Location History:
- Westfield, NJ (US) (1989)
- Niwot, CO (US) (2000 - 2015)
Company Filing History:
18 out of 169 
1 out of 3 
1 out of 11 Years Active: 1989-2015
Title: Innovator Insights: The Contributions of James Mitchell Kates
Introduction: James Mitchell Kates, located in Niwot, Colorado, is a prolific inventor who has been granted a total of 21 patents. His innovative work primarily focuses on the enhancement of hearing aid technology, which has significantly impacted the field of auditory assistance devices.
Latest Patents: Among his latest inventions is a groundbreaking patent titled "Hearing Aid with Histogram Based Sound Environment Classification." This advanced hearing aid includes a microphone and an A/D converter that generates a digital input signal in response to ambient sound. A specially designed processor applies a signal processing algorithm to this digital input, while a sound environment detector classifies the auditory environment based on histogram values across various frequency bands. This invention aims to improve the auditory experience for users by adapting the hearing aid's settings to different sound environments.
Another notable patent from Kates is the "Hearing Aid with Improved Compression." This innovation features a microphone that converts acoustic sound into an input audio signal, which is then processed by a signal processor. This processor employs a variable compressor whose input/output rule adjusts dynamically according to the signal level of the input audio. This invention enhances the hearing aid's responsiveness to varying sound intensities and improves overall functionality.
Career Highlights: James Mitchell Kates has made significant contributions to the field of hearing aids during his tenure at reputable companies like GN Resound A/S and Audiologic Hearing Systems LP. His work has been instrumental in developing technologies that provide better hearing solutions for individuals with hearing impairments.
Collaborations: Throughout his career, Kates has worked alongside talented professionals, including his colleagues John Laurence Melanson and Eric Lindemann. Their collaborative efforts have fostered a creative environment that has led to advancements in hearing aid technology and other related fields.
Conclusion: With a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to innovation, James Mitchell Kates continues to push the boundaries of hearing aid design. His contributions not only enhance the quality of life for individuals with hearing challenges but also pave the way for future advancements in auditory technologies. His work exemplifies how innovative thinking can lead to practical solutions in healthcare and assistive devices.
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.