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Using cameras to monitor actual inventory

  • US 8,091,782 B2
  • Filed: 11/08/2007
  • Issued: 01/10/2012
  • Est. Priority Date: 11/08/2007
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A method for monitoring inventory, comprising:

  • providing a surface having an optically identifiable characteristic that is distinct from an inventory item;

    directing a camera toward the surface;

    positioning at least one unit of the inventory item between the camera and the surface;

    using the camera to obtaining an image of the at least one unit, an exposed portion of the surface or both;

    determining an amount of the exposed portion of the surface; and

    determining the number of units of the inventory item present by comparing a known amount of the entire surface and the determined amount of the exposed portion of the surface.

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