Eric Foxlin

Title: Eric Foxlin: Innovator in Autonomous Navigation Technologies

Introduction

Eric Foxlin is a prominent inventor based in Belmont, California, known for his contributions to the field of autonomous navigation technologies. With a total of 4 patents to his name, Foxlin has made significant advancements in the detection of glass surfaces and the identification of difficult-to-detect objects in physical spaces.

Latest Patents

One of Foxlin's latest patents is focused on glass detection using lidar. This innovative system enhances navigation by accurately detecting glass surfaces, which can often be challenging due to their reflective properties. The system constructs an occupancy map that represents various objects in an environment, utilizing advanced processing techniques to distinguish glass from other obstacles. By calculating a maximum range of angles and analyzing the number of overlapping returns, the system effectively identifies glass surfaces.

Another notable patent is for a system designed for object detection by an autonomous mobile device (AMD). This technology allows the AMD to navigate through physical spaces while performing tasks. It utilizes sensor data to create an occupancy map, incorporating image data to identify features associated with transparent or reflective objects that are typically difficult to detect. The AMD employs stereovision to correlate these features with their physical locations, ensuring that all relevant objects are included in the occupancy map.

Career Highlights

Eric Foxlin currently works at Amazon Technologies, Inc., where he continues to develop innovative solutions in the realm of autonomous navigation. His work has significantly impacted the efficiency and accuracy of navigation systems, particularly in environments where traditional detection methods may fall short.

Collaborations

Foxlin collaborates with talented individuals such as James Ballantyne and Lu Xia, contributing to a dynamic team focused on pushing the boundaries of technology in autonomous systems.

Conclusion

Eric Foxlin's work exemplifies the spirit of innovation in the field of autonomous navigation. His patents not only address current challenges but also pave the way for future advancements in technology.