Soonho Kong

Title: Inventor Spotlight: Soonho Kong

Introduction

Soonho Kong, an accomplished inventor based in Arlington, MA, has made significant contributions to the field of autonomous vehicles and optimization in control systems. With a total of seven patents to his name, his innovative work is paving the way for more advanced, efficient technologies in various applications.

Latest Patents

One of Soonho Kong's latest patents is titled "Systems and methods for automatically generating solver code for nonlinear model predictive control solvers." This invention outlines a method that allows for the automatic generation of solver code by encoding an optimal control problem into an optimization problem. The approach includes receiving essential parameters such as a cost function, constraints, and a continuous time model representing system dynamics. Additionally, this patented method takes into account preferences for discretization methods and linearization points to generate a solver code that can effectively tackle complex computational problems in control systems.

Another noteworthy patent is focused on "Actively adapting to driving environments based on human interactions." This patent details a method for an autonomous vehicle that identifies conditions preventing it from following an intended route. The approach involves engaging a passenger to interact with a driver of a nearby vehicle, collecting input about the interaction's success, and then controlling the autonomous vehicle's movement based on that input. This reflects an innovative step toward enhancing the interaction between autonomous vehicles and human drivers, improving safety and efficiency.

Career Highlights

Soonho Kong works at the Toyota Research Institute, Inc., where he has been involved in cutting-edge research and development projects. His work is instrumental in advancing the capabilities of autonomous driving technologies, as well as optimizing computational processes in control systems.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Soonho has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Jonathan Decastro and Frank Permenter. These partnerships foster an environment of innovation and excellence, allowing them to tackle complex challenges in their respective fields effectively.

Conclusion

With seven patents and significant contributions to the future of autonomous driving and control technology, Soonho Kong stands out as a leading inventor in his field. His work at the Toyota Research Institute, combined with his teamwork and innovative mindset, continues to inspire advancements in the industry. As the landscape of technology evolves, inventors like Kong will play a crucial role in shaping a more efficient and connected world.