Abstract: A method of distinguishing individual plants within a row of plants, including directing radiation at the row of plants at an angle selected to illuminate a portion of the plant and cast a shadow at the plant center, collecting an image from the radiation reflected off of two or more contiguous plants with a detector, identifying a continuous foreground region indicative of a plant within the image, identifying points of interest within the region, classifying the points of interest as plant centers and non-plant centers, and segmenting the region into sub-regions, each sub-region encompassing a single point of interest classified as a plant center.

Abstract: A method for generating a supplementary index raster file based on a plurality of primary index raster files that are associated with an area of interest (AOI) uses a computer coupled to a remote sensing device via a network, wherein the computer includes an input device, a display, and a memory. The method includes generating the plurality of primary index raster files including at least two independent vegetation index (VI) raster files and a soil brightness index (SBI) raster file, wherein each primary index raster file includes a plurality of pixel values. The method also includes classifying each pixel value of the at least two VI raster files as one of a leafy material and a non-leafy material, generating a leaf pigmentation index (LPI) raster file based on the classified pixel values, storing the LPI raster file into the memory, and selectively displaying the LPI raster file.

Abstract: A method for generating a supplementary index raster file based on a plurality of primary index raster files that are associated with an area of interest (AOI) uses a computer coupled to a remote sensing device via a network, wherein the computer includes an input device, a display, and a memory. The method includes generating the plurality of primary index raster files including at least two independent vegetation index (VI) raster files and a soil brightness index (SBI) raster file, wherein each primary index raster file includes a plurality of pixel values. The method also includes combining the at least two VI raster files to generate a classified soil brightness (CSB) raster file, classifying each pixel value of the CSB raster file into one of a plurality of classes, storing the CSB raster file into the memory, and displaying the CSB raster file.

Abstract: A method for generating index raster files associated with an area of interest (AOI) uses a computer coupled to a remote sensing device via a network, wherein the computer includes an input device, a display, and a memory. The method includes receiving only three image raster files relating to the AOI from the remote sensing device, and receiving at least one set of three spectral control points (SCP) via the input device. The method also includes generating at least two independent vegetation index (VI) raster files and a soil brightness index (SBI) raster file based on the image raster files and the at least one set of three SCPs, storing each of the SBI raster file and the at least two VI raster files into the memory, and selectively displaying at least one of the SBI raster file and the at least two VI raster files.

Abstract: A method is provided for evaluating plant roots, comprising (i) growing a plant in a substantially transparent container charged with a particulate, non-transparent growing medium; and (ii) evaluating plant roots through said transparent container by digital imaging. An apparatus for evaluating plant roots in a high throughput manner is also provided.

Abstract: A vision system for viewing the end face of product (64) mounted in a machine and which in use produces measurements relating to the area of the end face and of at least one constituent part of the product which is visible in the said end face. The system comprises means for illuminating a region containing the end face and scanning (78) means for producing a video signal from an image of the illuminated region. The region is illuminated consecutively using first one (50) and then the other (58, 60) of two strobed light sources.

Abstract: A vision system incorporated into an item of egg handling equipment, the system incorporating software control for detecting at least one of color shades and defects on both brown and white eggs. An enclosure incorporates a plurality of high resolution producing cameras, these communicating via cable with a switch to a remote vision PC system. A non-linear shaped diffuser is mounted along an open facing bottom of the enclosure for facilitating uniform lighting throughout an open interior of the enclosure associated with the cameras. The cameras are operable to produce multiple, high resolution images of each of a plurality of eggs continuously transported along the associated egg handling equipment, for classifying types of defects that are allowable and those that must be rejected, as well as assisting in the segregating of the eggs into more consistent shaded groups for eventual packaging.

Abstract: The hand-held inspection tool enhances the ability of an on-site inspector to detect and communicate the presence of contamination on an object or in an area. An on-site inspector directs an excitation light in the sensing head of the tool into an area of interest. If the targeted contamination is present, the excitation light causes the contamination to emit fluorescence. The emitted fluorescent light passes through a narrow spectral band-pass video camera filter and is detected by a video camera mounted in the tool sensing head. The video camera transmits the image to a display visible to the on-site inspector. The invention also includes a means of recording, documenting, and wirelessly communicating the inspection process so that remotely located personnel can view the inspection, and respond to the inspection findings in real time.

Abstract: A system for automated high throughput presentation of an ear of corn for image acquisition and evaluation is provided. The ear evaluation system may include an image acquisition system for acquiring an image of the ear of corn. An ear staging system may be configured for coordinating timing and movement of the ear of corn through the image acquisition system. The ear evaluation system may define a mobile structure. Thereby the mobile structure may be driven or towed over rows of corn in order to acquire images of the corn substantially simultaneously with picking the ears of corn. Accordingly, image data relating to ears of corn may be obtained in a rapid manner. A method for high throughput presentation of a plurality of ears of corn for image acquisition and evaluation is also provided.

Abstract: A camera (1) for monitoring machine functions of a vehicle may be disposed on or in the vehicle. The camera is constructed with a housing containing a lens and a first pane disposed in front of the lens. The first pane protects the lens against environmental influences. A heating element is disposed in the housing adjacent to the first pane.

Abstract: The present invention is a method to detect defects in a process producing a food product by utilizing multivariate image analysis. In one aspect, an image is captured of the food product in the visible spectrum by on-line vision equipment, multivariate image analysis is performed on the image via an algorithm programmed onto a field programmable gate array to determine if a defect exists, a signal is sent to downstream sorting equipment, and the sorting equipment then rejects those food products that contain defects.

Abstract: An apparatus for acquiring a profile of a food product for use in subsequent processing of the food product includes a scanning area and one or more product drives for driving a product through the scanning area in a longitudinal direction. First line lasers project one first transverse laser line transversely to the longitudinal direction on the first surface and two first cameras arranged to capture different, overlapping first transverse image portions of the first transverse laser line. A reference laser projects a beam on the first surface that indicates a transverse reference position, and the two first cameras also capture the reference position. A control system uses the transverse reference position to combine the different first transverse image portions captured by the two first cameras to calculate a first profile of the first surface at multiple positions along a length of the first surface as the product is driven through the scanning area.

Abstract: A device for automatic illumination and inspection of tubular probes, in particular stents, is proposed, with rotatable means for holding the probes that are to be inspected, with an electronic camera and associated lens, with a computer-based electronic imaging system, and with means for illuminating the probe that is to be inspected. The probe surfaces are illuminated by means of a combination of dark field illumination and transillumination.

Abstract: An automated seed package identification apparatus is presented that may include a sensor device configured to read a machine-readable package identifier on a seed package which identifies the seed package and/or the seeds therein. A sensor positioning mechanism adjusts the position of the sensor device with respect to a seed tray assembly which is configured to retain seed packages. The sensor positioning mechanism may include a moveable track member which translates on a stationary track member, and the sensor device may translate along the moveable track member. A control unit may instruct the sensor positioning mechanism to move with respect to the seed tray assembly to thereby read the machine-readable package identifiers with the sensor device and record the positional layout of the seed packages. One or more cameras may be configured to capture one or more images of the plurality of seed packages retained in the seed tray assembly.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods of evaluating packages are provided. In a vision evaluation system embodiment, the system includes a light source, a first and second camera and a control system. The light source provides polarized backlight. The first camera has a first lens positioned to image the polarized back light. A ninety degree polarized filter is positioned between the first lens of the first camera and the light source. The ninety degree polarized filter is polarized 90 degrees from the polarized back light of the light source. The second camera has a second lens that is positioned near the first lens of the first camera. The control system is coupled to control the first and second cameras to take simultaneous images at a given frequency. The control system is further configured to determine locations to analyze based on image data from the first camera. Moreover, the control system is still further configured to analyze the determined locations in associated image data from the second camera.

Abstract: Disclosed are product processing systems and methods for monitoring, inspecting and controlling baking, cooking and routing processes, and the like. Products are placed on and moved by a conveyor. Images of the moving products are generated, such as by an image acquisition system. The images are processed by a symbol generation system. Symbols are then displayed on selected moving products based upon predetermined criteria. The systems and methods may be used to process oven-cooked or oven-baked products to identify (via the projected symbols) products that are defective or otherwise unacceptable. The product processing systems may be used to process packages or items having barcodes or other identifying labels to display routing or other identifying information on the moving products.

Abstract: A mixed injection inspection system is provided for inspecting mixed injection work for mixing an injection drug by an inspector different from a mixed injection worker. The mixed injection inspection system includes: a mixed injection work photographing device provided in a mixed injection work place and used to photograph the mixed injection work; an inspector side mixed injection work monitor provided in a place remote from the mixed injection work place and used to display the mixed injection work photographed by the mixed injection work photographing device; an inspector side input device provided in a place remote from the mixed injection work place and used to input instructions for the worker working at the mixed injection work place; and a mixed injection worker side display for displaying to the mixed injection worker what has been input by the inspector side input device.

Abstract: An imaging region adjustment device includes plural camera terminals, capable of imaging an entire imaging target without blinds spots. Each of the camera terminals includes a camera which images a virtual imaging region obtained while changing the position of an imaging region within a specific region in a specific period of time and an adjusting unit B which adjusts the position of the virtual imaging region by controlling the camera.

Abstract: A system and method for obtaining multispectral images of fresh meat at predetermined wavelength bands at a first time, subjecting the images to analysis in an image analysis system comprising a computer programmed to perform such analysis, and outputting a forecast of meat tenderness at a later point in time. Predetermined key wavelength bands are precorrelated with a high degree of prediction of meat tenderness and/or other properties of meat and are used in the multispectral system and method. A system and method for determining the key wavelengths is also disclosed. The multispectral imaging system and method is suitable for use in an industrial setting, such as a meat processing plant. The system and method is useful in a method for determining quality and yield grades at or near the time of imaging in lieu of visual inspection with the unaided human eye, increasing efficiency and objectivity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a scanning device for determining at least partial cross-sectional profiles of food products to be sliced in accordance with the light cutting process, having at least one illumination device for generating a light line on the surface of a product and having at least one detection device for taking images of the product surface including the light line, wherein the illumination device includes at least one light source which is configured to generate a light beam propagating in the direction of a scanning region for the product in a scanning plane and widening in so doing and includes an optically effective device which is arranged in the propagation path of the widening light beam and which is configured to counter the divergence of at least some of the incident light.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for post-threshing inspection and sorting of tobacco lamina is described and which includes a separation conduit which receives a source of post-threshed tobacco lamina and other contaminants for inspection and sorting, and wherein a source of pressurized air causes the tobacco lamina to move along the separation conduit past an inspection station where it is optically inspected to identify undesirable tobacco lamina or other contaminants; and a downstream reject station is provided which responds to a sorting signal provided by the inspection station and which removes unwanted or undesirable tobacco lamina and other contaminants from an air stream so as to provide a resulting product which is substantially free from contaminants or other defects.

Abstract: The present invention is a method to detect defects in a process producing a food product by utilizing multivariate image analysis. In one aspect, an image is captured of the food product in the visible spectrum by on-line vision equipment, multivariate image analysis is performed on the image via an algorithm programmed onto a field programmable gate array to determine if a defect exists, a signal is sent to downstream sorting equipment, and the sorting equipment then rejects those food products that contain defects.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system and method for recognizing a defect image associated with a semiconductor substrate. In one example, the method includes collecting defect data of the defect image by testing and measuring the semiconductor substrate, extracting a pattern from the defect data, normalizing a location, orientation, and size of the pattern, and identifying the pattern after the pattern is normalized.

Abstract: The invention provides a computer software means for determining physical characteristics of an unrestrained animal by enabling a user to interact with one or more images of the unrestrained animal on a graphical user interface connected to a computer. Using the graphical user interface, the user is able to designate piecewise linear and circumferential measurements of selected animal features on the one or more images. The computer software program receives one or more selected images of an unrestrained animal, displays the one or more images on the graphical user interface, receives a user designated animal type and calibration measurements of animal size indicia, receives user selected measurements of animal physical characteristic from the one or more images and adjusts the measurements based on the calibration measurements of animal physical size, and displays the selected images, adjusted and computed measurements and estimated measurement error on the graphical user interface.

Abstract: A commodity inspection method, including gathering inspection information from a commodity lot; collecting grower, field, and packing information associated with the commodity lot; recording purchase orders associated with the commodity lot; assigning a trace code to each of the purchase orders; entering the inspection information, the grower, field, and packing information, the purchase orders, and the trace codes into a central database; updating a content of a web-based application with the inspection information, the grower, field, and packing information, the purchase orders, and the trace codes within the central database; and allowing the customer to access the inspection information, and the grower, field, and packing information, by entering one of the trace codes into the web-based application. According to one embodiment, each of the purchase orders associated with the commodity lot is linked within the web-based application and incorporates Global Standards One (GS1) standards.

Abstract: An anhydrous ammonia distribution system includes a portable nurse tank 12 powered by an operator cab 13. One or more distributors 22 receive anhydrous ammonia from the nurse tank, and a plurality of knife hoses 30 deliver anhydrous ammonia from a distributor to a selected number of knives 32 for delivery to the field. Pressure gauge 32, 34 is provided for monitoring pressure at one or more distributors, and a camera 42 positioned within enclosure 40 transmits a reading from the pressure gauge to the operator cab, thereby alerting the operator to a malfunction in the delivery system.

Abstract: A vision system for viewing the end face of product (64) mounted in a machine and which in use produces measurements relating to the area of the end face and of at least one constituent part of the product which is visible in the said end face. The system comprises means for illuminating a region containing the end face and scanning (78) means for producing a video signal from an image of the illuminated region. The region is illuminated consecutively using first one (50) and then the other (58, 60) of two strobed light sources.

Abstract: Presented are a system and a method for determining the kosher status of fish. The system includes a fish processing apparatus configured to process the fish, and at least one image recording apparatus configured to record images of the fish during processing. The images include information regarding whether or not the fish have scales. The system also includes at least one image display apparatus that is configured to view the at least one image of the at least one fish and enable an authorized inspecting party to compare the at least one image of the at least one fish with the at least one fish.

Abstract: A method of verifying the integrity of a seal in a sealing region between a container and a sealing film applied to the container comprises viewing at least the sealing region to detect the presence of a detectable predetermined feature in the sealing region. The presence of the detectable predetermined feature in the sealing region is indicative of an improper seal between the container and the sealing film whilst the absence of the detectable predetermined feature in the sealing region is indicative of an integral seal between the container and the sealing film.

Abstract: An apparatus for picking mushrooms including a carriage, at least one picking head arranged to move back and forth horizontally, and a suction pad apparatus configured to grip mushrooms for picking. A movable camera or scanner may be arranged to image an area in which the mushrooms grow. A first member may be coupled to the picking head and arranged to move back and forth horizontally for moving the suction pad apparatus horizontally. A controlled parallelogram mechanism may lift and lower the suction pad apparatus and couple the suction pad apparatus to the first member, and which may be arranged to maintain a position of the suction pad apparatus irrespective of a height on which the suction pad apparatus is positioned.

Abstract: A system for remotely recording landscape change, the system including a digital imaging device and a processor and communication with a memory means and with the digital imaging device. The system further includes a battery electrically connected to the processor and the digital imaging device, and a controller electrically disposed intermediate the battery and the digital imaging device and the processor. The controller is configured to isochronally provide power from the battery to the processor and digital imaging device whereby the digital imaging device acquires a landscape image which is communicated to the processor which in turns transmits the image to a remote processor. The images are are presented as a video of the images by the remote processor, preferably via an Internet web browser.

Abstract: A vision system incorporated into an item of egg handling equipment, the system incorporating software control for detecting at least one of color shades and defects on both brown and white eggs. An enclosure incorporates a plurality of high resolution producing cameras, these communicating via cable with a switch to a remote vision PC system A non-linear shaped diffuser is mounted along an open facing bottom of the enclosure for facilitating uniform lighting throughout an open interior of the enclosure associated with the cameras. The cameras are operable to produce multiple, high resolution images of each of a plurality of eggs continuously transported along the associated egg handling equipment, for classifying types of defects that are allowable and those that must be rejected, as well as assisting in the segregating of the eggs into more consistent shaded groups for eventual packaging.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically determining a seed vigor index for a lot of seeds by analysis of a scanned image of a plurality of seedlings grown from lot of seeds, including automatically separating and analyzing overlapped seedlings. According to one aspect of the current invention, seedling analysis software is used to analyze an image of seedlings. The seedling analysis software preferably analyzes both hypocotyl and radicle lengths and thus determines the separation point between the two for each seedling. The seedling analysis software also preferably separates overlapped seedlings, preferably using a simulated annealing technique. According to another aspect of the present invention, a low-cost scanner placed in an inverted configuration in a scanner enclosure is used to generate high-quality, reproducible images of seedlings. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a method of using ordinary germination boxes, i.e.

Abstract: An output circuit, a digital/analog conversion circuit and a display apparatus can reduce the number of required input voltages and the number of transistors to save the necessary area. The output circuit and the digital/analog conversion circuit comprise a selection circuit for receiving as input a plurality of (m) reference voltages having mutually different respective voltage values, selecting two of the voltages according to a selection signal and outputting them and an amplifier circuit for receiving as input the voltages output from the selection circuit at two input terminals T1, T2 and outputting the voltage obtained by interpolating the voltage difference of the two input terminal voltages V(T1), V(T2) to a predetermined ratio. It may alternatively be so arranged that the selection circuit sequentially outputs the selected two voltages and the amplifier circuit sequentially receives as two input the two voltages and outputs the output voltage obtained by interpolation.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods to characterize and measure fruit pieces in food products are provided. A sample is spread on a viewing cell and illuminated. The image is captured by a camera and fed to a computer with imaging software. Information useful for quality control purposes and process control is obtained.

Abstract: Problems such as insufficient brightness, caused by a reduction in duty ratio (the ratio of a light emitting period and a non-light emitting period), are improved upon in accordance with using a novel method of driving and a novel circuit in an electronic device. Signals are written into pixels of a plurality of differing lines during one gate signal line selection period. By arbitrarily setting, to a certain extent, the time from when a signal is input into the pixels of a certain line until the next signal is input to the same pixels, while ensuring the time for writing into the pixels, a sustain (turn on) period can be arbitrarily set and a high duty ratio is realized.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus, method, software algorithm and system for evaluating plants for conditions or characteristics. In one aspect, the method can include imaging at least a portion of the plant and evaluating the image for discriminating condition(s) or characteristic(s) of interest. In one example, soybean roots are imaged and the image is evaluated to discriminate between soybean cyst nematode (SCN) cysts and the plant roots to count the number of SCN cysts for the plant. In another embodiment, a plant is illuminated by a ultra-violet radiation selected to cause photo-induced fluorescence of a target, e.g. SCN cysts. The fluorescence emitted is collected and analyzed to discriminate between the target and the remainder of the plant.

Abstract: Apparatus for the spectral assessment of fruit includes a sensor head (10) positioned adjacent a near infrared light source (11). The sensor head is coupled to a spectrometer via fibre optics (30). The sensor head is positioned close to the periphery of fruit substantially parallel with the light from the light source so that the fibre optics sense only the internally reflected or refracted light emanating from the fruit.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for producing agricultural information on an area of interest, with the information based on raw, remote imaging data that is typically produced by a sensor associated with a satellite or aircraft. In one embodiment, the method includes processing raw, remote imaging data to produce reflectance factor data on the land of interest. The reflectance factor data is then used to produce agriculturally significant information. In one embodiment, a soil zone index map is produced for the land of interest. In another embodiment, the reflectance factor data is used to produce a green vegetation index map. In yet a further embodiment, the reflectance factor data at two points in time is used to produce a map for the land of interest that indicates the change in the green vegetation index over time.

Abstract: A spout control system controls and aims a spout and a spout cap of a crop harvesting vehicle with respect to a separate crop hauling vehicle moving with the harvesting vehicle. The control system includes a video camera which is mounted on the cap and which views a field of view which includes a portion of the hauling vehicle. An image signal generated by the camera is received by an image processing unit. The image processing unit processes a digitized form of the image signal and automatically generates spout and cap control signals as a function thereof. Actuators automatically aim the spout and the cap in response to the control signal.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically determining a seed vigor index for a lot of seeds by analysis of a scanned image of a plurality of seedlings grown from lot of seeds, including automatically separating and analyzing overlapped seedlings. According to one aspect of the current invention, seedling analysis software is used to analyze an image of seedlings. The seedling analysis software preferably analyzes both hypocotyl and radicle lengths and thus determines the separation point between the two for each seedling. The seedling analysis software also preferably separates overlapped seedlings, preferably using a simulated annealing technique. According to another aspect of the present invention, a low-cost scanner placed in an inverted configuration in a scanner enclosure is used to generate high-quality, reproducible images of seedlings. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a method of using ordinary germination boxes, i.e.

Abstract: A production management system 1 includes a production line 2, a plurality of image-taking components 22 and a communications line 5. The production line 2 includes a combination weigher 2a and a bagger 2b. The communications line 5 is capable of distributing operating conditions from the combination weigher 2a and the bagger 2b. The plurality of image-taking components 22 are provided at the combination weigher 2a and the bagger 2b respectively, and are used for checking operating conditions. The communications line 5 is capable of distributing image information from the plurality of image-taking components 22. The present invention provides at low cost a production management system having a production line that includes a combination weigher and a bagger and is capable of using image information for monitoring.

Abstract: A method and a system for monitoring livestock is adaptable for use in settings where the animals are kept in stationary structures, such as barns or other outbuildings, and in settings where the animals are being transported by means of a livestock trailer or the like. The method and system of the present invention provides for three primary elements. The first element is the visual receptor element. It includes a camera, a power adapter, mounting hardware for the camera, and cable for connecting those components to the second element, a transmitter and power adapter. The third element is a receiver, a power adapter and additional cables. In the preferred embodiment of the device used with the method and system of this invention, the receiver includes an integral monitor that is used for viewing purposes.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for performing a topdressing operation on an agriculture field have been provided. The method comprises the steps of: individually and continuously taking pictures of crops planted on a field to obtain crop picture data; processing the crop picture data of each crop to investigate the growing state of each crop; performing a topdressing operation in view of the growing state of each crop. The apparatus comprises a movable main body such as a tractor; a topdressing device provided on the rear side of the movable main body; a video camera provided on the front side of the movable main body; a picture data processing computer adapted to process picture data fed from the video camera so as to measure the leaf size of each crop; a topdressing operation controlling computer adapted to produce a command to the topdressing device to control an amount of a fertilizer to be applied to a crop.

Abstract: A method of diagnosing nutritious condition of crop in a plant field is disclosed.

Abstract: The calibration of an imaging system having a camera (20) for capturing colour data for a target object (carcass 10) includes a primary calibration to obtain a primary transform for RGB data to enable compensation for variations in the camera operation or characteristics, and a secondary calibration obtain a secondary transform to enable compensation for local lighting conditions during capture and processing of colour data for captured images to be analysed. The calculated primary transform relates the actual measured colour data to known standard colour data for the particular standard colour specimens (31). The standard colour specimens (31) are presented in an enclosure or hood (30) to the camera under controlled illumination and with extrancous or external light being excluded from illuminating the specimens. A preliminary calibration includes calibrating the primary calibration standard colour specimens and associated controlled light source against centralised laboratory standard colours.

Abstract: A spout control system controls and aims a spout and a spout cap of a crop harvesting vehicle with respect to a separate crop hauling vehicle moving with the harvesting vehicle. The control system includes a video camera which is mounted on the cap and which views a field of view which includes a portion of the hauling vehicle. An image signal generated by the camera is received by an image processing unit. The image processing unit processes a digitized form of the image signal and automatically generates spout and cap control signals as a function thereof. Actuators automatically aim the spout and the cap in response to the control signal.

Abstract: An apparatus for observing objects, like crops in a field, to be monitored, in which a remote observer can monitor it whenever he/she wants. The apparatus includes a monitor in the field, an image server far away from the field, and a portable telephone owned by the remote observer, in which they are connected to each other through Internet by wire and wireless. The monitor includes a solar battery, a digital camera for photographing the field, a receiving and transmitting device, and a controller; the image server includes a receiving and transmitting device, and a recorder for storing image data; and the portable telephone includes a receiving and transmitting device, and an image display device. The operation to take a photograph of the field by the digital camera in the monitor is executed by the remote observer handling the portable telephone.

Abstract: The present system and apparatus use image processing to recognize object size with a scene. The system includes novel image processing apparatus and method to segment one or more object images from a background image of the scene. A processed image (that can be used to characterize size features) of the object(s) is then compared to stored reference images. The object size is recognized when a match occurs. The system can recognize object sizes independent of number of objects present and the objects may be touching each other and overlapping. The system can be trained to recognize object sizes that it was not originally programmed to recognize.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for transporting and imaging a textile material. In particular, the present invention is directed toward a system comprising a motorized conveyor capable of moving a sheet of textile material around the far outer surface of an upper rod such that the portion of the textile material extending around the far outer surface of the upper rod can be imaged by a camera.