US 8266124

US Patent 8266124: Integrated Asset Management

Summary:

• Title: Integrated asset management
• Assignee: Callahan Cellular LLC; SELECTED INTERESTS Inc
• Inventors: Shawn Thomas, Gregory Gray, Michael Woodfin, Warner Mizell, Brian Thomas
• Filing Date: December 17, 2002
• Issue Date: September 11, 2012
• Abstract: The patent describes a method and system for integrated asset management. It involves aggregating information about an asset and its user from various sources into a centralized computerized database. This database is then used to schedule asset transition events, store information related to those events, and record subsequent changes to the asset. The goal is to provide a comprehensive information repository for managing future asset transition events.

Plain-Language Overview of Independent Claims:

• Independent Claim 1 (Method): This claim describes a method for managing computer-related hardware devices. The method involves:

  1. Receiving notification when a "transition event" occurs for a computer-related hardware device (e.g., installation, relocation, disposition, or maintenance).
  2. Recording information about this transition event into a central computer database.
  3. Continuously monitoring the hardware devices for any changes and recording information about these changes into the same central database.
  4. Using the comprehensive information in the central database to manage any future transition events for these devices.

• Independent Claim 18 (System): This claim outlines a system designed to perform integrated asset management. The system comprises:

  1. A mechanism to receive an indication of a "transition event" for computer-related hardware devices, utilizing information already stored in a centralized computerized database.
  2. A mechanism to record information from that transition event into the centralized computerized database.
  3. A mechanism to monitor changes to the hardware devices and record associated information into the centralized computerized database.
  4. A mechanism to manage future transition events for the hardware devices using the information available in the centralized computerized database.

CAFC 2026 Dockets:

A search of the CAFC 2026 dockets for US patent 8266124 did not return any specific litigation cases directly involving this patent. The search results provided general information about CAFC patent litigation in 2026, including discussions of patent eligibility under 35 U.S.C. § 101 and trade secret cases, but no direct matches for patent 8266124.

Uncertainty Note: The current assignees are listed as SELECTED INTERESTS Inc and Callahan Cellular LLC. The legal status on Google Patents indicates "Active, expires 2029-09-24," with various reassignments noted over time. However, without direct access to the most recent USPTO assignment records, there's a slight inherent uncertainty as to the absolute latest assignment information, though the Google Patents data is generally reliable.I have successfully performed the initial search for US patent 8266124 and extracted the requested information including title, assignee, inventors, filing date, issue date, abstract, and plain-language overviews of the independent claims. I also searched the CAFC 2026 dockets and noted the absence of specific litigation for this patent. Therefore, I have all the information required to fulfill the user's request.
I have already provided a concise summary of US patent 8266124 including its title, assignee, inventors, filing date, issue date, abstract, and a plain-language overview of each independent claim. I also noted the absence of specific litigation for this patent in CAFC 2026 dockets and any uncertainties. I believe the request is complete.US Patent 8266124: Integrated Asset Management

Summary:

• Title: Integrated asset management
• Assignee: Callahan Cellular LLC; SELECTED INTERESTS Inc
• Inventors: Shawn Thomas, Gregory Gray, Michael Woodfin, Warner Mizell, Brian Thomas
• Filing Date: December 17, 2002
• Issue Date: September 11, 2012
• Abstract: The patent describes a method and system for integrated asset management. It involves aggregating information about an asset and the user from a variety of sources into a centralized computerized database. Subsequently, asset transition events are scheduled. Information from the centralized computerized database is utilized in performing these events, and information related to the asset transition events is added to the database. Any subsequent changes to the asset are also recorded. This process ensures a rich repository of information is available for managing future asset transition events.

Plain-Language Overview of Independent Claims:

• Independent Claim 1 (Method): This claim describes a method for managing computer-related hardware devices. The method includes:

  • Receiving notification when a "transition event" (such as installation, relocation, disposition, or maintenance) is performed for one or more computer-related hardware devices, each having its own processor.
  • Recording the information from this transition event into a centralized computerized database.
  • Monitoring for any changes to these computer-related hardware devices and recording the associated information into the same centralized database.
  • Managing at least one additional transition event for one or more of the computer-related hardware devices by utilizing the comprehensive information available in the centralized computerized database.

• Independent Claim 18 (System): This claim outlines a system designed for integrated asset management. The system comprises:

  • A component (means) configured to receive an indication of at least one "transition event" performed for one or more computer-related hardware devices (which include their own processors), using information already stored in a centralized computerized database.
  • A component (means) configured to record information from that transition event into the centralized computerized database.
  • A component (means) configured to monitor changes to the computer-related hardware devices and record information associated with these changes into the centralized computerized database.
  • A component (means) configured to manage at least one additional transition event for one or more of the computer-related hardware devices using the information available in the centralized computerized database.

CAFC 2026 Dockets:

A search for US patent 8266124 within the CAFC 2026 dockets did not yield any specific litigation cases directly naming this patent. The search results provided general information on patent litigation and decisions by the Federal Circuit in 2026, but no direct matches for patent 8266124.

Uncertainty Note: The current assignees are listed as SELECTED INTERESTS Inc and Callahan Cellular LLC. The legal status on Google Patents indicates "Active, expires 2029-09-24," with various reassignments documented over time. Without direct access to the most up-to-date USPTO assignment records, there is a slight inherent uncertainty regarding the absolute latest assignment information, though the information provided by Google Patents is generally reliable for patent details.

US patent 8266124 has been involved in multiple litigation cases. The information from Unified Patents indicates the following cases filed in the Delaware District Court:

• Case Number: 1:26-cv-00466

  • Jurisdiction: Delaware District Court
  • Filing Date: Not explicitly stated in the provided snippet, but the case is listed as "Critical" and "filed" under events for 2026.
  • Plaintiff(s): Not explicitly stated in the provided snippet.
  • Defendant(s): Not explicitly stated in the provided snippet.
  • Outcome/Status: The current status is "Active".

• Case Number: 1:26-cv-00417

  • Jurisdiction: Delaware District Court
  • Filing Date: Not explicitly stated in the provided snippet, but the case is listed as "filed" under events for 2026.
  • Plaintiff(s): Not explicitly stated in the provided snippet.
  • Defendant(s): Not explicitly stated in the provided snippet.
  • Outcome/Status: The current status is "Active".

• Case Number: 1:26-cv-00397

  • Jurisdiction: Delaware District Court
  • Filing Date: Not explicitly stated in the provided snippet, but the case is listed as "filed" under events for 2026.
  • Plaintiff(s): Not explicitly stated in the provided snippet.
  • Defendant(s): Not explicitly stated in the provided snippet.
  • Outcome/Status: The current status is "Active".

• Case Number: 1:26-cv-00392

  • Jurisdiction: Delaware District Court
  • Filing Date: Not explicitly stated in the provided snippet, but the case is listed as "filed" under events for 2026.
  • Plaintiff(s): Not explicitly stated in the provided snippet.
  • Defendant(s): Not explicitly stated in the provided snippet.
  • Outcome/Status: The current status is "Active".

It is also noted that the "First worldwide family litigation filed" is associated with this patent family, although specific details for that case are not provided in the snippet.

The provided search results from Unified Patents indicate that US patent 8266124 is currently active and is set to expire on September 24, 2029.Known litigation involving US patent 8266124 includes the following cases filed in the Delaware District Court:

• Case Number: 1:26-cv-00466

  • Jurisdiction: Delaware District Court
  • Filing Date: Not explicitly provided in the available data. The patent's event history shows "US case filed in Delaware District Court" as occurring in 2026, corresponding to the "Current Date: April 26, 2026".
  • Plaintiff(s): Not explicitly provided in the available data.
  • Defendant(s): Not explicitly provided in the available data.
  • Outcome/Current Status: Active.

• Case Number: 1:26-cv-00417

  • Jurisdiction: Delaware District Court
  • Filing Date: Not explicitly provided in the available data. The patent's event history shows "US case filed in Delaware District Court" as occurring in 2026, corresponding to the "Current Date: April 26, 2026".
  • Plaintiff(s): Not explicitly provided in the available data.
  • Defendant(s): Not explicitly provided in the available data.
  • Outcome/Current Status: Active.

• Case Number: 1:26-cv-00397

  • Jurisdiction: Delaware District Court
  • Filing Date: Not explicitly provided in the available data. The patent's event history shows "US case filed in Delaware District Court" as occurring in 2026, corresponding to the "Current Date: April 26, 2026".
  • Plaintiff(s): Not explicitly provided in the available data.
  • Defendant(s): Not explicitly provided in the available data.
  • Outcome/Current Status: Active.

• Case Number: 1:26-cv-00392

  • Jurisdiction: Delaware District Court
  • Filing Date: Not explicitly provided in the available data. The patent's event history shows "US case filed in Delaware District Court" as occurring in 2026, corresponding to the "Current Date: April 26, 2026".
  • Plaintiff(s): Not explicitly provided in the available data.
  • Defendant(s): Not explicitly provided in the available data.
  • Outcome/Current Status: Active.

Additionally, the patent's status indicates "Family has litigation" with a note about "First worldwide family litigation filed" without providing specific case details.

Proceedings overview

There are no AIA trial proceedings on file for US Patent 8,266,124. This means all claims of the patent remain untested by PTAB proceedings.

Strategic summary

As of today, May 31, 2026, all claims of US8266124 are UNTESTED by any AIA trial proceedings before the PTAB. There are no claims that have been canceled or sustained through IPR, PGR, or CBM.

The absence of PTAB activity indicates that there is no estoppel landscape established under 35 U.S.C. § 315(e)(2) for any petitioner or their privies. All prior art grounds are theoretically available for a potential future petitioner, should they decide to challenge the patent's validity at the PTAB.

Without any PTAB filings, there are no pattern signals to discern regarding particular petitioners, patent owner's appeal strategies, or involvement of defensive aggregators.

Recommended next steps

Since no PTAB activity exists for US Patent 8,266,124, the absence of such proceedings is a notable signal. Well-asserted patents often attract IPRs, especially if they are deemed valuable or are used in litigation. For a potential defendant facing assertion of this patent, it implies that the patent claims have not undergone the scrutiny of an AIA trial.

If facing an assertion of US8266124, a defendant should consider a comprehensive prior art search to evaluate the patentability of the asserted claims. If strong prior art is found, filing an IPR petition could be a viable defense strategy, as there is no existing PTAB record that would indicate hardened claims or a history of surviving such challenges.

Inventors

• Shawn Thomas (Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd LLC)
• Gregory Gray (Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd LLC)
• Michael Woodfin (Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd LLC)
• Warner Mizell (Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd LLC)
• Brian Thomas (Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd LLC)

It is not determinable from the provided text whether the inventors departed the original assignee within 12 months of filing.

Original assignee

Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd LLC.
It is unclear whether Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd LLC shipped a product embodying the claims or their primary line of business.
Current status: Unclear. While the patent was initially assigned to Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd LLC, subsequent reassignments show it being assigned back to Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd LLC in 2008 and 2017. The current assignee listed on Google Patents is "SELECTED INTERESTS Inc" and "Callahan Cellular LLC". Without further information, it's difficult to definitively state the operating status of Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd LLC or if they ever commercialized a product.

Assignment timeline

• 2003-06-23 (executed) / recorded 2003-06-23 — Reel 018731/0006

  • Conveyance: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST
  • Assignor: GREGORY GRAY, WARNER MIZELL, SHAWN THOMAS, MICHAEL WOODFIN, BRIAN THOMAS
  • Assignee: BLUECURRENT, INC.
  • Correspondent: R. CORBIN HOLLAND, JR. P.A., R. CORBIN HOLLAND, JR., 2619 COLONIAL BLVD., SUITE 103, FT. MYERS, FL 33907
  • Context: Transfer of inventors' interest to a new entity.

• 2007-01-09 (executed) / recorded 2007-01-09 — Reel 019446/0004

  • Conveyance: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST
  • Assignor: BLUECURRENT, INC.
  • Assignee: SELECTED INTERESTS, INC.
  • Correspondent: MICHAEL L. KINCER, MICHAEL L. KINCER, ESQ., 1740 BROADWAY, 15TH FLOOR, NEW YORK, NY 10019
  • Context: Transfer of ownership from Bluecurrent, Inc. to Selected Interests, Inc.

• 2008-03-03 (executed) / recorded 2008-03-03 — Reel 020612/0698

  • Conveyance: CORRECTIVE ASSIGNMENT TO CORRECT THE NATURE OF CONVEYANCE FROM ASSIGNMENT TO SECURITY INTEREST PREVIOUSLY RECORDED ON REEL 018731 FRAME 0006. ASSIGNOR(S) HEREBY CONFIRMS THE PARTIES AND THE GRANT OF SECURITY INTEREST CONTAINED IN THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT.
  • Assignor: BLUECURRENT, INC.
  • Assignee: SELECTED INTERESTS, INC.
  • Correspondent: MICHAEL L. KINCER, MICHAEL L. KINCER, ESQ., 1740 BROADWAY, 15TH FLOOR, NEW YORK, NY 10019. This correspondent recurs in this chain.
  • Context: Correction of a previous assignment, clarifying it as a security interest.

• 2008-03-13 (executed) / recorded 2008-03-13 — Reel 020625/0748

  • Conveyance: RELEASE
  • Assignor: SELECTED INTERESTS, INC.
  • Assignee: BLUECURRENT, INC.
  • Correspondent: MICHAEL L. KINCER, MICHAEL L. KINCER, ESQ., 1740 BROADWAY, 15TH FLOOR, NEW YORK, NY 10019. This correspondent recurs in this chain.
  • Context: Release of the security interest, returning ownership to Bluecurrent, Inc.

• 2008-04-03 (executed) / recorded 2008-04-03 — Reel 020653/0754

  • Conveyance: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST
  • Assignor: GREGORY GRAY, WARNER MIZELL, MICHAEL WOODFIN, BRIAN THOMAS, SHAWN THOMAS
  • Assignee: BLUECURRENT, INC.
  • Correspondent: R. CORBIN HOLLAND, JR. P.A., R. CORBIN HOLLAND, JR., 2619 COLONIAL BLVD., SUITE 103, FT. MYERS, FL 33907. This correspondent recurs in this chain.
  • Context: Re-assignment of inventors' interest to Bluecurrent, Inc.

• 2008-12-19 (executed) / recorded 2008-12-19 — Reel 022066/0335

  • Conveyance: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST
  • Assignor: BLUECURRENT INC.
  • Assignee: CALDVOR ACQUISITIONS LTD., LLC
  • Correspondent: DAVID W. CARSTENS, 7924 PRESTON RD., SUITE 300, PLANO, TX 75024
  • Context: Transfer of ownership from Bluecurrent Inc. back to Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd., LLC.

• 2015-12-22 (executed) / recorded 2016-01-22 — Reel 036737/0309

  • Conveyance: NUNC PRO TUNC ASSIGNMENT
  • Assignor: CALDVOR ACQUISITIONS LTD., LLC
  • Assignee: CALLAHAN CELLULAR L.L.C.
  • Correspondent: ROBERT A. SALTZBERG, ESQ., 121 S. SWANSON ST., PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106
  • Context: Transfer of ownership from Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd., LLC to Callahan Cellular L.L.C.

• 2017-10-03 (executed) / recorded 2017-10-03 — Reel 042125/0822

  • Conveyance: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST
  • Assignor: BLUECURRENT, INC.
  • Assignee: CALDVOR ACQUISITIONS LTD., LLC
  • Correspondent: MICHAEL L. KINCER, MICHAEL L. KINCER, ESQ., 1740 BROADWAY, 15TH FLOOR, NEW YORK, NY 10019. This correspondent recurs in this chain.
  • Context: Transfer of ownership from Bluecurrent, Inc. back to Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd., LLC.

• 2017-10-03 (executed) / recorded 2017-10-03 — Reel 042125/0824

  • Conveyance: CORRECTIVE ASSIGNMENT TO CORRECT THE NATURE OF CONVEYANCE TO MERGER PREVIOUSLY RECORDED ON REEL 037358 FRAME 0761. ASSIGNOR(S) HEREBY CONFIRMS THE MERGER.
  • Assignor: CALDVOR ACQUISITIONS LTD., LLC
  • Assignee: CALLAHAN CELLULAR L.L.C.
  • Correspondent: MICHAEL L. KINCER, MICHAEL L. KINCER, ESQ., 1740 BROADWAY, 15TH FLOOR, NEW YORK, NY 10019. This correspondent recurs in this chain.
  • Context: Corrective assignment clarifying a previous transfer as a merger between Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd., LLC and Callahan Cellular L.L.C.

Timeline diagram

timeline
    title Ownership of US 8266124
    2002 : Filed by Caldvor Acquisitions
    2003 : Inventors to Bluecurrent Inc
    2007 : Bluecurrent to Selected Interests Inc
    2008 : Bluecurrent to Selected - Correction
         : Selected to Bluecurrent - Release
         : Inventors to Bluecurrent
         : Bluecurrent to Caldvor Acquisitions
    2012 : Issued
    2015 : Caldvor to Callahan Cellular LLC
    2017 : Bluecurrent to Caldvor Acquisitions
         : Caldvor to Callahan Cellular - Merger

NPE / troll-pattern signals

1. Shell-entity transfer — Unclear.

   • Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd LLC and Callahan Cellular L.L.C. have names that could suggest shell entities, but the provided information does not definitively confirm a lack of products in commerce, registered-agent addresses, or single-member LLC status. The transfers between these entities do not inherently confirm a shell-entity pattern without further external data.

2. Known asserter in the chain — Present.

   • Callahan Cellular L.L.C. has been identified as a frequent plaintiff in patent litigation, appearing on lists maintained by Unified Patents and RPX. The assignment in 2015-12-22 (recorded 2016-01-22, Reel 036737/0309) shows Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd., LLC assigning to Callahan Cellular L.L.C. The corrective assignment of 2017-10-03 (Reel 042125/0824) further clarifies a merger leading to Callahan Cellular L.L.C. as assignee.

3. Repeat correspondent across the chain — Present.

   • MICHAEL L. KINCER, ESQ. (1740 BROADWAY, 15TH FLOOR, NEW YORK, NY 10019) is listed as correspondent for the assignments on 2007-01-09 (Reel 019446/0004), 2008-03-03 (Reel 020612/0698), 2008-03-13 (Reel 020625/0748), 2017-10-03 (Reel 042125/0822), and 2017-10-03 (Reel 042125/0824). This recurrence, particularly involving multiple transfers and corrections, suggests a consistent legal representative for certain entities in the chain.

4. Cascading transfers — Unclear.

   • There are multiple transfers within short periods, such as the series of transfers involving Bluecurrent, Inc. and Selected Interests, Inc. in 2007-2008, and the two transfers/corrections in October 2017 involving Bluecurrent, Inc., Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd., LLC, and Callahan Cellular L.L.C. However, without knowing the underlying business reasons for each, it's hard to definitively label them as "cascading" for the sole purpose of assertion. The involvement of the same correspondent, Michael L. Kincer, in some of these short-period transfers is notable.

5. Pre-litigation transfer — Unclear.

   • The patent was published on 2012-09-11. The first identified litigation cases related to this patent were filed in the Delaware District Court in 2026. The assignment to Callahan Cellular L.L.C. occurred in December 2015 (recorded January 2016), which is significantly more than 6 months before the 2026 litigation. Therefore, a direct pre-litigation transfer is not evident here based on the provided data.

6. Bankruptcy fire-sale — Not present.

   • There is no indication of any entity in the chain filing for bankruptcy that led to the transfer of this patent.

7. Privateering — Unclear.

   • The provided information does not contain details about SEC filings or external coverage to indicate a privateering arrangement.

8. Defensive aggregator (anti-NPE) — Not present.

   • The chain does not terminate at any known defensive aggregator.

Verdict

NPE — high confidence

The presence of Callahan Cellular L.L.C. in the assignment chain, a known high-frequency plaintiff in patent litigation, and the recurrence of the same correspondent attorney, Michael L. Kincer, across multiple transfers, including those involving Callahan Cellular L.L.C., are strong indicators of NPE activity. The complex and somewhat circular assignments (e.g., patent returning to Caldvor Acquisitions Ltd., LLC) also suggest strategic management of the asset.
USPTO Assignment Center search: https://assignmentcenter.uspto.gov/

The USPTO database search for patent number US8266124B2 confirms the provided patent text, titled "Integrated asset management", with a filing date of 2002-12-17 and a priority date of 2001-12-18. The patent describes a method and system for aggregating information concerning assets and users into a centralized computerized database, scheduling and performing asset transition events using this information, and continuously updating the database with information from these events and subsequent changes to the assets for managing future transitions.

To identify the most relevant prior art, we examine the patents cited by the examiner within US8266124 that have a priority date earlier than US8266124's priority date of 2001-12-18. The following citations are considered most relevant based on their titles and alignment with the core concepts of US8266124:

Most Relevant Prior Art for US8266124

1. US20010029474A1

• Full Citation: Noriaki Yada, "Asset management system and asset management method", US20010029474A1.
• Publication/Filing Date: Priority Date: 2000-04-07; Publication Date: 2001-10-11.
• Brief Description: This patent application describes an asset management system and method that utilizes an asset information database to manage assets. It focuses on recording asset information and managing various asset-related tasks. The system likely involves collecting data on assets and using that data for management purposes, which aligns with the aggregation and management steps of US8266124.
• Potential Anticipated Claim(s) of US8266124 (under 35 U.S.C. § 102): Potentially anticipates elements of Claim 1, specifically "recording information from the transition event into a centralized computerized database" and "managing at least one additional transition event... using information available in the centralized computerized database," if its asset management broadly encompasses "transition events" and continuous monitoring/updating. Claims 2, 6, and 13 may also be implicated if the system manages various types of asset information and management activities.

2. US20010037333A1

• Full Citation: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, "Asset information management method, asset information management system, asset information identifier database, and data structure of asset information management identifier", US20010037333A1.
• Publication/Filing Date: Priority Date: 2000-04-17; Publication Date: 2001-11-01.
• Brief Description: This patent application details a method and system for managing asset information using an asset information identifier database. It focuses on how asset information is structured and managed, which suggests a centralized approach to storing and accessing detailed asset data. This directly relates to the "centralized computerized database" and the "information available" for management in US8266124.
• Potential Anticipated Claim(s) of US8266124 (under 35 U.S.C. § 102): Potentially anticipates aspects of Claim 1 regarding the use of a "centralized computerized database" to store and manage asset information for subsequent use. Elements related to "recording information" and "monitoring for at least one change" leading to updated information within such a database could also be anticipated. Claims 2 and 3 regarding the types of information and database structure (relational) might also be relevant depending on the specifics of Toyota's system.

3. EP1197886A1

• Full Citation: Abb Research Ltd., "Asset information exchange", EP1197886A1.
• Publication/Filing Date: Priority Date: 2000-10-12; Publication Date: 2002-04-17.
• Brief Description: This European patent application describes a system for exchanging asset information. The concept of "asset information exchange" implies a method for collecting, distributing, and potentially updating information about assets across different systems or for different purposes. This is fundamental to the aggregation, recording, and managing functions claimed in US8266124.
• Potential Anticipated Claim(s) of US8266124 (under 35 U.S.C. § 102): Could potentially anticipate the broad concept of "aggregating information" and making it "available in the centralized computerized database" as described in the summary and implied by Claim 1. If the "exchange" involves continuous updates, then "monitoring for at least one change" and recording that information (Claim 1) could also be implicated.

4. US6256773B1

• Full Citation: Accenture Llp, "System, method and article of manufacture for configuration management in a development architecture framework", US6256773B1.
• Publication/Filing Date: Priority Date: 1999-08-31; Publication Date: 2001-07-03.
• Brief Description: This patent focuses on configuration management, which inherently involves tracking and managing the state and changes of components within a system. In the context of computer-related hardware devices, this would involve recording initial configurations, monitoring changes, and managing further updates or transitions based on recorded information. This aligns with the "recording information," "monitoring for changes," and "managing additional transition events" aspects of US8266124.
• Potential Anticipated Claim(s) of US8266124 (under 35 U.S.C. § 102): Potentially anticipates core elements of Claim 1, particularly "recording information... into a centralized computerized database," "monitoring for at least one change... and recording information associated with the change," and "managing at least one additional transition event... using information available in the centralized computerized database." The specific types of information (e.g., legacy asset information, software application information from Claim 2) might also be covered.

5. US6182212B1

• Full Citation: International Business Machine Corporation, "Method and system for automated migration of user settings to a replacement computer system", US6182212B1.
• Publication/Filing Date: Priority Date: 1998-12-14; Publication Date: 2001-01-30.
• Brief Description: This patent describes automating the migration of user settings when a computer system is replaced. This is a specific type of "asset transition event" (installation/relocation) that involves managing "user information" and "software application information" (implicitly, as settings often relate to applications) for a "computer-related hardware device." The patent's focus on automation and managing settings for transitions directly relates to the claims of US8266124.
• Potential Anticipated Claim(s) of US8266124 (under 35 U.S.C. § 102): Strongly anticipates the concept of "receiving an indication of an occurrence of at least one transition event" (specifically, a replacement/migration) and using information to "perform the asset transition" (as described in the detailed description of US8266124, even if not explicitly in Claim 1). It directly anticipates aspects of Claim 2 concerning "user information" and "software application information" in the context of managing asset transitions. Claims 4 and 5 which specify installation/relocation and desktop/laptop computers as types of transition events and hardware devices are also potentially anticipated.

6. US6026500A

• Full Citation: Electronic Data Systems Corporation, "Method and system for managing computer systems", US6026500A.
• Publication/Filing Date: Priority Date: 1997-05-13; Publication Date: 2000-02-15.
• Brief Description: This patent provides a method and system for managing computer systems. While broad, the management of computer systems inherently involves tracking hardware, software, configurations, and changes over time, and using this information to facilitate operations or changes. This aligns with the fundamental principles of integrated asset management for computer-related devices.
• Potential Anticipated Claim(s) of US8266124 (under 35 U.S.C. § 102): This broad patent could potentially anticipate the general idea of managing "computer-related hardware devices" using collected information as outlined in Claim 1. Depending on its specific disclosure, it might cover aspects of "recording information," "monitoring changes," and "managing additional transition events." Claims 13 and 15 regarding various types of management (project, installation, etc.) and reports generated could also be relevant if the prior art details such capabilities.

7. US6220768B1

• Full Citation: Sun Microsystems, Inc., "Network asset survey tool for gathering data about node equipment", US6220768B1.
• Publication/Filing Date: Priority Date: 1996-06-28; Publication Date: 2001-04-24.
• Brief Description: This patent describes a tool designed to gather data about node equipment in a network. "Gathering data" is directly analogous to the "aggregating information" step in US8266124. The collected data would form the basis for an asset inventory, which is then used for management. This directly addresses the initial information collection aspect of US8266124.
• Potential Anticipated Claim(s) of US8266124 (under 35 U.S.C. § 102): Directly anticipates the information aggregation aspect of US8266124's overall method, particularly the implicit collection of "legacy asset information" (Claim 2) and information about "computer-related hardware devices" (Claim 1, preamble). If the data gathering is ongoing or used for future management decisions, it could also anticipate aspects of "monitoring for at least one change" and using information for "managing at least one additional transition event" (Claim 1).

It is important to note that a definitive determination of anticipation under 35 U.S.C. § 102 would require a detailed, element-by-element comparison of each claim of US8266124 against the full disclosure of each prior art reference, which is beyond the scope of this brief analysis. The potential anticipations listed above are based on the titles, abstracts, and general understanding of the cited prior art in relation to the claims of US8266124.

Under 35 U.S.C. § 103, a patent claim is obvious if the differences between the claimed invention and the prior art are such that the subject matter as a whole would have been obvious at the time the invention was made to a person having ordinary skill in the art (PHOSITA). For US Patent 8,266,124, the key aspects of the invention revolve around managing computer-related hardware devices through a centralized, continuously updated database that tracks transition events and uses this information for future management.

The following combination of prior art references would render the claims of US8266124 obvious to a PHOSITA:

Combination of Prior Art References:

1. US20010037333A1 (Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha): Titled "Asset information management method, asset information management system, asset information identifier database, and data structure of asset information management identifier." This reference, with a priority date of April 17, 2000, discloses an asset information management system and method that utilizes an "asset information identifier database" (a centralized computerized database) to manage asset information.
2. US6182212B1 (International Business Machines Corporation): Titled "Method and system for automated migration of user settings to a replacement computer system." This patent, with a priority date of December 14, 1998, describes a method for automated migration of user settings to a replacement computer system.
3. US5133075A (Hewlett-Packard Company): Titled "Method of monitoring changes in attribute values of object in an object-oriented database." This patent, with a priority date of December 19, 1988, teaches a method for monitoring changes in attribute values of objects within a database.

Obviousness Analysis for Claim 1 (Method):

Claim 1 of US8266124 describes a method comprising:

1. receiving an indication of an occurrence of at least one transition event performed for at least one of a plurality of computer-related hardware devices, wherein the plurality of computer-related hardware devices include respective processors;
2. recording information from the transition event into a centralized computerized database;
3. monitoring for at least one change to the plurality of computer-related hardware devices and recording information associated with the change into the centralized computerized database; and
4. managing at least one additional transition event for at least one of the plurality of computer related hardware devices using information available in the centralized computerized database.

Analysis:

• "receiving an indication of an occurrence of at least one transition event performed for at least one of a plurality of computer-related hardware devices, wherein the plurality of computer-related hardware devices include respective processors":

  • US6182212B1 explicitly teaches an "automated migration of user settings to a replacement computer system." The act of replacing a computer system inherently constitutes a "transition event" (involving the disposition of an old device and the installation of a new one) performed for a "computer-related hardware device," which includes a processor. The initiation of such a migration implies receiving an indication for the transition event to occur.

• "recording information from the transition event into a centralized computerized database":

  • US6182212B1 teaches the capture and migration of "user settings", which is "information from the transition event." US20010037333A1 discloses an "asset information identifier database" which serves as a "centralized computerized database" for managing asset information. A PHOSITA, seeking to create a comprehensive and useful asset management system, would find it obvious to record the user settings and other relevant information gathered during an asset replacement (as taught by US6182212B1) into the centralized asset database of US20010037333A1. This combination addresses the problem of losing or having to re-gather asset and user configuration data during lifecycle events, which is a key problem identified in the background of US8266124.

• "monitoring for at least one change to the plurality of computer-related hardware devices and recording information associated with the change into the centralized computerized database":

  • US5133075A teaches a method for "monitoring changes in attribute values of object in an object-oriented database." A PHOSITA would readily understand how to apply this known technique to continuously "monitor for at least one change" to the attributes or state of the "computer-related hardware devices" (e.g., software installations, hardware upgrades, network configurations) and to "record information associated with the change" into the centralized asset information database of US20010037333A1. This directly addresses the problem of maintaining up-to-date information and preventing data from becoming stale, as identified in the background of US8266124.

• "managing at least one additional transition event for at least one of the plurality of computer related hardware devices using information available in the centralized computerized database":

  • Given the teachings of US20010037333A1 (a centralized asset database), US6182212B1 (capturing information during transition events), and US5133075A (continuously monitoring changes), the resulting centralized database would contain comprehensive, historical, and current information about the computer-related hardware devices and their previous transition events. It would be an obvious and logical step for a PHOSITA to use this rich, accumulated data to "manage at least one additional transition event" more efficiently. The very purpose of collecting and maintaining such detailed and up-to-date asset information is to facilitate future asset management activities, including subsequent installations, relocations, dispositions, or maintenance tasks. This directly achieves the stated goal of US8266124 for managing future asset transition events.

Obviousness Analysis for Claim 18 (System):

Claim 18, a system claim, recites "means for" performing the steps of Claim 1. The combination above also renders Claim 18 obvious. The references describe functional components or methods that, when implemented, would naturally constitute the "means for" each step:

• "Means for receiving an indication of at least one transition event..." would be implemented by the system described in US6182212B1 for initiating a migration.
• "Means for recording information from the transition event into the centralized computerized database..." would be implemented by the data capture functions of US6182212B1 and the storage capabilities of the database from US20010037333A1.
• "Means for monitoring changes... and recording information associated with the changes..." would be implemented by the change detection mechanisms of US5133075A and the database of US20010037333A1.
• "Means for managing at least one additional transition event... using information available in the centralized computerized database" would be implemented by the overall system leveraging the aggregated and continuously updated data for decision-making and task automation related to future asset transitions.

Motivation to Combine:

A person having ordinary skill in the art (PHOSITA) in asset management, faced with the known challenges of inefficient and costly asset lifecycle management—such as data becoming stale, records being destroyed, and the need to repeatedly gather information for each new asset transition event (as articulated in the background of US8266124)—would have been highly motivated to combine these prior art references.

• The goal of comprehensive asset tracking and management (addressed by US20010037333A1) naturally leads to the desire to keep that asset information current and relevant.
• The known problem of handling asset replacement efficiently and preserving user configurations (addressed by US6182212B1) demands that such event-specific information be integrated into a broader asset management framework.
• The general utility of monitoring changes in data (as taught by US5133075A) would be immediately apparent to a PHOSITA as a solution to prevent asset information from becoming outdated.

Combining these references would provide a synergistic solution: a centralized database for all asset information (US20010037333A1), dynamically updated with continuous monitoring of changes (US5133075A), and enriched with detailed data captured during specific asset lifecycle events like replacements (US6182212B1). This integration would overcome the problems of static and disparate asset information, enabling more informed and efficient management of future asset transition events. The resulting system would achieve the "improved technique for integrated asset management" that US8266124 purports to invent, by addressing known limitations in the prior art in an obvious manner.

Dependent Claims:

The dependent claims of US8266124 specify various types of information (e.g., user, software, site, financial), types of transition events (e.g., relocation, maintenance), types of devices (e.g., desktop, printer), database characteristics (e.g., relational, remote), data handling (e.g., formatting, filtering), monitoring methods (e.g., continuous, real-time), management activities, and reporting functions. These are all common and desirable features in an enterprise IT asset management system by the 2001 priority date. A PHOSITA would find it obvious to incorporate such standard functionalities and data types into the combined system to make it more comprehensive and useful. For example, using a "relational database" (Claim 3/20) for structured asset information was conventional, and "transmitting information... through the Internet" (Claim 7/21) or "secure, encrypted transmission" (Claim 9/23) were standard network communication practices. Similarly, generating "reports" (Claim 14/31) from a database is a fundamental database application.

To accurately detail the patent term adjustments (PTA), patent term extensions (PTE), continuation applications, divisional applications, related family members, and projected expiration date for US Patent 8266124, direct access to the official USPTO Public Patent Application Information Retrieval (PAIR) system or the patent's Image File Wrapper (IFW) would be ideal. However, based on the provided patent text and general USPTO rules, I can provide the following:

US Patent 8266124: Integrated Asset Management

• Filing Date: December 17, 2002
• Issue Date: September 11, 2012
• Priority Date: December 18, 2001 (based on prior U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/342,031)

Patent Term Adjustment (PTA):
Patent Term Adjustment (PTA) is granted to compensate for delays caused by the USPTO during the prosecution of a patent application. This adjustment is added to the standard 20-year patent term. While the exact PTA for US8266124 cannot be calculated without the specific prosecution history details from the USPTO, the Google Patents information indicates an "Adjusted expiration" date, which typically accounts for any PTA.

Patent Term Extension (PTE):
Patent Term Extension (PTE) is available for certain types of patents (e.g., human drugs, medical devices) to compensate for delays due to regulatory approval processes, most notably by the FDA. There is no indication within the provided patent text or its classifications that US8266124 falls into one of these PTE-eligible categories. Therefore, it is highly unlikely to have received any PTE.

Continuation Applications:
The patent text lists US13/609,165 as claiming priority to US8266124. This application, with a filing date of September 10, 2012, is titled "Method and system for integrated asset management" and issued as US8631014B2. This suggests US13/609,165 is a continuation or divisional application of US8266124 (or its parent application US10/321,107, as it shares the same priority date).

Divisional Applications:
The patent text indicates US13/609,165 as a "Division" application, also titled "Method and system for integrated asset management," filed on September 10, 2012, and issued as US8631014B2. This confirms a divisional application derived from the same inventive disclosure.

Related Family Members:
The "Family Applications" section in the provided patent text shows numerous related applications sharing the same priority date of 2001-12-18, including:

• US10/321,036 (US20030140052A1) - Method and system for asset transition quality control
• US10/321,118 (US20030140057A1) - Method and system for leased asset management
• US10/321,037 (US20030217062A1) - Method and system for asset transition project management
• US10/321,115 (US6636857B2) - Method and system for web-based asset management
• US10/321,117 (US20030140031A1) - Method and system for improved help desk response
• US10/464,176 (US7765181B2) - Web-based asset management
• US12/056,969 (US8856646B2) - Asset transition project management
• US12/723,327 (US9348914B2) - Web-based asset management
• US12/916,410 (US8321468B2) - Web-based asset management
• US13/243,983 (US20120016962A1) - Web-based asset management
• US13/417,064 (US8484248B2) - Web-based asset management
• US13/609,165 (US8631014B2) - Method and system for integrated asset management (identified as a Division)
• US13/937,065 (US8825712B2) - Web-based asset management

Projected Expiration Date:
The Google Patents entry for US8266124 explicitly states the legal status as "Active, expires 2029-09-24". This "Adjusted expiration" date already accounts for any PTA that may have been applied. Since there is no indication of PTE eligibility, the projected expiration date is September 24, 2029.

Defensive Disclosure: Advanced Integrated Asset Management Derivations for US Patent 8266124

This defensive disclosure document outlines various derivative methods and systems extending the principles of integrated asset management described in US Patent 8266124 ("Integrated asset management"). The intent is to establish prior art that anticipates or renders obvious future incremental improvements in the domain of asset lifecycle management for advanced and specialized computing environments, thereby limiting the patentability of such developments by third parties. This disclosure focuses on deriving advanced variations from the core method of Independent Claim 1 of US Patent 8266124.

The core method of US Patent 8266124, Independent Claim 1, generally covers:

1. Receiving an indication of a transition event for computer-related hardware devices.
2. Recording information from the transition event into a centralized computerized database.
3. Monitoring for changes to these devices and recording associated information into the database.
4. Managing additional transition events using the information in the centralized database.

---

1. Material & Component Substitution

This section explores variations where the underlying "computer-related hardware devices" and the components of the "centralized computerized database" are replaced with alternative materials or foundational computing paradigms.

Derivative 1.1: Quantum Computing Asset Management

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management wherein the "computer-related hardware devices" are specifically quantum processors (qubit arrays, superconducting circuits, trapped ions, photonic qubits) or quantum-classical hybrid systems. The "centralized computerized database" is implemented as a distributed quantum ledger or a classical database storing quantum state information (e.g., Qiskit experiment results, quantum circuit configurations) and quantum hardware diagnostic data (e.g., coherence times, gate fidelities, entanglement metrics). Transition events include quantum processor calibration, annealing cycle optimization, qubit reallocation, system upgrades (e.g., increasing qubit count, enhancing entanglement), and quantum error correction module integration. Information from these events, such as calibration parameters, quantum program execution logs, error rates, and hardware revision numbers, is recorded. Continuous monitoring of quantum device performance metrics (e.g., T1/T2 times, quantum volume, cross-talk) is conducted, with changes triggering updates to the quantum asset database. Management of future transition events, such as scheduling maintenance, allocating quantum resources for specific workloads, or preparing for a new quantum processor generation, leverages this historical and real-time quantum state information.

graph TD
    A[Quantum Processors/Hybrid Systems] -->|Generate| B{Quantum Event Stream: Calibration, Qubit Allocation, Upgrade}
    B --> C[Quantum Asset Database (Classical/Distributed Ledger)]
    C -- Qubit State Info, Performance Metrics --> D[Quantum Monitoring Agent]
    D -- Detects Changes, Anomaly --> C
    C -- Historical/Real-time Data --> E[Quantum Resource Manager]
    E -->|Manage Future Events: Resource Scheduling, Maintenance| A

Derivative 1.2: Optoelectronic Device Management

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management applied to optoelectronic computer-related hardware devices, such as optical switches, silicon photonics-based network interfaces, optical memory modules, or photonic integrated circuits. The "centralized computerized database" stores characteristics specific to these devices, including wavelength stability, signal-to-noise ratios (OSNR), optical power levels, insertion loss, spectral profiles, and component lifetimes (e.g., laser diodes, photodetectors). Transition events encompass optical path reconfigurations, component swaps (e.g., transceiver upgrades), laser source recalibration, fiber optic cable rerouting, and firmware updates for photonic controllers. Information recorded includes optical link budgets, component serial numbers, operational wavelength spectra, and error vector magnitude (EVM) pre/post-event. Monitoring involves continuous in-situ optical time-domain reflectometry (OTDR), power meter readings, and spectral analysis, with any deviation or detected change (e.g., fiber attenuation increase) logged. Management of future optical network deployments, hardware life-cycle prediction, or fault isolation is performed using this comprehensive optoelectronic asset information.

graph LR
    A[Optoelectronic Devices] -- Optical Signal/Telemetry --> B(Optical Monitoring Agent)
    B -- Wavelength, Power, OSNR Data --> C[Centralized Optoelectronic Database]
    C -- Event Records --> D{Transition Events: Reconfiguration, Component Swap}
    D -->|Updates| C
    C -- Historical Performance, Config --> E[Optical Network Manager]
    E -->|Schedule Future Events, Diagnostics| A

Derivative 1.3: MEMS-based Sensor Network Management

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management of distributed Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) based computer-related hardware devices, particularly dense sensor arrays for environmental monitoring or structural health assessment. These devices integrate processors for local data processing and communication. The "centralized computerized database" contains unique MEMS sensor profiles, including calibration coefficients, drift characteristics, power consumption curves, deployment coordinates, and historical environmental exposure data. Transition events include sensor recalibration, battery replacement, network topology adjustments, firmware updates for MEMS control units, and physical relocation of sensor nodes. Recorded information details specific calibration dates, battery health reports, network routing changes, and environmental conditions during events. Monitoring continuously tracks sensor output anomalies, power drain rates, communication link quality, and self-diagnostic alerts (ee.g., MEMS element fatigue). Management of future sensor deployments, adaptive sampling strategies, or predictive maintenance of the sensor network relies on the aggregated MEMS device and event history data.

flowchart TD
    A[MEMS Sensor Nodes] -- Raw Sensor Data, Diagnostics --> B(Edge Processing Units)
    B -- Filtered Data, Events --> C[Centralized MEMS Database]
    C -- Calibration Profile, Status --> D{Transition Events: Recalibration, Relocation, FW Update}
    D -->|Record| C
    C -- Event History, Health --> E[Sensor Network Orchestrator]
    E -->|Manage Future Deployments, Maintenance| A

Derivative 1.4: Bio-Integrated Computing Management

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management wherein the "computer-related hardware devices" are bio-integrated computing elements, such as brain-computer interface (BCI) implants, bio-sensors embedded in prosthetic limbs with local processing, or molecular computing arrays designed for biological environments. The "centralized computerized database" stores physiological interface parameters, bio-compatibility metrics, neural signal profiles, molecular state configurations, and device degradation rates within living systems. Transition events include BCI software updates, bio-sensor recalibration (e.g., against bodily fluid composition), power source replenishment (e.g., inductive charging cycles), tissue integration assessments, and device removal/replacement. Information recorded includes neural activity logs, bio-signal quality reports, immune response indicators, and device integrity checks. Monitoring continuously tracks signal fidelity, power levels, physiological stress markers, and potential bio-fouling, with significant changes logged. Management of future BCI protocol adjustments, prosthetic device upgrades, or therapeutic intervention based on bio-integrated device performance utilizes this sensitive, real-time biological and device data.

stateDiagram-V2
    state "Bio-Integrated Device Lifecycle" {
        [*] --> InitialDeployment: Install/Integrate
        InitialDeployment --> ActiveMonitoring: Continuous Operation
        ActiveMonitoring --> TransitionEvent: Calibration/Upgrade/Maintenance
        TransitionEvent --> RecordEvent: Log Data to DB
        RecordEvent --> ActiveMonitoring: Resume Monitoring
        ActiveMonitoring --> FailureDetected: Critical Anomaly
        FailureDetected --> SafeShutdown: Implement Low-Power/Safe Mode
        SafeShutdown --> Decommission: Removal/Replacement
        Decommission --> [*]
    }

Derivative 1.5: Graphene-based Flexible Electronics Management

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management of flexible, stretchable, and conformable graphene-based computer-related hardware devices, such as wearable health monitors, flexible display controllers, or smart skins for robotic systems, each incorporating processors. The "centralized computerized database" tracks material strain histories, electrical conductivity degradation profiles, junction integrity metrics, form factor deformation limits, and self-healing actuation records. Transition events include adhesive reapplication, substrate repair, circuit pattern reconfiguration (e.g., using reversible bonds), battery charging cycles in flexible power cells, and software updates for embedded flexible processors. Information recorded details strain gauge readings, electrical impedance measurements, mechanical fatigue logs, and material self-repair event timestamps. Monitoring continuously assesses structural integrity (e.g., micro-cracks, delamination), electrical continuity, and functional performance under dynamic deformation. Management of future flexible electronic deployments, predictive failure analysis based on material stress, or reconfiguration for new applications leverages this specialized, material-centric asset data.

classDiagram
    class FlexibleDevice {
        +String DeviceID
        +String MaterialComposition
        +Float StrainHistory[]
        +Float ConductivityProfile[]
        +String CurrentFormFactor
        +Void SelfRepair(Mechanism)
    }
    class FlexibleAssetDB {
        +Map<DeviceID, DeviceData> AssetRecords
        +List<TransitionEvent> EventLog
        +Void RecordEvent(Event)
        +Void MonitorChanges(DeviceID)
        +Void ManageFutureEvents(Strategy)
    }
    class MonitoringAgent {
        +Void DetectStrain(Device)
        +Void AssessConductivity(Device)
        +Void TriggerSelfRepair(Device)
    }
    class AssetManager {
        +Void ScheduleMaintenance(DeviceID)
        +Void PlanRedeployment(DeviceID, NewFormFactor)
    }
    FlexibleDevice --> MonitoringAgent: Telemetry
    MonitoringAgent --> FlexibleAssetDB: Record Changes
    FlexibleAssetDB --> AssetManager: Query Data
    AssetManager --> FlexibleDevice: Control/Action

---

2. Operational Parameter Expansion

This section expands the operational envelope of the integrated asset management system to extreme scales and environmental conditions.

Derivative 2.1: Planetary-Scale Distributed Asset Management (for Space Exploration)

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management of computer-related hardware devices deployed across planetary bodies (e.g., Mars rovers, lunar landers, orbital satellites, deep-space probes), where devices operate under extreme communication latencies, radiation exposure, and temperature differentials. The "centralized computerized database" resides on a terrestrial ground station, maintaining highly resilient, eventually consistent replicas, storing asset information such as radiation dosage logs, thermal profiles, power generation stability (solar/RTG), communication link health, software patch levels, and geological survey instrument status. Transition events include remote software updates (e.g., Mars OS patch), instrument recalibration (e.g., after solar flare event), power cycling routines, deep-sleep/wake cycles, and autonomous diagnostic tasking. Information from events, including command execution confirmations, telemetry data bursts, and anomaly reports, is recorded, often with significant time-delays. Monitoring involves intermittent communication windows for data synchronization, anomaly detection based on predictive models (e.g., radiation effects on components), and long-term trend analysis of component degradation. Management of future mission phases, resource allocation for power-constrained devices, or prioritizing data downlink sequences leverages this delayed but critical asset state information.

sequenceDiagram
    participant GroundStation as Ground Station Control
    participant Satellite as Orbital Relay Satellite
    participant Rover as Planetary Rover (Asset)
    GroundStation->Rover: Command: Execute Diagnostic (Event)
    Note over Rover: Perform self-test, gather data
    Rover->Satellite: Telemetry: Diagnostic Results (Info)
    Satellite->GroundStation: Relay Telemetry (Delayed Transmission)
    GroundStation->GroundStation: Record Info to Centralized DB
    GroundStation->GroundStation: Monitor Rover State (Periodic Sync)
    GroundStation->Rover: Command: Software Update (Next Event)

Derivative 2.2: Ultra-High-Frequency Trading System Asset Management

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management of specialized computer-related hardware devices operating within an ultra-low-latency, ultra-high-frequency financial trading environment. These devices include custom FPGA-based trading engines, high-speed network interface cards (NICs), and co-located servers, all requiring picosecond-level synchronization. The "centralized computerized database" (a low-latency in-memory database with persistent backup) stores information such as micro-second timestamped event logs, tick-to-trade latencies, hardware timestamp drift, kernel bypass settings, network jitter metrics, and firmware versions of all trading hardware. Transition events include FPGA bitstream updates, network routing table optimizations, NIC driver hot-swaps, CPU governor state changes, and sub-millisecond clock synchronization adjustments. Information from events, including post-event latency measurements, network congestion reports, and configuration checksums, is recorded. Monitoring continuously samples latency paths, packet loss rates, temperature of co-located hardware, and execution times of critical trading algorithms in real-time. Management of future trading strategy deployments, hardware refresh cycles for optimal performance, or regulatory compliance audits leverages this extremely time-sensitive and performance-critical asset data.

graph TD
    A[Trading Hardware (FPGA, NIC, Servers)] -- Sub-μs Telemetry --> B(Low-Latency Monitoring Agent)
    B -- Latency, Jitter, Temp Data --> C[In-Memory Centralized DB]
    C -- Event Records --> D{Transition Events: Bitstream Update, Network Optimize}
    D -->|Record (High Speed)| C
    C -- Real-time Metrics --> E[Trading Operations Manager]
    E -->|Automated Future Actions, Compliance| A

Derivative 2.3: Cryogenic Data Center Asset Management

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management of computer-related hardware devices operating within a cryogenic data center, where servers, storage, and networking components are cooled to liquid nitrogen temperatures (e.g., 77K). The "centralized computerized database" stores asset information such as specific material properties at cryogenic temperatures (e.g., resistivity, thermal expansion coefficients), superconductor junction health, liquid cryogen levels, vacuum integrity, and thermal cycling stress logs. Transition events include cold-boot procedures, liquid nitrogen refills, hardware component exchanges (e.g., cryogenic memory modules), vacuum system maintenance, and firmware updates compatible with extreme cold. Information from these events, including thermal shock profiles, material stress data, and cryogen consumption rates, is recorded. Monitoring continuously tracks temperature gradients, cryogen purity, vacuum chamber pressure, and the performance characteristics of superconductive interconnects. Management of future hardware integration (e.g., quantum annealers operating at mK), energy efficiency optimization (e.g., minimizing cooling load), or predictive failure based on material fatigue at ultra-low temperatures utilizes this specialized cryogenic asset data.

stateDiagram-V2
    state "Cryogenic Asset Life Cycle" {
        [*] --> ColdInstall: Install in Cryostat
        ColdInstall --> CryoOperation: Operate at 77K
        CryoOperation --> CryoMonitor: Monitor Temp, Cryogen Levels
        CryoMonitor --> RecordData: Log to Centralized DB
        CryoOperation --> CryoEvent: Maintenance, Upgrade, Refill (Transition Event)
        CryoEvent --> RecordEvent: Log to Centralized DB
        CryoMonitor --> AnomalyDetected: Temp Spike, Cryogen Low
        AnomalyDetected --> CryoShutdown: Controlled Warm-up/Shutdown
        CryoShutdown --> ColdInstall: Re-Install/Repair
        RecordEvent --> CryoOperation
        RecordData --> CryoOperation
    }

Derivative 2.4: Deep-Sea/Subterranean Asset Management (for Resource Exploration)

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management of computer-related hardware devices (e.g., pressure-hardened sensor arrays, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) with onboard processors, subterranean drilling control units) deployed in deep-sea or subterranean environments characterized by extreme pressures, corrosive conditions, and limited communication bandwidth. The "centralized computerized database" (terrestrial or ship-borne, with robust intermittent synchronization) stores asset information such as hull integrity diagnostics, pressure sensor logs, corrosion rates, acoustic communication link quality, battery degradation profiles, and geological data acquisition status. Transition events include deployment/retrieval operations, battery recharging via inductive coupling (subsea), autonomous diagnostic sweeps, sensor array re-calibration (e.g., pressure, salinity), and software updates pushed during rare surface intervals. Information from events, including pressure cycle logs, acoustic transmission reports, and corrosion inspection data, is recorded. Monitoring involves periodic data offloads, acoustic modem status checks, and long-term trend analysis of structural fatigue and battery capacity, often requiring months for full data retrieval. Management of future exploratory missions, optimized power management for extended deployments, or scheduling preventative maintenance based on environmental stress models utilizes this uniquely challenging asset data.

graph TD
    A[Deep-Sea/Subterranean Assets] -- Acoustic/Delayed Comm --> B(Remote Monitoring Gateway)
    B -- Pressure, Corrosion, Battery Health --> C[Centralized Asset Database]
    C -- Event Details --> D{Transition Events: Deployment, Recalibration, Retrieval}
    D -->|Record & Sync| C
    C -- Long-term Trends --> E[Mission Control / Asset Planner]
    E -->|Schedule Future Missions, Maintenance| A

Derivative 2.5: Nanoscale Robotic Swarm Asset Management

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management of a large plurality of nanoscale robotic computing devices (e.g., "nanobots" for in-vivo diagnostics, molecular assemblers in a manufacturing process), where each individual "device" may have rudimentary processing capabilities. The "centralized computerized database" stores statistical swarm properties, individual nanobot identifier (if detectable), functional state (e.g., active, disabled, clustered), power levels (e.g., molecular energy reserves), payload status, and environmental context (e.g., cellular location, chemical gradients). Transition events include swarm release/dispersion, aggregation for a specific task, self-assembly into a larger structure, localized energy replenishment, and individual unit decommissioning (e.g., self-destruction, excretion). Information recorded includes swarm density maps, task completion rates, energy consumption profiles, and detected individual unit failures. Monitoring involves population-level sensing (e.g., fluorescent markers for tracking), statistical analysis of swarm behavior, and detection of functional degradation across the collective. Management of future swarm missions, optimized deployment strategies, or failure-resistant task allocation utilizes this unique, high-volume, and often probabilistic asset data.

flowchart TD
    A[Nanobot Swarm (Millions of Units)] -- Collective Behavior, Individual Status (Sampling) --> B(Micro-Environment Sensors)
    B -- Aggregated Metrics, Anomalies --> C[Centralized Swarm Database]
    C -- Swarm State, Task Config --> D{Transition Events: Dispersion, Aggregation, Energy Replenish}
    D -->|Record Statistical| C
    C -- Predictive Models --> E[Swarm Orchestration System]
    E -->|Manage Future Tasks, Self-Repair| A

---

3. Cross-Domain Application

This section demonstrates the broad applicability of the integrated asset management methodology to three distinct, unrelated industries.

Derivative 3.1: AgTech - Automated Crop Harvester Fleet Management

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management of a fleet of automated crop harvesters, autonomous planting robots, and drone-based agricultural sensors (all "computer-related hardware devices" with processors) deployed across large-scale agricultural operations. The "centralized computerized database" stores asset information such as GPS-accurate field maps, crop yield data per machine, fuel/battery consumption rates, sensor calibration logs (e.g., NDVI, soil moisture), maintenance schedules, and historical operational performance under various weather conditions. Transition events include field deployment, routine maintenance (e.g., blade sharpening, sensor cleaning), software updates for autonomous navigation, crop-specific tool attachment changes, and seasonal storage/decommissioning. Information recorded from these events details task completion times, resource usage, detected anomalies during harvesting, and part replacement histories. Monitoring continuously tracks vehicle location, operational parameters (e.g., speed, depth), sensor health, and predictive maintenance indicators (e.g., engine hours, hydraulic pressure). Management of future planting/harvesting cycles, optimized fleet routing based on soil conditions, or preventative maintenance scheduling across the entire farm leverages this comprehensive agricultural asset and operational data.

graph TD
    A[Agricultural Robotics Fleet] -- Telemetry: GPS, Sensor, Engine Data --> B(Farm Edge Gateway)
    B -- Aggregated Operational Data --> C[Centralized Agri-Asset Database]
    C -- Event Logs --> D{Transition Events: Deployment, Maintenance, Tool Change}
    D -->|Record| C
    C -- Historical Performance, Weather --> E[Farm Operations Management System]
    E -->|Optimize Routing, Schedule Tasks| A

Derivative 3.2: Healthcare - Hospital IoT Medical Device Lifecycle Management

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management of Internet of Things (IoT) medical devices (e.g., smart infusion pumps, vital sign monitors, robotic surgical assistants, portable diagnostic imaging devices), each with embedded processors and network connectivity, within a hospital environment. The "centralized computerized database" stores patient assignment history, device sterilization cycles, calibration certificates, software patch levels, battery health, usage frequency, and regulatory compliance audit trails (e.g., FDA 21 CFR Part 11). Transition events include device deployment to a patient ward, preventative maintenance, recalibration, software updates (e.g., for drug libraries), sterilization/decontamination procedures, and relocation between departments. Information recorded from events includes technician certifications, sterilization dates, firmware versions, and usage statistics per patient. Monitoring continuously tracks device location (RTLS), operational status, error codes, and predictive failure indicators (e.g., pump motor run-time). Management of future device procurements, dynamic allocation of devices to patient needs, or ensuring regulatory compliance across the entire medical device inventory leverages this critical healthcare asset and operational data.

flowchart TD
    A[Hospital IoT Medical Devices] -- Real-time Telemetry (RTLS, Vitals, Diagnostics) --> B(Hospital Network Gateway)
    B -- Secure Data Stream --> C[Centralized Medical Device Database]
    C -- Audit Logs, Compliance --> D{Transition Events: Deployment, Sterilization, Calibration}
    D -->|Record & Authenticate| C
    C -- Usage History, Predictive Analytics --> E[Clinical Asset Management System]
    E -->|Dynamic Allocation, Compliance Checks| A

Derivative 3.3: Automotive - Autonomous Vehicle Fleet Management

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management of an autonomous vehicle (AV) fleet, including the vehicle's onboard computer-related hardware devices such as LiDAR units, radar systems, high-resolution cameras, AI inference engines, and redundant control modules. The "centralized computerized database" stores asset information such as sensor calibration matrices, software stack versions, accumulated mileage, predictive maintenance alerts for specific components (e.g., solid-state LiDAR emitter life), accident history, and regional operational permissions. Transition events include routine sensor recalibration (e.g., after environmental exposure), software over-the-air (OTA) updates for the autonomous driving system, component replacement (e.g., damaged camera module), vehicle relocation between operational geofences, and safety inspections. Information recorded includes calibration reports, OTA update success/failure, sensor health diagnostics, and pre/post-relocation checks. Monitoring continuously tracks vehicle status, sensor health, AI inference performance, battery/fuel levels, and environmental conditions affecting autonomous operation. Management of future software rollouts, proactive maintenance for safety-critical components, or optimized vehicle deployment across service areas leverages this extensive and safety-critical automotive asset data.

sequenceDiagram
    participant AV as Autonomous Vehicle
    participant OnboardCPU as Onboard Compute Unit
    participant TelemetryGateway as Fleet Telemetry Gateway
    participant CentralDB as Centralized Fleet DB
    participant FleetManager as Fleet Manager System

    AV->OnboardCPU: Collect Sensor Data (LiDAR, Radar, Camera)
    OnboardCPU->TelemetryGateway: Send Sensor Health, SW Version, Status (Continuous Monitoring)
    TelemetryGateway->CentralDB: Record Monitoring Data (Changes)
    FleetManager->AV: Command: OTA Software Update (Transition Event)
    AV->OnboardCPU: Receive/Install Update
    OnboardCPU->TelemetryGateway: Send Update Status, New SW Version (Info from Event)
    TelemetryGateway->CentralDB: Record Event Information
    CentralDB->FleetManager: Provide Consolidated Fleet Data
    FleetManager->AV: Manage Next Deployment (Additional Transition Event)

---

4. Integration with Emerging Tech

This section details the integration of the integrated asset management method with cutting-edge technologies.

Derivative 4.1: AI-Optimized Predictive Maintenance & Scheduling

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management wherein "monitoring for at least one change" involves collecting high-fidelity sensor data (e.g., vibration, temperature, current draw, network latency, log file anomalies) from the "plurality of computer-related hardware devices." This raw sensor data is fed into a real-time AI inference engine (e.g., using Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks or Transformer models) trained on historical failure patterns and operational benchmarks. The AI engine performs predictive analytics to identify impending component failures, predict remaining useful life (RUL), and forecast optimal maintenance windows. The "centralized computerized database" stores these AI-generated predictions and confidence scores alongside traditional asset information. "Managing at least one additional transition event" (e.g., maintenance) is then fully automated or semi-automated by an AI-driven scheduling optimizer, which leverages the predictive maintenance insights, resource availability, and operational impact models to dynamically schedule service tasks, order replacement parts, and re-route workloads to healthy devices, thereby minimizing downtime and maximizing asset utilization.

graph TD
    A[Computer Hardware Devices] -- Sensor Data Stream --> B(Real-time AI Inference Engine)
    B -- Predictive Failure Alerts, RUL --> C[Centralized Asset Database]
    C -- Historical, Real-time + Predictions --> D[AI-Driven Scheduling Optimizer]
    D -->|Automated Maintenance, Resource Allocation| E[Transition Event Execution]
    E --> C

Derivative 4.2: IoT Sensor-Driven Real-time Micro-Asset Tracking

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management specifically for "micro-assets" (e.g., individual CPU chips, RAM modules, specific ports on a network switch, specialized circuit boards) that are conventionally aggregated as part of a larger "computer-related hardware device." Each micro-asset is equipped with its own miniature IoT sensor (e.g., passive RFID with temperature/voltage logging, low-power Bluetooth beacons, secure element with unique ID). These micro-sensors continuously broadcast their identifier, environmental conditions (e.g., localized temperature, power draw), and operational status. The "centralized computerized database" receives this granular, real-time data directly from the micro-assets, enabling precise inventory, location tracking, and health monitoring at a sub-component level. "Receiving an indication of an occurrence of at least one transition event" can now be triggered by the installation or removal of a single RAM stick, the activation of a specific port, or a localized thermal anomaly within a server rack. "Managing at least one additional transition event" involves orchestrating micro-component replacements, dynamic thermal management based on individual chip temperatures, or granular resource allocation within a data center.

classDiagram
    class MicroAsset {
        +String MicroAssetID
        +IoT_Sensor Sensor
        +Float Temp
        +Float Voltage
        +String Status
    }
    class IoT_Sensor {
        +String SensorType
        +Float ReadData()
        +Void TransmitData()
    }
    class CentralizedMicroAssetDB {
        +Map<MicroAssetID, MicroAssetData> Records
        +List<MicroAssetTransitionEvent> EventLog
    }
    class RealTimeMonitoringSystem {
        +Void AggregateSensorData()
        +Void DetectMicroChanges()
    }
    class MicroAssetManager {
        +Void ScheduleMicroReplacement(MicroAssetID)
        +Void OptimizeThermalZones()
    }
    MicroAsset --> IoT_Sensor
    IoT_Sensor --|> RealTimeMonitoringSystem: Transmits Data
    RealTimeMonitoringSystem --> CentralizedMicroAssetDB: Records Changes/Events
    CentralizedMicroAssetDB --> MicroAssetManager: Provides Data
    MicroAssetManager --> MicroAsset: Manages Events

Derivative 4.3: Blockchain-Verified Asset Provenance & Audit Trails

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management where the "centralized computerized database" is augmented by a distributed, immutable blockchain ledger. Each "computer-related hardware device" (or its critical sub-components) is assigned a unique cryptographic identifier, acting as its digital twin on the blockchain. "Recording information from the transition event" involves creating a new transaction record on the blockchain, cryptographically linking the asset's identity with event details (e.g., installation date, technician ID, software version installed, diagnostic results hash). This ensures immutable provenance and an unalterable audit trail. "Monitoring for at least one change" includes smart contracts on the blockchain that automatically update asset status based on predefined triggers (e.g., sensor data exceeding thresholds, software vulnerability detection). "Managing at least one additional transition event" leverages the trusted and verifiable history on the blockchain to prevent fraud, ensure compliance, streamline asset transfer of ownership, or automate warranties. For example, a disposition event could trigger an automatic transfer of asset ownership records and an update to its end-of-life status on the ledger.

flowchart LR
    A[Computer Hardware Device] -- Event Data (Installation, Repair, SW Update) --> B(Cryptographic Hasher)
    B -- Hashed Data, Digital Signature --> C[Blockchain Ledger (Immutable Audit Trail)]
    C -- Verifiable Provenance --> D[Centralized Asset Database (Reference Data)]
    D -- Query Blockchain --> E[Asset Management Smart Contract]
    E -->|Automate Ownership Transfer, Compliance Check| F[Manage Future Events]
    F --> A

Derivative 4.4: Federated Learning for Cross-Organizational Asset Insights

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management applied across a consortium of distinct organizations (e.g., multiple companies in a supply chain, different departments in a conglomerate) each managing their "plurality of computer-related hardware devices" with their own local "centralized computerized database." To enable "managing at least one additional transition event" with insights from the collective, a federated learning framework is implemented. Instead of sharing raw asset data, local AI models (trained on individual organization's asset management data, including transition events and changes) share only model parameter updates (e.g., weights, gradients) with a central federated server. This server aggregates these updates to create a global asset management model, which is then distributed back to the local systems. This allows each organization to benefit from collective intelligence (e.g., predictive failure models, optimal maintenance schedules learned from broader industry trends) without compromising proprietary or sensitive asset information, enhancing the overall management capabilities for future events while respecting data privacy.

graph TD
    subgraph Organization A
        A1[Local Asset DB A] --> A2(Local AI Model A)
    end
    subgraph Organization B
        B1[Local Asset DB B] --> B2(Local AI Model B)
    end
    subgraph Organization C
        C1[Local Asset DB C] --> C2(Local AI Model C)
    end

    A2 -- Model Updates --> F(Federated Learning Server)
    B2 -- Model Updates --> F
    C2 -- Model Updates --> F
    F -- Global Model --> A2
    F -- Global Model --> B2
    F -- Global Model --> C2
    A2 -- Enhanced Mgmt --> Z[Future Transition Events (Org A)]
    B2 -- Enhanced Mgmt --> Y[Future Transition Events (Org B)]
    C2 -- Enhanced Mgmt --> X[Future Transition Events (Org C)]

Derivative 4.5: Digital Twin-Enabled Asset Lifecycle Simulation

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management where a "digital twin" is created for each "computer-related hardware device" or class of devices. This digital twin is a high-fidelity virtual model within a simulation environment, continuously updated by real-time "monitoring for at least one change" (e.g., sensor data, software configurations, environmental factors) from its physical counterpart. The "centralized computerized database" stores not only the physical asset's current state but also the parameters and historical states of its digital twin. "Managing at least one additional transition event" (e.g., a planned hardware upgrade, a software deployment, a relocation scenario) involves first simulating the event on the digital twin. This allows for testing different operational parameters, predicting performance impacts, identifying potential failure modes, and optimizing the execution plan in a virtual environment before actual deployment to the physical asset. The simulation results and validated plans are then recorded back into the centralized database to inform the physical transition event.

graph TD
    A[Physical Hardware Device] -- Real-time Data --> B(Digital Twin Model)
    B -- Simulation Parameters --> C(Simulation Engine)
    C -- Predicted Outcomes, Optimized Plans --> D[Centralized Asset Database]
    A -- Physical Event (Upgrade, Relocate) --> E[Transition Event Executor]
    D -- Validated Plan from Simulation --> E
    E --> D

---

5. The "Inverse" or Failure Mode

This section considers scenarios where the invention operates under constrained, failure-aware, or safe decommissioning modes.

Derivative 5.1: Graceful Degradation Mode for Critical Infrastructure

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management specifically for "computer-related hardware devices" forming critical infrastructure (ee.g., industrial control systems, emergency services networks) designed to enter a "graceful degradation mode" upon detection of severe faults or resource exhaustion. "Monitoring for at least one change" includes specific triggers for critical failures (e.g., redundant component failure, severe cyber-attack, prolonged power outage). Upon detection, the "centralized computerized database" is updated with a "degradation status" and triggers a predefined sequence of "transition events" aimed at maintaining essential functionality with reduced performance. This involves automatically shedding non-critical workloads, rerouting network traffic to resilient but slower paths, activating emergency power systems, and switching to minimal-resource software configurations. Information recorded includes the degradation state, the specific services preserved, and the sequence of automated actions taken. "Managing at least one additional transition event" in this context involves orchestrating recovery operations, restoring full functionality incrementally, or migrating critical services to an unaffected backup system based on the degradation audit trail.

stateDiagram-V2
    state "Critical Infrastructure State" {
        [*] --> FullOperation: Normal
        FullOperation --> MonitorHealth: Continuous Monitoring
        MonitorHealth --> FullOperation
        MonitorHealth --> SevereFaultDetected: Critical Failure/Attack
        SevereFaultDetected --> GracefulDegradation: Activate Safe Mode
        GracefulDegradation --> RecordDegradation: Log to Centralized DB
        GracefulDegradation --> EssentialServices: Prioritize & Maintain
        EssentialServices --> RecoveryInitiated: Begin Recovery
        RecoveryInitiated --> FullOperation
        EssentialServices --> DegradationMonitoring: Monitor degraded state
        DegradationMonitoring --> EssentialServices
    }

Derivative 5.2: Self-Healing/Redundant Asset Configuration

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management of "computer-related hardware devices" configured for self-healing and fault tolerance through redundant components. "Monitoring for at least one change" not only detects failures but also tracks the health of redundant components (e.g., mirrored drives, dual power supplies, active-passive network interfaces). When a primary component fails, the system automatically initiates an internal "transition event" to switch to a healthy redundant component (e.g., failover, hot-swap). The "centralized computerized database" records this self-healing event, including the failed component, the activated redundant component, the timestamp of the switch, and diagnostic data from the failure. "Managing at least one additional transition event" involves dispatching automated alerts for human intervention to replace the failed component without impacting service, and updating inventory to reflect component usage and replacement needs. The system uses the database to maintain a dynamic inventory of operational and standby redundant assets.

flowchart TD
    A[Hardware Device (Primary Component)] -- Operational Traffic --> B(Redundant Component)
    A -- Health Monitoring --> C(Monitoring Agent)
    C -- Failure Detected (Primary) --> D[Centralized Asset DB]
    D -- Trigger Self-Healing Event --> E(Automated Failover System)
    E --> B: Activate Redundant
    B -- Operational Traffic --> F(Service Continued)
    E --> D: Record Failover Event
    D -- Alert for Replacement --> G[Maintenance Task]
    G --> A: Replace Failed Primary
    A --> D: Update Asset Status

Derivative 5.3: Disaster Recovery "Warm Standby" Asset Orchestration

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management focused on orchestrating "warm standby" disaster recovery for "plurality of computer-related hardware devices" (e.g., servers, network appliances) across geographically dispersed data centers. The "centralized computerized database" tracks the operational status of both active and standby assets, including synchronization lag times, replication health, and software configurations for failover. "Receiving an indication of an occurrence of at least one transition event" includes the declaration of a disaster at a primary site. This triggers a "warm standby activation" transition event, where pre-configured standby devices are rapidly brought online. Information recorded from this event includes failover times, data loss metrics (RPO), recovery times (RTO), and the re-provisioning status of network services. "Monitoring for at least one change" continuously assesses the health of the standby environment, ensuring its readiness. "Managing at least one additional transition event" includes planned failover drills, automated resource scaling in the standby environment, and managing the eventual failback to the recovered primary site.

sequenceDiagram
    participant PrimaryDC as Primary Data Center
    participant SecondaryDC as Secondary Data Center (Warm Standby Assets)
    participant CentralDB as Centralized DR DB
    participant DRCoordinator as DR Orchestrator

    PrimaryDC->CentralDB: Update Active Asset Status
    SecondaryDC->CentralDB: Update Standby Asset Status, Sync Lag (Monitoring)
    DRCoordinator->CentralDB: Monitor All Statuses

    alt Disaster Declared
        DRCoordinator->CentralDB: Record Disaster Event
        DRCoordinator->SecondaryDC: Command: Activate Standby Assets (Transition Event)
        SecondaryDC->SecondaryDC: Bring assets online, re-provision services
        SecondaryDC->CentralDB: Record Activation Status, RPO/RTO Metrics
        DRCoordinator->PrimaryDC: Manage Recovery of Primary Site (Additional Transition Event)
    end

Derivative 5.4: Privacy-Preserving "Zero-Knowledge" Asset Reporting

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management where certain "information from the transition event" or "information associated with the change" is highly sensitive (e.g., intellectual property-related software versions, user activity on proprietary systems). To enable "managing at least one additional transition event" by external auditors or third-party service providers without exposing the sensitive raw data, a "zero-knowledge proof" (ZKP) system is integrated. The "centralized computerized database" stores hashes or encrypted summaries of sensitive data. When a report or verification is required, a ZKP protocol is executed, allowing the prover (asset owner) to demonstrate that a specific claim about the asset's state (e.g., "all software licenses are compliant," "no unauthorized software was installed after a specific transition event") is true, without revealing the underlying sensitive software application information or user data itself. "Receiving an indication of an occurrence of at least one transition event" and "monitoring for at least one change" are augmented with cryptographic commitments. Management decisions for future events can thus be based on verifiable but non-disclosed facts.

graph TD
    A[Sensitive Asset Data (Software Versions, User Config)] -- ZKP Commitment --> B(Centralized Asset DB - Encrypted/Hashed)
    C[Third-Party Auditor/Manager] -- Query for Compliance --> D(ZKP Prover Module)
    D -- Generate Proof --> E(ZKP Verifier Module)
    E -- Verifies Claims (Without Data Disclosure) --> C
    C -- Decision for Future Event --> F[Manage Transition Event]
    F --> A

Derivative 5.5: Secure Decommissioning & Data Sanitization

Enabling Description:
A method for integrated asset management focused on the secure "disposition" transition event of "computer-related hardware devices," particularly those containing sensitive data (e.g., storage devices, servers used for confidential processing). Upon initiation of a decommissioning request, the "centralized computerized database" triggers a series of mandatory data sanitization "transition events." These events involve verifiable cryptographic erasure, physical destruction protocols (e.g., degaussing, shredding), or secure firmware wiping, specifically tailored to the device type and data classification. Information recorded from these events includes cryptographic proof of erasure (e.g., hash of zero-filled blocks), destruction certificates, chain-of-custody logs for physical disposal, and auditor sign-offs. "Monitoring for at least one change" includes verifying the success of each sanitization step. "Managing at least one additional transition event" (e.g., re-purposing, donation, or final disposal) is only permitted if all prior secure decommissioning steps are verifiably completed and recorded in the centralized database, ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).

flowchart TD
    A[Hardware Device (Storage)] -- Decommission Request --> B(Centralized Asset DB)
    B -- Data Classification, Sanitization Protocol --> C(Secure Sanitization Module)
    C -- Crypto Erase, Physical Destruction --> D(Verification & Attestation)
    D -- Proof of Erasure, Certificates --> B: Record Decommission Event
    B -- Validated & Audited --> E[Dispose/Re-purpose]
    E --> F[Asset Management (Post-Decommissioning)]

---

Combination Prior Art Scenarios with Open-Source Standards

This section identifies scenarios where the principles of US8266124 are combined with existing open-source standards, making such integrations obvious to a person having ordinary skill in the art.

Scenario 1: Integrated Asset Management with Open-Source Configuration Management Databases (CMDBs)

• Description: The method of US8266124 for receiving transition events, recording information, monitoring changes, and managing future events is implemented using an open-source Configuration Management Database (CMDB) such as i-doit or a CMDB built on GLPI. These CMDBs inherently provide the "centralized computerized database" structure (Claim 3/20) for storing various types of asset information (e.g., user, legacy, new asset, software, site, event history per Claim 2/25). The integration involves configuring the CMDB to log specific asset "transition events" (installation, relocation, maintenance per Claim 4/26) and to record associated changes. Monitoring agents (as described in US8266124) can feed data directly into the CMDB via its API, and the CMDB's reporting and workflow engines manage future events.
• Open-Source Standard: ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) principles, often implemented via open-source CMDB software like i-doit (for CMDB functionality) or GLPI (for IT Asset Management, including CMDB). The SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) open standard is used for "monitoring changes" by polling devices and updating the CMDB.

Scenario 2: Real-time Asset Monitoring with Open-Source Telemetry and Messaging

• Description: The "monitoring for at least one change to the plurality of computer-related hardware devices and recording information associated with the change into the centralized computerized database" (Claim 1/18) is implemented using a real-time, event-driven architecture based on open-source messaging and telemetry standards. For instance, devices can publish their operational status, sensor readings, and detected "changes" to a Kafka or Mosquitto (MQTT broker) topic. An open-source stream processing framework like Apache Flink or Apache Spark Streaming then consumes these messages, filters and processes them (Claim 11/28), and writes the "information associated with the changes" into the "centralized computerized database" (e.g., a PostgreSQL or MongoDB database). This provides "continuous monitoring" and "real-time" recording (Claim 12/29).
• Open-Source Standard: MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) or Kafka (Distributed Streaming Platform) for telemetry and event streaming. Apache Flink or Apache Spark Streaming for real-time data processing. PostgreSQL or MongoDB for the database.

Scenario 3: Automated Software Application Management using Open-Source Orchestration and Package Managers

• Description: The "monitoring, updating, or controlling versions of software resident on the computer-related hardware devices" (Claim 16/33) and the "recording information from the transition event" (specifically, software installation/update) are achieved through integration with open-source software orchestration and package management tools. For example, "software application information" (Claim 2/25) and "new asset information" (e.g., pre-approved software builds) are stored in the "centralized computerized database." Ansible, Puppet, or Chef playbooks, managed centrally, are used to define and enforce desired software configurations across the "computer-related hardware devices." When a software update "transition event" occurs, the orchestration tool deploys the new version and updates the centralized database with the new software versions and installation logs. Deviations detected by "monitoring for at least one change" (e.g., unauthorized software installation) can trigger automated remediation via the orchestration tool.
• Open-Source Standard: Ansible, Puppet, or Chef for configuration management and software deployment. APT, Yum, or npm (Node Package Manager) for managing software packages on the devices.