Bear, re the patents
Yes, those went out as collateral.
But for some odd reason both the Four M loan and the ealier loan to LP have not been fully repaid. They are paid down to $53K and $50K respectively. The Four M loan is now 1-1/2 years past due (the LP loan is on demand, so not past due).
The remainder is obviously intentionally not being repaid. That would result in the IP going to LP and Four M in case of BK. Obviously nobody in their right mind would use the patents to secure a toal of $103K in loans, but that is effectively what they have done by not repaying them. Clearly a decision that beneifts LP and Four M.
The Four M loan is also listed as unsecured on the 10Q/Ks.