Steven E Crocker

Title: Inventor Spotlight: Steven E. Crocker

Introduction

Steven E. Crocker, based in Bristol, Rhode Island, is an accomplished inventor known for his significant contributions to hydrophone technology. With a total of six patents to his name, Crocker's work primarily focuses on the calibration and sensitivity measurement of hydrophones, which are essential in acoustic applications in underwater environments.

Latest Patents

Crocker’s latest patents include innovative methods for the calibration of hydrophone systems. One notable patent is titled "System and method for the calibration of a hydrophone line array in a quasi-diffuse ambient sound field." This method presents a sophisticated approach to measuring the complex sensitivity of hydrophone data channels by utilizing a quasi-diffuse sound field. The technique involves analyzing a radiation pattern representing shallow water sources and accounting for sound reflections from the water bottom to enhance measurement accuracy.

Another significant patent is "System and method for the calibration of a hydrophone line array," which details a novel calibration method for towed line arrays. In this patent, calibration is performed within a low-frequency band using acoustic fields captured by reference standard hydrophones. The observations contribute to establishing a model of the acoustic field, allowing for precise sensitivity calculations of hydrophone channels. This method notably expands the low-frequency calibration limits, improving the precision with which calibration can be conducted.

Career Highlights

Crocker works with the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Navy, where he applies his expertise in acoustics to advance military and research applications. His career reflects a commitment to pushing the boundaries of hydrophone technology and enhancing the capabilities of underwater acoustic measurements.

Collaborations

Crocker’s innovative work has been enriched through collaboration with notable colleagues, including Ronald R. Smalley and Daniel Casimiro. Together, they have contributed to advancements in the field of hydrophone calibration, leveraging each other's strengths to address complex challenges in underwater acoustics.

Conclusion

With six patents and a dedication to excellence in hydrophone technology, Steven E. Crocker exemplifies the spirit of innovation. His work not only contributes to the advancement of acoustic measurement technologies but also serves the critical needs of underwater research and military operations. As hydrophone technology continues to evolve, inventors like Crocker play an essential role in shaping its future.