Marc Howell

Title: The Innovative Mind of Marc Howell

Introduction

Marc Howell, an inventive spirit hailing from Albany, OR, is a notable inventor with a portfolio of six patents. His work primarily focuses on enhancing surveying technologies through innovative applications of augmented reality.

Latest Patents

Among his latest contributions to the field, Howell has developed two significant patents:

1. **Construction layout using augmented reality for guiding total station relock** - This patent describes an augmented-reality device that assists in guiding a surveying base station, such as a total station, during the relock process after the line of sight has been obstructed. By calculating the position of the surveying instrument related to the augmented-reality device, it ensures that the base station can accurately point toward the surveying instrument, even when visibility is compromised.

2. **Construction layout using augmented reality** - This patent enhances construction site measurement and layout efficiency by integrating an augmented-reality system with a surveying system. The technology involves a wearable device equipped with a reflector, which can be tracked by a total station. This setup not only improves precision in construction tasks but also offers the ability to maintain orientation and map the local environment accurately.

Career Highlights

Marc Howell has made significant contributions to the surveying industry during his tenure at renowned companies such as Trimble Inc. and Trimble Navigation Limited. His innovative approach and dedication to advancing surveying technology have earned him respect within the field.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Howell has collaborated with notable professionals, including David Hyland and Eliot Jones. These partnerships have fostered an environment of creativity and technical advancement that has propelled Howell’s inventions to new heights.

Conclusion

Marc Howell remains a prominent figure in the realm of innovative surveying solutions. His pioneering patents and collaborative efforts signify a commitment to enhancing efficiency and accuracy in construction layout through the power of augmented reality. As technology continues to evolve, Howell's contributions will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the industry.