Reading Meter Or Data Printer Patents (Class 348/160)
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Patent number: 11790516Abstract: A method and a system for monitoring GIS instrument sulfur hexafluoride data based on edge computing are provided. The method includes the following specific steps: acquiring an instrument image; preprocessing the instrument image based on a generative adversarial network to obtain a first image; establishing a keypoint detection model to perform instrument reading on the first image to obtain reading data; and sending the reading data to a power supply system scheduling background, storing the data and performing early warning operation according to the reading data.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2023Date of Patent: October 17, 2023Assignee: HANGZHOU YUANJIAN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY CO., LTDInventors: Donglian Qi, Yunfeng Yan
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Patent number: 11521216Abstract: The disclosure relates to tracking ownership of a firearm, and more particularly, to leasing and repossessing a firearm.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2020Date of Patent: December 6, 2022Assignee: WHG Properties, LLCInventors: William H. Geissele, Joseph Plunkett, Jr.
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Patent number: 11127149Abstract: The image analysis method may comprise the steps of: measuring a distance between a subject and an image analysis apparatus; outputting an image obtained by photographing the subject; selecting at least two feature points in the image of the photographed subject on the basis of information on the output feature points; calculating the relative size of the pre-stored original image of the subject on the basis of the measured distance; extracting feature points in the pre-stored original image of the subject, which correspond to the at least two selected feature points, on the basis of the calculated relative size; and comparing the image of the photographed subject with the original image on the basis of the selected feature points and the extracted feature points.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2015Date of Patent: September 21, 2021Inventor: Sang-Rae Park
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Patent number: 10970584Abstract: A method includes identifying, by a processor, a gauge dial pattern in a first file based on a gauge dial template in a second file; identifying, by the processor, a needle pattern in the first file; generating, by the processor, a line pattern that approximates the needle pattern; determining, by the processor, a deflection angle of the needle pattern with respect to the gauge dial pattern based on the line pattern; converting, by the processor, the deflection angle into a reading of the gauge dial pattern based on the gauge dial template; and taking, by the processor, an action based on the reading.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2019Date of Patent: April 6, 2021Assignee: Intelligent Security Systems CorporationInventor: Vladimir Petruk
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Patent number: 10789716Abstract: An apparatus captures an image of a measuring instrument that is captured by an imaging apparatus, sets an area in the image as an edge detection processing target in response to a user operation, and executes edge detection processing on the set area in the image. Further, the image processing apparatus sets a value for correcting a position of a detected edge portion. The image processing apparatus corrects the position of the detected edge portion based on the set value and calculates a value indicated by a pointer of the measuring instrument according to the corrected position of the edge portion.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2018Date of Patent: September 29, 2020Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Chiaki Mikawa, Yosato Hitaka, Fumiaki Takahashi
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Patent number: 9936118Abstract: An image capture apparatus capable of communicating with an external apparatus via a network has a change unit configured to change an image capture position of image capturing means for capturing an image of an object. In response to a request received from an external apparatus, the image capture apparatus generates a response including a first field in which the operation state of the change unit is described, and sends the generated response to the external apparatus. Here, if the change unit is in initialization, the image capture apparatus generates a response that specifies that the change unit is in initialization using a combination of descriptions in multiple fields, including the first field.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2015Date of Patent: April 3, 2018Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Mitsuo Niida, Takahiro Iwasaki, Toru Nakanishi
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Patent number: 9916705Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments for a data aggregation application. Operational data and image data may be captured from a client device. Odometer readings can be extracted from the image data. The operational data and image data can be verified by comparing an instrument panel depicted in the image data to a known instrument panel depiction.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2016Date of Patent: March 13, 2018Assignee: Vehcon, Inc.Inventors: Frederick T. Blumer, Joseph R. Fuller
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Patent number: 9729859Abstract: A stereo type distance recognition apparatus and method are provided. The stereo type distance recognition apparatus may include a plurality of sensors to generate a plurality of infrared (IR) signals, a communication unit to transmit the generated IR signals to an object, and a processor to compute a distance from the object, based on signals reflected from the object by the IR signals.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2014Date of Patent: August 8, 2017Assignee: DAEGU GYEONGBUK INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGYInventors: Moon Jong Choi, Rock Hyun Choi, Jae Sung Choi, Won Seok Kang, Dong Ha Lee
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Patent number: 9710977Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments for a data aggregation application. Operational data and image data may be captured from a client device. Odometer readings can be extracted from the image data. The operational data and image data can be verified by comparing an instrument panel depicted in the image data to a known instrument panel depiction.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2016Date of Patent: July 18, 2017Assignee: Vehcon, Inc.Inventors: Frederick T. Blumer, Joseph R. Fuller
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Patent number: 9530064Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments for a data aggregation application. Operational data and image data may be captured from a client device. Odometer readings can be extracted from the image data. The operational data and image data can be verified by comparing an instrument panel depicted in the image data to a known instrument panel depiction.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2015Date of Patent: December 27, 2016Assignee: Vehcon, Inc.Inventors: Frederick T. Blumer, Joseph R. Fuller
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Patent number: 9147120Abstract: A method and apparatus to read an analog dial utility meter including a plurality of analog dials, where each dial includes a rotating dial indicator is provided. The apparatus is configured to analyze a digital image of the analog dial utility meter to determine a value of each dial of the utility meter. The method comprises receiving a digital image of the analog dial utility meter, and performing one or more processing and analysis steps to determine a meter reading of the utility meter.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2014Date of Patent: September 29, 2015Assignee: Utility Meter Reader, LLCInventors: James L. Kennedy, Thomas Baird
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Patent number: 9025030Abstract: Improvements in a video system are presented that uses one or more camera(s) with a display system. The camera and display system operate together to allow a person to view the back or side of their head as they apply makeup or style their hair. The use of multiple cameras allows the person to view their hair, face or profile from different angles without requiring a single camera to be re-positioned or requiring the person to turn their head to view a particular area. The video system can blend the image from multiple cameras to achieve a view that is not from a single camera. The blending or morphing of the image allows the user the ability to obtain a view from nearly any angle without requiring them to move their head or adjust the camera angle.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2011Date of Patent: May 5, 2015Inventors: Cheryl Garcia, Christopher Sauceda
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Patent number: 9019380Abstract: In general, embodiments of the present invention provide methods, apparatus, systems, computing devices, computing entities, and/or the like for detecting possible traffic violations of vehicles. For example, in one embodiment, this may include receiving an indication that a school bus has entered or is entering a stopped position. After receiving an indication that the school bus has entered or is entering the stopped position, an area proximate the school bus can be monitored to detect possible traffic violations.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2012Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Inventors: Christopher T. Schenken, Mark J. Davidson
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Publication number: 20150070507Abstract: An intelligent electronic device (IED) includes an image capture module configured for capturing images or video in a location of the IED. The IED may also include a heat sensor for sensing heat inside or outside a housing of the IED. In one application, these techniques are implemented in IEDs such as electrical power and energy meters and used to control access to reset, configuration, billing, communication, and data acquisition/processing functions of the meters. Additionally, image processing techniques are employed by the IED to detect events in an electrical distribution system and implement control functions thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 12, 2014Publication date: March 12, 2015Inventor: Erran Kagan
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Patent number: 8976249Abstract: Technologies and implementations for capturing images from IR signals are generally disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2011Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignee: Empire Technology Development LLCInventor: Seungil Kim
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Patent number: 8970705Abstract: A graphical power meter involving a device for measuring, in real time, an internal power consumption value corresponding to power being consumed by an electronic device; and a device for displaying a graphical representation of the real-time internal power consumption value from the measuring device to a consumer.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2009Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.Inventors: Jean Baronas, Robert N. Blanchard
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Patent number: 8953044Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed that include a video-based analysis system that detects, tracks and archives vehicles in video stream data at multiple resolutions. The system includes an image capturing device that captures video stream data having video at a first high resolution. A vehicle detection module detects at least one vehicle within the video. A vehicle analysis module is configured to analyze the video and to extract one or more key vehicle features from the video to enable identification of a vehicle of interest (VOI) according to a set of predetermined criteria. A subsampling module creates a reduced resolution video stream in a second subsampled resolution that is lower than the first high resolution while maintaining the one or more extracted key features within the reduced resolution video stream in the first high resolution, and archives the reduced resolution video stream into a video database.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2011Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: Xerox CorporationInventors: Wencheng Wu, Edgar A. Bernal, Robert P. Loce, Martin E. Hoover
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Patent number: 8947527Abstract: Zoom illumination system for use with closed circuit TV cameras in applications requiring long distance illumination, such as surveillance and night vision. The system includes multiple strings of LEDs, which may have additional lenses, with each LED string capable of providing illumination for a predetermined viewing angle. The LED strings can be switched on and off to provide illumination as desired.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2012Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Inventors: Valdis Postovalov, Dmitry Postovalov
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Patent number: 8941509Abstract: A characteristic of a first utility meter is detected with a first probe head, and a characteristic of a second utility meter is detected with a second probe head. The characteristic of the first utility meter is dependent on a usage of a first utility metered by the first utility meter, and the characteristic of the second utility meter is dependent on a usage of a second utility metered by the second utility meter. Information related to the characteristic of the first utility meter is communicated from the first probe head to a communication unit, and information related to the characteristic of the second utility meter is communicated from the second probe head to the communication unit. A message is also sent from the communication unit indicating the usage of the first utility or the usage of the second utility.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2013Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: Greenwave Systems Pte. Ltd.Inventors: Yee Fen Ching, Fu Kin Fong, Kong Wei Lye, William Diehl, Sonny Windstrup, Karl Jonsson, Christian Vandendorpe
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Patent number: 8934019Abstract: An omnidirectional camera comprises two or more camera units, a camera assembly in which the two or more camera units are mounted, a heat shield cover to accommodate the camera assembly, a heat insulating member interposed between the camera assembly and the heat shield cover, a space formed between the camera assembly and the heat shield cover, a required number of slits formed in the heat shield cover and extending in up-and-down direction, and in the omnidirectional camera, the space communicates with an outside through the slit.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2012Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha TOPCONInventors: Jun Sasagawa, Hirokazu Yamada
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Patent number: 8928737Abstract: A method of operating a camera with a microfluidic lens to identify a depth of an object in image data generated by the camera has been developed. The camera generates an image with the object in focus, and a second image with the object out of focus. An image processor generates a plurality of blurred images from image data of the focused image, and identifies blur parameters that correspond to the object in the second image. The depth of the object from the camera is identified with reference to the blur parameters.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2012Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Assignee: Indiana University Research and Technology Corp.Inventors: Lauren Ann Christopher, Mangilal Agarwal, Weixu Li
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Publication number: 20150002677Abstract: An flow meter includes a coupler, a support member, an image sensor, and one or more processors. The coupler is adapted to couple to a drip chamber. The support member is operatively coupled to the coupler. The image sensor has a field of view and is operatively coupled to the support member. The image sensor is positioned to view the drip chamber within its field of view. The one or more processors are operatively coupled to the image sensor to receive data thereform. The one or more processors (1) receive image data from the image sensor, and (2) determine an existence of a free flow condition by identifying an optical distortion of an area behind the free flow condition within the drip chamber using the received image data.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2014Publication date: January 1, 2015Inventors: Bob D. Peret, Derek G. Kane
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Patent number: 8885048Abstract: The invention discloses a computer vision and radio frequency identification technology based book enrolment management apparatus, which comprises an image acquisition working platform, an image acquisition device, an RFID tag reader/written and antenna group for extracting information characteristics of the book to control and operate embedded firmware modules to analyze the image acquired information characteristics of each registered book, and record them in a storage database and RFID tag.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2010Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Rainbow Spirit LimitedInventor: Hanguang Liu
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Publication number: 20140320665Abstract: A system for reading a meter is provided. The meter comprises a visual display behind by a transparent cover, the visual display comprising one or more indicators each representing a sub-value and together representing a metered value measured by the meter. The system comprises an imaging unit comprising an imaging device and an adhesive configured to facilitate mounting of the imaging unit over the cover of the meter such that the imaging device faces the visual display, and a processor configured to recognize values represented by the indicators are imaged and calculate, based thereon, the metered value.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2014Publication date: October 30, 2014Inventors: ILAN FELDMAN, NOAM NAHLIELI, AMIR BEN SHALOM
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Publication number: 20140267753Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a mobile measurement system includes a handheld device, a measurement device, and an optical sensing device. The measurement device and the optical sensing device are communicatively coupled to the handheld device. The handheld device receives measurement data that comprises at least one measured electrical parameter corresponding to a physical property of an external system. The measurement device generates measurement data that corresponds to a period of time. The measurement device communicates the generated measurement data to the handheld device. The optical sensing device generates optical data corresponding to an interface of the measurement device and the external system where the measurement data is being generated. The generated optical data corresponds to a particular time within the measurement period of time. The mobile measurement system associates and stores the generated optical data for the particular time with measurement data corresponding to the period of time.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: FLUKE CORPORATIONInventors: David Lawrence Epperson, Glen Howard Vetter
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Patent number: 8830327Abstract: A video surveillance system includes at least one of a camera or a streamer. A data base server is coupled to the camera and can store metadata for a video clip from the camera or streamer. A media storage server is coupled to both the camera or, the streamer, and to the data base server to store the clip in the absence of any network video recorders.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2011Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Edsel James Tink, Yves Van Der Elst, Victor Gottardi
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Patent number: 8786706Abstract: A method and apparatus to read an analog dial utility meter including a plurality of analog dials, where each dial includes a rotating dial indicator is provided. The apparatus is configured to analyze a digital image of the analog dial utility meter to determine a value of each dial of the utility meter. The method comprises receiving a digital image of the analog dial utility meter, and performing one or more processing and analysis steps to determine a meter reading of the utility meter.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2011Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: Next Future, LLCInventors: James L. Kennedy, Thomas Baird
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Publication number: 20140160297Abstract: The system and method for remote utility meter reading are include a camera positioned adjacent the face of a utility meter for generating an analog optical image signal representative of a the utility meter having a visual identifier associated with the utility meter. The visual identifier may be a label, a bar code or the like for identifying the location of the particular utility meter. An analog-to-digital converter is in communication with the camera for receiving the analog optical image signal and generating an associated digital image signal. The original analog optical image signal is preserved, so that a transmitter in communication with the camera may transmit both the analog optical image signal and the digital image signal to a remote host associated with the utility company for remote reading of the utility meter.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2012Publication date: June 12, 2014Applicant: KING FAHD UNIVERSITY OF PETROLEUM AND MINERALSInventors: MEHMET DONDURUR, AHMET Z. SAHIN
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Patent number: 8743205Abstract: Embodiments of the invention may include generating a description of a monitored scene and creating a plurality of rules related to the monitored scene by using common language. The description of the monitored scene and the plurality of rules may be converted into system parameters and an analysis of the video data may be performed based on the system parameters. The results of the analysis may be converted into one or more output terms from the plurality of predefined terms and may be displayed to a user in a common language.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2011Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Nice Systems Ltd.Inventors: Raanan Yonatan Yehezkel, Guy Blumstein-Koren, Yaniv Gurwicz
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Publication number: 20140146179Abstract: A controller for an imaging terminal having an imaging device and a first displaying device includes a processor and a memory. The memory stores instructions, when executed by the processor, causing the processor to perform: acquiring shot image data, the shot image data being obtained by shooting a second displaying device which is a part of an apparatus, the apparatus being a target device to be shot, the second displaying device being configured to display a specific state image indicative of a current state of the apparatus; acquiring, by analyzing the shot image data, specific identification information for identifying specific relevant information associated with the specific state image; acquiring the specific relevant information by using the specific identification information; and controlling the first displaying device to display the specific relevant information.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 27, 2013Publication date: May 29, 2014Applicant: BROTHER KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Hironori HARADA, Kanae TAMURA, Kan ISHIMOTO, Yusuke KIDA
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Publication number: 20140139682Abstract: An apparatus to monitor one or more utility meters includes a communication unit with a processor, a communication interface coupled to the processor, and a probe interface coupled to the processor. A meter monitoring probe that includes a probe head is coupled by a cable to a probe connector capable to mate with the probe interface. The probe head includes an image sensor, an indicator, and a button. The probe head is capable to detect a characteristic of a utility meter that is dependent on a usage of a utility metered, and send information related to the characteristic to the processor. The processor is capable to receive the information from the probe head and send a message related to the usage of the utility over the communication interface, and the image sensor is capable to capture an image in response to a press of the button.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2014Publication date: May 22, 2014Applicant: GREENWAVE REALITY, PTE LTD.Inventors: Kong Wei Lye, Fu Kin Fong, Yee Fen Ching, William Diehl, Sonny Windstrup
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Patent number: 8723950Abstract: An apparatus for evaluating the fit of a modular window assembly into a simulated vehicle body opening includes a base member, a vehicle body opening/sheet metal simulator mounted to the base member, one or more light sources disposed in the vehicle body opening/sheet metal simulator and one or more devices for securing the vehicle window to the vehicle body opening/sheet metal simulator. A method of utilizing the apparatus is also a part of the invention.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2011Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Pilkington Group LimitedInventor: Brian Hertel
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Patent number: 8594368Abstract: A configuration tool including a memory to store instructions, communication circuitry, and a processor coupled to the memory and the communication circuitry. The processor is configured to execute instructions to communicate with a device attached to monitor or control a piece of equipment using the communication circuitry. The processor receives data about a state of the piece of equipment from the device, and transmits configuration data to the device. The configuration data is configured to control how additional data about the state of the piece of equipment is to be acquired.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2012Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Cypress Envirosystems, Inc.Inventors: Harry Sim, Steve Y. Kim, Marcus Kramer
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Patent number: 8570150Abstract: A sensing system includes integrated sensor locating capability. Sensors can transmit spread spectrum encoded data pulses which are received at mobile nodes. Based on time of arrival information and known locations of the mobile nodes, locations of the sensors can be determined.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2009Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Inventors: Doug Bowen, Thomas R. Giallorenzi, Matt Lake, Sam Kingston
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Patent number: 8502871Abstract: A gauge line position measuring device measures a position of a gauge line provided on a test piece by a non-contact video method. The measuring device includes a gauge line mark adapted to be provided on the test piece and has the gauge line and a first continuous harmonious color density arranged line-symmetrically with respect to the gauge line, and a video camera for taking an image of the gauge line mark on the test piece and outputting gauge line mark image data. A calculation device calculates a gauge line position based on the gauge line mark image data.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2009Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Shimadzu CorporationInventor: Hiroshi Tsuji
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Patent number: 8462213Abstract: An image pickup apparatus including an optical system having an optical element including an optical wavefront modulation function; and a detector at a focal position of the optical system, capturing an object image having passed through the optical system, wherein the optical element including the optical wavefront modulation function has a capability of decreasing an alteration of an optical transfer function in an entire screen due to a difference of object distances, and wherein an absolute value of a focal length of the optical element including the optical wavefront modulation function is greater than an absolute value of a focal length of the entire optical system.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2009Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: Kyocera CorporationInventors: Yusuke Hayashi, Tomoya Sugita, Naoto Ohara
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Patent number: 8416300Abstract: Embodiments described herein comprise a system and method for improving visibility of a roadway using an improved visibility system. The method comprising receiving data from a plurality of fog detectors located proximate a roadway and determining, based on the data from the plurality of fog detectors, that fog is present about the roadway. The method further comprising obtaining, after the determining that fog is present about the roadway, a plurality of images of the roadway by activating a plurality of cameras located proximate the roadway. The method further comprising creating a composite image by combining two or more of the plurality of images, wherein the composite image depicts the roadway unobstructed by fog and transmitting the composite image to a display device located in a vehicle traveling along the roadway.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2009Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventor: Giuseppe Longobardi
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Publication number: 20130070099Abstract: A system and method include obtaining an image of an analog dial gauge. The image is processed to identify an endpoint of the gauge and a needle position in the image. A reading of the gauge is determined from the endpoint, the needle position, and information regarding the range of the gauge.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 20, 2011Publication date: March 21, 2013Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Mahesh K. Gellaboina, Gurumurthy Swaminathan, Vijendran G. Venkoparao
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Publication number: 20130063602Abstract: The presented principles are directed to an apparatus for monitoring humidity exposure of system components, with the apparatus having sensor modules for collecting environmental data and a monitoring module with a humidity indicator and an electrical monitoring component sealed from the environment that reads a physical change in the humidity indicator to determine the humidity of the environment. An installation computer may transmit the humidity data and sensor readings, wirelessly or otherwise, to a central monitoring station for processing and storage. The humidity indicator may be disposed within an enclosure to determine the humidity within that enclosure. The humidity indicator may also be a desiccant that changes color cased on the humidity, and the electrical monitoring component may be a camera configured to take video data of the desiccant.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2011Publication date: March 14, 2013Inventor: Bruce Scapier
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Publication number: 20130050498Abstract: A method and apparatus to read an analog dial utility meter including a plurality of analog dials, where each dial includes a rotating dial indicator is provided. The apparatus is configured to analyze a digital image of the analog dial utility meter to determine a value of each dial of the utility meter. The method comprises receiving a digital image of the analog dial utility meter, and performing one or more processing and analysis steps to determine a meter reading of the utility meter.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2011Publication date: February 28, 2013Applicant: NEXT FUTURE, LLCInventors: James L. Kennedy, Thomas Baird
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Patent number: 8339452Abstract: A monitor system for monitoring riverbed elevation changes at bridge piers is revealed. The monitor system includes a container, a rail, a holder, a photographic unit, a processor and a transmission unit. The container is disposed at a pier under the water and the rail is mounted in the container. The holder is arranged at the rail and is moved on the rail. The photographic unit is disposed on the holder to capture a monitor image of a riverbed under the water. As to the processor, it processes the monitor image so as to learn elevation change of the riverbed under the water. By the transmission unit, the riverbed elevation change is sent to a remote monitor unit so as to get the riverbed elevation according to the riverbed elevation change. Thus the riverbed elevation change at the bridge pier is monitored in real time.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2009Date of Patent: December 25, 2012Assignee: National Applied Research LaboratoriesInventors: Wen-Yi Chang, Whey-Fone Tsai, Jihn-Sung Lai, Yu-Hui Liao, Ho-Cheng Lien, Lung-Cheng Lee, Franco Lin, Te-lin Chung, Jyh-Horng Wu, Yi-Haur Shiau
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Patent number: 8310541Abstract: A monitoring system and method for monitoring a printing system includes a printing system module and a camera. The printing system module is configured to interface with a primary printing-medium path of the printing system and includes a housing with at least one printing-medium path disposed therein. The at least one printing-medium path is a sub-printing-medium path of the primary printing-medium path. The camera is positioned to capture at least one frame of the inside of the printing system module and can be disposed therein.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2007Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: Xerox CorporationInventors: Steven R. Moore, Saurabh Prabhat, Ruddy Castillo
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Patent number: 8259176Abstract: According to an aspect of the present invention, it is possible to visually show both of information which is originally visually recognizable and information which is originally not seen that have been provided from equipment on the same image, so that it is possible to grasp the content of information and the source of providing the information corresponding to or in association with each other. Furthermore, it is possible to view information difficult to visually recognize together with visually recognizable information, and it is possible to clearly grasp, in addition to information which can be visually obtained at the place where a user currently stays, information related to the visually obtained information, from an image visually indicating the association.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2007Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Fujifilm CorporationInventors: Takeshi Misawa, Sumie Mikami, Masaaki Koshiba, Akihisa Yamazaki, Motoari Ota
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Publication number: 20120200712Abstract: Remote monitoring and inspection of measurement devices, emergency equipment, parking spaces, and other items is accomplished by using an image sensor (e.g., a CMOS sensor) to capture an image containing information about the monitored item. A signal containing information about the image (e.g., data representing the captured image or data indicating the state of the captured image) is transmitted to a remote central station.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2012Publication date: August 9, 2012Inventors: Terrance Riedel, Brendan T. McSheffrey
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Publication number: 20120194683Abstract: A system and method is provided for automatically reading meters, such as utility meters. A camera unit is attached to or otherwise associated with an existing meter. From time to time, either automatically, or upon wireless command, the camera unit takes an image of the meter's readings, and communicates wirelessly the image or image data, to a local area receiver. The images can be transmitted immediately, or stored for later transmission, depending on the network protocol. The camera unit is battery powered, and operates communication protocols that enable extended operational life. These protocols allow for the camera's radio and processor to be turned on only when necessary, and then for only brief periods of time. At most times, the camera is in a power conserving sleep mode. Multiple camera units may be arranged to communicate meter image data to the local area receiver, either using asynchronous or synchronous processes.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2012Publication date: August 2, 2012Inventors: Bar-Giora GOLDBERG, Gioia MESSINGER
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Patent number: 8228381Abstract: A video and data capturing system and method includes a mobile unit having an image sensor and motion sensing equipment connected to a microprocessor. The mobile unit is installed in an object for detecting visual images and motion data associated with the object. The mobile unit communicates with a base unit capable of analyzing the image and motion data and correcting the image data so it is level with the horizon. A foot unit may be used in conjunction with the mobile unit for detection of an athlete's foot acceleration for determining when the athlete's foot comes in contact with the ground. A field unit may be used in conjunction with the mobile unit and foot unit to determine the location of the foot unit on a playing surface to assist in determining whether an athlete is in or out of bounds, or their location on the playing surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2009Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Inventor: Walter Accurso
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Patent number: 8165339Abstract: A system for monitoring equipment in a non-invasive fashion may include at least one sense device comprising an electronics module that includes a image sensor, at least one controller coupled to receive image data from the image sensor and generate a reading value, a display that displays the reading value from the at least one controller. In addition, a mounting adapter, separate from and attachable to the electronics module, may be included that has a fitting portion adaptable to be affixed to the monitored equipment and an image opening that enables an image of the monitored equipment to be acquired. In other embodiments, a sense device may provide a signal, such as a DC signal from piece of equipment. A configuration tool may configure parameters by which a reading value is generated from such a DC signal. In one arrangement, a configuration tool may configure sense devices via a wireless connection, and display any images of the monitored equipment captured by the sense device.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2008Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Cypress Semiconductor CorporationInventors: Harry Sim, Steve Y. Kim, Marcus Kramer
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Patent number: 8144027Abstract: A system and method is provided for automatically reading meters, such as utility meters. A camera unit is attached to or otherwise associated with an existing meter. From time to time, either automatically, or upon wireless command, the camera unit takes an image of the meter's readings, and communicates wirelessly the image or image data, to a local area receiver. The images can be transmitted immediately, or stored for later transmission, depending on the network protocol. The camera unit is battery powered, and operates communication protocols that enable extended operational life. These protocols allow for the camera's radio and processor to be turned on only when necessary, and then for only brief periods of time. At most times, the camera is in a power-conserving sleep mode. Multiple camera units may be arranged to communicate meter image data to the local area receiver, either using asynchronous or synchronous processes.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2006Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: AVAAK, Inc.Inventors: Bar-Giora Goldberg, Gioia Messinger
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Patent number: 8098282Abstract: The present invention advantageously provides a means by which the privacy zone on a PTZ camera can be maintained so that an object in the camera's sight is always masked or covered. An algorithm which remembers the defined privacy zones as an area in space marked by four rays touching the four corners of the marked zone and having absolute Pan, Tilt angular coordinates is presented. The privacy zone is initially defined by a rectangle on the screen with known pixel co-ordinates which are translated into angular coordinates. Then, when the camera moves and prepares to display a new screen, the privacy zone is superimposed on the object to be masked. Locating the object and displaying its privacy zone is done by translating the absolute angular coordinates of the original privacy zone into pixel coordinates. Additionally, multiple privacy zones can be displayed on one camera screen.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2007Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Manoj Gopinath, Arathi Mariswamy
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Publication number: 20110299727Abstract: A system for use in characterizing an energy applicator includes a test fixture assembly. The test fixture assembly includes an interior area defined therein. The system also includes a thermally-sensitive medium disposed in the interior area of the test fixture assembly. The thermally-sensitive medium includes a cut-out portion defining a void in the thermally-sensitive medium. The cut-out portion is configured to receive at least a portion of the energy applicator therein.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2010Publication date: December 8, 2011Inventors: Ronald J. Podhajsky, Jonathan A. Coe