Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1996-1999
Title: Inventor Spotlight: Norman K. Lay
Introduction
Norman K. Lay is a notable inventor based in Peoria, IL, USA, known for his innovative contributions in the field of autonomous vehicle navigation. With a total of 12 patents to his name, Lay has made significant strides in improving the technology that drives modern transportation.
Latest Patents
Among his latest patents is the "Apparatus and method for autonomous vehicle navigation using absolute." This invention outlines a system that controls the navigation of surface-based vehicles by manually driving the vehicle over the desired route to gather data defining the absolute position at various points. The gathered data is then smoothed to ensure a consistent path, which the vehicle follows autonomously.
Another significant patent by Lay is the "System and a method for enabling a vehicle to track a preset path." This system allows autonomous vehicles to traverse between locations by using position information derived from global positioning system satellites, even when they are not visible. The navigation system leverages position data, route information, obstacle detection, and onboard vehicle analytics to ensure safe and efficient travel.
Career Highlights
Norman K. Lay's career at Caterpillar Inc. has established him as a key figure in the advancement of vehicle navigation technologies. His innovative spirit and technical expertise have led to numerous improvements in how vehicles operate autonomously.
Collaborations
During his tenure at Caterpillar Inc., Lay has had the opportunity to collaborate with esteemed colleagues such as Lonnie J. Devier and Carl A. Kemner. These collaborative efforts have contributed to the innovative edge that the organization maintains in the highly competitive field of autonomous machinery.
Conclusion
Norman K. Lay exemplifies the role of the modern inventor, utilizing creativity and technological prowess to shape the future of autonomous vehicles. His patents not only reflect his expertise but also highlight the ongoing evolution of vehicle navigation systems, which continue to impact various industries significantly. As the world embraces advancements in technology, Lay's contributions will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in defining the landscape of transportation innovation.
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.