Andrew Mark Heafitz

This inventor holds 11 USPTO granted patents and 3 published patent applications and 1 EPO patent. Top assignees: Aurora Flight Sciences Corporation, Terrafugia, Inc., Tacshot, Inc.. Active years: 1988-2024.

USPTO Granted Patents = 11 (Patent Applications = 3)

% Patents Active = 72.7

EPO Patents = 1 (Patent Applications = 2)

Average Co-Inventor Count = 1.9

ph-index = 2

Forward Citations = 52(Granted Patents)

Location History:

Newton, MA (US) (1988)
Cambridge, MA (US) (2005 - 2024)

Company Filing History:

7 out of 232

Aurora Flight Sciences Corporation

4. 1 out of 834,307

Other

patents

Years Active: 1988-2024

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11 patents (USPTO):Sort by Forward CitationsExplore Patents

1. 12122511 - Horizon detection to support an aircraft on a mission in an environment (2024-10-22),

2. 11865978 - Object tracking system including stereo camera assembly and methods of use (2024-01-09),

3. 11584512 - Weight distribution systems and control logic for center of gravity management of aircrafts (2023-02-21),

4. 11305871 - Passive rotor alignment in a free-wheeling state (2022-04-19),

5. 11254425 - Differential blade geometry for rotor assemblies (2022-02-22),

6. 11136140 - Methods and apparatus to project aircraft zone indicators (2021-10-05),

7. 11067164 - Electronic gear shifter assembly for a dual-mode flying and driving vehicle (2021-07-20),

8. 11046416 - Combination flight and ground apparatus for a vehicle (2021-06-29),

9. 8210473 - Folding wing root mechanism (2012-07-03),

10. 6933965 - Panoramic aerial imaging device (2005-08-23),

11. 4736216 - Motor driven aerial photographic system (1988-04-05),

Title: Andrew Mark Heafitz: Innovator in Horizon Detection and Object Tracking Systems

Introduction

Andrew Mark Heafitz is a notable inventor based in Cambridge, MA (US). He has made significant contributions to the fields of aviation and object tracking, holding a total of 11 patents. His innovative work focuses on enhancing aircraft mission capabilities and improving tracking systems through advanced imaging techniques.

Latest Patents

One of Heafitz's latest patents involves a method for horizon detection to support an aircraft on a mission in an environment. This method includes acquiring an image that depicts a view of an environment and defining a line pattern of lines that divide the image into respective pairs of image segments. The line pattern is formed of lines that are either parallel or intersecting at a common point. The method searches the lines to identify one as an estimated true horizon, which divides the image at a boundary of greatest difference in average brightness. Additionally, the method determines the true horizon from the estimated true horizon and may include an evaluation to verify expected characteristics.

Another significant patent is an object tracking system that includes a stereo camera assembly. This assembly comprises a wide-angle lens camera and a telephoto lens camera mounted on a structure. The field of view of the telephoto lens camera is at least partially encompassed by that of the wide-angle lens camera, enhancing the system's tracking capabilities.

Career Highlights

Heafitz has worked with prominent companies in the aerospace sector, including Aurora Flight Sciences Corporation and Terrafugia, Inc. His experience in these organizations has allowed him to develop and refine his innovative ideas, contributing to advancements in aviation technology.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Heafitz has collaborated with talented individuals such as Carl Curtis Dietrich and Samuel Adam Schweighart. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that has led to the development of groundbreaking technologies.

Conclusion

Andrew Mark Heafitz is a distinguished inventor whose work in horizon detection and object tracking systems has made a significant impact in the aerospace industry. His innovative patents and collaborations continue to shape the future of aviation technology.