In this week’s patent roundup, we present some of the most notable patents and applications filed or granted recently. This edition features advancements such as American Express’s motion-enabled payment system using air sign symbols for authentication, Meta’s VR headsets that monitor heart rates during gaming, and Woven’s ADAS system that re-enables safety features for impaired drivers. Explore these and other pioneering ideas shaping the future of technology and innovation.
American Express launches motion-enabled payment system using air sign symbols for authentication
American Express has developed a motion-enabled transaction system using user-defined air sign symbols for authentication. This method captures gestures through devices, integrating biometric data and machine learning to enhance security and efficiency in transactions, transforming point-of-sale interactions.
Meta’s AR/VR headsets to monitor heart rates during gaming, fitness
Meta has filed a patent for using inward-facing eye-tracking cameras in VR headsets to monitor heart rates during gaming or fitness. This method enables real-time biometric tracking and integrates data from wrist-wearable devices for improved accuracy in immersive experiences.
Toyota’s Woven files patent for ADAS system that re-enables safety features for impaired drivers with safety breaches
Woven by Toyota has developed a method to override manually disabled ADAS safety features. It monitors driver behavior and reactivates the system if impairment and safety violations are detected, enhancing road safety and driver assistance.
AT&T patents cloud-based virtual smartphone tech for remote app use
AT&T’s new patent introduces cloud-based virtual smartphone technology. This allows apps to run remotely, improving performance on lightweight devices by offloading processing to the cloud. Leveraging 5G, it enhances user experience with reduced latency and real-time capabilities.
Nant Holdings’ new AR patent aids visually impaired with real-time object recognition
Nant Holdings’ latest patent unveils an AR system to assist visually impaired users. It combines real-time object recognition and AR panoramas with smartphone sensors, allowing sighted assistants to guide users for better navigation and safety.
Energy Patents
Honda unveils system to cut EV charging time with in-vehicle occupant detection
Honda’s new EV system reduces charging time by detecting occupants waiting in the vehicle and cutting non-essential functions like sound and HVAC. This innovation aims to enhance efficiency and driver convenience during charging. Read more
Hygge Energy unveils IoT-based system for efficient DERs and renewable energy allocation
Hygge Energy has filed a method to optimize distributed energy resources (DERs), focusing on renewable energy allocation. Using IoT and cloud computing, this system allocates energy among community members, improving trading and net-metering efficiency. Read more
Shipshape’s new smart home system enhances energy efficiency by learning and adapting to user behavior
Shipshape has developed a smart home technology that enhances energy efficiency by learning from user behavior and adjusting home settings. The system’s Virtual Facilities Manager integrates prediction engines and service networks for optimal home health and energy use. Read more
Dell unveils system optimizing battery charging based on carbon footprint of energy sources
Dell’s new system optimizes battery charging based on the carbon footprint of energy sources. By adjusting charging rates using real-time data, it promotes greener energy use and improves efficiency, especially in portable devices. Read more
Health Tech & Wearables
Genetically modified cell lines enhance personalized medicine with precise drug dosing
Hennepin Healthcare’s new innovation in personalized medicine uses CRISPR-engineered cell lines to mimic human drug metabolism. By focusing on the CYP3A5 gene, this allows for precise drug dosing tailored to individual genetic profiles, improving treatment efficacy and reducing adverse effects. Read more
Bioself Technology launches wearable device for stress management using real-time heart rate feedback
Bioself Technology has created a wearable device that aids relaxation by using vibrations based on heart rate variability. This garment-integrated device monitors heart signals and adjusts vibrations in real-time, helping users manage stress. Read more
KIST researchers patent stretchable electrodes and batteries for advanced wearable tech applications
Korea Institute of Science and Technology has patented a method for creating stretchable electrodes and batteries using a special polymer binder. This innovation improves performance and durability, ideal for health monitoring systems and smartwatches. Read more
Sustainability Patents
Sway Innovation unveils compostable seaweed-based packaging that degrades in six months
Sway Innovation has filed a patent for a seaweed-based packaging that degrades in six months. This compostable material blends phycocolloids with biodegradable polymers, providing a sustainable alternative to single-use plastics. It supports home composting and meets key biodegradability standards. Read more
Mississippi State University creates paper with hydrophobic properties using metal-ion modification for sustainable packaging
Mississippi State University has filed a patent for a technique that turns paper into hydrophobic, water-resistant packaging using metal-ion modification. This method enhances paper’s durability and offers a sustainable alternative to plastic. Read more