Catherine Jones Franey

Title: Catherine Jones Franey: Innovator in Autonomous Vehicle Routing

Introduction

Catherine Jones Franey is a notable inventor based in Waltham, MA (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of autonomous vehicle technology, holding three patents that showcase her innovative spirit and technical expertise.

Latest Patents

One of her latest patents focuses on the dynamic routing of autonomous vehicles. This invention discloses systems and methods for dynamically routing pickers and autonomous vehicles to avoid areas closed to travel within a warehouse. A processor communicates with an autonomous vehicle and a user-operated electronic device. In response to detecting that the electronic device diverges from the vehicle's path, it provides information about the product on display. The processor then determines a rendezvous location for the autonomous vehicle based on the product's location and instructs the vehicle to navigate there, transmitting the rendezvous location to the electronic device.

Another significant patent involves systems and methods for determining dynamic substitutions to minimize distance. This invention identifies an available product for an unavailable one to minimize deviation from an original planned pick path. A computer transmits instructions for a path through a storage location to collect products. Upon receiving a notification that a particular product is unavailable, the computer modifies the path to include a substitute product's location. It identifies a substitute based on the distance from available products and determines a revised path that includes the substitute product.

Career Highlights

Catherine has worked with prominent companies in the technology sector, including 6 River Systems, Inc. and Ocado Innovation Limited. Her work has significantly impacted the efficiency and effectiveness of autonomous vehicle operations in various environments.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Catherine has collaborated with talented individuals such as Jeffrey Scott Larson and Nikita Ivanov. These collaborations have contributed to her innovative projects and advancements in technology.

Conclusion

Catherine Jones Franey is a pioneering inventor whose work in autonomous vehicle routing has the potential to transform warehouse operations. Her patents reflect her commitment to innovation and her ability to solve complex problems in the field.