Location History:
- Norristown, PA (US) (1987)
- Blue Bell, PA (US) (1992 - 1994)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1987-1994
Title: Richard Westerfer: Innovator in Television Signal Security
Introduction
Richard Westerfer is a notable inventor based in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania. He has made significant contributions to the field of television signal security, holding a total of 3 patents. His work primarily focuses on methods to enhance the security of scrambled television signals, making it difficult for unauthorized users to access content.
Latest Patents
Westerfer's latest patents include innovative methods aimed at defeating pirate descramblers. One of his patents describes a method and apparatus for frustrating vertical interval detection. This invention involves inserting diversionary pulse information into the sound carrier during the vertical blanking interval of a scrambled television signal. By doing so, it creates a 'false' second gap that confuses pirate descramblers, preventing them from accurately phase locking their horizontal oscillator.
Another significant patent focuses on enhancing the security of a scrambled television signal. This method eliminates the fixed time relationship between the normal color burst component and synchronization information in successive lines of the television signal. By delaying and accelerating the transmission of television lines, Westerfer's invention varies the location of the color burst component over time, thereby preventing the derivation of a substitute horizontal synchronization pulse.
Career Highlights
Richard Westerfer has had a distinguished career at General Instrument Corporation, where he has been instrumental in developing advanced technologies for television signal processing. His innovative approaches have contributed to the company's reputation as a leader in the field.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Westerfer has collaborated with notable colleagues, including William A. Frezza and Robert M. Simons. These partnerships have fostered an environment of innovation and creativity, leading to the development of groundbreaking technologies.
Conclusion
Richard Westerfer's contributions to television signal security have made a lasting impact on the industry. His inventive methods and patents continue to influence the way scrambled signals are processed and protected. His work exemplifies the importance of innovation in safeguarding digital content.