• Automatically locate and read ZIP codes on mail pieces
• Locate and interpret address blocks on parcels
• Locate and size objects of arbitrary shapes
• Inspect composite materials and machined parts.

Real-Time Control Technologies
Parallel processing control techniques are needed for complex systems that must meet different, even conflicting, specifications. These specifications are based on large quantities of sensory data, much of which may be of poor quality. SRI has developed an integrated, hybrid control system that uses adaptive parallel processing techniques (including digital signal processing or neural networks) for learning from examples, as well as fuzzy logic (which uses intuitive rules) for handling conflicting goals.

Arterial Tonometer
Arterial tonometry is a technique for blood-pressure measurement in which an array of pressure sensors is pressed against the skin over an artery. In close collaboration with our licensee, SRI engineers developed two tonometers for hospital applications. Each is a measurement system that includes a miniature array of 31 micromachined pressure transducers; a support structure with at least two independent degrees of freedom for positioning the sensor properly; data acquisition for the 31 pressure signals; and a multiprocessor system for data reduction, the operator interface, and display generation.

The primary application for these instruments is blood-pressure monitoring during surgery; but the instruments also have unique advantages for certain applications in medical and psychological research.