Patents by Inventor Earl J. Williams

Earl J. Williams 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).

  • Machine vision system for inspection of agricultural commodities
    Patent number: 5488479
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device and method for analysis of peanut pods in a machine vision system. A method of classification of the pods is based on a maturity class system wherein various colors of the pod determine its maturity and therefore its approximate harvest time. The machine vision system permits quick scanning of the entire surface area of the peanut pod to be scanned and an analysis of its maturity can then be based on the overall view of the pod. The device and process utilize the views of the peanut pod, as determined by the camera imaging system so as to compare the images with maturity classes relating to color of the pod and, therefore, a determination of ripeness and of harvestability of the peanut crop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventors: Earl J. Williams, Stephen D. Adams