Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1990
Title: Innovations by Phen-Lan Huang
Introduction
Phen-Lan Huang is an accomplished inventor based in Richardson, TX (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of robotics, particularly in the development of navigation systems for automatically guided vehicles (AGVs). With a total of 2 patents, her work has advanced the capabilities of mobile robots in various applications.
Latest Patents
One of her latest patents is a closed-loop navigation system for mobile robots. This innovative visual navigation system provides absolute position information to multiple AGVs. The beacon-equipped AGVs emit light visible to overhead television cameras, allowing the vision systems to acquire, measure, and report the locations of these vehicles. The system controller incorporates a programmable 'factory map', enabling the AGVs to navigate by dead reckoning with periodic position updates. This system not only monitors normal AGV travel but also corrects off-course movements and assists in recovering lost AGVs.
Another notable invention is a method for dynamically determining the position of multiple AGVs on bidirectional paths. This invention focuses on dynamic collision avoidance by calculating memory windows against which the reported positions of AGVs are matched. By utilizing real-time position updates from a visual navigation system, the invention allows the AGV system's controller to prevent collisions while maintaining the freedom of movement for the vehicles.
Career Highlights
Phen-Lan Huang is currently employed at Texas Instruments Corporation, where she continues to innovate in the field of robotics and automation. Her work has been instrumental in enhancing the safety and efficiency of AGVs in various industrial settings.
Collaborations
Throughout her career, Huang has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Martin Austin Wand and John P. Williston. These partnerships have contributed to the successful development and implementation of her innovative technologies.
Conclusion
Phen-Lan Huang's contributions to the field of robotics through her patents and innovations have significantly impacted the industry. Her work continues to pave the way for advancements in mobile robot navigation and safety.