Southwest Research Institute

Michael J Magee

Ernest August Franke

Michael Patrick Rigney

Joseph N Mitchell

Robert J Beeson

Jeremy K Zoss

Steven B Seida

Ernest S Kinkler

Embodiments of the invention provide a non-contact method for measuring the surface profile of an object that can include generating a point-type optical signal and projecting it on a rotatable precision optical grating, generating a rotating pattern of light and dark lines onto the object, recording a series of images of the rotating pattern moving across the object with an image receiving device and calculating the surface profile of the object. Other embodiments can include a method to calibrate the system and a non-contact apparatus that generally includes a point-type light source, a rotatably mounted optical grating being configured to project a moving grating image on the object, a processor in communication with the image capturing device and configured to receive image input from the image capturing device and generate a surface profile representation of the object therefrom.

Non-contact apparatus and method for measuring surface profile

A method of interactively using a computer to select a sensor combination for analyzing images of a scene in order to distinguish between objects or patterns. Two or more images are acquired, each image from a different sensor. One or more regions of interest (ROIs) are then defined in the scene. A parallel axis plot is then used to display pixel traces of pixels from the ROI, with each axis of the plot representing one of the images. One or more axes may then be constrained, by selecting a range of values on an axis. Pixel traces that satisfy the constraint are illustrated graphically. Further analysis is performed by displaying pixel images of the constrained image, and by performing statistical analysis of the constraint(s).

Interactive computer aided analysis of images from sensor combinations

Surveillance apparatus and methods effective for detecting incidents are based upon improved image processing techniques applied to infrared and visible light spectrum images in a time sequence. A reference image is generated by removing motion objects from an image of a region of interest. The reference image is compared to an image to be analyzed to detect motion. Detected motion is analyzed and classified as motion objects. The motion objects are then compared to a motion model, which classifies the objects as being anticipated or unanticipated.

Model-based incident detection system with motion classification

Apparatus and methods effective for detecting, locating and characterizing traffic-related incidents are based upon improved image processing techniques applied to infrared and visible light spectrum roadway images in a time sequence. Substantially real-time isolation and identification of anomalous or unexpected traffic conditions allows control of traffic signals and dispatch of law enforcement, maintenance or emergency medical care resources to reduce cost and increase safety. Detectable traffic-related incidents include, for example, the appearance of a stationary object on a roadway, the appearance of a pedestrian on a roadway, and the identification and location of vehicles obstructing traffic flow by moving too slowly or erratically or in the wrong direction. Programmable digital computer image processing allows automatic classification of the severity of detected incidents based on the potential for further traffic hazards and injuries, and can support automatic signals to alter traffic flow patterns for reducing the likelihood of incidents, as well as automatic alerts to law enforcement, maintenance and emergency medical personnel.

Growing community of inventors

Rio Medina, TX, United States of America

Michael J Magee