Early Portable Computer

In 1980 Azurdata wanted to develop a new model in its line of portable special-purpose computers used for route-accounting applications. As co-project lead, we analysed and developed the design of a general purpose programmable computer, running UCSD Pascal, which reduced software development time by more than a factor of 10. This general purpose, ruggedized "clipboard" (8.5" x 11" x 1") computer with miniature QWERTY keyboard, featuring the first Hitachi 2-line by 32-character LCD display, was almost a decade ahead of its time.

Computer-based Sound Recording And Editing

In 1985, Hybrid Arts wanted to evolve a product family from a small synthesizer and sound processor to a full harddisk-based sound recording and editing system for recording studio and movie post-production use. We helped develop the product conception and design, co-designed a sophisticated file system for sound, assisted with analogue (custom A/D and D/A conversion system) and digital (TMS320C25) hardware architecture and design, and designed and implemented the real-time and peripheral (SCSI magnetic and optical disk) subsystems.

Industrial Materials-handling Robots

White Data Systems made systems used by production laundries and dry cleaners to sort large numbers of garments (>3000) for delivery to many separate customers.  We worked with White to automate this garment sorting system, using bar-coded clothing and automated garment "pickers" to select and sort into delivery routes.

Motion Picture Sound Console Automation

Feasibility study and design for an early (1981) console automation system for motion picture sound editing.  The proposed system would have fully automated a major studio's main dubbing stage, controlling more than 100 channels of audio coming from more than 20 tape and disk systems, and would have allowed a fully automated mix of all dialogue, score, foley, and effects for an entire feature film.