Thomas A Potts

Title: Thomas A. Potts: Innovator in Composite Material Detection

Introduction

Thomas A. Potts is an accomplished inventor based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He has made significant contributions to the field of composite materials, particularly in the detection of damage within these materials. His innovative approach has the potential to enhance safety and reliability in various applications.

Latest Patents

Thomas A. Potts holds a patent for a method and apparatus designed to detect damage in composite material panels. The patent describes a composite panel that includes an optical fiber embedded in a specific pattern. This optical fiber is connected to an input port that receives an optical signal from an optical time domain reflectometer. The reflectometer measures the strength of the reflected optical signal, which indicates the optical impedance of the fiber. A baseline optical impedance is established, and any significant deviation from this baseline indicates potential damage to the composite panel.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Thomas has worked with Rockwell Collins, Inc., where he has applied his expertise in composite materials. His work has contributed to advancements in technology that ensure the integrity of composite structures in various industries.

Collaborations

Thomas has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Peter J. Morgan and Arlen E. Breiholz. These partnerships have fostered innovation and have led to the development of cutting-edge solutions in the field of composite materials.

Conclusion

Thomas A. Potts is a notable inventor whose work in detecting damage in composite materials has significant implications for safety and reliability. His contributions continue to influence the industry and pave the way for future innovations.