Patents by Inventor Randolph Farmer

Randolph Farmer has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Method and apparatus for imaging a target using cloud obscuration prediction and detection
    Publication number: 20060132753
    Abstract: A method is provided for imaging targets using an unmanned air vehicle. The method comprises the steps of making a determination of cloud obscuration of a target, selecting an imaging sensor based on the cloud obscuration determination, and using the selected imaging sensor to produce an image of the target. An apparatus that performs the method is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Publication date: June 22, 2006
    Applicant: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: William Nichols, Randolph Farmer, Gerard LaColla
  • Method and apparatus for collaborative aggregate situation awareness
    Publication number: 20060114324
    Abstract: A surveillance method comprises the steps of: sending information requests to one or more of a plurality of unmanned airborne platforms, each carrying one or more sensors for gathering information; coordinating processing of the requests among the plurality of airborne platforms; and transmitting responses to the requests to one or more requesters. A surveillance system that can be used to perform the method is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2004
    Publication date: June 1, 2006
    Applicant: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: Randolph Farmer, William Nichols
  • Automatic taxi manager
    Publication number: 20050171654
    Abstract: A method for moving a vehicle to a predetermined location comprises the steps of producing a real time image of a potential taxi route, comparing the real time image with a stored image to determine if the potential taxi route is clear between the location of the vehicle and a predetermined waypoint, and taxiing the vehicle to the waypoint if the potential taxi route is clear. An apparatus that performs the method is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Publication date: August 4, 2005
    Inventors: William Nichols, Randolph Farmer