Abstract: An image capture system for tracking target objects includes a movable base that supports one or more image capture modules, each of the image capture modules including a camera module, a first light module and a second light module. The camera module is mounted on a first plane of a mount bracket, the first light module is mounted on a second plane of the mounting bracket, and a second light module is mounted on a third plane of the mounting bracket. The first and second planes define a first angle, the first and third planes define a second angle, and the second angle is larger than the first angle. An output of the first light module and a light output of the second light module is selected based on an operating condition of the camera module.

Abstract: An image capture system for tracking target objects includes a movable base that supports one or more image capture modules, each of the image capture modules including a camera module, a first light module and a second light module. The camera module is mounted on a first plane of a mount bracket, the first light module is mounted on a second plane of the mounting bracket, and a second light module is mounted on a third plane of the mounting bracket. The first and second planes define a first angle, the first and third planes define a second angle, and the second angle is larger than the first angle. An output of the first light module and a light output of the second light module is selected based on an operating condition of the camera module.

Abstract: A method for monitoring a shelf includes the steps of moving a camera with multiple focus capability alongside a shelf. A series of shelf images are captured by the camera, with images of at least two different focal lengths being captured. Images having the same focal length can be merged to form at least two panoramic images suitable for further evaluation or review.

Abstract: A system for building a product library without requiring a planogram includes an image capture unit operated to provide images of items. Taking data from a shelf label detector and depth map creation unit, a processing module can be used to compare detected shelf labels to a depth map, define a product bounding box, and associate the bounding box with an image provided by the image capture unit to build image descriptors. The system can include one or more autonomous robots for supporting and moving the image capture unit and other components.

Abstract: A video monitoring method that involves determining motion changes in a set of video frames to find potential objects is described. One or more bounding boxes are defined around the potential objects. These bounding boxes are spatially and temporally filtered to eliminate potential object candidates, with only potential objects in the bounding boxes remaining after filtering being classified or identified.

Abstract: A method for processing arrival or removal of packages within the field of view of a video camera includes providing a database for recording packages placed in the field of view. Based on real-time analysis of successive image frames in the camera, a human person's entry and exit from the field of view of the camera is also detected. Delivery or removal of objects is recorded in the database. In one embodiment, the method also determines whether or not a newly arrived package is placed alongside or on top of an existing package.

Abstract: A method for decreasing glare in images begins with providing cameras and lights mounted on a movable base and directable at a target. The position, orientation, intensity, and intensity distribution of lights directed at the target is then determined. This information is used to estimate illumination received by cameras based in part on target reflectance characteristics. The light intensity and selected illumination levels necessary to prevent glare creation in images captured by cameras can be selectively varied, being decreased to prevent overexposure and increased to prevent underexposure.

Abstract: A camera system for inventory monitoring includes a movable base that supports multiple cameras. The multiple cameras are directed toward inventory to take a series of pictures along aisle of a retail store or warehouse. A processing module connected to the multiple cameras is used to stitch together the pictures, and along with depth information and product identification information, construct a real time or near real time inventory mapping of products positioned on aisle shelves. This information can be transferred to remote locations to simplify and speed product ordering, and assist in maintenance of appropriate product stock levels.

Abstract: A manually assisted robot inventory monitoring method provides for detecting and reading shelf labels using an autonomous robot. Bounding boxes around possible products in a panoramic image can be taken with at least one camera associated with the autonomous robot. Products in the bounding boxes are automatically identified, with those that are not being later manually identified.

Abstract: USB host controller and USB devices, associated methods and computer products are provide that addresses specifically the limitation of the USB standard for USB device controllers to support other devices on alternative interfaces. The implementation is applicable to most USB host controllers and USB devices, and is particularly applicable to a game system that includes an accessory having a communication port and an interactive apparatus having a communication port operable to mate with the communication port of the accessory. The interactive apparatus is operable to identify a type of accessory coupled to the communication port of the interactive apparatus.

Abstract: The method and apparatus consist of a robot body having at least two, but preferably six appendages. The appendages are organized into appendage groups of one to six appendages. The appendages are linked mechanically into groups of two or more and each group is actuated using a single drive actuator. A selective engagement mechanism is used to selectively engaged and disengage one or more appendages at a time in a way that allows for at least one appendage and at most all but one appendage per group to be engaged to a group's drive actuator. When the appendage is disengaged it is preferably locked in place to resist a reasonable force applied to them externally, such as the force equivalent to the weight of the robot.

Abstract: The method and apparatus consist of a robot body having at least two, but preferably six appendages. The appendages are organized into appendage groups of one to six appendages. The appendages are linked mechanically into groups of two or more and each group is actuated using a single drive actuator. A selective engagement mechanism is used to selectively engaged and disengage one or more appendages at a time in a way that allows for at least one appendage and at most all but one appendage per group to be engaged to a group's drive actuator. When the appendage is disengaged it is preferably locked in place to resist a reasonable force applied to them externally, such as the force equivalent to the weight of the robot.