Daniel E Small

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Daniel E. Small

Introduction

Daniel E. Small is a notable inventor based in Albuquerque, NM, who has made significant contributions to the fields of optical assessment and intrusion detection. With a total of four patents to his name, Small's work showcases his expertise in developing advanced technologies that enhance safety and efficiency.

Latest Patents

One of Small's latest patents is the "Light Detecting and Ranging (LIDAR) for in-situ heliostat optical error assessment." This innovative system and method involve obtaining point cloud data representing an image of a heliostat, isolating the data, and filtering it to fit a bounding box. The process includes translating the heliostat data to a plane for segmentation, segmenting facets of the heliostat, generating normal vectors for each facet, and calculating a canting angle associated with each facet. This technology aims to improve the accuracy of heliostat systems with mirrored facets and a scanner that captures point cloud data.

Another significant patent is the "Infrared Intrusion Detection System (IRIDS)." This system includes an imager directed towards an object in an interior space, which is in data communication with a computer. The computer processes digital three-dimensional image data from the imager and executes a change detection algorithm to determine movement of the object. An alarm output is generated when movement is detected above a predetermined threshold, enhancing security in various environments.

Career Highlights

Daniel E. Small has worked with reputable organizations such as National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC and Sandia Corporation. His experience in these companies has allowed him to develop and refine his innovative ideas, contributing to advancements in technology.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Small has collaborated with talented individuals, including John L. Russell and Jason P. Luck. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment that has led to the development of groundbreaking technologies.

Conclusion

Daniel E. Small's contributions to innovation, particularly in optical assessment and intrusion detection, highlight his role as a significant inventor. His patents reflect a commitment to enhancing technology for practical applications, making a lasting impact in his field.