Rockie L Ricks

Title: Rockie L Ricks: Innovator in Acoustic Tracking and Imaging Technology

Introduction

Rockie L Ricks is a notable inventor based in San Diego, California. He has made significant contributions to the fields of acoustic tracking and infrared imaging technology. With two patents to his name, Ricks has developed innovative methods that enhance tracking systems and target acquisition capabilities.

Latest Patents

Ricks' latest patents include "Bearing-only tracking for horizontal linear arrays with rapid, accurate initiation and a robust track accuracy threshold." This method forms a passive acoustic track to cue an active multistatic acoustic tracking system. The passive track cue reduces the false track rate in the active tracker by focusing the search area and selectively initiating active tracks. The passive track originates from a fixed passive acoustic horizontal line array (HLA), which can predict Closest-Point-of-Approach (CPA) events. For each CPA event, a cue is forwarded to the active system for initiation. The method presents a minimal parametric representation for a passive acoustic track and uses an algorithm to obtain initial estimated parameters to initiate the passive track more effectively. A performance evaluation is provided, and the method includes conversion of the passive track to normalized coordinates for use with multistatic tracking systems. The passive track quality is assessed to determine whether it is sufficient to justify cueing the active multistatic system.

Another significant patent is for a "High-resolution staring infrared sensor with high dynamic range having a large field of regard." This invention is a low-cost high-resolution staring infrared imaging sensor designed for viewing a large Field Of Regard (FOR) while integrating over a small Instantaneous Field Of View (IFOV) to detect small dim targets. The sensor subdivides the FOR into multiple internal optical paths without the use of mechanically movable parts. Each optical path can be further subdivided by steerable micro-mirrors to enhance long-range target acquisition capability.

Career Highlights

Rockie L Ricks works for the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Navy. His work focuses on advancing technologies that improve tracking and imaging systems, contributing to national defense and security.

Collaborations

Ricks has collaborated with notable coworkers, including Travis W Metcalf and Charles S Bendall. Their combined expertise has likely contributed to the success of Ricks' innovative projects.

Conclusion

Rockie L Ricks is a distinguished