbrellas apparatus includes a rechargeable electrical power system that provides electrical power to an electromechanical opening and closing system and a light assembly. A solar energy system is conductively coupled to the rechargeable electrical power system and is utilized to collect and convert solar energy to electrical energy for recharging the electrical power system." The patent application was filed on Dec. 6, 2011 (13/311,887). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,375,966&OS=8,375,966&RS=8,375,966 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Bausch & Lomb Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Bausch & Lomb, Rochester, N.Y., has been assigned a patent (8,377,464) developed by four co-inventors for a "polymerizable surfactants and their use as device forming comonomers." The co-inventors are Jeffrey G. Linhardt, Fairport, N.Y., Daniel M. Ammon Jr., Webster, N.Y., Joseph C. Salamone, San Antonio, and Daniel J. Hook, Fairport, N.Y.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "This invention describes the use of polymerizable surfactants as comonomers in forming ophthalmic devices such as contact lenses, intraocular lenses, corneal implants, etc." The patent application was filed on Feb. 27, 2012 (13/405,604). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,377,464.PN.&OS=PN/8,377,464&RS=PN/8,377,464 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Subsea Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Subsea, Houston, has been assigned a patent (8,376,314) developed by Barry James McMiles, Katy, Texas, for "methods and apparatus to exclude function fluid or seawater from solenoid armature cavities in subsea or surface solenoid valves." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A controllable solenoid valve having a sealed chamber that isolates the armature cavity from the function fluid or external water sources with oil or dielectric fluid and is ported to a reservoir or to a surrounding housing to maintain fluid communication with the armature cavity. The valve may also have a closed internal chamber filled with oil or dielectric fluid to maintain isolation of the armature cavity from the function fluid or other water sources. The closed chamber may also encompass the electrodes or the coil of the solenoid. In a preferred embodiment, the chamber is in fluid communication with transducers that sense fluid pressure." The patent application was filed on March 1, 2007 (11/712,787). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,376,314.PN.&OS=PN/8,376,314&RS=PN/8,376,314 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Composite Cooling Solutions Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Composite Cooling Solutions, Fort Worth, Texas, has been assigned a patent (8,376,323) developed by five co-inventors for a "tower/frame structure and components for same." The co-inventors are James A. Bland, Rhome, Texas, Jesse Q. Seawell, Granbury, Texas, Dustin L. Troutman, Hopewell, Pa., Shane E. Weyant, Bedford, Pa., and Charles J. Bardo, Keller, Texas.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A tower/frame structure of interconnected columns and beams (which may be used in a cooling tower) and novel columns, beams, connection mechanisms and other components are provided. In one embodiment, a column and a beam are constructed of pultruded composite fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) materials. The beam includes two sidewall extensions or flanges (each having one or more attachment apertures) at one end and which are integral with the beam for connection to the column (having one or more corresponding attachment apertures). The dimension/spacing between the inner walls of the two flanges substantially equals or is slightly larger than the outer dimension of the column. The attachment holes are aligned and a fastener is inserted through the extensions and column for attaching the column and beam. The C-shaped end of the beam substantially conforms to the cross-sectional shape and dimensions of the column. Additional plastic components, such as a firewall and toe/trim member, for use in a cooling tower are also provided." The patent application was filed on July 7, 2011 (13/178,296). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,376,323.PN.&OS=PN/8,376,323&RS=PN/8,376,323 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Lennox Industries Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Lennox Industries, Richardson, Texas, has been assigned a patent (8,376,242) developed by Robert B. Uselton, Plano, Texas, for a "wireless user interface for an HVAC controller and method of operating the same." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A wireless user interface for an HVAC controller, a method of operating a wireless user interface for an HVAC controller and an HVAC system incorporating the wireless user interface or the method. In one embodiment, the wireless user interface includes: (1) a chassis having a display and at least one control button and containing a temperature sensor and wireless communication circuitry and (2) a microcontroller configured to cause the wireless communication circuitry to generate outbound data packets for wireless transmission to the HVAC controller containing temperature readings from the temperature sensor and when the at least one control button is pressed and receive inbound data packets from the HVAC controller that determine a content of the display." The patent application was filed on Oct. 28, 2004 (10/975,718). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,376,242.PN.&OS=PN/8,376,242&RS=PN/8,376,242 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** University of Texas System, LabNow Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- The University of Texas System, Austin, Texas, and LabNow, Austin, Texas, have been assigned a patent (8,377,398) developed by five co-inventors for "methods and compositions related to determination and use of white blood cell counts." The co-inventors are John T. McDevitt, Austin, Texas, Nicolaos J. Christodoulides, Austin, Texas, Pierre N. Floriano, Austin, Texas, Gary N. Douglas, Austin, Texas, and Patrick E. Rogers, Burlington, Wis.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Described herein is an analyte detection device and method related to a portable instrument suitable for point-of-care analyses. In some embodiments, a portable instrument may include a disposable cartridge, an optical detector, a sample collection device and/or sample reservoir, reagent delivery systems, fluid delivery systems, one or more channels, and/or waste reservoirs. Use of a portable instrument may reduce the hazard to an operator by reducing an operator's contact with a sample for analysis. The device is capable of obtaining diagnostic information using cellular- and/or particle-based analyses and may be used in conjunction with membrane- and/or particle-based analysis cartridges. Analytes, including proteins and cells and/or microbes may be detected using the membrane and/or particle based analysis system." The patent application was filed on May 31, 2006 (11/997,396). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,77,398.PN.&OS=PN/83,77,398&RS=PN/83,77,398 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Abbott Diabetes Care Assigned Patent for Small Volume in Vitro Analyte Sensor and Methods of Making ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Abbott Diabetes Care, Alameda, Calif., has been assigned a patent (8,377,378) developed by eight co-inventors for a "small volume in vitro analyte sensor and methods of making." The co-inventors are Benjamin J. Feldman, Oakland, Calif., Adam Heller, Austin, Texas, Ephraim Heller, Piedmont, Canada, Fei Mao, Fremont, Calif., Joseph A. Vivolo, San Francisco, Jeffery V. Funderburk, Stevenson Ranch, Calif., Fredric C. Colman, Woodside, Calif., and Rajesh Krishnan, San Leandro, Calif.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A sensor utilizing a non-leachable or diffusible redox mediator is described. The sensor includes a sample chamber to hold a sample in electrolytic contact with a working electrode, and in at least some instances, the sensor also contains a non-leachable or a diffusible second electron transfer agent. The sensor and/or the methods used produce a sensor signal in response to the analyte that can be distinguished from a background signal caused by the mediator. The invention can be used to determine the concentration of a biomolecule, such as glucose or lactate, in a biological fluid, such as blood or serum, using techniques such as coulometry, amperometry, and potentiometry. An enzyme capable of catalyzing the electrooxidation or electroreduction of the biomolecule is typically provided as a second electron transfer agent." The patent application was filed on Sept. 29, 2009 (12/569,033). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,77,378.PN.&OS=PN/83,77,378&RS=PN/83,77,378 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** AT&T Intellectual Property I Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- AT&T Intellectual Property I, Atlanta, has been assigned a patent (8,376,229) developed by Jerald Robert Howcroft, Beverly Hills, Mich., and Kathy Goode Piatt, Cedar Park, Texas, for a "system and method of voting via an interactive television system." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A computer implemented method includes determining, at a first computing device associated with a network, a voting status associated with a second computing device that is coupled to the network to receive video content. The voting status is based on whether voting for the video content via the second computing device is prohibited. The method includes, in response to determining that the voting status indicates that voting is not prohibited, sending data related to a voting interface to the second computing device. The method includes receiving voting input (associated with the video content) from the second computing device via the voting interface and updating a voting record of the second computing device based on the voting input to indicate that the voting input has been received. The method includes sending a message to the second computing device indicating that the voting input was received from the second computing device." The patent application was filed on Sept. 11, 2012 (13/609,413). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,376,229.PN.&OS=PN/8,376,229&RS=PN/8,376,229 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** United Services Automobile Association (USAA) Assigned Patent for Systems and Methods to Temporarily Transfer Funds to a Member ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- United Services Automobile Association (USAA), San Antonio, has been assigned a patent (8,376,222) developed by Bradly Jay Billman, San Antonio, Reynaldo Medina III, San Antonio, and Benjamin Hunter Stotts, Spring Branch, Texas, for "systems and methods to temporarily transfer funds to a member." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Systems, methods, and computer-readable media provide a time-limited monetary value to a member of an organization, using a member card or member icon, which may be issued by other than a bank or brokerage institution. In embodiments, the monetary value may be restricted to a single transaction and a maximum amount. In other embodiments, purchases of authorized goods and services may be controlled by corresponding product codes. A password or biometric may be used to authenticate the intended purchaser to the organization and/or merchant." The patent application was filed on Oct. 30, 2007 (11/929,998). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,376,222.PN.&OS=PN/8,376,222&RS=PN/8,376,222 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** United Services Automobile Association (USAA) Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- United Services Automobile Association (USAA), San Antonio, has been assigned a patent (8,376,225) developed by John Chandler Hopkins III, San Antonio, for a secure card.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Systems and methods for monetary cards are described. The cards are free from personally identifiable data, e.g., no name or embossment. In an example, the card includes a first number that activates the card and a second number written to the card at activation away from the card manufacturer. This helps prevent theft at the manufacturer. This second account is a bearer account where anyone who knows the account number can withdraw the funds from the account. The account may be funded with either the account number or the authentication number." The patent application was filed on Nov. 11, 2011 (13/294,637). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,376,225.PN.&OS=PN/8,376,225&RS=PN/8,376,225 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Purdue Research Foundation Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Purdue Research Foundation, West Lafayette, Ind., has been assigned a patent (8,377,416) developed by five co-inventors for a "method for releasing hydrogen from ammonia borane." The co-inventors are Arvind Varma, West Lafayette, Ind., Moiz Diwan, West Lafayette, Ind., Evgeny Shafirovich, El Paso, Texas, Hyun-Tae Hwang, West Lafayette, Ind., and Ahmad Al-Kukhun, West Lafayette, Ind.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A method of releasing hydrogen from ammonia borane is disclosed. The method comprises heating an aqueous ammonia borane solution to between about 80-135.degree. C. at between about 14.7 and 200 pounds per square inch absolute (psia) to release hydrogen by hydrothermolysis." The patent application was filed on Aug. 20, 2009 (12/544,832). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,77,416.PN.&OS=PN/83,77,416&RS=PN/83,77,416 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Mary Kay Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Mary Kay, Dallas, has been assigned a patent (8,376,192) developed by Tim Maddy, Dallas, for an "apparatus for dispensing fluids using a press-fit diptube." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Apparatuses suited for use with, for example, fluid cosmetic products. In some embodiments, the present apparatuses include a container and a diptube having a diptube plug and a stem. In these embodiments, the diptube plug has a first press-fit surface, and the diptube is removably coupled to the container by a press fit between the first press-fit surface of the diptube plug and the container mouth." The patent application was filed on March 24, 2008 (12/054,108). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,376,192.PN.&OS=PN/8,376,192&RS=PN/8,376,192 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Cantex Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Cantex, Fort Worth, Texas, has been assigned a patent (8,376,290) developed by Steve Tollefson, Mineral Wells, Texas, for an "interconnecting alignment and support system with latching mechanism." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An interconnecting alignment and support system for supporting and maintaining alignment of at least one conduit or pipe is disclosed. The system may be used, for example, during a concrete pour operation or other construction operation. The system comprises a base spacer and, optionally, one or more of an intermediate spacer and/or another base spacer. The base spacer is constructed to be capable of interlocking with another spacer on each side and the top. The intermediate spacer is constructed to be capable of interlocking with another spacer on each side and both the top and bottom. The interlocks on the spacers may be releasably latched when fully interlocked. By interlocking the spacers, a matrix structure for aligning and supporting conduit or pipe may be created. The base spacer is attachable to a surface, so that the alignment and support system may be fixed in place." The patent application was filed on Nov. 5, 2010 (12/940,925). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,376,290.PN.&OS=PN/8,376,290&RS=PN/8,376,290 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** General Electric Assigned Patent for Fluidization Device for Solid Fuel Particles ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- General Electric, Schenectady, N.Y., has been assigned a patent (8,377,387) developed by Constantin Dinu, Katy, Texas, Steven Craig Russell, Houston, and Yichuan Fang, Houston, for a "fluidization device for solid fuel particles." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A system includes a fluidization device including a flow passage configured to convey a flow of solid fuel particles in a downstream direction, and a body disposed within the flow passage. The body is configured to direct the flow of solid fuel particles between the body and an outer wall of the flow passage. The fluidization device also includes a carrier gas injection port positioned radially outward from the body. The carrier gas injection port is configured to provide a flow of carrier gas in the downstream direction to break up agglomerations within the flow of solid fuel particles." The patent application was filed on June 23, 2010 (12/822,132). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,77,387.PN.&OS=PN/83,77,387&RS=PN/83,77,387 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Burgess Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Calvin Burgess, Guthrie, Okla., has been assigned a patent (8,376,270) developed by John Baker, San Antonio, for a "structural dynamic stability for an aircraft." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An improvement and method for improved structural dynamic stability for 20 and 30 Series Learjets are disclosed. The improvement includes a redistribution of the elevator mass balance to uncouple the elevator rotational motion from the stabilizer translation motion for the higher order horizontal frequencies having node lines in the proximity of the mass outboard counterbalance weights. The original tail section includes a rudder, and a horizontal stabilizer supporting an elevator mounted adjacent the rudder. The elevator includes a proximal end adjacent the rudder and a distal end that includes a counterbalance portion. The improvement includes replacement of an original mass counterbalance weight from within the counterbalance portion with a new mass counterbalance weight of less mass, and the inclusion of additional mass counterbalance weights disposed within the elevator and interposed between the proximal end and the counterbalance portion." The patent application was filed on 13/323,471 (Dec. 12, 2011). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,376,270.PN.&OS=PN/8,376,270&RS=PN/8,376,270 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Electronic Custom Distributors Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Feb. 25 -- Electronic Custom Distributors, Houston, has been assigned a patent (8,376,171) developed by Charles J. Provenzano, Houston, and Michael Leung, Missouri City, Texas, for a "method and system of a detachable nose faceplate." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Detachable nose faceplate. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are systems including: a faceplate that defines a front side, a back side and a nose aperture, the faceplate configured to removably attach to a surface; a nose portion that defines a top side, a bottom side, a nose edge and a lip that outlines a portion of the bottom side; and a passage defined between the faceplate and the nose edge. The nose portion is both: configured to couple to the faceplate in a first configuration in which the nose portion protrudes through the nose aperture in the direction of the front side of the faceplate and the lip abuts the back side of the faceplate; and configured to couple to the faceplate in a second configuration in which the nose portion protrudes in the direction of the back side of the faceplate and the lip abuts the back side of the faceplate." The patent application was filed on Sept. 3, 2009 (12/553,240). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,376,171.PN.&OS=PN/8,376,171&RS=PN/8,376,171 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

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