Robert E Willard

Title: Innovations of Robert E Willard

Introduction

Robert E Willard is a notable inventor based in Andover, MA, who has made significant contributions to the field of communications and data processing. He holds a total of four patents, showcasing his innovative approach to technology and engineering.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is titled "Dual addressing arrangement for a communications interface architecture." This invention involves a complex address pointer within entries of a communication queue used by a port driver and a port adapter when exchanging information in a host computer. The complex address pointer consists of a virtual address portion and a physical address portion. The port driver utilizes the virtual address portion to determine the location of entry structures, while the port adapter employs the physical address portion to locate the structures in host memory. The arrangement and interpretation of the address portions depend on the direction of information flow, whether it is messages from the port driver to the port adapter or responses from the adapter to the driver.

Another significant patent is the "Method and apparatus for transferring data processing data transfer sizes." This invention optimizes the performance of a multibus data processing system. An I/O controller is connected to the I/O bus and includes MORE bit setting means for initiating and terminating a MORE stream transaction on the I/O bus. An adapter connects the I/O bus to the system bus, receiving the MORE stream transaction and transferring it to main memory. The adapter is equipped with MORE bit decoding means to identify the beginning and end of the MORE stream transaction, as well as whether it is a READ or WRITE transaction.

Career Highlights

Robert E Willard has had a distinguished career at Digital Equipment Corporation, where he has been instrumental in developing innovative technologies that enhance data processing and communication systems. His work has significantly impacted the efficiency and performance of multibus data processing systems.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Robert has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Richard Franklin Lary and Catharine Van Ingen. These collaborations have contributed to the advancement of technology in their respective fields.

Conclusion

Robert E Willard's contributions to the field of communications and data processing through his patents and work at Digital Equipment Corporation highlight his innovative spirit and dedication to technological advancement. His inventions continue to influence the industry and pave the way for future innovations.