Object identification system

Abstract

A system and method for identifying objects possessing minute but significant details is described. At its core, the system includes a user interface, means for comparatively identifying the object and means for displaying results. Notably, because the system does not rely upon highly specialized or complex equipment, the invention is expected to have particular applicability in a wide variety of every-day situations. Moreover, the system is explicitly designed for user friendliness, so as to eliminate that need for extensive training for any prospective user of the system. The system should have particular applicability in key blank identification and key duplication processes.

1 . An object identification system comprising:
 an interactive user interface configured to receive a manually typed variable related to an intended use of a first key into an input field, wherein said specified variable is known or physically observed by a user of the system based upon a visual inspection of said first key; and   a database for matching a key blank to said first key, said database containing known values related to key blanks to narrow the number of key blanks that match the intended use of said first key.   
     
     
         2 . The system of  claim 1  further comprising a software configured to compare said known values related to key blanks with said specified variable. 
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein said interactive user interface comprises a graphical user interface. 
     
     
         4 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein said first key is a key for an automobile. 
     
     
         5 . The system of  claim 4 , wherein said specified variable is related to the make of said automobile. 
     
     
         6 . The system of  claim 4 , wherein said specified variable is related to the model of said automobile. 
     
     
         7 . The system of  claim 1  further comprising a key cutting machine configured to cut the profile of said first key into a selected key blank. 
     
     
         8 . The system of  claim 1  further comprising an inventory system to track and record the number of key blanks added to and retrieved from the system. 
     
     
         9 . The system of  claim 1  further comprising a means to compare a selected key blank with a key blank identified by the system to verify proper selection of the identified key blank.