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Credentials:
Ph.D. (Linguistics), Yale University, 1982
Senior Research Scientist and Associate Director,
Institute for Artificial Intelligence,
The
University of Georgia
Senior Member, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Former contributing editor and "Q&A" columnist,
Electronics Now Magazine
Artificial intelligence and natural language processing
As a computational linguist, I am trained in the computer processing of human languages and the computer modeling of human logical reasoning.
I can develop software that understands English. For example, in a recent demonstration I developed a web page that answered questions in English to help the user choose the right pair of binoculars from a large catalogue. A more common task, which I've tackled several times, is to extract information from natural-language text, or to classify texts according to their content.
I am a widely recognized expert on the Prolog programming language and also use other programming languages to fit the task.
Natural language processing is a hot area for investment right now. I can help you evaluate software and inventions for potential investment.
User-friendly software for any application
I can turn your ideas into software. I specialize in creating user-friendly Windows software to meet a client's needs. Recent projects range from business information management to video editing. I normally program in C# using the Microsoft .NET Framework, but numerous other programming languages and methodologies are available.
Microcontrollers and electronics
I develop microcontroller firmware, microprocessor-controlled equipment, and unusual PC interfaces. My "NOPPP" programmer for the PIC16F84 has resulted in two manufactured products, several magazine articles, and about 100,000 web site visits.
No project is too small (when I'm available). I enjoy quick, simple jobs.
Free download:
- 555 astable multivibrator design program (one of the
first IBM PC programs I ever wrote, still handy after all these years).
Seminars
I can give seminars to business groups on "How to Write More Clearly, Think More Clearly, and Learn Complex Material More Easily" (applying artificial intelligence discoveries to the efficient use of the human mind); on computer security and ethics; and on topics related to my University teaching.
Scientific imaging, photography, and optics
I have been doing astronomical photography for over 30 years and my books about it are well known. This has given me valuable experience in digital and film imaging of all sorts of unusual targets, as well as image processing, which I can apply for other purposes. This includes interfacing cameras to optical instruments of all types. If the human eye can see something, and maybe even if it can’t, I can photograph it.
Recent consulting projects:
-
Assisting with architecture of an educational game package for a major software manufacturer
(under nondisclosure)
-
Engineering support for development of patent claims for an information retrieval technique
(under nondisclosure)
-
Developing natural-language-analysis software tools for a
government-related application (under nondisclosure)
-
Developing documentation for CORAID, Inc.
(samples here
and here)
-
Implementing a commercial software product related to business knowledge management
(TIP Software)
-
Prototyping a commercial software product involving knowledge management and video editing
(not yet commercially released)
-
Use of natural-language understanding techniques in psychological research
(under nondisclosure, but click here for
related published work)
-
Development of natural-language understanding techniques for handling incoming e-mail
(under nondisclosure)
-
Evaluation of proposed natural-language processing software for potential investors
(under nondisclosure)
-
Conversion of a Department of Agriculture food database into a nicely typeset book
(for Barron's
Educational Series
in collaboration with Melody Covington)
Consulting rates: On request.
I work for The University of Georgia
full-time during the school year, and private consulting
is a part-time activity.
Another way to procure my services is through a research contract with the University.
The total cost per hour of work is comparable, and much larger amounts of my time can be
procured, as well as access to laboratories, other scientists and engineers, and graduate students.
Research contracts can be as small as $5000 or less, can include nondisclosure agreements,
and can be set up quickly.
Their only limitation is that the University cannot produce "works made for hire" —
instead, the University
retains the copyright and patent rights, which can then be licensed to the sponsor.
If you think a research contract may be appropriate, please let me advise.
