Steven Michael Dickes

Title: Innovations by Steven Michael Dickes

Introduction

Steven Michael Dickes is an accomplished inventor based in Rochester, MN (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of computer systems through his innovative patents. With a total of 2 patents, Dickes has developed technologies that enhance performance and recovery mechanisms in computing environments.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is titled "Object oriented storage pool apparatus and method." This invention provides enhanced performance by allowing very fast and efficient allocation of storage elements from a storage pool, rather than obtaining them from the heap in an object-oriented computer system. The storage pool operates in a linked-list format, ensuring that operations for allocating and returning storage elements are atomic, which guarantees serialization of accesses. The implementation of this storage pool is seamless, as it is hidden from the user by overloading the New() and delete() methods defined in the programming language. This innovation allows for improved computer system performance without requiring modifications to existing application software.

Another notable patent is "Job interrupt at predetermined boundary for enhanced recovery." This invention introduces a recovery mechanism that restarts jobs after a system failure and marks them for interruption at a logical boundary. This boundary is strategically placed above logical file updating functions, ensuring that logical files remain in a known state when jobs reach the boundary. When a system failure occurs, an image of the working memory, including hardware status, is saved on nonvolatile storage. Once the failure is resolved, the system is reloaded with operating programs, and the working memory is restored from nonvolatile storage. This process minimizes the need for system index recoveries, as most jobs reach a point where logical files are synchronized with corresponding data.

Career Highlights

Steven Michael Dickes is currently employed at International Business Machines Corporation (IBM), where he continues to contribute to advancements in technology. His work has had a lasting impact on the efficiency and reliability of computer systems.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Dickes has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Robert W Collins and William S Davidson. These partnerships have fostered an environment of innovation and creativity, leading to the development of groundbreaking technologies.

Conclusion

Steven Michael Dickes is a prominent inventor whose work has significantly advanced the field of computer systems. His innovative patents reflect his commitment to enhancing performance and recovery mechanisms in technology.