Abstract: A ridge flow based fingerprint image quality determination can be achieved independent of image resolution, can be processed in real-time and includes segmentation, such as fingertip segmentation, therefore providing image quality assessment for individual fingertips within a four finger flat, dual thumb, or whole hand image. A fingerprint quality module receives from one or more scan devices ridge-flow-containing imagery which can then be assessed for one or more of quality, handedness, historical information analysis and the assignment of bounding boxes.

Abstract: A ridge flow based fingerprint image quality determination can be achieved independent of image resolution, can be processed in real-time and includes segmentation, such as fingertip segmentation, therefore providing image quality assessment for individual fingertips within a four finger flat, dual thumb, or whole hand image. A fingerprint quality module receives from one or more scan devices ridge-flow—containing imagery which can then be assessed for one or more of quality, handedness, historical information analysis and the assignment of bounding boxes.

Abstract: A ridge flow based fingerprint image quality determination can be achieved independent of image resolution, can be processed in real-time and includes segmentation, such as fingertip segmentation, therefore providing image quality assessment for individual fingertips within a four finger flat, dual thumb, or whole hand image. A fingerprint quality module receives from one or more scan devices ridge-flow—containing imagery which can then be assessed for one or more of quality, handedness, historical information analysis and the assignment of bounding boxes.

Abstract: A window defrost control apparatus and method for a vehicle can include at least one obstruction sensor operable to monitor at least one surface and operable to output an obstruction detection status signal corresponding to detection of an obstruction on the at least one surface being monitored and/or at least one temperature sensor operable to output a temperature signal. A deice/defrost/defog HVAC system can be operable to remove ice, frost, fog, and/or condensation, collectively referred to herein generically as moisture, from the at least one surface being monitored. A controller can be operable to receive the status signal output from the at least one obstruction sensor and/or at least one temperature sensor, and can be operable to control activation of the deice/defrost/defog HVAC system in response to the obstruction detection status signal received and/or the temperature signal received.

Abstract: An inventory management system is provided for a wine cellar that includes a plurality of walls defining cells for receiving bottles of wine. The system includes a database for storing data relating to the wine cellar and inventory within the wine cellar, a user device for use by a user to access the data stored in the database, and a processor coupled to the database and the user device. The processor is configured to generate an image of each wall of the wine cellar, including individual cells of the wall, when a predetermined parameter of the wine cellar is entered with the user interface device. The processor is also configured to display information stored in the database on the user device regarding the inventory within the cellar.

Abstract: A cellar management system is provided for managing a cellar that stores a plurality of wine bottles. Said system including a processor and a user device connected with the processor. The user device configured to input specific features of a bottle in the cellar thereby forming a database. Wherein a user can manage the cellar by inputting specific instructions into the user device which are processed by the processor.

Abstract: A Method of casting includes providing a mold having one or more article mold cavities. The mold is moved into a furnace. While the mold is in the furnace, the mold is filled with molten metal. After the mold has been removed from the furnace, a heater is positioned adjacent to the mold and heat is transmitted from the heater to the mold. The heater may include electrically energizable resistance type heating elements, or a source of radiant energy or a gas burner.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparel apparatus that is especially useful for hanging narrow or small necked shirts and sweaters. It is a collapsible garment hanger, or clothing hanger, that has moving parts. There are two hanger arms that rotate about pins on a hanger body, and there is a fulcrum about which a quick-release lever and release tabs pivot so that a locking mechanism can be manipulated. All of the parts used with the apparatus are inexpensive plastic parts that can be injection molded, and the apparatus can be quickly assembled by snapping parts together.