US0081603 06B1
(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 8,160,306 B1 Neustel (45) Date of Patent: Apr. 17, 2012
(54) PATENT ANALYZING SYSTEM 6,002,798 A * 12/1999 Palmer et al...... 382, 176 6,014,663 A * 1/2000 Rivette et al...... TO7/690 (76) Inventor: Michael S. Neustel, Fargo, ND (US) 95. f : 358 Stet al...... 40 's - - : 155 i? ra...' (*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this 7.68: R ck 1338. its tal 29, patent is extended or adjusted under 35 7,941,468 B2 * 5/2011 Zellner et al. .. 707,932 U.S.C. 154(b) by 987 days. 2005/0210.009 A1* 9, 2005 Tran ...... 707/3 OTHER PUBLICATIONS (21) Appl. No.: 12/132,674 United States Patent and Trademark Office, Patent Full-Text and (22) Filed: Jun. 4, 2008 Full-PageImage Database,
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PRINT PN IN WOR is dex.cf. Eleanerits for U.S. Patent rig. 544.4333 a. First Inductor Circuit. . . . E. Terrirals or ArrangerTigrit AC Power Source T 148; indictor 19: ... Supply. ... 32. secondary 12: ...C. Converter X------52: trans 2: ACC Unit" 52; switch TranSlsior 12 E-CBridge Converter Invertar Circuit TE6; Resistorscapacitor
siststrustwwww.amrmarrm-mm--erter craft r-r Simply Place Gagagg. a Storage capacitor
13: EtertantSecond Flerner -e-rea--- - Tube r -- 78, 20; Fluorescent Tube 32. 2. TFores "Capacitance
e Power Transist 25: E98. power Transsler 25: starter Circuit 198;" ra-aa 28; T protection Figg w goo: A westees 30: capacitors " " " " " Secondarig" Tidy ictors Primary 3 Code Eridge - capacitor-o-
s Registor so 44; CapacitorT. 6: 44: Supply Capacitor 18; 44: Charge capacitor 22: 45; Diede" T 124: f). 126;. Triet...... Mw - Y -
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FIG. 4 U.S. Patent Apr. 17, 2012 Sheet 11 of 25 US 8,160,306 B1
PatentAnalyzer Trial Version (Project 544.4333) IX File Settings Tools Help 544.4333 CANalyze ) C stop ). Prior Projects: select existing Project ly Index of Elements Specification claims images Display only sentence(s) v with element(s). -Enter Text to Search A United States Patent 5,444,333 al w ------August 22, 1995 -select Element to Analyze- Electronic ballast circuit for a fluorescent light - - 1;i? firstterminals |A Abstract 10:10: ACpower power supply source An energy efficient and cost effective electronic ballast circuit which 12: DC converter lights a frescent tube but which avoids excessive voltages or 12: AC-DC unit pulsing gf the tube, The starter clrcuit preheats the flaments for a H. ity. time sufficient to ensure quick ignition upon application of an E. appropriate voltage, then ceases the flow of current after the tube is 14; AC converter circuit lighted to avold wasting energy, 16: inductor - 18; filaments ------"" " "r-os---mira------...------R. son ament Inventors: Lau; Lake (Walnut, CA) E. en Assignee, lights Of America, Inc. (Walnut, CA) 20; fluorescent tube Appl. No.: 066564 20:22: capacitancefluorescent Eight tub Fled;- rMay 26, 1993 22: capacitor O22/24: capacitors Current U.S., Class: 315/94; 315/102; 315/106; 315/107; 24: capacitor 'sis/SIG 5 24; capacitance --- 26; starte --- Intern Class: 1-053 (139/00 26; starter circuit Field of Search; 3. 5/94, 95, 96,102,1 O3, C4,106, iO7, DIG. 28; protection fuse 5,289 30: capacitors ------n- a 32; inductoA. Page ----- References Cited4. Referenced By H.A.42; resist or U.S. Patent Documentswwwn ------areer 44: supply capacitor a353). Oct., 982 Knoll et al., 35/22O, E. age capacitor 4458.39 Now, 1983 LeSea 315/308. O48; inductor circuit d694224. Sep, 1987 Nakagawa et al. 315/177, R.E. into arrangeme d598.554. Oct., i987 Stupp et al. 315/307. 49;: secondaryLtd winding (4952.849 Aug. 1990 Fatows 35/307, 52: transistor 5O2733 Jun, l991 Zuchtrileged 35/06, 52: switch transistor R SO49.783 Sep. i. 993 Kroening 3i5/DIG, KT T TDI 5049-790 Sep, 1991 Herfurth et ai. 3i 51291. 5659R7) (c.f. i gif (h)on 35.1 ?6. v.
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FIG. 5 U.S. Patent Apr. 17, 2012 Sheet 12 of 25 US 8,160,306 B1
PatentAnalyzer Trial version (Project 544.4333) e Settings Tools Help 544544.4333 CANalyze) C stop Prior Projects: select Existing Project ly Index of Elements Specification | claims images Display only paragraph(s) v with element(s). -Ete Text to Search Referring to FIGS 1-3, a 120 volt AC, 50 Hz power supply to supplies a powerapproximately to an AC-DG 25C VoltsConverter DC on circuit the output. i2 which The Cory 250 arts volt the DC voltage puttut tois than slippied to a DC to AC coverter circult 14 (a half bridge -Select Element to Analyze — rvester) whlch converts the 250 volt 3: input is to a 125 S. high frequency AC Square wave output signal which is; supplied to a Etmas A. fluorestant light tute 20 through an inductor 16, The 125 volt AC 10: AC power source sque wayesignal is also supplied to a starter circuit 26 through 10; power supply Cégaltors 22 and 24, 12: AC-DCDC converter unit The production of the 25 volt AC high frequency square wave signal 12: AC-DC converter of Carl be a CC ?plished using any typlai AC to DC arc DC to AC 14: half bridge inverter Converter circuits which are found in most electronic basalist circuits, Eiriarcuit Theidealy square is 25 wave krz, slga! has a Frequency between 20 and 30 kHz, but 716; inductor O18:18; filamentssecond filament When the circuit is first powered up, power supply ic supplies 120 18: element volts AC at 60Hz through protection fuse 28 arid an input filter 20: tube including capacitors 30, 34 and Inductors 32. The input fitter protects 20: fluorescent tube the circuit against line transients, and attenuates any EMI 20: fluorescent light tub electromagnetic Interferel Ceperturbations generated by the Figh 22; capacitance frequency power suppled to the tuba 20, The citade bridge 36 Eos24: capacitor thenecifies begins the toling fig'' voltage through and resistor to produced 42 to CCcharge voltage capaclio and current44, 24: Capacitance Cepictor 38 Coltrols the perceritage of allowable input Current ripple, 26: starter Resistof 40 serves as a zero current detector for controlag 64 to 26; starter circuit prevent an over-current of dittan in the ballast circuit. 28; protection fuse i 30: capacitors At start-up, resistor 42 and capacitor 44 provide for the supply of 32;36: inductorsdiode bridge power to Co?taller, 54. The increasing voltage across capacitor 4 42 resistor depends lipof the tire COinStart producedy the resistof 42 and the 44; capacitor Capacitor 44. After approximately 5 seconds, diode 46 serves to 44: supply capacitor rectify the AC signal for the secondary winding 49 to supply 44: charge capacitor Capacitc. 44 with a charging current, Thus, after the tiltial period of U46; diode approxir lately 15 Seconds, diode 46 and capacitor 44 bestore the O48; inductor circuit {OWe?t Supply for COftroiler 64. Inductor 48 seasyels to boost the power 48: indcutor arrangeme Supplied for the diodebridge 36, Resistor 50 limits the peak currenty 49:48; secondaryinductor winding form the Controller 64 which is used in switch transistor 52. 52: transistor g 52; switch transistor D 7 inductorEssop, 48 in accordincewhich is Corled with the by staintaneouscontroller 64, waiteclarges of thethe feuilled supply voltage, thus Einst ring that the power supply 10 Drowlies strusioidal line current and Woltane which are irohase. r
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FIG. 6 U.S. Patent Apr. 17, 2012 Sheet 13 of 25 US 8,160,306 B1
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-Ete Text to Search a * 3: Kitikas it six it, k33s. 4:grg::s:: SARCH The 250 vott DC output is ther supplied to a CC to AC converter Selecte"ent to “eye circult 4 (a half bridge inverter) which converts the 25E volt DC input 1: first a into 125 vol high fieglergy Ag Square wave output signal which is
1/2: terTinals sligplied to a fluorescent light tube 20 through an inductor 16, 10: AC power source it: Reikokkickski's skis ki: 10: power supply 12: DC converter The feSOhaft circuit includes inductor 16 and capacitor 22, 12: AC-DC unit kicks it is le:k::::::k:t. is kickix:it: 12: AC-DC converter of 14: halfDC-AC bridge circuit inverter 4, the Seuire Wave high frequency- AC slgal supplied afor the half 14: AC converter circuit bridge liverter 141s charged to a high frequery sinusoidal wave 16: inductor Slginal due to the resonance clicult for fried by inductor 16 and 18: filaments Capacitors 22, 24. 18: second filament skis kixkbe'k'43kksk: sks:k:tsk 18: element E. housan use dict, Ei, Snt i? liter, inning the arToufi of 2022; Auorescentcapacitance light tub kissists assesses 22: capacitor 22/24: capacitors O24: capacitor 24: capacitance Sentences Fot ind = 4 O26; starter 26: starter circuit 28; protection fuse 30: capacitors 32: inductors 36: diode bridge 42: resistor 44: Capacitor 44: supply capacitor 44: charge capacitor 4: diode 48: inductor circuit 48: indcutor arrangeme 48: inductor 49; secondary winding 52: transistor 52; switch transistor R7 K I >
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FIG. 7 U.S. Patent Apr. 17, 2012 Sheet 14 of 25 US 8,160,306 B1
PatentAnalyzer Trial version (Project 544.4333) X File Settings Tools Help 544.4333 ( ANALYZE ) stoP Prior Projects: select Existing Project v. index of Elements Specification claims images 7Display only with element(s), -Enter Text to Search A. OsEARCH) -Select Element to Analyze Refering to SS-3, a 20 volt AG 60 Hz, power supply 10 supplies power to af, ACDC CCIWSrter circult i2 which converts the voltage to 1: First 4A approximately 250 watts LC on the output, The 250 volt DC output is it. then Slippied to a DC to AC converter circuit 4 (a half bridge 10.13.5 type convert inve?ter)equency. within A square Cinverts visye, the output 250 volt signal DC whichinput intois supplied a 125 volt, to a high 12;12: AC-DC unitconverter of Squarefluorescent wave Fight sigral tube is 20also through Sipplied an toinductor a starter 15, circuit The 12525 through volt AC 14: half bridge inverter C33cl to S 22 ahd 24. 14; DC-AC circuit 14: AC converter circuit sai5: inductor ckkka;xtk;8. Kiskaiastikkk 18: filaments - E. and ament Resistor 74, capacitor 38, together with the diac 92 forth a sawtooth
20: tube wave generator which is required for starting the half bridge inverter 20: fluorescent tube 14. It fle possible to replace the diac S2 with a silico?, bi-lateral 20: fluorescent light tub switch (SBS). Because of the feedback produced by the current 22: capacitance transferrier Ti, high frequency self-resonance sets ir, Diode 34 shuts 22; apacitor can the sewlgoth wave generator after the Self-resonance sets in. E.24. acticeintor Theproduces resonant enough circuit urent includes passing inductor through 15 capacitorand capacitor 22 and 22, thehis starter 26: starter H| || 26 to Wafrt the flattents but does not produce enough po?tage across O26; starter circuit the fluorescent tube 2 to ignite fluorescence in the tubs. 28; protection fuse - 30; capacitors 32; inductors 3:k:k:it::::::::::::::::::::::k:t 36: diode bridge 12; resistor Refei Trg ( FIG. 4, the square wave high frequency AC slgrad R Sector Supplied from the half bridge inverter 4 is changed to a high 44: charge capacitor | requency sinusoidal wave signal due to the resorange circult formed 46: diode hy indic); 16 and capacitors 22, 24, inductor 6, also serves as a 48; inductor circuit (i.e. Inter, limitling the argunt of CUTent which reasines the tube O43:18; indcutorinductor arrangeme 20.arc Capacitorcapacitor 24,22 Sdigtermines piles the the flarner's starting 18 voltage with the to bewarming applied current to 49; secondary winding tube 20, he high frequency sinusoidal then passes through farment H. licensister 18, Capstitor 22, thernistor 1 E6, Erlac. 126 arid back through the ElainK i in d l Secord filiarinert; i. 8, v
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FIG. 8 U.S. Patent Apr. 17, 2012 Sheet 15 Of 25 US 8,160,306 B1
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Enter Text to Search A. kitskiiikkakatsi:k: : x kiss SEARCH
-select Element to Analyze sisake kitikk risk: :::4sksikskit 1: first A 1/2: terminals D10; AC power source Resistol 4, capacitor 38, together with the diac 92 for Ti a sawtooth 10: power supply was generator which is required for starting the half bridge inverter 2: DC converter i?. It may be poggible to replace the dtac 92 with a silicor bi-lateral 12: AC-DC unit Switch (SBS). Because of the feedback produced by tha current 12: AC-DC Converter of trailsformer Ti, high frequency self-resonance sets in. Code 84 shuts 14: half bridge inverter down the Sawtooth wave generator after the saif-resonance satsin, 14: DC-AC circuit The fesonant circult includes inductor 18 and capacitor 22, this O14; AC converter circuit produces enough current passing thfough capacitor 22 and the starter 16: inductor 18; filaments 25 to War in the filarrents bist does not produce enough voltage across 18; second filament the flui (lescent tube 20 to grille fluorescefica in the tube, 18: elerient 20: tube kick...liki.g.: 3 is ge w20; fluorescent tube 20: fluorescent light tub 22: capacitance 22: Capacitor 22/24: capacitors 24: capacitor Paragraphs Found = i 24; capacitance 25: starter 26: starter circuit 28; protection fuse 30: capacitors 32: inductors 36: diode bridge 42; resistor 44; capacitor 44; supply capacitor 44; charge capacitor 46: diode 48: inductor circuit O48; indcutor arrangeme 48: inductor 49: secondary winding 52; transistor 52: Switch transistor K. I. b| C. And OOr S. FIND NEX
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FIG. 9 U.S. Patent Apr. 17, 2012 Sheet 16 of 25 US 8,160,306 B1
Patent Analyzer Trial Version (Project 544.4333) x File Settings Tools Help 544.4333 Canalyze) C stor ) Prior Projects: select Existing Project ly findex of Elements Specification Cairns ?mages J. Display only paragraph(s) with element(s). -Enter Text to Search a starter circuit *::::::::::::::::::::::::::
-Select Element to Analyze dischargePreserves lamp, More particularly, directs the starteirutpresent invention for isa gasesdirected to 1: first A. an in prowed starting circuit for startling a funrester light, 172: terminals 10: AC power source : 10; power supply s:43:4:::::::ke; 12: DC Converter 12:12 AC-DCA-Dut converter of A firstit: firls'i8 artit: ballasts circuit isre. termited 4 a-s "ortheatille-sai - - - - agriatic- callast 14: half bridge inverter circuit which utilizes a Tagnetic Collin Conjunction with a starter 14; DC-AC circuit circuit for lighting the fluorescert tube. A 50 Hertz (Hz) AC signal is 14: AC converter circuit applied Cross the fluorescent tube, with one side of the circuit 16: inductor having the magnetic oil attached thereto, Current flows through the I magnetic coll, through one of the Fliaments afthe fluorescent tube, E. nament a starter Circuit, a client was the is Tier it the the wife 20: tube the starter circuit pulses the tube with a voltage in as attempt to 20; fluorescent tube itats fluorestice, O2O: fluorescent light tub 22: capacitance 22: capacitor ::::::::::::::::::::iterix. 22/24: Capacitors E. The third type of ballast circuit is known as "instant start." The 26. Spence - instart start circuit Supplies the tube with an excess|yely high 26:starter circuit yoltage at start g, Yigalstarter circuits utilize a voltage stiltin is 28: protection fuse folr to six tilities the typical operating of Eage of the filufescent tube. 30: capacitors The start start circuilt is of the high end of this scale, Ed Els lot 32; inductors incommon to have a starting Voltage as high as OOO volts AC. While 35; diode bridge the Voltaga is high enough to ensure the lighting of the fluorescent a2: asso tube, the high Woltage is harmful to the flanarts of the tube as E. E. it discussed above, Indeed, sigh higi, voltaga can result in a degressia aa. so it. the ILFs of the tube by 200% or north as Cornpared to other bailast 46; diod circufts which do not utilize excessively high voltages to litiate 48: inductor circuit fill rescence. 48: indcutor arrangeme 48; iductor 49; secondary winding :::::::::::::::::::::::::: 52: tasis 52: switch transistor 7 In particular, the present invention is directed to a starter circuit for g B fluorescent lighting fixture: whileh is tipatite of initiating fluorescence in the tube thout excess a foliage at start up arti withoit the w
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FIG 10 U.S. Patent Apr. 17, 2012 Sheet 17 of 25 US 8,160,306 B1
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SEARCH t", advaitt's rom - 28 -a --- mm mis-ruar-m-rest:w -Select Element to Analyze 1: First I call O1/2; terminals O10:10: ACpower power supply source 1. All electronic ballast circuit for a fluorescent light Comprising: E. 2. circuit lies for converting power froT low frequency alternating i.2: AC-DC converter of Cirrent to high freqJerry alternating current to appy across a 14; half bridge inverter fluorescent light tube including at least one Flarent E.14: RDC-AC arter circuit circuit : starter means responsive to the high frequency alternatirig current for : il du r reheatirig the at least One fament for a first time period and for E. E. eliminating current through the starter means after the first time Higson "ame period, wherein the starter Hears includes switch Treans having an 20: tube opensiste an a closed state, the switch leans being responsive to 20: fluorescent tube an initial supply of high freguency alterrating current from the circuit 20: fluorescent light tub Teans to automatically Wild for the oper state to the closed 22: capacitance state, wheel the starter rrigans, preheats tha at least ore flarent 22: capacitor by circulating CUrrent through the switch Taeans and the at least one E. stors filefrient when this switch means is in the closed state, the switch 24. Sce means further, including cirrent reducing means for reducing the |- 26: starter Curret through the switch means over tire and wherein the switch 26; starter circuit ?nears autotatically switches fron the closed state to the open 28; protection fuse state whe? the current reducing nearns reducas the current through E 30: capacitors the Switch tears to a facia Earmined level and 32; inductors H. to bridge switch protection Teams for preventing the switch fleans from Fia. isitor switching from the oper state ? tile closed safe after the Spitch 44; supply capacitor means has automatically switched from the closed state to the operh O44; charge capacitor state, E.46; inductordiode circuit 2. The electronic ballast circuit according to claim , further including 48; indcutor arrangeme pulse Taisits for providing the fluorescent light tube with a siectrics J48;49; secondaryinductor winding pulsie after the first time period, 52; transistor 5.- switchrvas tape, s 3,fluorescent The electronic light ballasttube has circult a horns according operating to dairy voltage 2, wherein and the the KI in electrical pulse has a voltage in a rarge for two tiries the normal operating woltage to three title5 the mortal operating voltage, CEAR FIN NEXT
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FIG. 11 U.S. Patent Apr. 17, 2012 Sheet 18 of 25 US 8,160,306 B1
PatentAnalyzer Trial Version (Project544.4333) File Settings Tools Help 544.4333 Canalyze D ( stop D Prior Projects: select Existing Project, y Index of Elements Specification Claims Images - OPEN IN ACROBA HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH h SS4333A United States Patent is i? Patent Number 5,444,333 Lau 45 Date of Patent Aug. 22, 1995 54 EEECTRONic ALASICRC; R. A. E. : E. as . JESNTGoRES Sigis Sisi SEaching "Sisible: 75 Irventor: size at, Walnut, Calif. st-1979 is; ieriuri tai, ... -- 3ists, $39,869 store...... l.. Stirlix (73) Assignee. His of Americs, inc. walnut. SIB 5'99. Pelaws et al...... 353 slit. airs; S159. - 35 21 Appl. No.: 66564 5,522,72I ?/1531fifs Hirschdisatirasri: ... 3.SStal
22 File: May 26, 1993 AEGEE.- trifera E: {54 it. iO53S littitate); gent, or Fitz-GaAin & Jancs 52 U.S. Cl Sisite, 3,555 s SRAC 58. Field of Susrch. ... ss., 95, 96.0, An energy fligitat and cost effestive electronic billsigi 315/103, 104, (5, 1C, DEG. 5, 289 circuit which lights a sliprescent tube but which avaids 36 Refercarcs Cited excessivecircuit pretastinian voltages or pulsing forthe a timeulc. sufficientThc starter to U.S. PATENTooc;MSTS eisure quick ignitiis; upon application of an appropriate 353,053, It is apcil sea. lightedvoltage, to altet avoid class waiting the flow Ticrgy, afcuracinta?tarrie the is $15,539 i983 itsca. 4,694,224 5/19s Nakaguwa et al. 5,698,554 Italis Sapp ct al. ... f Clairtists raving Sheets
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FIG. 12 U.S. Patent Apr. 17, 2012 Sheet 19 Of 25 US 8,160,306 B1
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Index of Eenients for U.S. Patent No. 6793.429 Outer Tube Tubular Elongate outer Body Chak Chalk Holder Ratchet Teeth EE 18: First spring-Retaining Ridge 20: Second Retaining Ridge 22: Resilient Element ...... 24: Slots trate r 26: Spring Fingers --w--
26: JaWS ------
26: Fingers - 26: Jaw Members 28: End visixaasim 28: Platform 30: Notch 32: Child-Resistant Screw Cap 34: Pawls her....
3-Pse- - Flexible Disk rarer, Tala Proiection - 50. Internal Projection - wrote mrm
FIG. 19 U.S. Patent Apr. 17, 2012 Sheet 24 of 25 US 8,160,306 B1
FIG, 3 is a schematic perspective view of the inner, chalk holder portion of the device of the invention.
FIG. 4 is a cross-section of a child-resistant screw cap for use as a part of the device of the present if 1vertion. (Child-Resistant Screw Cap) 32
\, %
-36 (Disc) 2% (Pawls) 3
50 (Projection)
FIG. 20 U.S. Patent Apr. 17, 2012 Sheet 25 Of 25 US 8,160,306 B1
FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of the inner, chalk holder portion of the device of the invention,
(Fingers) S FIG 3 (Notch) 3E (Chalk Holder)
Chalk holder 12 also comprises at least one, and preferably at least two, slots 24 disposed along a portion of the longitudinal axis of the chalk holder for accepting ramps 15 in sliding engagement. :::::ck is kissississississist Risk Moreover, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the slots 24 and ramps 1.6 may be configured so as to provide a lock against pressing the chalk holder axially within the outer holder to release the chalk FIG. 4 is a cross-section of a child-resistant Screw Cap for use as a part of the device of the present invention. FIG, 4
(Child-Resistant Screw Cap) 32 rsry'
5 (Projection)
FIG 21 US 8,160,306 B1 1. 2 PATENT ANALYZING SYSTEM A second object is to provide a patent analyzing system for efficiently reviewing and analyzing a patent document (e.g. CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED patent application, published patent document or patent). APPLICATIONS Another object is to provide a patent analyzing system that reduces the amount of time required to review and analyze a I hereby claim benefit under Title 35, United States Code, patent document. Section 119(e) of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. An additional object is to provide a patent analyzing sys 60/942,361 filed Jun. 6, 2007. The 60/942,361 application is tem that reduces the amount of time required to review and currently pending. The 60/942,361 application is hereby analyze the written portion of a patent document. incorporated by reference into this application. 10 A further object is to provide a patent analyzing system that reduces the amount of time required to review and analyze the STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY claims portion of a patent document. SPONSORED RESEARCH ORDEVELOPMENT Another object is to provide a patent analyzing system that reduces the amount of time required to review and analyze the 15 drawings of a patent document. Not applicable to this application. A further object is to provide a patent analyzing system that may be utilized to analyze various types of patent documents BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION including but not limited to non-filed patent applications, filed patent applications, published patent applications, and 1. Field of the Invention granted patents. The present invention relates generally to patent manage A further object is to provide a patent analyzing system that ment tools and more specifically it relates to a patent analyZ is able to analyze various formats of patent data including but ing system for efficiently reviewing and analyzing a patent not limited to HTML, XML, text, TIFF and PDF. document (e.g. patent application, published patent docu Another object is to provide a patent analyzing system that ment or patent). 25 analyzes the text and image portion of a patent document. 2. Description of the Related Art Other objects and advantages of the present invention will Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification become obvious to the reader and it is intended that these should in no way be considered as an admission that Such objects and advantages are within the scope of the present prior art is widely known or forms part of common general invention. knowledge in the field. 30 To the accomplishment of the above and related objects, Conventional patent analysis software is currently used to this invention may be embodied in the form illustrated in the analyze the content of large numbers of patents (referred to accompanying drawings, attention being called to the fact, often times as “patent analytics”). In additional to patent however, that the drawings are illustrative only, and that analysis software available, software and websites are avail changes may be made in the specific construction illustrated able that allow for the searching, downloading and viewing of 35 and described within the scope of the appended claims. patents (e.g. PATENTHUNTER, www.uspto.gov. www.ipsearchengine.com). While the previous patent analy BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS sis and patent searching Software are good for the purpose they are intended, they are not focused upon the detailed Various other objects, features and attendant advantages of analysis of the content for an individual patent. 40 the present invention will become fully appreciated as the same becomes better understood when considered in con BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION junction with the accompanying drawings, in which like ref erence characters designate the same or similar parts through The present invention generally comprises identifying the out the several views, and wherein: element names within a patent document and modifying 45 FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary computer net patent drawing sheets to include element names and figure work with a download computer and patent websites con descriptions. nected to the exemplary computer network. There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating the overall operation of the important features of the invention in order that the detailed text analysis portion of the present invention. description thereof may be better understood, and in order 50 FIG.3a is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the text that the present contribution to the art may be better appreci analysis and display portion of the present invention. ated. There are additional features of the invention that will be FIG. 3b is a flowchart illustrating the identification of ele described hereinafter and that will form the subject matter of ment names within a patent document. the claims appended hereto. FIG.3c is a flowchart illustrating a first process for resolv In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment 55 ing multiple element name variations for a single element of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the number that utilizes the user's selection of a desired element invention is not limited in its application to the details of aC. construction and to the arrangements of the components set FIG. 3d is a flowchart illustrating a second process for forth in the following description or illustrated in the draw resolving multiple element name variations for a single ele ings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of 60 ment number by using the element name from the variations being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to that is either the longest or shortest based on a preference be understood that the phraseology and terminology Setting. employed herein are for the purpose of the description and FIG.3e is a flowchart illustrating a third process for resolv should not be regarded as limiting. ing multiple element name variations for a single element A primary object of the present invention is to provide a 65 number by identifying the commonly shared words immedi patent analyzing system that will overcome the shortcomings ately to the left of the number in each of the element name of the prior art systems. variations. US 8,160,306 B1 3 4 FIG. 3f is a flowchart illustrating a fourth process for FIG. 21 is an illustration of the element names and figure resolving multiple element name variations for a single ele descriptions inserted into the image of the patent drawings of ment number by using the element name from the variations U.S. Pat. No. 6,793.429 along with a pop-up text for element that is used first or last within the patent document based on a number 24 being selected showing the corresponding sen preference setting. tence text that contain the element number 24. FIG.3g is a flowchart illustrating a fifth process for resolv ing multiple element name variations for a single element DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION number by using the element name from the variations that is used the most (i.e. the greatest number of occurrences) A. Introduction throughout the patent document. 10 FIG. 4 is an exemplary interface of the present invention The following description is presented to enable any per illustrating an index of elements created for U.S. Pat. No. son skilled in the art to make and use the invention, and is 5,444,333. provided in the context of a particular application and its FIG. 5 is an exemplary interface of the present invention requirements. Various modifications to the disclosed embodi illustrating the display of the text portion of U.S. Pat. No. 15 ments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and 5,444,333. the general principles defined herein may be applied to other FIG. 6 is an exemplary interface of the present invention embodiments and applications without departing from the illustrating the highlighting of a selected element (inductor spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the present 16) within the text portion of U.S. Pat. No. 5,444,333. invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments FIG. 7 is an exemplary interface of the present invention shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with illustrating the highlighting of a selected element (inductor the principles and features disclosed herein. The present 16) within the text portion of U.S. Pat. No. 5,444.333 and the invention may be operated as a computer program installed displaying of only sentences containing the selected element. upon a download computer 20, via a website or other system. FIG. 8 is an exemplary interface of the present invention It can be also appreciated that even though the description illustrating the highlighting of a selected element (inductor 25 below is about downloading, searching and managing elec 16) within the text portion of U.S. Pat. No. 5,444.333 and the tronic patent files, the present invention may also be utilized displaying of only paragraphs containing the selected ele for downloading, searching and managing electronic trade ment. mark files and other types of electronic data (e.g. HTML). FIG. 9 is an exemplary interface of the present invention The data structures and code described in this detailed illustrating the highlighting of multiple selected elements 30 description are typically stored on a computer readable stor (inductor 16 and fluorescent tube 20) within the text portion age medium, which may be any device or medium that can of U.S. Pat. No. 5,444.333 and the displaying of only para store code and/or data for use by a computer system. This graphs containing both of the selected elements. includes, but is not limited to, magnetic and optical storage FIG. 10 is an exemplary interface of the present invention devices such as disk drives, magnetic tape, CDs (compact illustrating the highlighting of a search term (starter circuit) 35 discs), DVDs (digital video discs), and computer instruction within the text portion of U.S. Pat. No. 5,444,333 and the signals embodied in a transmission medium (with or without displaying of only paragraphs containing the selected ele a carrier wave upon which the signals are modulated). For ment. example, the transmission medium may include a communi FIG. 11 is an exemplary interface of the present invention cations network, such as the Internet. illustrating the claims of U.S. Pat. No. 5,444.333. 40 FIG. 12 is an exemplary interface of the present invention B. Exemplary Global Computer Network illustrating the images of U.S. Pat. No. 5,444.333. FIG. 13 is an exemplary preferences interface that allows As shown in FIG. 1, the global computer network (e.g. for the modification of the file locations of products and the Internet) 12 is an exemplary communications network for the location of image files. 45 present invention. The Internet 12 is basically comprised of a FIG. 14 is an exemplary preferences interface that allows “global computer network.” A plurality of computer systems for the selection of whether or not to automatically open the around the world are in communication with one another via index of element after analyzing the patent, and also allows this global computer network and are able to transmit various for adjusting the number of words allowed for each element types of data between one another. The communications aC. 50 between the computer systems may be accomplished via FIG. 15 is an exemplary preferences interface that allows various methods such as but not limited to wireless, Ethernet, for adjustment of the method of emphasizing all of the ele cable, direct connection, telephone lines, and satellite. One or ment names throughout the patent document. more web servers typically provide the data to the computer FIG. 16 is an exemplary preferences interface that allows systems connected via the Internet 12. for adjustment of the method of emphasizing selected ele 55 The present invention may also be utilized upon global ment name(s) throughout the patent document. computer networks, local area networks (LAN), wide area FIG. 17 is an exemplary preferences interface that allows networks (WAN), campus area networks (CAN), metropoli for adjustment of the method of searching for element names tan-area networks (MAN), and home area networks (HAN). within the patent document. Various protocols may be utilized by the electronic devices FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating the patent figure analysis 60 for communications such as but not limited to HTTP, SMTP, and overwriting procedure for inserting element names and FTP and WAP (Wireless Application Protocol). The present figure descriptions into the figures. invention may be implemented upon various wireless net FIG. 19 is an exemplary table illustrating the index of works such as but not limited to CDPD, CDMA, GSM, PDC, elements generated for U.S. Pat. No. 6,793.429. PHS, TDMA, FLEX, REFLEX, IDEN, TETRA, DECT, FIG. 20 is an illustration of the element names and figure 65 DATATAC, and MOBITEX. The present invention may also descriptions inserted into the image of the patent drawings of be utilized with online services and internet service providers U.S. Pat. No. 6,793,429. such as AMERICA ONLINE (AOL), COMPUSERVE, US 8,160,306 B1 5 6 WEBTV, and MSN INTERNET SERVICES. The present As shown FIGS. 2 and 4 of the drawings, the patent docu invention preferably utilizes the Internet 12 for transmitting ment number is entered into the interface of the present inven data, howeverit can be appreciated that as future technologies tion. FIG. 4 is an exemplary interface of the present invention are created that various aspects of the invention may be prac illustrating an index of elements created for U.S. Pat. No. ticed with these improved technologies. 5 5,444.333. The text data and the image data of the patent The present invention is preferably embodied within a document are thereafter acquired into the present invention. Software application installed upon the download computer The element names are then identified within the text data 20. However, the present invention may be embodied in vari of the patent document. The element names preferably are ous other manners such as but not limited to a central server identified that have an element number behind them, however computer or a web server that merely provide the results of the 10 element names may be identified that do not have an element analyzed patent data. number corresponding with them. An index of elements is thereafter generated based upon C. Patent Documents the element numbers and their corresponding element names as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 of the drawings. The index of Patent documents may be comprised of various document 15 elements may be printed for the user to view and utilize when including but not limited to non-filed patent applications, reviewing the patent. The index of elements is preferably a filed patent applications, published patent applications, table having 2 or more columns because of the typical larger granted patents, patent certificates and patent file wrappers. number of elements within a patent document, however the Downloading patent files (image and/or text) from patent index of elements may be comprised of a listing of the ele websites 30 (e.g. www.uspto.gov, ep.espacenet.com/) via a 20 ments. The index of elements preferably organizes the ele global computer network 12 is well known in the art. The ments by their element numbers, however the index of ele patent files may be comprised of issued patents, published ments may be organize the elements by their alphabetical applications or related patent data. Various Software pro order also. Special index of elements may also be created that grams (e.g. PATENTHUNTER sold by Neustel Software, are solely for individual figures. The index of elements may Inc.) and websites currently allow for the downloading of 25 also be opened with a conventional word processor to allow patent files from patent websites 30. for editing by the user to correct any errors in the index of A“patent number may be comprised of a United States or elements. A listing of elements is further preferably created foreign patent number (typically with a patent code in front of that may be utilized in analyzing the actual text of the patent it). For example, PCT published applications have the prefix document as discussed later herein. “WO and Japanese patents have the prefix “JP before the 30 2. Analyzing and Displaying Patent Document patent number which are universally utilized to identify the FIG.3a is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the text patent document. A patent number may also be comprised of analysis and display portion of the present invention. The text issued patents, published applications or other patent related of the patent is displayed within the present invention for the data. With the present invention, if a letter prefix is not pro user to view along with the listing of elements for the user to vided in the patent number, then the present invention 35 select. The listing of elements preferably includes both the assumes the patent number is a United States patent docu element number and element name. The elements may be ment thereby not requiring the user to enter “US as a prefix. utilized to analyze any portion of the patent document includ The patent documents are in a computer readable file for ing the claims, specification and figures. In addition, the user mat and may be available direction from the computer 20 or may select a particular figure number to analyze wherein all via downloading through the global computer network 12. 40 sentences or paragraphs that contain reference to that figure For example, a user may analyze the text of a MICROSOFT will be shown. WORD document containing a patent application or an The user selects 1 or more elements to analyze from the HTML file downloaded from the global computer network. listing of elements as shown in FIG. 6 of the drawings. The Various other file formats may be analyzed with the present selected element(s) is thereafter emphasized throughout the invention. 45 patent text as shown in FIG. 6 of the drawings. In addition to selecting an element from the listing, the user may also enter D. Text Analysis of Patent Documents a specific word(s) to search through the patent text and the same will be emphasized as illustrated in FIG. 10 of the 1. Downloading/Importing Patent Documents drawings. The typing of the text to search may require the user FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating the overall operation of the 50 to select a “search' or enter function prior to searching the text analysis portion of the present invention. A patent docu patent document. Alternatively, the present invention may ment number (e.g. patent number) is input by the user or other automatically begin searching the patent document after the means into the present invention. The patent document is then entry of 1 or more characters (numbers, letters or combina downloaded utilizing known patent document downloading tions thereof) in an “on the fly type of display. For example, technology (e.g. PATENTHUNTER from Neustel Software, 55 if the user types “induct the display of the present invention Inc.) or imported into the present invention by going to would emphasize all locations in the patent document that FILES/IMPORT FILE on the main menu. When importing a have the word “induct within them. If the user continues to file (e.g. HTML, TXT, RTF, XML, DOC), the file is first type “inductor then the present invention would emphasize located using a “browse' feature and then the file is imported all locations in the patent document that have the word into the present invention for analysis. It is preferable to 60 “inductor within them. There may be a slight delay feature download/import both the image and text data into the present that waits to search the document until a preset/adjusted invention, however only the text data (e.g. HTML, XML, period of time has passed since the typing of the last character TXT, RTF) or only the image data (e.g. PDF, TIFF, JPG) may (e.g. 2 seconds). be downloaded. In addition, patent documents being viewed The emphasis of the selected element(s) is preferably com by a user (e.g. using MICROSOFT INTERNET EXPLORER 65 prised of highlighting and bolding as shown in FIG. 6 of the or MICROSOFT WORD) may also be analyzed by a plug-in drawings. However, the emphasis of the selected element(s) into the program (e.g. right-click feature). may be comprised of highlighting with a color (e.g. yellow), US 8,160,306 B1 7 8 bolding, italicizing, underlining or any combination thereof the element numbers' (i.e. the reference numerals used in the that may be predetermined and/or adjusted by the user in the patent drawings). A patent document may have only a few preferences section. In addition to emphasizing only the elements or hundreds of elements in it. Each of the elements selected element(s), the user may adjust the present invention is typically identified in the patent drawings with a reference to automatically emphasize all elements identified through numeral as shown in FIG. 12 of the drawings. out the patent text as shown in FIG. 15 of the drawings. FIG. 3b is a flowchart illustrating the identification of ele The user also has the option of displaying only the sentence ment names within a patent document. Below is a basic step (s) or paragraph(s) containing the selected element(s) (or by-step identification of element names within a patent docu entered terms) to quickly locate the important portions of the ment: patent document that discuss the element(s) the user is 10 Step #1: Identify an Element Number reviewing as shown in FIGS. 3a, 7 and 8 of the drawings. Step #2: Identify word(s) to the left of the Element Number When this feature is selected, only the sentence(s) or para until either a Preceding Word or a paragraph break is graph(s) containing the selected element(s) (or entered terms) found (or a period followed by at least one space for a will be displayed. A separator (e.g. ************* or hori sentence). Zontal line) is preferably positioned between each of the 15 Step #3: Check to ensure that a Non-Element Word is not individually displayed sentences/paragraphs. In addition, it is directly next to the Element Number (if so, this is not an preferable to display the heading of the patent document that element name). each sentence/paragraph is from (e.g. BACKGROUND OF i. Element Number INVENTION, SUMMARY OF INVENTION, ABSTRACT, An “Element Number is a number (or a number followed DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION, CLAIMS). by a letter or other character immediately thereafter without a It is also preferable for the user to be able to “expand the space) that is comprised of one or more digits (Example: “As displayed text to show the sentence/paragraph before/after shown in FIG. 12, the metal hammer 12a is used to ... the the displayed sentence/paragraph by using a right-click fea “12a is the Element Number"). The element number may be ture or including an icon within the displayed text for the user comprised of 1, 2, 3, 4 or more numbers along with other to select (e.g. +/-). 25 letters/characters positioned immediately thereafter (e.g. 12, FIG. 7 illustrates where the user has selected element num 20a, 20b, 30', 30'). ber 16 (inductor). The present invention searches all locations ii. Preceding Words within the patent document that include both the element A “Preceding Word” is a word (or phrase or character) that name “inductor' followed by the element number 16'. Since immediately precedes an element name (Example: “As only sentences are to be displayed in FIG. 7, only the sen 30 shown in FIG. 12, the metal hammer 12a is used to ... the tences containing “inductor 16' as displayed within the word “the is a Preceding Word). The present invention uti present invention for the user to quickly view and read. FIG. lizes a database of preceding words to be used in identifying 8 illustrates this displaying the paragraphs that contain preceding words within the patent document. Various types of “inductor 16' within them. If the user has selected the option words are always a preceding word (e.g. a, an, the, are, illus in FIG. 17 that allows for emphasis of the element name 35 trates, produces, represents, then, to, utilizes, when, within, throughout the patent document regardless if it has an element etc.). Certain phrases (e.g. “by cooking'), characters (e.g. number or not, then all locations that contain the word “induc comma, semi-colon) and formatting (e.g. paragraph break) tor' will be emphasized. may also be used as “Preceding Words”. The preceding words FIG. 9 illustrates the selection of two elements (inductor 16 are words/phrases are words/phrases that are typically not and fluorescent tube 20). Only the paragraphs containing 40 utilized by a patent applicant to identify/label elements of the these two elements are displayed as shown in FIG. 9 of the invention or other items. The types of words preferably used drawings. as “Preceding Words' in the database are articles (e.g. a, an, The selection of multiple elements to search within the the, said), prepositions (above, near, at, by, after, with, from), patent document is preferably combined using an “and” conjunctions, (e.g. and, or, because, but, or, since. So, until, search connector. However, the user may select an “or con 45 while, both, not only, either, whether, after, before, although, nector which will show all paragraphs/sentences that contain though, consequently, furthermore, instead, conversely), either of the selected elements as shown in FIG. 9 of the verbs (e.g. have, run, be, do, creates, directed, executed, com drawings. The “or connector is useful in situations where piled, adverbs (e.g. how, where, earlier, next, then, first, sec there may be multiple variations of a particular element name ond, third, fourth, there), contractions (e.g. can’t, don't, isn't). (e.g. “tube 20”, “fluorescent tube 20' and “fluorescent light 50 pronouns (e.g. I, me, she, who, he, her, him, it, you, they, tube 20 in FIG. 9). them), some punctuation marks (except"-- O 999), expletives The user can clear the element(s) being searched and may (e.g. of course, at least, in fact, clearly, definitely, certainly, choose new elements to search. The user may also select naturally), relative adjectives (e.g. which, that, what, which “back” and “forward” features to go back or forward with ever, whatever) and symbols (, f, *. (a), S). The database of respect to their “history of element searches which reduces 55 preceding words is used to determine if a word to the left of the amount of time the user has to expend when searching the element number identified is part of the element name or through various element names (see the Back and Forward is a preceding words that serves as the left-most stopping buttons in FIG. 7). A detailed history may also be shown that point for determining the element name. There are exceptions lists all of the elements and combination of elements the user to this general rule which may require modification of the has researched within the patent document to allow the user to 60 database of words to accurately reflect words that typically reselect the same. precede an element name. The user can copy/paste, open in an editable document The database of preceding words may be updated periodi and/or print the sentence(s)/paragraph(s) displayed for one or cally to reflect modern terminology utilized in patent docu more selected elements. ments. The database of preceding words may also be edited 3. Identifying Element Names 65 by the user to allow for the addition or deletion of preceding A significant feature of the present invention is the ability words if they are experiencing problems with the current to identify the "element names' used to identify/label each of listing of preceding words. US 8,160,306 B1 9 10 iii. Element Names (along with the corresponding Element Number). Various The “Element Name” is the actual name of the element database formats may be utilized to store the Element Name which can be one or more words. The Element Name is the and Element Number. word(s) positioned between the Preceding Word and the Ele This process continues until each of the element numbers ment Number (Example: “As shown in FIG. 12, the metal have been identified and the corresponding element name is hammer 12a is used to . . . the Element Name is “metal identified. hammer because the Element Number is “12a and the 4. Resolving Element Name Conflicts Preceding Word is “the'). An element name is any label used Some patent documents may have multiple variations of by the patent application to identify a feature, structure or element names within them for various reasons. For example, 10 U.S. Pat. No. 5,444.333 uses two element names for element other thing contained in the patent drawings (or not shown in number 20: “tube 20”, “fluorescent tube 20 and “fluorescent the patent drawings. The element name typically is followed light tube 20' as shown in FIG. 9 of the drawings. It is by an element number however this is not required. The type desirable to have a solution for resolving these conflicting of words preferably utilized for elements names include variations to avoid 2 or more element names being used for an nouns (e.g. hammer, handle, signal) and adjectives (e.g. big, 15 individual element number. cold, blue). FIG.3c is a flowchart illustrating a first process for resolv iv. Non-Element Words ing multiple element name variations for a single element A “Non-Element Word” is any word, phrase or character number that utilizes the user's selection of a desired element that would not typically immediately precede an element name. As shown in FIG.3c., if the only difference between the number. For example, a Non-Element Word may in fact typi variations is a plural VS. singular form, then the present inven cally precede a quantitative number or may be a phrase com tion automatically selects only one of the variations based monly utilized to identify indicia in the drawings (e.g. upon the preset or user selected option (e.g. the user may want approximately, Subtracts, multiplies, averages, January, the plural form to always be selected). If the variation is more December, by arrows, Figure, Figures, patent number, refer than just a singular/plural form usage, then the present inven ence numeral). A Non-Element Word database is maintained 25 tion determines if there are any similar words in all of the within the present invention. The Non-Element Word data variations. If there are no similar words, then the present base typically includes a substantial portion of the Preceding invention will keep all of the variations (or ask the user to Words (see above), however the Non-Element Word database select one) and continues to the next element name. If there may include additional words based upon word usage in are similar words in all of the element names which is typi patent documents (or some removed). Non-Element Words 30 cally the case, then a pop-up or other selection option is are preferably comprised of proper nouns (e.g. Tom, Dela displayed requesting the user to select which variation of the ware, Titanic), certain punctuation marks (e.g. 2, ;), symbols element name they would like to use. The selected variation (, , , (a), S), verbs (e.g. run, cut) and months (e.g. January, by the user is thereafter used as the element name. It can be December). appreciated that the plurality vs. singular test does not have to As shown in FIG. 3b of the drawings, the present invention 35 be performed. first identifies a number within the patent document (some FIG. 3d is a flowchart illustrating a second process for portions of the patent document may automatically be resolving multiple element name variations for a single ele ignored such as the cover page or the BACKGROUND OF ment number by using the element name from the variations INVENTION). Once a number is found, the first word to the that is either the longest or shortest based on a preference left of the element number is identified. If the first word is a 40 setting. For example, if the user wants the longest element “Non-Element Word' (i.e. a word, phrase or character that name (i.e. the most words) to be used, the present invention would not typically precede an element number) then the chooses the element name that is the longest. If 2 or more number is disregarded. The database of “Non-Element element names are the longest then the user is preferably Words” is preferably periodically updated and may also be prompted to choose which one to use. directly edited by the user at anytime. 45 FIG.3e is a flowchart illustrating a third process for resolv If the word(s) to the left of the number is not a “Non ing multiple element name variations for a single element Element Word’ (based on comparing with the words/phrases number by identifying the commonly shared words immedi of the Non-Element Word database), then the number is then ately to the left of the number in each of the element name determined to be an “Element Number” and the present variations. For example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,444.333, the ele invention continues to identify the Element Name by identi 50 ment name that would be used for element number 20 would fying the word(s) to the left of the Element Number until only be “tube' since that is the only commonly shared word to either (1) a “Preceding Word” is identified (based on compar the left element number (the 2' to the left word is different). ing with words in the Preceding Word database) or (2) the Alternatively, the present invention may identify the element maximum number of words is reached for the element name. name variation that the other variations use the words in and If a Preceding Word is identified to the left of the Element 55 thereby eliminates the other element name variations as hav Number, then the Element Name is equal to the words ing Superfluous word(s) in them. between the Element Number and the Preceding Word (ex FIG. 3f is a flowchart illustrating a fourth process for cluding the Preceding Word of course). Ifa Preceding Word is resolving multiple element name variations for a single ele not identified after a present or user adjusted number of words ment number by using the element name from the variations to the left of the Element Number (e.g. 5 words), then the 60 that is used first or last within the patent document based on a present invention terminates further searching to the left and preference setting. This would be preset or user selected to accepts the maximum number of words to the left of the help simplify the selection of a single element name for each element number as the element name. The maximum number element number. For example, the user may select that when words to the left may range from 1-10, however it is prefer conflicting element names are found for a specific element able that the maximum number of words be set to either 3, 4 65 number that only the first instance of the element name used or 5 maximum words. The Element Name is thereafter added in conjunction with the element number would be used and all to the index of element and the element name listing database other element name variations disregarded. US 8,160,306 B1 11 12 FIG.3g is a flowchart illustrating a fifth process for resolv within which indicates a non-suitable location to put the text ing multiple element name variations for a single element (e.g. where a line of the figure is). It is preferable to position number by using the element name from the variations that is the text of the element name to either the left/right side of the used the most (i.e. the greatest number of occurrences) element number as shown in FIG. 20 of the drawings. How throughout the patent document. For example, with element ever, if there is no location available to the left/right of the number 20 for U.S. Pat. No. 5,444,333, the term “tube' is element number, then the present invention considers posi used the most to identify element number 20 and would be the tioning the element name above/below the element number. If only element name used to identify element 20. no Suitable location is found, the element name may either be positioned somewhere else on the drawing sheet near the E. Image Analysis and Image Writing Over of Patent 10 element number or in a “key for element names that have no Documents Suitable location (where the key is positioned in a convenient 1. Labeling Element Numbers in Figures and “clean” location on the drawing sheet). It is preferable to It is desirable to label the element numbers within the place brackets or include another identifier to identify that this patent figures of the patent document (including the figure 15 text is being added to the figure sheet and is not original text. selected for the coverpage). This process comprises (1) iden In addition, the present invention identifies the sheets con tifying the figures of the patent document, (2) performing an taining the figure numbers (e.g. FIG. 1, FIG. 2, etc.) and then optical character recognition (OCR) process of the figures, also identifies the corresponding figure description text in the and (3) creating a new image file for each of the image sheets BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Section of the containing the element names adjacent the element numbers patent document. The present invention inserts the descrip and/or a description of each of the figures on each image tion of the figure either directly above/below the figure num sheet. FIG. 18 illustrates the overall process of analyzing the ber or at the top/bottom of the page. The same process of figures of the patent document. A "key may also be placed on identifying white space is preferably utilized for the figure the figure sheet instead of individually labeling each of the description text insertion to ensure that the added text does element numbers wherein the “key' is comprised of the ele 25 not overwrite the original lines/text of the drawing sheets. ment names corresponding to the element numbers shown on The final image file (e.g. TIFF or PDF) formed from the the figure sheet for a quick reference by the user. above process then contains the figure descriptions added to i. OCR Process each drawing sheet and/or identification of the element num OCR processes have been in use for years and the present bers by element name as shown in FIG. 20 of the drawings. invention may utilize any conventional OCR process to iden 30 FIG. 19 illustrates an index of elements created using the tify the drawing sheets, the element numbers and/or figure present invention for U.S. Pat. No. 6,793.429 referred to numbers within each drawing sheet. The location of the ele hereinafter as “the 429 patent.” ment numbers is also determined during the OCR process so After sheet 2 of the 429 patent is OCR'd, the figure that a determination may be made as to where to insert the descriptions added and the element names added, FIG. 21 element names during the overwriting process. Various file 35 provides an exemplary illustration of what the user will see formats may be used (e.g. TIFF, PDF) for the OCR process, (and be able to print). however it is preferable that the TIFF file format be utilized. 2. Adding Key of Elements for Figures During the OCR process, the header of a patent document Instead of identifying the element name for each element typically will have "Sheet of along with other identifying number directly next to the element number in the drawing information. Text portions of a patent document do not have 40 sheets, a simple “key' of elements may be added to each this at the top of their pages, so this is used to identify the drawing sheet containing the element names for the element drawing sheets of a patent document. Other methods may be numbers identified on the particular drawing sheet. used to identify the drawing sheets such as (1) identifying the 3. Overwriting Abstract of Cover Page With Element Num first set of pages with little text in them, (2) identifying the bers Included first set of pages with a lot of white space, (3) identifying the 45 It is preferable to identify the Abstract text in the text first set of pages with "FIG. on them, or (4) identifying the portion of the patent document and insert the element num first page containing the text BACKGROUND OF THE bers into Abstract text and then overwriting the image file of INVENTION (or other text used on the first textual page of the coverpage with the text of the Abstract text with numbers. the patent document) thereby the pages between the cover 4. Interactive Patent Figures page and the identified page are the drawing sheets. 50 It is preferable to make the image files for the patent figures Once the cover page (the 1 page) and the drawing sheets “interactive' wherein if the user passes over or selects an are identified, the present invention then OCR's these pages element name/number that the corresponding sentence(s)/ to identify the location of the figures and the element num paragraph(s) containing the element name/number are dis bers. During the OCR process the figures may need to be played in a pop-up or other convenient manner. The element rotated 90 degrees to compensate for figures that use the 55 numbers/names may be comprised of a hyperlink or other landscape layout (instead of the regular portrait layout). It is active item that allows for selection of the same. For example, important on the cover page to only OCR the lower portion of in the 429 patent described above, if the user selects (e.g. the page containing the patent figure and not the text portion right-clicks) upon element number 24 in FIG.3, the following of the cover page. text would be displayed to conveniently and immediately Once the OCR process has been performed on the drawing 60 show the user what the patent document says about that sheets (and the cover page), the present invention then deter particular element number (see FIG. 21 also): mines a suitable location to overwrite the image with the text ckc.ccc.ccc.ccc.ccc.cccs of the element name for each of the corresponding element Chalk holder 12 also comprises at least one, and preferably numbers on the drawing sheet. It is preferable to search to the at least two, slots 24 disposed along a portion of the left/right/bottom/top of the specific element number to deter 65 longitudinal axis of the chalk holder for accepting ramps mine if a certain percentage (e.g. 5%) of the pixels in a 16 in sliding engagement. required area to insert the text into has black/gray pixels ckc.ccc.ccc.ccc.ccc.cccs US 8,160,306 B1 13 14 Moreover, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in 8. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim 1, the art that the slots 24 and ramps 16 may be configured including the step of adding a left separator to the left and a So as to provide a lock against pressing the chalk holder right separator to the right of said element name within said axially within the outer holder to release the chalk. figure. ckc.ccc.ccc.ccc.ccc.cccs 9. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim 1, In addition, if the user selects the figure number itself, all wherein said step of adding said element name includes iden locations in the patent document that discuss the selected tifying an area adjacent said reference numeral that has less figure number will be displayed in a pop-up. For example, if than a maximum percentage of non-white pixels. “FIG.3” was selected all sentences or paragraphs(s) would be 10. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim 9. shown that contain reference to "FIG. 3’ to show the user the 10 wherein said maximum percentage of non-white pixels is discussion regarding that particular figure. comprised of 5% or less. What has been described and illustrated herein is a pre 11. A method of analyzing a patent document, said method ferred embodiment of the invention along with some of its comprising the steps of variations. The terms, descriptions and figures used herein are 15 providing a patent document file including a figure; set forth by way of illustration only and are not meant as analyzing a text data of said patent document; limitations. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many generating element name data for said patent document file variations are possible within the spirit and scope of the comprising at least one element name and at least one invention, which is intended to be defined by the following reference numeral associated with said at least one ele claims (and their equivalents) in which all terms are meant in ment name: their broadest reasonable sense unless otherwise indicated. analyzing said image data of said patent document; Any headings utilized within the description are for conve identifying a figure reference numeral within said figure of nience only and have no legal or limiting effect. said image data; identifying a location of said figure reference numeral I claim: 25 within said figure; 1. A method of analyzing a patent document, said method identifying an element name within said element name comprising the steps of data that is associated with said figure reference numeral providing a patent document, wherein said patent docu within said image data; ment includes text data and image data comprised of a adding said element name to said image data adjacent to figure; 30 said figure reference numeral; and providing element name data for said patent document creating a final image file that includes said image data and comprising at least one element name and at least one said element name. reference numeral associated with said at least one ele ment name: 12. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim analyzing said image data of said patent document; 35 11, wherein said text data is received using an optical char identifying a figure reference numeral within said figure of acter recognition process. said image data; 13. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim identifying a location of said figure reference numeral 11, wherein said final image file is comprised of a PDF within said figure; format. identifying an element name within said element name 40 14. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim data that is associated with said figure reference numeral 11, including the steps of storing said final image file on a within said image data; computer server and accessing said final image file from a adding said element name to said image data adjacent to remote computer. said figure reference numeral; and 15. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim creating a final image file that includes said image data and 45 11, wherein said element name data is comprised of an index said element name. of elements. 2. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim 1, 16. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim wherein said text data is received using an optical character 11, including the steps of recognition process. identifying a figure number of said figure; 3. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim 1, 50 identifying a figure description corresponding to said fig wherein said final image file is comprised of a PDF format. ure number, and 4. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim 1, adding said figure description to said image data. including the steps of storing said final image file on a com 17. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim puter server and accessing said final image file from a remote 16, wherein said figure description is added to a lower portion computer. 55 of said figure. 5. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim 1, 18. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim wherein said element name data is comprised of an index of 11, including the step of adding a left separator to the left and elements. a right separator to the right of said element name within said 6. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim 1, figure. including the steps of 60 19. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim identifying a figure number of said figure; 11, wherein said step of adding said element name includes identifying a figure description corresponding to said fig identifying an area adjacent said reference numeral that has ure number, and less than a maximum percentage of non-white pixels. adding said figure description to said image data. 20. A method of analyzing a patent document, said method 7. The method of analyzing a patent document of claim 6. 65 comprising the steps of wherein said figure description is added to a lower portion of providing a patent document file including a figure; said figure. analyzing a text data of said patent document; US 8,160,306 B1 15 16 generating element name data for said patent document file adding said element name to said image data adjacent to comprising at least one element name and at least one said figure reference numeral; reference numeral associated with said at least one ele identifying a figure number of said figure; ment name: identifying a figure description corresponding to said fig analyzing said image data of said patent document; ure number; identifying a figure reference numeral within said figure of adding said figure description to said image data; said image data; creating a final image file that includes said image data, identifying a location of said figure reference numeral said figure description and said element name: within said figure; wherein said text data is received using an optical character - - 10 recognition process; identifying an element name within said element name wherein said final image file is comprised of a PDF format; data that is associated with said figure reference numeral and within said image data; storing said final image file on a computer server and identifying an insertion area adjacent said reference accessing said final image file from a remote computer. numeral that has less than a maximum percentage of non-white pixels; k k k k k