Kenneth H Ball

Title: Innovations of Kenneth H. Ball: A Pioneer in Collision Avoidance and Boat Guidance Systems

Introduction

Kenneth H. Ball, an inventive mind hailing from Tarzana, California, has made significant contributions to the field of safety technology through his innovative designs. With a total of two patents under his name, he has introduced revolutionary systems aimed at enhancing safety in both railway and marine environments.

Latest Patents

Two of Kenneth H. Ball's latest patents showcase his prowess in developing advanced safety systems. The first patent is a **Collision Avoidance System** specifically designed for railroad use. This intricate system employs a series of signal transmitters along the track which transmit control signals within designated frequency bands. The system integrates a dual frequency amplifier and bandpass filters to ensure that signals are rectified and compared based on preselected levels, ultimately controlling the train's brakes efficiently. By implementing a shunt circuit, the system ensures that subsequent trains are not affected by control signals, allowing for seamless operation.

The second patent is a **Boat Guidance System** that aims to control the path of a boat in an innovative manner. This system uses two conductors in elongated loops to generate an electromagnetic field. Rotated inductive coils mounted on the boat sense the variations in this field and provide corresponding signals that are processed by a common phase detector. This technology allows for precise steering control based on the boat's position relative to the electromagnetic field, thus enhancing navigational safety.

Career Highlights

Kenneth H. Ball is associated with Walt Disney Productions, an organization renowned for its creativity and innovation across various entertainment industries. His role at Disney not only underscores his technical expertise but also highlights the intersection of technology and storytelling within the company.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Kenneth has collaborated with notable individuals in his field, particularly with Arthur L. Cole, Jr. This partnership facilitated the exchange of ideas and expertise, ultimately fostering the development of advanced technological solutions.

Conclusion

Kenneth H. Ball's contributions to safety technology through his innovative patents exemplify the importance of innovation in enhancing safety in transit systems. His work reflects a commitment to advancing technology for the greater good, ensuring that both rail and maritime navigation are more secure and efficient. As technology continues to evolve, the foundational work of inventors like Kenneth serves as a vital stepping stone towards future innovations.