Patents by Inventor Nelson D. Tarr

Nelson D. Tarr has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 8861816
    Abstract: A method of processing graphical image data representing optically scanned medication-related units may include receiving image data generated responsive to disposal of the units on a tray disposed a distance from an image acquisition component, the image data including data indicative of visually observable features of the units disposed on the tray. The method further includes comparing at least two features among the visually observable features from the image data to reference data indicative of corresponding features of reference units. The reference data is selected for comparison based on an identification of the reference data as corresponding to a prescription being processed. The reference data includes data indicative of features of the reference units extracted from images captured using hardware corresponding to hardware used to generate the image data. The method further includes generating a likelihood rating for each of the at least two features based on the comparing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Lang, David A. Yanez, Nelson D. Tarr, Chris S. Burt
  • Publication number: 20130142406
    Abstract: A method of processing graphical image data representing optically scanned medication-related units may include receiving image data generated responsive to disposal of the units on a tray disposed a distance from an image acquisition component, the image data including data indicative of visually observable features of the units disposed on the tray. The method further includes comparing at least two features among the visually observable features from the image data to reference data indicative of corresponding features of reference units. The reference data is selected for comparison based on an identification of the reference data as corresponding to a prescription being processed. The reference data includes data indicative of features of the reference units extracted from images captured using hardware corresponding to hardware used to generate the image data. The method further includes generating a likelihood rating for each of the at least two features based on the comparing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: David A. Lang, David A. Yanez, Nelson D. Tarr, Chris S. Burt
  • Patent number: 7599516
    Abstract: A machine-vision-based counter includes an image acquisition component (imager), wherein light provides discrimination between a background field and imageable units located away from the imager. The imager outputs data representing the field and units; an image processor receiving imager data finds countable units therein. An operator interface accepts command inputs and presents count output. A controller manages image acquisition, processor, and operator interface functions. A counting method includes configuring an imager to detect light, directing light from a source to units positioned to be detected by the imager, and directing the light to the imager.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel J. Limer, David A. Lang, Christopher S. Burt, Philip R. Gouin, Nelson D. Tarr, Randall D. Dischinger