Introduction to Patent US7970040B1
What is US7970040B1?
US7970040B1 is a U.S. patent titled “Method and system for secure target tracking and acquisition”. At first glance, it might sound like something out of a spy movie—and honestly, you’re not far off. This patent dives into advanced systems for secure tracking of targets, potentially in military or high-security environments. It’s all about enhancing situational awareness with precision and control.
Why it Matters in Today’s Technological Landscape
In an age where data is power and security is paramount, this patent brings forth a powerful solution for managing both. Whether you’re dealing with drones, autonomous defense systems, or AI-powered surveillance tools, this patent has laid down some serious groundwork.
The Background and Inventor
Who Invented It?
The genius behind US7970040B1 is Sundaram S. Vaidyanathan. He filed this patent with a vision to create a system that could lock onto and track targets securely and intelligently—no matter how dynamic the environment might be.
Timeline of the Patent
Filing and Grant Dates
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Filed on: March 14, 2005
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Granted on: June 28, 2011
The six-year journey from application to grant reflects the complexity and value of the invention.
Assigned Entity
The patent was assigned to Raytheon Company, a well-known name in the defense and aerospace industry. That tells you something right away—this tech isn’t just cool, it’s critical.
Core Technology and Innovation
What Problem Does It Solve?
Traditional tracking systems struggle when the target is fast, changing direction unpredictably, or hidden in complex terrain. US7970040B1 addresses this by providing a secure, dynamic tracking system that adapts in real-time. It aims to minimize tracking errors and prevent jamming or spoofing—common issues in modern-day electronic warfare.
Technical Explanation Made Simple
In plain English? It’s like giving your GPS a superpower that not only locks on to your friend’s car but also predicts where they’re going next—even if they go off-road or enter a tunnel.
Components and System Architecture
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Secure communication links
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Adaptive control logic
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Real-time feedback systems
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Encryption and anti-jamming features
This isn’t just hardware—it’s a blend of software smarts and physical tech that work hand-in-hand.
Real-World Applications
Use in Military or Defense
No surprise here—Raytheon is a defense giant. This system could be embedded in missile guidance systems, surveillance drones, or autonomous threat detection networks. The ability to securely track a target in real-time is gold in any tactical scenario.
Consumer Market Relevance
While it might not directly show up in your next smartphone, the underlying principles—secure data exchange, adaptive tracking, and encrypted communication—have influenced commercial products like smart home security systems and autonomous vehicle navigation.
Emerging Technologies that Build on This Patent
Think AI-enhanced battlefield drones, self-guided rescue robots, or even advanced wildlife tracking systems for environmental research. Anywhere you need reliable, secure tracking, this patent’s legacy can be felt.
Legal and Commercial Impact
Licensing and Commercial Use
Because it’s owned by Raytheon, this patent is part of their larger IP portfolio, which is often licensed or used internally in high-stakes defense contracts. It’s unlikely you’ll find it on the open market, but it’s incredibly valuable.
Legal Disputes and Patent Claims
As of now, US7970040B1 hasn’t been the center of any major legal drama. But that doesn’t mean it hasn’t been used strategically in negotiations or licensing talks behind closed doors.
Value of the Patent in the Market
It’s hard to put a price on military tech, but with the growing emphasis on secure systems in modern warfare, patents like this can be worth millions.
Related Patents and Innovations
Patents That Cite US7970040B1
Several later patents have cited this one as a foundational technology—especially in areas related to encrypted data transmission and smart tracking systems.
How It Influenced Later Technologies
From drone swarms to AI-assisted recon bots, the ripple effect of this invention is visible. It’s part of the unseen backbone powering today’s intelligent machines.
Future Outlook and Potential
Still Relevant Today?
Absolutely. With increasing cyber and physical threats, systems like this are more essential than ever. As tech gets smarter, the need for secure smart tech becomes even more urgent.
Potential Upgrades or Successor Patents
We’re already seeing new patents that add AI layers, cloud integration, and quantum encryption—direct successors to this foundational system.
Conclusion
US7970040B1 isn’t just a technical document—it’s a glimpse into the future of secure, intelligent tracking. From battlefield applications to smart cities, its influence spans sectors and continents. Patents like this show us how innovation, when applied with purpose, can reshape the way we interact with the world—safely and securely.
FAQs
1. What is the main innovation behind US7970040B1?
It offers a method to securely and dynamically track targets, even in hostile or unpredictable environments.
2. Is US7970040B1 still active?
The patent is currently active, though it may be nearing expiration based on its 2011 grant date.
3. Who uses this patent in real-world applications?
Primarily the defense industry, especially contractors like Raytheon, but the principles have trickled into civilian tech too.
4. Can this patent be licensed?
While theoretically licensable, it’s under the control of Raytheon and likely reserved for internal or government contract use.
5. How do I read and understand a patent like this?
Start with the abstract, move to the claims, and use summaries or plain-language articles (like this one) to simplify the jargon.
