WO2025227095A1

WO2025227095A1 - System for identifying a collectible card using an imaging system capturing images of the collectible card

Info

Publication number: WO2025227095A1
Application number: PCT/US2025/026479
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jerome M. Behar; Jacob BANOONI; Richard Daniel BEHAR; Krishnendu DASGUPTA; Steven John Sloan; Matthew HAJI-SHEIKH; Robert Leon Reynolds
Original assignee: Tccentral Inc
Current assignee: Tccentral Inc
Priority date: 2024-04-26
Filing date: 2025-04-25
Publication date: 2025-10-30
Anticipated expiration: 2026-10-26

Abstract

A system includes one or more computing devices and an imaging system. The computing devices is configured to generate a conformed image from an initial image of a card having textual content, extract a text string from the conformed image, assign one or more defined card features to the text string to identify a category conveyed by the textual content using a card text identification model. Using the card text identification model, generate one or more card feature inputs including the one or more defined card features assigned and respective text from the text string. The computing devices output a search result having at least one categorized card selected from among a plurality of categorized cards in response to the one or more card feature inputs representative of the card matching at least one card feature of the at least one categorized card.

Description

_{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV IMAGING SYSTEM AND METHOD TECHNICAL FIELD The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for imaging items and recognizing and identifying items based on such images. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of an imaging device according to one non-limiting exemplary embodiment according to the present disclosure; FIGURE 2 is a perspective view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a pedestal of the imaging device of FIGURE 1; FIGURE 3 is a cross-sectional view of the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a pedestal of the imaging device of FIGURE 1; FIGURE 4 is a perspective view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a reflector shield of the imaging device of FIGURE 1; FIGURE 5 is a perspective view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a background shield of the imaging device of FIGURE 1; FIGURE 6 is a front view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a mobile phone stand of the imaging device of FIGURE 1; FIGURE 7 is a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a mobile phone stand of the imaging device of FIGURE 1; FIGURE 8 is a perspective view of an imaging device according to another non-limiting exemplary embodiment according to the present disclosure; _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV FIGURE 9 is a perspective view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of an item for imaging by the non-limiting exemplary embodiments of imaging devices according to the present disclosure; FIGURE 10 is a perspective view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of an item box of the imaging device of FIGURE 8; FIGURE 11 is another perspective view of the non-limiting exemplary embodiment of an item box of FIGURE 8; FIGURE 12 is a non-limiting exemplary block diagram and flowchart of a non-limiting exemplary multi-axis robotic motion system for moving items into multiple locations according to one non- limiting exemplary embodiment according to the present disclosure; FIGURE 13 is a cross-sectional view of another imaging device according to one non-limiting exemplary embodiment according to the present disclosure; and FIGURE 14 is a non-limiting exemplary flowchart of a non-limiting exemplary process flow for recognizing and identifying images of items according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Overview: Trading cards have been released every year since the late 1800’s. In modern times, the number of overall cards contained in any given trading card set has exploded. A common practice is for a trading card collector to take an image of their trading card and have software attempt to match the card to the known card in the universal pool of all trading cards. The uses for this include determining the value of the card, creating a sales listing, or adding that card to a digital collection. Problem: Reliably matching the trading card image to a known card in the universe of trading cards. This problem includes enhancement of the camera-captured image, using data from that image to extract details, and using modern software to visually recognize that trading card image. The present disclosure is directed to an imaging system and method to solve these problems. _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV Difficulty: Efforts to date have attempted to take a trading card image and recognize and match the trading card to the known universe of trading cards. The methods used have taken pieces of Computer Vision and pieces of text recognition, but drastically fall short of the desired result. The difficulty in solving this problem stems from areas including: 1) Images that provide less than optimal clarity or blurring, make it difficult to perform actions on the data in the image; 2) Card Catalog data - The data of the known universe of cards lacks detailed information that can be compared algorithmically to the information taken from the card; 3) Ability to customize rules or generalizations to reduce the possible matches to a smaller subset, or an exact match; 4) Ability to use Computer Vision to correctly identify a card within the known universe of card images. Personal Trading Card Image Device The present disclosure is directed to an imaging system, including the characteristics and specifications of a user device for capturing high quality images of trading cards at speed. The device incorporates a vacuum-assisted foam padded pedestal for securely positioning cards of interest (COI) between two imaging shields. The primary function of these shields is to provide a clean, uniform background and a clean surface for the reflection of mirrored or foil cards, while the top shield integrates a lighting source. Additionally, the device is designed to operate with stand angles ranging from 0 to 60 degrees. This range of angles facilitates ergonomic viewing of the phone screen during operation. The device has the capability to control the lighting brightness and the phone's shutter remotely via Bluetooth, enhancing the user's convenience and flexibility in imaging. The device also includes an adjustable phone stand, accommodating various smartphone models and camera positions. The device significantly improves the quality of images captured, providing clear, accurate representations of trading cards and ensuring even lighting across the card's surface producing clarity of image and text. Device Overview The imaging device is a dedicated phone accessory that improves and accelerates the imaging process, with a specific focus on trading cards. The device comprises a vacuum assisted pedestal which suspends the card of interest in between two “imaging shields”. These imaging shields make up the _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV background of the image as well as providing a clean reflection surface for mirrored or foil cards. The reflection shield also doubles as the light source for the unit. The whole device allows for canting, allowing for a more ergonomic viewing of the phone screen. The device is configured to control the brightness of the lighting as well as the ability to control the paired device’s (phone) shutter over Bluetooth. Figure 1: Personal Imaging Device One functional element of the device is the positional layout and relation of the pedestal, camera, and imaging shields. There are two influencing factors driving the required geometry: imaging requirement and formfactor. For the imaging requirements, specifically that of smartphone cameras, the camera distance is sufficient to balance the operating space within the device while also aiming to fill as much of the frame as possible with the COI. The background is positioned at the same distance from the card as the camera is from the card. These imaging requirements are partially based on the desired look and design of the product and influence the positioning of the lights and the overall size and shape of the imaging shields. Additional configurations that provide usefulness include changing the angle between the card and the camera to that of a slight angle (Between 5 and 10 degrees). This aids in remediating the reflection of the camera in images. All variations of camera and background distance _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV are based on the camera being used and its specifications, which are assessed specifically for any new imaging source used in this style of application. Device Component Breakdown Pedestal The pedestal's main purpose is to provide a secure location to position a “card of interest” (COI) in the center of the device. This task is accomplished by creating an area of low pressure below the card using an Electric Ducted Fan (EDF). This low pressure works in conjunction with an Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber pad serving two functions, creating a good seal on the surface of the card and providing a nonslip, non-marking, “soft touch” surface. The pedestal's end is also removable, allowing for the exchange of different heads to accommodate different COI sizes and specifications for imaging, as well as allowing for the removal and interchangeability of the background imaging shield. The pedestal may be constructed of plastic and the EDF may be integrated into the cylindrical column of the unit. This fan creates a pressure differential resulting in a holding force that secures the COI. The EPDM rubber surface provides a good grip on the surface of cards, remediating slippage and providing a non-marking interface. The closed cell nature of the rubber also provides a good seal to safely and securely engage the card. The pedestal comprises two parts: the lower column and the upper stand. The lower column is integrated into the main body and may be a full injection molded assembly. The stand on top comprises an injection molded main body and an adhesive Rubber foam pad that is affixed to the top surface. This design can also be constructed through the use of overcasting a soft EPDM rubber on the hard plastic base. This design allows for the possibility of integrating alternative stands to accommodate the needs of users for alternate stand configurations. _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV Figure 2: Pedestal Figure 3: Pedestal Cross-Section Shields The device features two imaging shields both serving independent and unique functions. The first is the lower background shield. This provides a clean, neutral background for the image and is separated away from the COI by the pedestal. This space places the background shield just out of the focal distance of the vast majority of smartphone cameras, allowing for slight blurring of the background, for better separation of the COI and the environment. The curved surface also helps to smooth shadows. The upper reflection shield serves two purposes. It acts as a clean surface for highly reflective cards to reflect, creating more “real to life” images, giving these styles of cards clear and accurate depictions through the obtained images. The reflection shield also doubles as the lighting array disbursement agent for the device. There are at least four light sources positioned in at least two different orientations relative to the reflector. One or more are for “short throw” illumination, illuminating the edges of the reflector shield, and other(s) are for “long throw” illumination, illuminating the center of the shield. This results in an even lighting of the entire shield without the use of any other special light sources. This configuration results in a majority indirect lighting environment. Through the use of the curved geometry of the shield and the four or more separate lighting elements at calculated angles, the light _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV is diffused and reflected evenly over the surface of the card. This method eliminates hot spots, glare, and reflections ensuring a clean, and true to life representation of the card upon imaging. The Shields may be made of plastic. The shield may also have an opaque coating, in the form of an applied skin to reduce the transmissibility of light through the shield and enhance the desired reflective characteristics. Figure 4: Reflector Shield Figure 5: Background Shield Phone Stand The smartphone stand provides an effective solution for ensuring compatibility with all smartphone cameras and their distinct camera positions. The stand may be referred to as an easel, comprising the flat resting surface at the top of the device where the smartphone can lay flat and be adjusted side to side to align the camera with the device’s aperture. Below the phone, there is an adjustable lip providing variable alignment adjustments to allow usage of virtually any smartphone’s camera. These two forms of adjustment allow the user to position the camera of their smartphone directly over the device’s aperture to view into the imaging chamber. This adjustment is locked in place by a simple bolt and is designed to be adjustable to fit your smartphone. The Flat top portion of the phone stand is incorporated into the main injection molded body of the device. This element contains a slot where the lip component of the stand can slide up and down freely for adjustment. These components both may be made of plastic, excluding the metal bolt and nut used to secure the adjustment for each smartphone camera. _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV Figure 6: Phone Stand Front Figure 7: Phone Stand Side Additional Features A shared state between the camera’s viewfinder and a secondary device (Computer screen, iPad, other smartphone, or similar) allows instantaneous viewing of the image capture field for ergonomic and expeditious usage of the device. A user may optionally choose not to view the camera’s viewfinder screen, but may view the resultant livestream view on their laptop or other secondary device in front of them, utilizing the handheld shutter remote to capture the images visible on their secondary device’s screen, thereby bypassing the necessity to view the imaging process through their smartphone viewfinder screen. This results in a decrease in processing time per card leading to an enhanced overall time-based performance of the user/device relationship. Interchangeable colored background shields can be integrated into the device by removing the standard shield and replacing it with an alternate shield to provide users with backgrounds that may provide image results that cause a more substantive differentiation between a COI’s borders and the background shield. Enterprise Trading Card Image Device The imaging system of the present disclosure also includes and is directed to the design and operational details of an Enterprise Trading Card Imaging Device. A system engineered to digitize trading cards rapidly and efficiently, catering to the needs of live streaming commerce platforms and high volume image capturing. Building upon the foundational technologies described above in connection with the _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV Personal Trading Card Imaging Device described, this system introduces a fully integrated camera and compute platform, eliminating the dependency on smartphones and human handling of the cards for high volume throughput. This shift enables simultaneous imaging of multiple cards, significantly enhancing the speed and efficiency of the digitization process. The device integrates a dual-function system for card image capture, card storage, and motion. The “Soft Touch” handling system ensures minimal and safe contact with the cards. It employs imaging shields for optimal illumination and consistent backgrounds leading to enhanced clarity of images. A “Soft Touch” pedestal secures the card positioning, while a custom designed Card Storage Box provides a secure resting place for the cards. A multi-axis robotic motion system facilitates the seamless transition of cards through the stages of the imaging process. This enterprise-level device represents further significant improvements in trading card digitization and management, offering a scalable solution for high-volume operations while maintaining the integrity and quality of the cards. Device Overview This device solves the problem of digitizing trading cards at a pace that can keep up with the velocity of opening packs, boxes and cases on live streaming platforms and in high volume environments. This problem is solved through the integration of technologies falling into three categories: Card Image Capture, Card Storage, and Motion. For card image capture, the technologies used contain the same collection of camera, shields, and lighting as to the personal device, specifically the use and positioning of imaging shields to both illuminate and provide a clear background for the card image. The shields in the enterprise device are smaller in size and more closely packed resulting in a smaller overall footprint of the imaging cell. The background shield is positioned at the same distance from the COI as the camera to the COI. These imaging requirements are partially based on the desired look and design of the product and influence the positioning of the lights and the overall size and shape of the imaging shields. For card storage and motion, a foam padded vacuum pedestal may be used, as well as a custom Card Storage Box and robotic motion system. The pedestal's main purpose is to provide a secure location to position a “card of interest” (COI) in the center of the device. This task is accomplished by creating an area of low pressure below the card using an Electric Ducted Fan. This low pressure works in conjunction with an EPDM rubber pad serving two functions, creating a good seal on the surface of _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV the card and providing a nonslip “soft touch” surface. The pedestal's end is also removable, allowing for the exchange of different heads to accommodate different COI sizes and specifications for imaging, as well as allowing for the removal of the background imaging shield. The pedestal may be constructed of plastic and the EDF may be integrated into the cylindrical column of the unit. This fan is what creates the holding force for the card. The EPDM rubber surface provides a safe, non-marking grip on the surface of cards, remediating slippage and providing a non-marking environment. The closed cell nature of the rubber also provides a good seal to safely and securely engage the card. The pedestal comprises two parts: the lower column and the upper stand. The lower column may be integrated into the main body which may be a full injection molded assembly. The stand on top may comprise an injection molded main body and an adhesive Rubber foam pad that attaches to the top surface. This design can also be constructed through the use of overcasting a soft EPDM rubber on the hard plastic base. This design provides the possibility of alternating the stands to accommodate the needs of users for alternate stand configurations.

_{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV Figure 8: Enterprise Imaging Device Layout Device Component Breakdown Imaging (See also, Personal Trading Card Imaging Device (supra)) The “imaging cell” consists of two shields and a camera. Without the need to conform to the stylistic appearance, the use of more standard light elements and smaller shields with closer camera distances can be applied. Two cameras may be used so that the front and back of subsequent cards can be imaged simultaneously. This “parallel processing” of cards is a great contributor to the increased throughput of the device, compared to the manual consumer device. Camera/Compute Platform The image capture configuration in the enterprise device is within a fully contained device, cabin, enclosure, or unit. It does not rely on a smartphone for the camera and compute platform. The Enterprise Device uses multiple cameras and a dedicated compute platform to allow for faster parallel processing of cards. It performs imaging of the front of one card, and the back of another card _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV simultaneously. This is a major contributing factor to the throughput of the device. The cameras used are an assembly of camera components custom built for this application. Card Storage Card Storage Box The storage of cards poses a challenge due to the delicate nature of the material from which the cards are constructed and the importance of condition to collectors. Trading cards are especially susceptible to damage at the corners and edges where the introduction of any damage can have an impact on the card's value. The solution to this provided by the present disclosure is a custom designed card storage container that emulates the most widely accepted, safe method of handling cards, interacting gently with only the edges of the card in limited locations. This storage box implements the use of silicone rubber fingers around three edges of the card, with an open face on two of six sides. This minimizes the opportunity for damage to the card during both storage and removal by either a user or the robotic motion system. The dimensions of the default primary box are based on the standard size of a 2.5” by 3.5” trading card. There may be additional tolerance added to these dimensions. This total sizing may also be adapted based on the items being photographed. In additional use cases for items of alternative sizes, the box's dimensions may be adapted to fit those alternative measurements. Figure 9: Standard Interaction Figure 10: Box, Empty Figure 11: Box, Full Motion System The device will feature a multi axis robotic motion system to move the cards into multiple locations following this flow: _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV Figure 12 This system utilizes foam padded suction based technology as the end effector of the motion system in addition to sensors to detect the presence of a card. The end effector of each Multi Axis Rotational Arm (MARA) also doubles as the imaging locations. The motion system provides functionality as follows: The foam padded end effector is the component that can pick and place the COI, and is the only way the machine interfaces directly with the COI (other than the box). Using the vacuum end effector, COIs will be removed from the input box one at a time. These cards may be transported to the image locations and photographed. These photographs may be used both to accurately locate the card and to digitize the card. Once the card is located, it can be handed off accurately to a second MARA where it is subsequently imaged on the reverse side, re- located using CV through the same process, and transported to the output box. Card Path Two MARAs, each with an end effector, may be located above two card storage boxes, one for input, and one for output. The arm above the input bin interfaces with the topmost card and transports the card to imaging position one. After the image is taken, MARA #1 hands the card off to MARA #2 and then begins to repeat the process to obtain and image the next COI in the input box. Simultaneously, MARA #2 transports the COI to imaging position #2 and images the back side of the first card before proceeding to place the COI into the output box. This cycle continues until the input box is empty. Cycle completion is detected by the end effector of MARA #1 when it no longer senses any COIs in the input box. _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV Figure 13: Card Path Cross Section Technical Process for Trading Card Data Novel Process: A process to address the problems and difficulties of card recognition and matching by using computer software. A comprehensive database comprises assembled existing data and generated data, and the process employs tactics for identifying descriptors, keyword markers, visual cues, color identification and color variances to produce the best possible match for the imaged card based on the comprehensive catalog of data. 1 Regarding image and OCR identification methodology a. All aspects of the card are detected by their proper methodology. Several aspects are detected by multiple methods and checked against each other. i. Corners, edges, surface and centering are detected, measured, analyzed and assessed using image processing. ii. Serial numbers and other identifying characteristics may be identified during image processing and additionally as a result of Optical Character Recognition (OCR). _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV 1. Image processing is trained to identify certain key identifiers, descriptors and markers which include but are not limited to serial numbers, logos, and trademarks. 2. OCR is utilized to identify all numbers and letters on the media presented and produce it in its raw identified form. Natural Language Processing (NLP) is used to check the OCR and make sense out of raw data using natural language methodology. 3. Zoomed images of features of the card are a combination of static and trained methodology. a. Static images of the four corners front and back zoomed in are cropped and magnified from the original base single frame images. These are predetermined for every card to prepare the card for visual inspection by prospective interested parties. b. Serial numbers, autographs, or other known features are identified from known properties associated with specific identified cards. i. Sets known to have installed autographs at specific locations will cause a cropped image of that autograph to be magnified for inspection by interested parties. ii. OCR identified serial numbers or other identifying characteristics including but not limited to: 1. Serial Numbers 2. Special Characters 3. Jersey Swatches 4. Patch Swatches 5. Other Relic enhancements 6. Other modifications to the standard issue iii. Calculable markers are used to identify the latitude and longitude of the location of the identified serial number, and other data. This data in concert with the known characteristics of the specific series, set, insert set, variation, etc., provides the system with the data it needs _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV to procure an additional image of the serial number or other identifying characteristics The flow of this process is illustrated as follows: Figure 14: Process Flow 1) User Card Images: The user captures images (front and back of the card) via an imaging device i.e., Smartphone Camera, Personal Imaging Device, Enterprise Imaging Device, etc. and the images are uploaded to an Image Server 2) Image Server: The Image Server is a POST Application Programming Interface (API) which accepts images via Hyper Text Transfer Protocol (HTTP) from any source. This stores the images in the image repository under that user’s account. 3) Image Processing: Images are processed for the following activity: a) Cropping (removing extra background and cropping the image so it is substantively only the card) b) Orientation (vertical/horizontal). If the card is intended to be vertical, make it vertical) c) Alignment (if the card image is askew, align it) _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV 4) Text Extraction: Taking the image after it is processed and performing OCR on the front and back images, producing readable text for further analysis. 5) Trading Card Information Algorithm: The data from the text extraction is analyzed programmatically from all possible data sets to determine a baseline of information from the known data set. The baseline of required information includes but is not limited to: year, brand, name, number and other distinct attributes of the card. 6) Core Trading Card Matching Algorithm: Based on the card attributes determined in step 5, the baseline information is programmatically matched from the best possible outcomes in the known universe of cards. The algorithm works recursively to continually refine the number of matches, until the final candidate (or a direct match) is found. 7) Card Matches: The set of possible card matches are made available to the entire system for the specified user card. 8) Core Trading Card Vision Algorithm: If the number of matches determined in steps 6 and 7 are greater than 1 or 0 - a further analysis occurs to determine image characteristics that most closely resemble card images from the known card catalog. These methods include computer vision and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to train the model to determine the most likely candidate for a final match. 9) The final card match is proposed to the user, with the highest level of accuracy. Process overview: 1. Step 1: User Card Images: The user captures images (front and back of the card) via an imaging device, e.g., Smartphone Camera, Personal Imaging Device, Enterprise Imaging Device, etc., and the images are uploaded to an Image Server a. User prepares cards for imaging. i. Cards are either already raw, or in some form of protective holder. 1. User should wear protective gloves to avoid marking or self-induced obscureness to the cards being imaged. 2. Raw cards are ready for imaging a. User should review the raw cards for fingerprints, dust, or other remediable media obscuring the card’s best presentation. _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV b. Card cleaning is recommended to present the best imagery of the card. 3. Cards in protective holders are encouraged to be removed from their protective holder for best imaging outcomes 4. However, cards may be imaged in their protective holders a. Cards imaged in their protective holders risk obtaining subpar images i. Skewed color identification ii. Lack of clarity of printed text for character recognition, leading to card identification iii. Likelihood that flaws blemishes or other characteristics are not adequately identified and presented leading to a likelihood conditional analysis cannot be performed. iv. Flaws on the plastic holders being undifferentiated from what may be on the card may lead to false positive flaw identification ii. When using the personal imaging device, user should prepare the cards on one side of the device for speed of transition from one card to the next. iii. When using the enterprise imaging device, user is now ready to place the stack of cards into the device’s input box. iv. If imaging using a handheld imaging device, tripod, or other imaging source, 1. Best efforts should be employed to image the card at a straight on 0 degrees off center angle to avoid angular and corner/edge disorientation or other obscurities. 2. Best efforts should be employed to provide a proper background to illuminate the corners and edges for clarity. 3. Best efforts should be employed to assure clarity of imaging for purposes of identifying the written text. 4. Best efforts should be employed to provide a light source that does not obscure the visual characteristics of the image 5. Best efforts should be employed to provide an image that is free of any visual obscurations on all cards but particularly reflective cards. _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV 6. Best efforts should be employed to produce an image that portrays the card’s best visual characteristics possible to capture in a single frame. b. Cards are best imaged raw. i. Imaging Raw cards provides a clear visual presentation of the card’s characteristics, true colors, printed text/graphics, and features. ii. Raw cards are most likely to make visible any post-production flaws or imperfections or manufacturer-induced flaws/attributes such as bowing/warping, overspray, print lines, dimples, print dots, etc. which deter from the card's presentation/value proposition. iii. Due to the enhancement in the multi-visual graphics of ultra-modern cards, singular images cannot possibly capture all the display features a card has to offer. Instead, they capture a moment in time from a particular light source at a particular angle. In order to view all of a card's myriad characteristics, the card must be viewed under multiple light sources and at multiple angles. iv. The personal and enterprise imaging solution devices of the present disclosure are designed to provide an opportunity to capture a single image of the card under exceptional lighting circumstances to present the best possible single frame image of a trading card. c. Prior to capturing the first image using a personal or enterprise imaging device, user must log in to the application. d. For manual handheld or alternate device image capture, users must log in to the application once they have captured their images outside of the application. i. After logging into the application, manual image capture users must enter their credentials to sign in to the application. ii. Manual users then select “image upload” from the application which will access their device’s image storage repository. iii. User selects front and back images to upload in order and click to upload to the application. iv. Once the images are uploaded in the application, they populate in the user’s account awaiting confirmation. v. User reviews the images uploaded to confirm the images are in the proper format (Front, Back, front back, etc.). _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV 1. User has an opportunity to edit, delete, re-order or replace images prior to acceptance into the application’s image recognition process. 2. Once the images have been confirmed to be formatted properly, user clicks to accept the images. (Continue to point f (Graphic Image Steps 2-3.). e. Personal or Enterprise Device users capture their images inside the application. i. During or following the completion of the image taking session, device users have options to re-take an image, re-order their images, or delete images. ii. Once a device user has completed their image taking session, and made modifications (if needed), they are asked to click to accept the batch. iii. Once the batch has been captured, images are now visible inside the user’s portal page in the application. iv. Once the images are accepted, the cards are placed in the queue for card recognition. f. (Graphic Image Steps 2-3) Uploaded and accepted images are now in the image server ready for card recognition and catalog matching to take place. i. (Graphic Image Steps 4-5) Cards that have been accepted by the user now have their card recognition process completed. (Device imaged cards may go through initial card recognition upon initial imaging). 1. In order for Graphic Image Step 4 to be processed, text and images from the card are identified through an algorithmic combination of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Computer Vision (CV) while simultaneously being processed through a NLP (Natural Language Processing) determination. 2. The language discerned from the card is added to the card’s output file. a. The CV process is directed to identify key words from specific locations to discern a number of factors including but not limited to i. Manufacturer ii. Brand iii. Set iv. Year of manufacture _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV v. Insert Set vi. Variation vii. Serial Number viii. Autographed ix. Not Autographed x. Card Number xi. Player Name xii. Team Name xiii. Features 1. Rookie 2. All Star 3. Jersey 4. Patch 5. Die Cut xiv. CMP or other identifying codes xv. Other details to be determined, including but not limited to 1. Cards Color Scheme (rgb levels) 2. Known identifiers 3. Positional identifiers 4. Font type 5. Angle or orientation of text and images 6. Identification of other players in the card through image recognition 3. The language discerned from the text analysis combined with the other identifying determinants is now placed through an intensive informational algorithmic process to begin discerning its unique characteristics leading towards (graphic images 6-9) matching the unique characteristics of the visual, text and other identifiers. a. The card is identified with specificity as to what it is. b. The card is identified with specificity as to what it may be _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV i. All cards that match the identifiers or are natively matched through comparative tactics are offered as possible matches for the card. 1. The user must either add additional information or select from a limited number of cards to determine the correct selection a. Based on this selection, a representative reviews the results and confirms the accuracy of the selection. b. If confirmed, the algorithmic formula to identify this card will now be learned by the system for future instances of a card match. c. If not confirmed, the representative identifies the card and modifies the system's calculable determinants to identify the card with specificity for the future. d. The user is informed of the determination via in system messaging e. The card is properly documented. c. The card is not identified. i. The card may not be in the catalog. ii. The card may have been ineffectively imaged leading to substandard results, leading to illegible text leading to card recognition failure. iii. The user may re-image the card, add additional information, or await a level 2 Card Analyst’s review of the entry to identify it. 1. Based on this selection, a representative reviews the results and identifies the card. _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV 2. If the card is legitimate and authentic, and either part of the catalog, or needs to be added to the catalog, Once confirmed, the algorithmic formula to identify this card will now be learned by the system for future instances of a card match. 3. If unable to identify, the Level 2 Card Analyst sends the card to the Card Czar for final analysis. the card and modifies eterminants to identify or the future. he determination via in mented. forgery, unlicensed, or base, a determination is add the card to the rmined to be valid, the he data for the card (or validates the data. b. If the card is determined to be invalid, it is not allowed to be transacted in the system. c. A message is sent to the user informing them of the determination. 4. The trading card’s final match analysis (graphic image 9) is performed and all results are completed. ii. All details identified from the intensive algorithmic review and assessment are now confirmed. For each card analyzed, user may select from a variety of options including marketplace listing, submission for third party grading _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV (TPG), Vaulting, Trading, keeping for a Personal Collection (or other personal reasons) 1. For Marketplace listing: a. The meta data identified is used to fill in meta data boxes associated with the card for purposes of identifiers for marketplace listing. b. The meta data identifiers in concert with NLP creates a natural language title for the card to fit the characters offered by the marketplace listing’s selling platform. c. The meta data identifiers in concert with NLP create a natural language description for the card’s extended description field for a marketplace listing. d. The associated front and back images of the COI are attached to the listing. e. The user selects the price they want to list the card for and the terms. f. Comparative listing and prices (when available) are provided for pricing insight. g. Current or archival comparative listings (when available) on 3rd party selling platforms are available for viewing and consideration. h. In the event of a sale i. If the buyer is a subscriber, the images and details will be forwarded to their account. ii. If the buyer is not a subscriber, the images and details can be forwarded to them. iii. The user can determine if they want the card to remain in the user's account under the sold heading or deleted from their account. _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV 2. For TPG: a. User selects the TPG company they want to send cards to ilizing th rocedures. ser may l y app and ll out the ser print or grading sing the T determin t. ser selec ds to and llows the . ser select e linked to eir Vault ser sends electronic confirmation of submission and proof of receipt of all indicated cards. d. Vaulted cards will remain under user’s management to add updated information within the company’s app. 4. User determines to place the cards up for trade a. Third party trade sites can be selected to list the cards for trade b. User will select the trade value. c. User will identify cards or genres they are interested in for a prospective trade. d. Cards can be placed for trade per the user terms of the third party trade site. e. In the event of a trade, images and details can be forwarded to the new owner. 5. User determines to keep the card in their Personal Collection (PC) a. Digitized Cards remain under the user’s management in the app. g. Full spectrum of AI card analysis i. AI card analysis includes a conditional assessment of the front and back of the cards key components including but not limited to 1. Corners _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV 2. Edges 3. Centering 4. Surface 2. The Distinct Attributes of a Trading Card a. Distinct attributes of a card include all the unique identifiers that help categorize that card from one of a world of cards to a specific card. These include but are not limited to printed text, key words, images, numbers. graphics, logos or other identifying marks, or attributes leading to the specific recognition of a unique card: i Manufacturer x. Card Number xi. Player Name xii. Team Name xiii. Features 1. Rookie 2. All Star 3. Jersey 4. Patch 5. Die Cut xiv. CMP or other identifying codes xv. Other details to be determined, including but not limited to 1. Cards Color Scheme (rgb levels) 2. Logos 3. Copyright information 4. Statistics _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV 5. Known identifiers 6. Positional identifiers 7. Font type n other ards, nd/or ed in dule, interface, controller, unit, machine, apparatus, element, phone, camera, sensor, component, system, subsystem, arrangement, or the like described herein may individually, collectively, or in any combination comprise appropriate circuitry, such as one or more appropriately programmed processors (e.g. one or more microprocessors including central processing units (CPU)) and associated memory, which may include stored operating system software and/or application software executable by the processor(s) for controlling operation thereof and/or for performing the particular algorithms represented by the various functions and/or operations described herein, including interaction and/or cooperation between any such server, device, feature, algorithm, module, interface, controller, unit, machine, apparatus, element, phone, camera, sensor, component, system, subsystem, arrangement, or the like. One or more of such processors, as well as other circuitry and/or hardware, may be included in a single component or location, or several processors and various circuitry and/or hardware may be distributed among several separate locations or components. While various embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, including the Appendix attached hereto, they are exemplary only and it is not intended that these embodiments illustrate and describe all those possible. The various non-limiting exemplary embodiments described and/or the various non-limiting exemplary features thereof may also be used alone and/or in various combinations. For example, the Technical Process for Trading Card Data described herein may be utilized in conjunction with the Personal Trading Card Image Device and/or the Enterprise Trading Card Image Device described herein, or the Technical Process for Trading Card Data described herein may be utilized in a stand-alone capacity with images acquired in any other fashion. It is understood _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} TCCN 0101 PRV that the words used herein are words of description rather than limitation, and that various changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. WHAT IS CLAIMED IS: 1. An imaging system comprising: a pedestal for supporting an item to be imaged by at least one camera; a device for producing a low pressure at an opening formed in the pedestal for securing the item to the pedestal; at least one shield and a plurality of lights for illuminating the item; and a frame for supporting the at least one camera. 2. An imaging method comprising: producing a low pressure at an opening formed in a pedestal, the pedestal for supporting an item to be imaged by at least one camera; securing the item to the pedestal via the low pressure produced at the opening; illuminating the item via at least one shield and a plurality of lights; and capturing an image of the item supported by the pedestal via the at least one camera. 3. A non-transitory computer readable medium having stored computer executable instructions for identifying an item from a captured image thereof, wherein execution of the instructions causes a processor to: perform image processing including one or more of cropping, orienting, and/or aligning the captured image; identify and extract text and/or visual features from the captured image; compare the extracted text and/or visual features to text and/or visual features of a plurality of stored images of items to generate a set of items potentially matching the item of the captured image; and present the set of potentially matching items to a user. _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} Appendix _{1. Technical Process Description} _{a. Step 1: User Card Images: The user captures images (front and back of} _{the card) via an imaging device i e , Smartphone Camera, Manual i maging} _{device, Enterprise Imaging Device, etc. and the images are uploaded to} the Image Server i_{. User prepares cards for imaging.} _{1. Cards are either already raw, or in some form of protective} holder. a_{. User should wear protective gloves to avoid marking or} self induced obscurations to the cards being imaged. b_{. Raw cards are ready for imaging} _{i. User should review the raw cards for fingerprints,} _{dust, or other remediable media obscuring the} card’s best presentation. i_{i. Card cleaning is strongly recommended to present} the best imagery of the card. c_{. Cards in protective holders are best served to be} _{removed from their protective holder for best imaging} outcomes d_{. However, cards may still be imaged in their protective} holders 1 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} _{i. Cards imaged in their protective holders risk} obtaining subpar images 1_{. Skewed color identification} _{2. Lack of clarity of printed text for character} ification r_other y identified r_entiated ading to false e_{the cards on} _{om one card} _{eady to place} _{, or other i} _{e card at a} _{id angular} urities. _{p y p a proper} background to illuminate the corners and edges for clarity. B_{est efforts should be employed to assure clarity of i} maging for purposes of identifying the written text. B_{est efforts should be employed to provide a light source} _{that does not obscure the visual characteristics of the i} mage B_{est efforts should be employed to provide an image that i} _{s free of any visual obscurations on all cards but} particularly reflective cards. B_{est efforts should be employed to produce an image that} _{portrays the card’s best visual characteristics possible to} capture in a single frame. i_{i. Cards are best imaged raw.} _{1. Imaging Raw cards provides a clear visual presentation of the} card’s characteristics, true colors, printed text/graphics, and features. 2 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} _{Raw cards do not hide any post-production flaws or i} _{mperfections or manufacturer-induced flaws/attributes such as} _{bowing/warping, overspray, print lines, dimples, print dots, etc.} which deter from the card's presentation/value proposition. Due to the enhancement in the multi-visual graphics of u_{ltra-modern cards, singular images cannot possibly capture all} _{the display features a card has to offer. Instead, they capture a} _{moment in time from a particular light source at a particular} _{angle. In order to view all of a card's myriad characteristics, the} _{card must be viewed under multiple light sources and at multiple} angles. a_{nd enterprise imaging solution devices are designed} _{to provide an opportunity to capture a single image of the card} _{under exceptional lighting circumstances to present the best} possible single frame image of any trading card. P_{rior to capturing the first image using a device ( or} enterprise), the user must log into the application. For manual handheld or alternate device image capture, users must l_{og into the application once they have captured their images outside} of the application. A_{fter logging into the application, manual image capture users} must enter their credentials to sign into the application. M_{anual users will then select “image upload” from the} _{application which will access their device’s image storage} repository. r_{der and} _{ey will} . images are _{-order or} _{replace images prior to acceptance into the application’s i} mage recognition process. O_{nce the images have been confirmed to be formatted} _{properly, User clicks to accept the images. (continue to} point VI.). Device users will capture their images inside the application. 3 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} _{1. During or following the completion of the image taking session,} Device users will have options to re-take an image, re-order their images, or delete images. 2_{. Once a device user has completed their image taking session,} will click n_{ow i} to take place. 1_{. (Graphic Image Steps 4-5) Cards that have been accepted by} the user will now have their card recognition process completed. (Device imaged cards may go through initial card recognition upon initial imaging). a_{. In order for Graphic Image Step 4 to be processed, text} and images from the card are identified through an algorithmic combination of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Computer Vision (CV) while simultaneously being processed through a NLP (Natural Language Processing) determination. b_{. The language discerned from the card is added to the} card’s output file. i_{. The CV process is directed to identify keywords} from specific locations to discern a number of factors including but not limited to 1_{. Manufacturer} _{2. Brand} _{3. Set} _{4. Year of manufacture} _{5. Insert Set} _{6. Variation} _{7. Serial Number} _{8. Autographed} _{9. Not Autographed} _{10. Card Number} 4 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} _{11. Player Name} _{12. Team Name} _{13. Features} _{a. Rookie} _including _evels) _{nd images} _{in the card} _combined _{with the other identifying determinants is now placed} _{through an intensive informational algorithmic process to} _{begin discerning its unique characteristics leading} _{towards (graphic images 6-9) matching the unique} characteristics of the visual, text and other identifiers. i_{. The card is identified with specificity as to what it is.} _{ii. The card is identified with specificity as to what it} may be 1_{. All cards that match the identifiers or are} _{natively matched through comparative tactics} are offered as possible matches for the card. a_{. The user must either add additional i} _{nformation or select from a limited} _{number of cards to determine the} correct selection i_{. Based on this selection, a} _{representative will review the} _{results and confirm the accuracy} of the selection. 5 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} _{ii. If confirmed, the algorithmic} _{formula to identify this card will} _{now be learned by the system for} future instances of a card match. i_{ii. If not confirmed, the representative} _{will identify the card and modify the} _{system's calculable determinants} _{to identify the card with specificity} for the future. i_{v. The user will be informed of the} _{determination via in system} messaging v_{. The card will be properly} documented. _{iii. The card is not identified.} _{1. The user must either add additional} _{information or await a level 2 Card Analyst’s} review of the entry to identify it. a_{. Based on this selection, a} _{representative will review the results} and identify the card. b_{. Once confirmed, the algorithmic formula} _{to identify this card will now be learned} _{by the system for future instances of a} card match. c_{. If unable to identify, the Level 2 Card} _{Analyst will send the card to the Card} _{Czar for final analysis. The Card Czar} _{will identify the card and modify the} _{system's calculable determinants to i} _{dentify the card with specificity for the} future. d_{. The user will be informed of the} determination via in system messaging e_{. The card will be properly documented.} _{f. In the event the card is a forgery,} _{unlicensed, or otherwise not in the} database, a determination will be made 6 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} whether or not to allow the card to be utilized in the system. i_{. If the card is determined to be} valid, the card Czar will enter the data for the card (or its entire set) and validate the data. i_{i. If the card is determined to be} invalid, it will not be allowed to be u_ser ₉₎ _data creates a natural language title for the card to fit the characters offered by the marketplace listing’s selling platform. i_{ii. The meta data identifiers in concert with NLP create} a natural language description for the card’s extended description field for a marketplace listing. i_{v. The user selects the price they want to list the card} for and the terms. v_{. Comparative listing and prices (when available) are} provided for pricing insight. v_{i. Current or archival comparative listings (when} available) on 3rd party selling formats are available for viewing and consideration. v_{ii. In the event of a sale} 7 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} _{1. If the buyer is a member, the images and} details will be forwarded to their account. 2_{. If the buyer is not a member, the images and} details can be forwarded to them. 3_{. The user can determine if they want the card} _{to remain in the user's account under the sold} heading or deleted from their account. _{b. For third party grading:} _{i. User selects the third party grading company they} want to send in to. i_{i. User may log in to their account via the app and fill} out the electronic submission form i_{ii. User prints out the form and submits their cards for} grading. _{c. The user determines they want to send their card(s) to a} Vault. i_{. User selects cards they are vaulting, and will tag the} cards as to their location. i_{i. Cards will remain under user’s management to add} updated information. _{d. User determines to place the cards up for trade} _{i. Third party trade sites can be selected to list the} cards for trade i_{i. User will select the trade value.} _{iii. User will identify cards or genres they are interested} i n for a prospective trade. i_{v. Cards can be placed for trade per the user terms of} the third party trade site. v_{. In the event of a trade, images and details can be} forwarded to the new owner. _{e. User determines to keep the card in their Personal} Collection (PC) i_{. Digitized Cards remain under the user’s} management in the app. 8 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} _{3. Specific/unique attributes about the output} _{a. Standardized, consistent, high-quality images of raw trading cards, (and} _{video in the future) uniformly formatted for enhanced presentation are i} _{nnately able to proffer the truest clarity of every detail necessary in order to} _{perform card recognition and image matching. These attributes also} _{provide for the cleanest opportunity to procure the information necessary to} _{accurately identify the card and provide customizable marketplace titles and} descriptions. b_{. The device provides a safe handling throughput regimen that engages} _{safety and security as its top priority. Every aspect of the devices motion, l} _{eading to its interactions with the cards, has been analyzed and reanalyzed} _{to be certain that every card handled exceeds the security l evels that even} a hands on user would engage in to handle their cards. i_{. The device’s motion management system handles each card the} _{minimum number of times from the moment the card enters the} device’s input box. i_{i. The device’s robotic arms suction vacuum system touches the card j} _{ust two times on its path from first touch picking it up at the input box} _{with a soft touch padded vacuum suction robotic arm until gently} placing it down in the output box. c_{. The associated accuracy level and cleanliness of our attribute data based} _{on more uniform and higher quality standardized images justifiably leads to} a more beneficial outcome for the user. i_{. Consistent Clarity of images leads to a reduced fail rate of card} recognition. i_{i. Increased rate of card recognition leads to enhanced user confidence} i n the system’s capabilities. 9 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} _{iii. Increased rate of card recognition at speeds never before available} leads to faster consumer card throughput, leading to an increased velocity at which users are likely to engage the marketplace for breaks and unopened product purchases _{4. Distinct attributes of a trading card} _{a. Distinct attributes of a card include all the unique identifiers that help} categorize that card from one of a world of cards to a specific card. These i_{nclude but are not limited to printed text, key words, images, numbers,} _{graphics, logos or other identifying marks, or attributes leading to the} specific recognition of a unique card: i_{. Manufacturer} _{ii. Brand} _{iii. Set name} _{iv. Year of manufacture} _{v. Year of issue} _{vi. Insert Set} _{vii. Parallel Set} _{viii. Variation} _{ix. Serial Number} _{x. Autographed} _{xi. Not Autographed} _{xii. Card Number} _{xiii. Player Name} _{xiv. Team Name} _{xv. Features} _{1. Rookie} _{2. All Star} _{3. Jersey} _{4. Patch} _{5. Die Cut} _{xvi. CMP or other identifying codes} _{xvii. Other details to be determined, including but not limited to} _{1. Cards Color Scheme (RGB levels)} _{2. Logos} _{3. Copyright information} _{4. Statistics} _{5. Known identifiers} 10 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} _{6. Positional identifiers} _{7. Font type} _{8. Angle or orientation of text and images} _{9. Identification of other players in the card through image} recognition b_{. The accumulation of these attributes provides for robust user options with} regards to their documentation of their cards including but not limited to i_{. Users will have the option to customize and order the descriptors for} their item titles and expanded descriptions in saved templates to uniformize their listings and make them their own. i_{i. Users will also have the option to customize these title and} description fields with self defined text fields to further make their listings their own, and not cookie cutter. i_{ii. Enhancing and supplementing the AI Chatgpt generated descriptions} will provide all cards with more truthful and realistic titles and descriptions based on the system identified actual attributes of the card. i_{v. Utilization of enhanced attributes will lead to clarity of listings causing} a reduction in “Not as Described” returns leading to a higher percentage of completion of first sales, higher user feedback ratings, lowered customer service interactions, increased profitability and higher marketplace approval ratings. _{5. The employment in the present disclosure of techniques for image processing,} _{matching algorithm and vision algorithm are novel and unique in their} _{combination and sequencing.} _{6. Card compared to the universal pool of cards, i.e., is there a database(s) that is} _{accessed that has stored digitized information (images and text) relating to} existing cards. The present disclosure includes a comprehensive database from a_{ssembled existing data, in-house generated data, as well as from experience} _{and creativity, employing tactics for identifying descriptors, keyword markers, visual} cues, color identification and color variances to produce the best 11 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} possible match for the imaged card based on the comprehensive catalog of data. _{7. All aspects of the card are detected by their proper methodology. Several} aspects are detected by multiple methods and checked against each other. i_{. Corners, Edges, surface and centering are detected, measured,} analyzed and assessed using image processing. i_{i. Serial numbers may be identified during image processing and as a} result of OCR. 1_{. Image processing is trained to identify certain key identifiers,} _{descriptors and markers which include but are not limited to} serial numbers, logos, and trademarks 2_{. OCR is utilized to identify all numbers and letters on the media} _{presented and produce it in its raw identified form. NLP is used} _{to check the OCR and make sense out of raw data in a natural l} anguage way. 3_{. Zoomed images of features of the card are a combination of} static and trained methodology. a_{. Static images of the 4 corners front and back zoomed in} _{are cropped and magnified from the original base single} _{frame images. These are predetermined for every card to} _{prepare the card for visual inspection by prospective i} nterested parties. b_{. Serial numbers, Autographs, or other known features are i} _{dentified from known properties associated with specific i} dentified cards. i_{. Sets known to have installed autographs at specific l} _{ocations will cause a cropped image of that} _{autograph to be magnified for inspection by i} nterested parties. i_{i. OCR identified serial numbers or other identifying} characteristics including but not limited to 1_{. Serial Numbers} _{2. Special Characters} _{3. Jersey Swatches} _{4. Patch Swatches} _{5. Other Relic enhancements} 12 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} _{6. Other modifications to the standard issue} _{iii. Will have markers identifying the latitude and} longitude of the location of the identified serial number, etc. This data in concert with the known characteristics of the specific series, set, insert set, variation, etc. provides the system with the data it needs to procure an additional image of the serial number or other identifying characteristics Enterprise Imaging Device 1_{. Composition of the imaging shields} _{a. The shields may be made of plastic. The shields will receive a coating to} reduce the transmissibility of light through the shield i_{. SEE personal device technical doc.} _{2. Configuration for pedestal and card storage box} _{a. The foam padded vacuum pedestal does not attach directly to the input or} _{output boxes (which are independent units moved in and out of the device).} _{The multi axis robotic arm has a foam padded vacuum end effector. This} _{robotic arm reaches in to the Input Box to obtain a single card. The robotic} _{arm moves the card to the imaging location where it hands off the card to a} _{foam padded vacuum pedestal at the imaging l ocation in order to capture} _{an image. When completing its imaging process, the vacuum pedestal} _{hands off the card to the robotic arm’s vacuum. The robotic arm moves the} card to the output box. 3_{. Foam padded vacuum pedestal functionality} _{a. The pedestal's main purpose is to provide a secure location to position a} _{“card of interest” (COI) in the center of the device. This task is accomplished} _{by creating an area of low pressure below the card using an Electric Ducted} _{Fan. This low pressure works in conjunction with an EPDM rubber pad} _{serving 2 functions, creating a good seal on the surface of the card and} _{providing a nonslip “soft touch” surface. The pedestal's end is also} removable, allowing for the exchange of different heads to accommodate 13 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} different object sizes and specifications for imaging, as well as allowing for the removal of the background imaging shield. b_{. The pedestal may be constructed of plastic and the EDF may be integrated} _{into the cylindrical column of the unit. This fan is what creates the holding} force for the card. The EPDM rubber surface provides good grip it on the s_{urface of cards, minimizing slipping and furthermore scratches. The} _{closed cell nature of the rubber also provides a good seal to grab the card} as securely and safely as possible. c_{. The pedestal comprises two parts, the lower column and the upper stand.} The lower column is integrated into the main body which may be a full i_{njection molded assembly. The stand on top may comprise an injection} _{molded main body and an adhesive Rubber foam pad that sticks to the top} _{surface. This is designed with the possibility of switching out the stands to} _{accommodate the needs of our users and alternative stand configurations.} _{4. Dimensions of the card storage box} _{a. The dimensions of the box are based on the standard size of a 2.5” by 3.5”} _{trading card. There will be an additional tolerance added to this dimension} that is yet to be determined. This total sizing may also change based on the i_{tems being photographed. In additional use cases for different items or} _{alternative sizes of cards, the box's size will be adapted to fit those} alterations. _{5. Multi-axis robotic motion system} _{a. Functionality as follows:} Using the vacuum pedestal technology, cards may be removed from an input bin one at a time. These cards may be transported to an image l_{ocation and photographed. This photograph may be used both to locate the} _{card and to digitize the card. Once the card is located, it can be picked up} _{accurately with a second arm where it is subsequently imaged on the rear} _{side, re-located through the same process, and transported to the output} bin. _{6. Additional device features} _{a. Modified to handle larger volume of trading cards per session.} 14 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} _{b. Modified to handle alternative content of varying sizes, thicknesses} _{c. Resized to a larger format for larger content} _{d. Implemented for niche areas of content with unique catalogs} _{e. Additional cameras to capture additional angles to provide conditional} analysis with greater depth. f_{. Video capture along with a custom “Wobble Plate” which rotates on the} pedestal at varying angles. i_{. The Wobble Plate rotating on the imaging pedestal when utilized in} concert with a video capture system provides the simulation previously only possible with a hand held viewing of a card at varying angles and illumination strategies. i_{i. This video creates a unique visual presentation of a card to capture} the maximum of its graphic characteristics. Particularly with regards to reflective cards such as all the variants of “Chrome”, and “Prizm” cards 1_{. Standardized visual presentation in conjunction with the full} suite of recognition and marketing options available. 2_{. Buyer confidence enhanced as a result of the engagement of} this process. 3_{. “Not As Described” Returns mitigated and minimized by} consumers purchasing trading cards employing this process allowing marketplaces to realize a higher percentage rate of first sales leading to increased profitability, lower customer service interactions, and higher customer satisfaction ratings.. _{7. Light produced by the light sources does not directly illuminate the card but is} reflected by the upper reflective shield to indirectly illuminate the card. 15 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} _{a. There are 4 light sources positioned in 2 different orientations relative to the} reflector. One is for “short throw” illuminating the edges of the reflector shield, and the other is for “long throw” illuminating the center of the shield. This results in an even lighting of the entire shield without the use of any additional light sources. 9_{. Shields, lights, and cameras} _{a. The “imaging cell” comprises plastic coated shields and built in camera} located at a specific distance directly above the foam padded suction pedestal. One shield is placed behind the pedestal encompassing the field of view of the camera, and one surrounds the area where the camera is located. This allows for the use of more standard light elements and smaller shields with closer camera distances. The second i maging station likewise has a shield behind the imaging location’s field of view, and a second one surrounding the camera. The camera is located directly above the location the card will be placed for photography. Two cameras will be used, one at each imaging station, so that the front and back of subsequent cards can be imaged simultaneously. This “parallel processing” of cards will be a great contributor to the throughput speed of the device. The cameras used are an assembly of components custom for this application. _{10. Foam padded suction based pedestal in the Enterprise version} _{a. The foam padded suction based pedestal is located in the center of the field} of view of the imaging area in the enterprise version of the device. The multi axis robotic arm (MARA) also has a foam padded suction end piece. MARA takes a single trading card from the input box and moves i t to the foam padded suction based pedestal where MARA “hands it off” to the foam padded suction based pedestal for imaging. Following the i maging, MARA receives the “hand off” from the foam padded suction based pedestal and transports the card to the second imaging station 16 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} Personal Card Imaging Device 1_{. Adjustable phone stand.} _{a. The phone stand may be referred to as easel style holder comprising a flat} angle surface the phone leans against and a bottom edge that stops the phone from sliding down. The bottom lip is adjustable via a bolt and can be moved up or down to position the phone’s camera correctly for optimal imaging. 2_{. Composition of the imaging shields/phone stand} _{a. May comprise plastic. The shield will receive a coating to reduce the} transmissibility of light through the shield 3_{. Geometry of the shield/pedestal/phone stand} _{a. There are many orientations of these components that result in good} images. The configuration realized here is a result of the desired form factor in conjunction with the imaging requirements. 4_{. Other configurations} _{a. Different orientations involve moving the background closer or further from} the card and adjusting / moving the lights location and intensity given the variable nature of distinct card attributes. 5_{. Additional features} _{a. Shared state between the camera’s viewfinder and a secondary device} (Computer screen, iPad, other smartphone, or similar) that allows instantaneous viewing of the image capture field for ergonomic and expeditious usage of the device. A user does not have to view the camera’s viewfinder screen, but can view it on their laptop, for example, or some other screen in front of them, and can utilize the hand held shutter remote to capture the images they see on their computer screen, and bypass the necessity to look at their smartphone viewfinder screen. This presents a decrease in processing time per card leading to an enhanced overall time based performance of the user/device relationship. b_{. A “wobble plate” pedestal that allows the suctioned card to swivel, thus} capturing multiple angles for better condition inspection. 17 _{TCCN0101PCT APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION} Other types of items the devices, systems, and/or methods may image and process 1_{. Event Tickets} _{2. Postcards} _{3. Coins} _{4. Stamps} _{5. Photographs} _{6. Art} _{7. Jewelry} _{8. Watches} _{9. Recipe Cards} _{10. Autographs} 18 APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION that the words used herein are words of description rather than limitation, and that various changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope thereof.

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An imaging system comprising: a pedestal for supporting an item to be imaged by at least one camera; a device for producing a low pressure at an opening formed in the pedestal for securing the item to the pedestal; at least one shield and a plurality of lights for illuminating the item; and a frame for supporting the at least one camera.

2. An imaging method comprising: producing a low pressure at an opening formed in a pedestal, the pedestal for supporting an item to be imaged by at least one camera; securing the item to the pedestal via the low pressure produced at the opening; illuminating the item via at least one shield and a plurality of lights; and capturing an image of the item supported by the pedestal via the at least one camera.

3. A non-transitory computer readable medium having stored computer executable instructions for identifying an item from a captured image thereof, wherein execution of the instructions causes a processor to: perform image processing including one or more of cropping, orienting, and/or aligning the captured image; identify and extract text and/or visual features from the captured image; compare the extracted text and/or visual features to text and/or visual features of a plurality of stored images of items to generate a set of items potentially matching the item of the captured image; and present the set of potentially matching items to a user. APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION

Appendix . Techmeal Process Description a. Step 1 : User Card Images: The user captures images (front and back of the card) via an imaging device i.e._s Smartphone Camera, Manual imaging device, Enterprise Imaging Device, etc. and the images are uploaded to the Image Server i. User prepares cards for imaging.

1 . Cards are either already raw, or in some form of protective holder. a. User should wear protective gloves to avoid marking or self induced obscurations to the cards being imaged. b. Raw cards are ready for imaging i. User should review the raw cards for fingerprints, dust, or other remediable media obscuring the card’s best presentation. ii. Card cleaning is strongly recommended to present the best imagery of the card. c. Cards in protective holders are best served to be removed from their protective holder for best imaging outcomes d. However, cards may still be imaged in their protective holders APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION i. Cards imaged in their protective holders risk obtaining subpar images

1 . Skewed color identification

2. Lack of clarity of printed text for character recognition, leading to card identification

3. Likelihood that flaws blemishes or other characteristics are not adequately identified and presented

4. Flaws on the holder being undifferentiated from what may be on the card leading to false positive flaw identification

2. When using a manual device, User should prepare the cards on one side of the device for the speed of transition from one card to the next.

3. When using a Enterprise device, the user is now ready to place the stack of cards into the device’s input box.

4. If imaging using a handheld imaging device, tripod, or other i maging source, a. Best efforts should be employed to image the card at a straight on 0 degrees off center angle to avoid angular and corner/edge disorientation or other obscurities. b. Best efforts should be employed to provide a proper background to illuminate the corners and edges for clarity. c. Best efforts should be employed to assure clarity of i maging for purposes of identifying the written text. d. Best efforts should be employed to provide a light source that does not obscure the visual characteristics of the i mage e. Best efforts should be employed to provide an image that i s free of any visual obscurations on all cards but particularly reflective cards. f. Best efforts should be employed to produce an image that portrays the card’s best visual characteristics possible to capture in a single frame. ii. Cards are best imaged raw.

1 . Imaging Raw cards provides a clear visual presentation of the card’s characteristics, true colors, printed text/g rap hies, and features. APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION

2. Raw cards do not hide any post-production flaws or i mperfections or manufacturer-induced flaws/attributes such as bowing/warping, overspray, print lines, dimples, print dots, etc. which deter from the card’s presentation/value proposition.

3. Due to the enhancement in the multi-visual graphics of ultra-modern cards, singular images cannot possibly capture all the display features a card has to offer. Instead, they capture a moment in time from a particular light source at a particular angle. In order to view all of a card’s myriad characteristics, the card must be viewed under multiple light sources and at multiple angles.

4. Personal and enterprise imaging solution devices are designed to provide an opportunity to capture a single image of the card under exceptional lighting circumstances to present the best possible single frame image of any trading card. ill. Prior to capturing the first image using a device (personal or enterprise), the user must log into the application. iv. For manual handheld or alternate device image capture, users must log into the application once they have captured their images outside of the application.

1. After logging into the application, manual image capture users must enter their credentials to sign into the application.

2. Manual users will then select “image upload" from the application which will access their device’s image storage repository.

3. User will select front and back images to upload in order and click to upload to the application.

4. Once the images are uploaded in the application, they will populate in the user’s account awaiting confirmation.

5. User will review the images uploaded to confirm the images are in the proper format (Front, Back, front back, etc.). a. User will have an opportunity to edit, delete, re-order or replace images prior to acceptance into the application's i mage recognition process. b. Once the images have been confirmed to be formatted properly, User clicks to accept the images, (continue to point VI.). v. Device users will capture their images inside the application. APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION

1 . During or following the completion of the image taking session, Device users will have options to re-take an image, re-order their images, or delete images.

2. Once a device user has completed their image taking session, and made modifications (if needed), they will be asked to click to accept the batch.

3. Once the batch has been Captured images are now visible inside the user’s portal page in the application

4. Once the images are accepted, the cards are placed in the queue for card recognition. vi. (Graphic Image Steps 2-3) Uploaded and accepted images are now i n the image server ready for card recognition and catalog matching to take place.

1. (Graphic Image Steps 4-5) Cards that have been accepted by the user will now have their card recognition process completed. (Device imaged cards may go through initial card recognition upon initial imaging). a. In order for Graphic Image Step 4 to be processed, text and images from the card are identified through an algorithmic combination of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Computer Vision (CV) while simultaneously being processed through a NLP (Natural Language Processing) determination. b. The language discerned from the card is added to the card’s output file. i. The CV process is directed to identify keywords from specific locations to discern a number of factors including but not limited to

1. Manufacturer

2. Brand

3. Set

4. Year of manufacture

5. Insert Set

6. Variation

7. Serial Number

8. Autographed

9. Not Autographed

10. Card Number APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION

11. Player Name

12. Team Name

13. Features a. Rookie b. AH Star c. Jersey d. Patch e. Die Cut

14. CMP or other identifying codes

15. Other details to be determined, including but not limited to a. Cards Color Scheme (RGB levels) b. Known identifiers c. Positional identifiers d. Font type e. Angle or orientation of text and images f. Identification of other players in the card through image recognition c. The language discerned from the text analysis combined with the other identifying determinants is now placed through an intensive informational algorithmic process to begin discerning its unique characteristics leading towards (graphic images 6-9) matching the unique characteristics of the visual, text and other identifiers. i. The card is identified with specificity as to what it is. ii. The card is identified with specificity as to what it may be

1 . All cards that match the identifiers or are natively matched through comparative tactics are offered as possible matches for the card. a. The user must either add additional i nformation or select from a limited number of cards to determine the correct selection

Based on this selection, a representative will review the results and confirm the accuracy of the selection. APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION ii. f confirmed, the algorithmic formula to identify this card will now be learned by the system for future instances of a card match.

Hi. If not confirmed, the representative will identify the card and modify the system’s calculable determinants to identify the card with specificity for the future. iv. The user will be informed of the determination via in system messaging v. The card will be properly documented. iii. The card is not identified.

1 . The user must either add additional information or await a level 2 Card Analyst’s review of the entry to identify it. a. Based on this selection, a representative will review the results and identify the card. b. Once confirmed, the algorithmic formula to identify this card will now be learned by the system for future instances of a card match. c. If unable to identify, the Level 2 Card Analyst will send the card to the Card Czar for final analysis. The Card Czar will identify the card and modify the system's calculable determinants to i dentify the card with specificity for the future. d. The user will be informed of the determination via in system messaging e. The card will be properly documented. f. In the event the card is a forgery, unlicensed, or otherwise not in the database, a determination will be made APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION whether or not to allow the card to be utilized in the system. i. If the card is determined to be valid, the card Czar will enter the data for the card (or its entire set) and validate the data. ii. If the card is determined to be invalid, it will not be allowed to be transacted in the system. iii. A message will be sent to the user informing them of the determination. d. The trading card’s final match analysis (graphic image 9) is performed and all results are completed. All details identified from the intensive algorithmic review and assessment are now confirmed. For each card analyzed, user may select from a variety of options including marketplace listing, submission for third party grading, Vaulting, Trading, keeping for a PC (or other personal reasons) a. For Marketplace listing: i. The meta data identified is used to fill in meta data boxes associated with the card for purposes of identifiers for marketplace listing. ii. The meta data identifiers in concert with NLP creates a natural language title for the card to fit the characters offered by the marketplace listing’s selling platform. iii. The meta data identifiers in concert with NLP create a natural language description for the card’s extended description field for a marketplace listing. iv. The user selects the price they want to list the card for and the terms. v. Comparative listing and prices (when available) are provided for pricing insight. vi. Current or archival comparative listings (when available) on 3rd party selling formats are available for viewing and consideration. vii. In the event of a sale APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION

1 . If the buyer is a member, the images and details will be forwarded to their account.

2. If the buyer is not a member, the images and details can be forwarded to them.

3. The user can determine if they want the card to remain in the user's account under the sold heading or deleted from their account. b. For third party grading: i. User selects the third party grading company they want to send in to. ii. User may log in to their account via the app and fill out the electronic submission form iii. User prints out the form and submits their cards for grading. c. The user determines they want to send their card(s) to a Vault. i. User selects cards they are vaulting, and will tag the cards as to their location. ii. Cards will remain under user’s management to add updated information. d. User determines to place the cards up for trade i. Third party trade sites can be selected to list the cards for trade ii. User will select the trade value. iii. User will identify cards or genres they are interested in for a prospective trade. iv. Cards can be placed for trade per the user terms of the third party trade site. v. In the event of a trade, images and details can be forwarded to the new owner. e. User determines to keep the card in their Personal Collection (PC) i. Digitized Cards remain under the user’s management In the app. APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION ecif c/unique attributes about the output a. Standardized, consistent, high-quality images of raw trading cards, (and video in the future) uniformly formatted for enhanced presentation are i nnately abie to proffer the truest clarity of every detail necessary in order to perform card recognition and image matching. These attributes also provide for the cleanest opportunity to procure the information necessary to accurately identify the card and provide customizable marketplace titles and descriptions. b. The device provides a safe handling throughput regimen that engages safety and security as its top priority. Every aspect of the devices motion, I eading to its interactions with the cards, has been analyzed and reanalyzed to be certain that every card handled exceeds the security levels that even a hands on user would engage in to handle their cards. i. The device's motion management system handles each card the minimum number of times from the moment the card enters the device’s input box. ii. The device's robotic arms suction vacuum system touches the card j ust two times on its path from first touch picking it up at the input box with a soft touch padded vacuum suction robotic arm until gently placing it down in the output box. c. The associated accuracy level and cleanliness of our attribute data based on more uniform and higher quality standardized images justifiably leads to a more beneficial outcome for the user.

L Consistent Clarity of images leads to a reduced fail rate of card recognition. ii. Increased rate of card recognition leads to enhanced user confidence in the system’s capabilities. APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION i. Increased rate of card recognition at speeds never before available leads to faster consumer card throughput, leading to an increased velocity at which users are likely to engage the marketplace for breaks and unopened product purchases stinct attributes of a trading card a. Distinct attributes of a card include all the unique identifiers that help categorize that card from one of a world of cards to a specific card. These include but are not limited to printed text, key words, images, numbers, graphics, logos or other identifying marks, or attributes leading to the specific recognition of a unique card: i. Manufacturer ii. Brand iii. Set name iv. Year of manufacture v. Year of issue vi. Insert Set vii. Parallel Set viii. Variation ix. Serial Number x. Autographed xi. Not Autographed xii. Card Number xiii. Player Name xiv. Team Name xv. Features

1. Rookie

2. All Star

3. Jersey

4. Patch

5. Die Cut xvi. CMP or other identifying codes xvii. Other details to be determined, including but not limited to

1. Cards Color Scheme (RGB levels)

2. Logos

3. Copyright information

4. Statistics

5. Known identifiers APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION

6. Positional identifiers

7. Font type

8. Angle or orientation of text and images

9. Identification of other players in the card through image recognition b. The accumulation of these attributes provides for robust user options with regards to their documentation of their cards including but not limited to i. Users will have the option to customize and order the descriptors for their item titles and expanded descriptions in saved templates to uniformize their listings and make them their own. ii. Users will also have the option to customize these title and description fields with self defined text fields to further make their listings their own, and not cookie cutter. iii. Enhancing and supplementing the Al Chatgpt generated descriptions will provide all cards with more truthful and realistic titles and descriptions based on the system identified actual attributes of the card. iv. Utilization of enhanced attributes will lead to clarity of listings causing a reduction in “Not as Described” returns leading to a higher percentage of completion of first sales, higher user feedback ratings, lowered customer service interactions, increased profitability and higher marketplace approval ratings. The employment in the present disclosure of techniques for image processing, matching algorithm and vision algorithm are novel and unique in their combination and sequencing. Card compared to the universal pool of cards, i.e., is there a database(s) that is accessed that has stored digitized information (images and text) relating to existing cards. The present disclosure includes a comprehensive database from assembled existing data, in-house generated data, as well as from experience and creativity, employing tactics for identifying descriptors, keyword markers, visual cues, color identification and color variances to produce the best APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION jssible match for the imaged card based on the comprehensive catalog of data. AH aspects of the card are detected by their proper methodology. Several aspects are detected by multiple methods and checked against each other. i. Corners, Edges, surface and centering are detected, measured, analyzed and assessed using image processing. ii. Serial numbers may be identified during image processing and as a result of OCR.

1. Image processing is trained to identify certain key identifiers, descriptors and markers which include but are not limited to serial numbers, logos, and trademarks

2. OCR is utilized to identify all numbers and letters on the media presented and produce it in its raw identified form. NLP is used to check the OCR and make sense out of raw data in a natural I anguage way.

3. Zoomed images of features of the card are a combination of static and trained methodology. a. Static images of the 4 corners front and back zoomed in are cropped and magnified from the original base single frame images. These are predetermined for every card to prepare the card for visual inspection by prospective I nterested parties. b. Serial numbers, Autographs, or other known features are i dentified from known properties associated with specific i dentified cards. i. Sets known to have installed autographs at specific I ocations will cause a cropped image of that autograph to be magnified for inspection by I nterested parties. ii. OCR identified serial numbers or other identifying characteristics including but not limited to

1. Serial Numbers

2. Special Characters

3. Jersey Swatches

4. Patch Swatches

5. Other Relic enhancements APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION

6. Other modifications to the standard issue iii. Will have markers identifying the latitude and longitude of the location of the identified serial number, etc. This data in concert with the known characteristics of the specific series, set, insert set, variation, etc. provides the system with the data it needs to procure an additional image of the serial number or other identifying characteristics

Enterprise Imaging Device

1. Composition of the imaging shieids a. The shields may be made of plastic. The shields will receive a coating to reduce the transmissibility of light through the shield i. SEE personal device technical doc.

2. Configuration for pedestal and card storage box a. The foam padded vacuum pedestal does not attach directly to the input or output boxes (which are independent units moved in and out of the device). The multi axis robotic arm has a foam padded vacuum end effector. This robotic arm reaches in to the Input Box to obtain a single card. The robotic arm moves the card to the imaging location where it hands off the card to a foam padded vacuum pedestal at the imaging location in order to capture an image. When completing its imaging process, the vacuum pedestal hands off the card to the robotic arm s vacuum. The robotic arm moves the card to the output box.

3. Foam padded vacuum pedestal functionality a. The pedestal's main purpose is to provide a secure location to position a “card of interest” (COI) in the center of the device. This task is accomplished by creating an area of low pressure below the card using an Electric Ducted Fan. This low pressure works in conjunction with an EPDM rubber pad serving 2 functions, creating a good seal on the surface of the card and providing a nonslip “soft touch” surface. The pedestal's end is also removable, allowing for the exchange of different heads to accommodate APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION fferent object sizes and specifications for imaging, as well as allowing for the removal of the background imaging shield. b. The pedestal may be constructed of plastic and the EDF may be integrated into the cylindrical column of the unit. This fan is what creates the holding force for the card. The EPDM rubber surface provides good grip it on the surface of cards, minimizing slipping and furthermore scratches. The closed cell nature of the rubber alsoprovides a good seal to grab the card as securely and safely as possible. c. The pedestal comprises two parts, the lower column and the upper stand. The lower column is integrated into the main body which may be a full injection molded assembly. The stand on top may comprise an injection molded main body and an adhesive Rubber foam pad that sticks to the top surface. This is designed with the possibility of switching out the stands to accommodate the needs of our users and alternative stand configurations. ensions of the card storage box a. The dimensions of the box are based on the standard size of a 2.5” by 3.5” trading card. There will be an additional tolerance added to this dimension that is yet to be determined. This total sizing may also change based on the items being photographed. In additional use cases for different items or alternative sizes of cards, the box's size will be adapted to fit those alterations. lti-axis robotic motion system a. Functionality as follows:

Using the vacuum pedestal technology, cards may be removed from an input bin one at a time. These cards may be transported to an image location and photographed. This photograph may be used both to locate the card and to digitize the card. Once the card is located, it can be picked up accurately with a second arm where it is subsequently imaged on the rear side, re-located through the same process, and transported to the output bin. ditional device features a. Modified to handle larger volume of trading cards per session. APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION odified to handle alternative content of varying sizes, thicknesses c. Resized to a larger format for larger content d. Implemented for niche areas of content with unique catalogs e. Additional cameras to capture additional angles to provide conditional analysis with greater depth. f. Video capture along with a custom “Wobble Plate" which rotates on the pedestal at varying angles. i. The Wobble Plate rotating on the imaging pedestal when utilized in concert with a video capture system provides the simulation previously only possible with a hand held viewing of a card at varying angles and illumination strategies. ii. This video creates a unique visual presentation of a card to capture the maximum of its graphic characteristics. Particularly with regards to reflective cards such as all the variants of “Chrome”, and “Prizm” cards

1. Standardized visual presentation in conjunction with the full suite of recognition and marketing options available.

2. Buyer confidence enhanced as a result of the engagement of this process.

3. “Not As Described” Returns mitigated and minimized by consumers purchasing trading cards employing this process allowing marketplaces to realize a higher percentage rate of first sales leading to increased profitability, lower customer service interactions, and higher customer satisfaction ratings.. Light produced by the light sources does not directly illuminate the card but is reflected by the upper reflective shield to indirectly illuminate the card. APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION lere are 4 light sources positioned in 2 different orientations relative to the reflector. One is for “short throw” illuminating the edges of the reflector shield, and the other is for “long throw” illuminating the center of the shield. This results in an even lighting of the entire shield without the use of any additional light sources. ields, lights, and cameras a. The “imaging cell” comprises plastic coated shields and built in camera located at a specific distance directly above the foam padded suction pedestal. One shield is placed behind the pedestal encompassing the field of view of the camera, and one surrounds the area where the camera is located. This allows for the use of more standard light elements and smaller shields with closer camera distances. The second imaging station likewise has a shield behind the imaging location’s field of view, and a second one surrounding the camera. The camera is located directly above the location the card will be placed for photography. Two cameras will be used, one at each imaging station, so that the front and back of subsequent cards can be imaged simultaneously. This “parallel processing” of cards will be a great contributor to the throughput speed of the device. The cameras used are an assembly of components custom for this application. m padded suction based pedestal in the Enterprise version a. The foam padded suction based pedestal is located in the center of the field of view of the imaging area in the enterprise version of the device. The multi axis robotic arm (MARA) also has a foam padded suction end piece. MARA takes a single trading card from the input box and moves it to the foam padded suction based pedestal where MARA “hands it off” to the foam padded suction based pedestal for imaging. Following the imaging, MARA receives the “hand off” from the foam padded suction based pedestal and transports the card to the second imaging station

APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION

Personal Card Imaging Device

1. Adjustable phone stand. a. The phone stand may be referred to as easel style holder comprising a flat angle surface the phone leans against and a bottom edge that stops the phone from sliding down. The bottom lip Is adjustable via a bolt and can be moved up or down to position the phone’s camera correctly for optimal imaging.

2. Composition of the Imaging shlelds/phone stand a. May comprise plastic. The shield will receive a coating to reduce the transmissibility of light through the shield

3. Geometry of the shield/pedestal/phone stand a. There are many orientations of these components that result in good images. The configuration realized here is a result of the desired form factor In conjunction with the imaging requirements.

4. Other configurations a. Different orientations involve moving the background closer or further from the card and adjusting / moving the lights location and intensity given the variable nature of distinct card attributes.

5. Additional features a. Shared state between the camera's viewfinder and a secondary device (Computer screen, iPad, other smartphone, or similar) that allows instantaneous viewing of the Image capture field for ergonomic and expeditious usage of the device. A user does not have to view the camera’s viewfinder screen, but can view it on their laptop, for example, or some other screen in front of them, and can utilize the hand held shutter remote to capture the images they see on their computer screen, and bypass the necessity to look at their smartphone viewfinder screen. This presents a decrease in processing time per card leading to an enhanced overall time based performance of the user/device relationship. b. A “wobble plate” pedestal that allows the suctioned card to swivel, thus capturing multiple angles for better condition inspection. APPENDIX TO SPECIFICATION

Other types of items the devices, systems, and/or methods may image and process

1. Event Tickets

2. Postcards

3. Coins

4. Stamps

5. Photographs

6. Art

7. Jewelry

8. Watches

9. Recipe Cards

10. Autographs

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS: 1. A system, comprising: one or more computing devices configured to: generate a conformed image from an initial image of a card having textual content, the conformed image confines the initial image to one or more defined image parameters; extract a text string from the conformed image, the text string being indicative of at least a portion of the textual content of the card; assign one or more defined card features to the text string to identify a category conveyed by the textual content of the card using a card text identification model defined using a natural language processing model; generate, using the card text identification model, one or more card feature inputs including the one or more defined card features assigned and respective text from the text string; and output a search result having at least one categorized card selected from among a plurality of categorized cards in response to the one or more card feature inputs representative of the card matching at least one card feature of the at least one categorized card.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising an imaging system including: a body defining an opening, a pedestal adapted to support the card and provided at an internal perimeter defined by the body, the pedestal being accessible from opposite sides of the body via the opening, and a camera mount arranged on an outer surface of the body opposite of the pedestal and adapted to support an imaging device.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the imaging system includes a fan arranged with the pedestal and operable to generate a negative pressure at a mouth defined by the pedestal. 20

4. The system of claim 2, wherein the imaging system includes: a shield arranged along the internal perimeter and defines a first aperture and a second aperture provided on an opposing side of the body, wherein: the pedestal extends through the first aperture, and the second aperture aligns with a camera opening defined by the camera mount.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the shield includes an upper shield having the second aperture and a lower shield having the first aperture.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the upper shield includes a plurality of light sources to illuminate an environment around the pedestal.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the defined card features include at least one of a year issued, a name associated with subject of the card, a name of company issuing the card, or a unique identifier associated with the card.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the card text identification model includes an encoder and a decoder that are trained to assign the one or more defined card features and generate the one or more card feature inputs.

9. A method, comprising: generating a conformed image from an initial image of a card having textual content, the conformed image confines the initial image to one or more defined image parameters; assigning one or more defined card features to text string extracted from the conformed image to identify a category conveyed by the textual content of the card using a card text identification model; generating, using the card text identification model, one or more card feature inputs including the one or more defined card features assigned and respective text from the text string; and 21 outputting a search result having at least one categorized card selected from among a plurality of categorized cards in response to the one or more card feature inputs representative of the card matching at least one card feature of the at least one categorized card.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the defined card features include at least one of year issued, name associated with subject of the card, name of company issuing the card, or a unique identifier associated with the card.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein the card text identification model includes an encoder and a decoder that are trained to assign the one or more defined card features and generate the one or more card feature inputs.

12. The method of claim 9, wherein the card text identification model employs a natural language processing model.

13. A system, comprising: an imaging system to capture an initial image, the imaging system including: a body defining an opening, a pedestal adapted to support an object and arranged at an internal perimeter defined by the body, the pedestal being accessible from opposite sides of the body via the opening, a camera mount arranged on an outer surface of the body opposite of the pedestal and adapted to support an imaging device, and a shield arranged along the internal perimeter of the body.

14. The system of claim 13, further comprising a card retrieval system including one or more computing devices configured to: generate a conformed image from an initial image of a card having textual content, the card being the object, wherein the initial image is provided by the imaging system and the conformed image confines the initial image to one or more defined image parameters; 22 assign one or more defined card features to text string extracted from the conformed image to identify a category conveyed by the textual content of the card using a card text identification model; generate, using the card text identification model, one or more card feature inputs including the one or more defined card features assigned and respective text from the text string; and retrieve and output a search result having at least one categorized card selected from among a plurality of categorized cards in response to the one or more card feature inputs representative of the card matching at least one card feature of the at least one categorized card.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the defined card features include at least one of a year issued, a name associated with subject of the card, a name of company issuing the object, or a unique identifier associated with the card.

16. The system of claim 14, wherein the card text identification model includes an encoder and a decoder that are trained to assign the one or more defined card features and generate the one or more card feature inputs.

17. The system of claim 14, wherein the card text identification model employs a natural language processing model.

18. The system of claim 13, wherein the imaging system includes a fan arranged with the pedestal and operable to generate a negative pressure at a mouth defined by the pedestal.

19. The system of claim 13, wherein the shield includes: a lower shield that defines a first aperture, the pedestal extends through the first aperture, and an upper shield that defines a second aperture that aligns with a camera opening of the camera mount. 23

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the upper shield includes a plurality of light sources to illuminate an environment around the pedestal.

21. The system of claim 13, further comprising an imaging device provided at the camera mount to capture an initial image of the object. 24