Dispensary embossed character container labeling

摘要

In a method and apparatus for identifying an embossed character, light of one color is directed in one direction across the embossed character to illuminate certain character parts and light of another color is directed in another direction across the embossed character to illuminate other character parts. Image data for the two colors are captured and are subjected to separate image processing to detect edges highlighted by the directed light. The processed images are combined and supplemented with OCR analysis before being compared with predicted characters. Based on the comparison, a determination is made as to the probable identity of the character.

主权项

1. In a dispenser having storage stations each containing at least one container, wherein each said container has a substantially planar outside surface with an embossed character therein and a shape and size different from that of a plurality of other said containers in respective said storage stations, a method comprising:
for each said container:
retrieving the container from the corresponding said storage station;moving the container to an inspection station;directing first light in a first direction across the embossed character to illuminate first parts of the embossed character;recording first image data representing the embossed character illuminated by the first light;directing second light in a second direction across the embossed character to illuminate second parts of the embossed character;recording second image data representing the embossed character illuminated by the second light;combining the first image data and the second image data to produce combined image data;comparing the combined image data to reference data;on the basis of the comparison, identifying the embossed character;applying the identified embossed character as an identifying label to the container;retrieving the labeled container from the inspection station; andmoving the labeled container to one of the storage stations; receiving, from a network, an identifier; applying a label to the one said labeled container in one said storage station bearing the identifying label that corresponds to the identifier; and dispensing the labeled container to a user of the dispenser.