Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1977-1979
Title: The Innovative Contributions of Becky Thomas Kerns
Introduction
Becky Thomas Kerns is a notable inventor based in Summit, NJ (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of electrical engineering and inspection technology. With a total of 2 patents, her work has had a lasting impact on the protection of electrical equipment and the accuracy of stereomicroscopes.
Latest Patents
One of Kerns' latest patents is a voltage surge protector designed to safeguard electrical equipment from high voltage surges, such as those caused by lightning strikes. This device operates by placing two electrodes in parallel with the equipment, defining a fixed narrow spark gap. The design allows the device to arc over during surges, directing destructive energy to the ground while recovering afterward to restore the line to its original condition. The innovation addresses the common failure mode of permanent shorts across the narrow gap by incorporating a high resistance carbonaceous material and a lower resistance metallic material, effectively suppressing the incidence of shorting failure.
Another significant patent involves the use of random dot stereograms as test patterns for adjusting stereomicroscopes. These stereograms serve as objective test targets to ensure proper alignment of the microscopes when inspecting three-dimensional objects. The patterns simulate real inspection conditions and can also be utilized to screen inspectors for stereodeficiencies, facilitate training, and monitor inspection rates and fatigue.
Career Highlights
Becky Thomas Kerns has worked at Bell Telephone Laboratories, a prestigious institution known for its contributions to telecommunications and technology. Her role at the company has allowed her to develop and refine her innovative ideas, leading to her successful patents.
Collaborations
Throughout her career, Kerns has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Milton Everett Terry and Bela Julesz. These partnerships have likely contributed to her innovative approaches and advancements in her field.
Conclusion
Becky Thomas Kerns is a remarkable inventor whose work has significantly advanced electrical protection and inspection technologies. Her patents reflect her dedication to innovation and her impact on the engineering community.