Systems, methods, and apparatus for imaging using a dual-purpose illuminator

Abstract

The present invention is entitled "System, Method, and Apparatus for Imaging Using a Dual-Purpose Illuminator." Embodiments of this disclosure generally relate to imaging devices and tag-reading devices. One imaging device includes: an image sensor; an optical window positioned in front of the image sensor; and a light source surrounding the periphery of the optical window such that the illumination cone of the light source overlaps with a portion of the near-field cone of the imaging device. This portion of the near-field cone extends from the surface of the optical window to a threshold distance from the optical window. The light source is configured to generate first illumination along a first direction extending toward the scene to be imaged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to illuminators and imaging devices, and more specifically to dual-purpose illuminators that provide near-field illumination and indication of one or more successful events related to image capture. Background Technology

[0002] Imaging devices and systems have been applied in fields far more complex and advanced than simple photography. There is a constant need to improve the imaging capabilities of these devices and systems to support these new capabilities. As more and more components are added to support these new capabilities, interference between these components increases. However, most solutions designed to reduce inter-component interference compromise the performance and / or other capabilities of the imaging device. In some applications, imaging devices may become ineffective due to such compromised capabilities, thus reducing the versatility of the applications for which the imaging device can be used. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Generally, the embodiments of this disclosure provided herein are configured to avoid interference between illumination and field of view within an imaging device and to enhance the imaging capability of the imaging device. The exemplary embodiments described and illustrated herein provide an imaging apparatus that provides improved imaging capability in the near field of view without causing illumination overflow into the imaging sensor. The exemplary embodiments described herein also provide an imaging apparatus having a ring-shaped or tubular illumination source that serves the dual purpose of providing illumination for imaging in the near field and providing indication of one or more successful events associated with image capture and / or tag reading. Some exemplary embodiments are directed to a simplified handheld device that provides an illuminator that does not cause interference with the field of view, thereby providing sufficient illumination for objects very close to the handheld device. Other specific embodiments of alternative illuminators and / or alternative indicators will be or will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. All such additional specific embodiments included within this specification are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure and are protected by the following claims.

[0004] According to some exemplary embodiments, an imaging apparatus is provided herein. In an exemplary embodiment, the imaging apparatus includes: an image sensor configured to capture a first image of a scene; and an optical window positioned in front of the image sensor. In some exemplary embodiments, the optical window is configured to transmit incident light to the image sensor. The imaging apparatus also includes a light source surrounding the periphery of the optical window such that the illumination cone of the light source overlaps with a portion of the near-field cone of the imaging apparatus. In an exemplary embodiment, this portion of the near-field cone extends from the surface of the optical window to a threshold distance from the optical window. In some exemplary embodiments, the light source is configured to generate first illumination along a first direction extending toward the scene.

[0005] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the imaging apparatus, the imaging apparatus further includes one or more processors configured to process a first image of the scene to detect objects in the first image. The one or more processors further determine that the objects in the first image are aligned with a pattern, and in response to determining that the objects are aligned with the pattern, control a light source to... Along the second direction This produces a second lighting effect.

[0006] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the imaging apparatus, the light source surrounds the periphery of the optical window in a plane tilted at an angle to the optical axis of the imaging apparatus.

[0007] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the imaging apparatus, the first illumination illuminates the entire portion of the near field cone of the imaging apparatus.

[0008] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the imaging device, the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction.

[0009] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the imaging apparatus, the second illumination has a different wavelength from the first illumination.

[0010] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the imaging apparatus, the brightness of the second illumination is lower than that of the first illumination.

[0011] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the imaging device, the object includes a decodeable mark, and the pattern includes a sight projection.

[0012] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the imaging apparatus, the light source and the optical window are located on the front of the imaging apparatus. In some exemplary embodiments, light incident from the scene to be imaged enters the imaging apparatus through the front.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the imaging apparatus, the imaging apparatus further includes one or more processors configured to control a light source to generate a first illumination at a first brightness level. The one or more processors are further configured to: acquire a second image of the scene from an image sensor; process the second image to determine whether the second image satisfies one or more imaging conditions; and, based on the second image failing to satisfy one or more imaging conditions, control the light source to generate the first illumination at a second brightness level.

[0014] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the imaging apparatus, the one or more processors are further configured to: acquire a third image of a scene illuminated by a first illumination at a second brightness level from an image sensor; and process the third image to decode a decodable tag in the third image. In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more processors are further configured to control a light source to generate a second illumination based on the decoded decodable tag.

[0015] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the imaging apparatus, the light source has a conduit structure and includes one or more first light elements configured to generate first illumination and one or more second light elements configured to generate second illumination.

[0016] According to some exemplary embodiments, this document provides an imaging method for an illumination device. In some exemplary embodiments of the method, the exemplary method includes controlling a light source of the imaging device to generate a first illumination along a first direction extending toward a scene. The first illumination illuminates the scene such that the illumination cone of the pipe-type light source overlaps with a portion of the near-field cone of the imaging device. In an exemplary embodiment, this portion of the near-field cone extends from the surface of an optical window of the imaging device to a distance from a threshold distance of the optical window. The exemplary method further includes: acquiring a first image of the scene from an image sensor of the imaging device; detecting an object in the first image; and determining that the object in the first image is aligned with a pattern. The exemplary method further includes, in response to determining that the object is aligned with the pattern, controlling the light source to generate a second illumination along a second direction different from the first direction.

[0017] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the method, the method further includes: controlling a light source to generate a first illumination at a first brightness level; and acquiring a second image of the scene from an image sensor. The method further includes: processing the second image to determine whether the second image satisfies one or more imaging conditions; and based on the second image failing to satisfy one or more imaging conditions, controlling the light source to generate the first illumination at a second brightness level.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the method, the method further includes: obtaining from an image sensor a third image of a scene illuminated by a first illumination at a second brightness level. In an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes: processing the third image to decode a decodable tag in the third image; and controlling a light source to generate a second illumination based on the decoded decodable tag.

[0019] According to some exemplary embodiments, this document provides a tag reading device. In some exemplary embodiments, the tag reading device includes an imager configured to capture an image of a scanned tag. In some exemplary embodiments, the tag reading device also includes a scanning window positioned in front of the imager, wherein the scanning window is configured to transmit incident light to the imager and an illuminator. The illuminator surrounds the periphery of the scanning window such that the illumination cone of the illuminator overlaps with a portion of the near-field cone of the tag reading device. This portion of the near-field cone extends from the surface of the scanning window to a threshold distance from the scanning window. In some exemplary embodiments, the tag reading device also includes a controller configured to: control the illuminator to generate a first illumination to illuminate the scanned tag; and acquire an image of the scanned tag from the imager. In some exemplary embodiments, the controller is further configured to: process the image to decode a decodable tag in the image; and based on the decoded decodable tag, control the illuminator to generate a second illumination.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the tag reading device, the annular illuminator has an annular structure that surrounds the periphery of the scanning window in a plane inclined at an angle to the optical axis of the tag reading device.

[0021] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the tag reading device, the first illumination illuminates the entire portion of the near field cone of the tag reading device.

[0022] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the tag reading device, the illuminator is configured to: generate first illumination along a first direction extending toward the scanned tag; and generate second illumination along a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.

[0023] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments of the tag reading device, the second illumination has a different wavelength from the first illumination. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure have been described in general terms, and reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in which:

[0025] Figure 1A A block diagram of an exemplary imaging system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0026] Figure 1B A block diagram of an exemplary imaging engine according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0027] Figure 2 A block diagram of an exemplary imaging apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0028] Figure 3 An exemplary dual-purpose illuminator according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0029] Figure 4A An exemplary tag reading device according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0030] Figure 4B An exemplary tag reading device with a illuminator intended for replacement is shown according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 5A A visualization of the field of view and illumination in the near field of an exemplary imaging apparatus according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0032] Figure 5B The illumination of conventional illuminators and the illumination of pipe-type illuminators for marker reading devices are shown; and

[0033] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating exemplary operation of a depiction imaging method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Embodiments of the invention will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some, but not all, of the embodiments of this disclosure. In fact, embodiments of this disclosure can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Throughout this document, similar reference numerals refer to similar elements.

[0035] Imaging devices (such as tag readers) are used in a variety of scenarios, each requiring a specific set of imaging requirements to enable the continuous execution of operations associated with the tag reader, such as symbol decoding. Due to the diverse applications of imaging readers, there are numerous imaging conditions under which such devices are used. The operability of these devices is limited by the types of imaging conditions under which they can successfully process the captured images. Effective image processing requires effective image capture, which is controlled by several imaging factors, such as focus, exposure, and illumination. Furthermore, for such devices, it is preferable to perform image capture and image processing in the shortest possible time. One way to shorten this time is to accelerate the image processing task by using efficient algorithms and hardware. However, such upgrades are limited by the finite form factor, weight, and power supply available for such devices. Therefore, for devices limited by form factor and / or size and available power supply, it is desirable to capture images suitable for image processing in the shortest possible time. Furthermore, the ability to capture images only when objects are placed at a certain distance limits the availability of such devices. Additionally, due to the miniaturization of imaging devices, different components are housed in a very compact space. Therefore, there is often an interaction between the illumination and field of view of the image sensor in the area behind the optical window of the imaging device. This interaction can introduce unwanted noise into the resulting image. Furthermore, this compact placement of the illuminator next to the image sensor creates a shadowed area in front of the imaging device, which remains partially or completely unilluminated. Consequently, such imaging devices and systems have limited operability for image capture.

[0036] Imaging devices and systems utilize near-field illumination sources that illuminate the near field of view of the device / system. Typically, the illumination provided by such illuminators cannot reach areas close to the front of the imaging device because the illuminator is located in a recess or depression with a limited illumination range. Due to the wide variety of applications for such imaging devices, it is sometimes desirable for objects to be located in areas that are partially illuminated or even unilluminated. In such scenarios, the object is not properly illuminated, leading to poor image capture and subsequent poor decoding. In some scenarios, the imaging device may perform multiple retakes to attempt to capture a decodeable image of the object. Because the illumination still cannot reach the object despite multiple attempts to capture the image, the imaging device incurs delays in low-level image processing tasks, thus hindering other operations.

[0037] Some embodiments described herein relate to dual-purpose illuminators for imaging devices. Some embodiments described herein relate to methods of imaging using imaging devices with dual-purpose illuminators. Some embodiments utilize the positional relationship between the illuminator and the image sensor to capture images of objects placed very close to the imaging device. Some embodiments utilize the illuminator to transmit feedback related to image capture events. The illuminator may have one or more light elements to achieve the aforementioned dual purpose. In some embodiments, one or more events may be triggered indicating the execution of key steps associated with image capture. Based on the results of such events, the illuminator is controlled to generate illumination.

[0038] Such implementations provide effective illumination in areas that would otherwise be poorly lit using minimal additional components. They operate in a manner that allows for successful image processing tasks (such as marking or symbol scanning) while increasing the likelihood of capturing images within the expected operating timeframe, including sufficient data for successful processing. By implementing the various exemplary implementations described herein, the operational efficiency of the imaging apparatus is maintained or improved while addressing the challenges posed by varying imaging conditions.

[0039] In some implementations, some of the operations described above may be modified or further amplified. Furthermore, in some implementations, additional optional operations may be included. Modifications, amplifications, or additions to the operations described above may be performed in any order and in any combination.

[0040] [definition]

[0041] The term "illumination" refers to one or more rays of light generated by an illumination source within a defined field of view. In at least one exemplary context, illumination includes one or more illumination pulses generated by a corresponding illumination source. In some embodiments, illumination is generated based on a "defined pulse frequency," which refers to the rate of illumination pulses generated by the illumination source. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, illumination is generated based on a "defined pulse phase," which refers to an activation period during which the illumination source generates the corresponding illumination. Thus, the illumination period may refer to the duration during which the illumination source corresponding to the illumination pulse remains active.

[0042] The term "light source" (also known as "illuminator source" or "illuminator") refers to one or more light-generating hardware, devices, and / or components configured to produce illumination within a desired field of view. Non-limiting examples of light sources include one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs), lasers, etc. One or more light sources may be dedicated to or used collectively for each image sensor and / or projection optics in a multi-image sensor system.

[0043] The term "near-field illumination source" refers to an illumination source configured to generate illumination to illuminate the near field of view associated with a near-field image sensor. In at least one exemplary context, a near-field illumination source is configured to generate illumination in a wider field of view compared to a far-field illumination source.

[0044] The term "far-field illumination source" refers to an illumination source configured to generate illumination to illuminate the far field of view associated with a far-field imager. In at least one exemplary context, a far-field illumination source is configured to generate illumination in a narrower field of view compared to a near-field illumination source.

[0045] The term "near-field illumination" refers to specific illumination produced by a near-field illumination source. In some implementations, near-field illumination is associated with the illumination of the near-field field of view captured by a near-field image sensor.

[0046] The term "far-field illumination" refers to specific illumination produced by a far-field illumination source. In some implementations, far-field illumination is associated with illumination in the far field of view captured by a far-field image sensor.

[0047] The term "imager" or "imaging module" refers to one or more components configured to capture an image representing a particular field of view. In at least one exemplary context, an imager includes at least one optical component (e.g., a lens and / or associated housing) defining a particular field of view. Additionally or alternatively, in at least one exemplary context, an imager includes an image sensor configured to output an image based on light, such as light coupled to the image sensor via the optical component.

[0048] The term "image sensor" refers to one or more components configured to generate an image represented by a data object based on light incident on the image sensor. In some such exemplary contexts, an image sensor converts light waves interacting with the image sensor into signals representing the image output by the sensor.

[0049] The term "object" or "target" refers to one or more regions of interest within a scene being imaged. In some example implementations, the object may be optically distinguishable from the background of the scene being imaged.

[0050] Those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains, having benefited from the teachings presented in the foregoing description and accompanying drawings, will conceive of numerous modifications and other embodiments of this disclosure set forth herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments are not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, although the foregoing description and accompanying drawings describe exemplary embodiments in the context of certain example combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be understood that different combinations of elements and / or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, combinations of elements and / or functions different from those explicitly described above, as shown in some of the appended claims, are also contemplated. Although specific terminology is used herein, it is used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for limiting purposes.

[0051] Figure 1A A block diagram of an exemplary imaging system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The imaging system 10 includes an imaging engine 100 communicatively coupled to a controller 20, a communication interface 40, an activation component 60, and one or more peripheral components 80. In some exemplary embodiments, the imaging system 10 may include a... Figure 1A The imaging system 10 is configured to capture one or more images of a target in one or more fields of view using one or more illumination sources. The imaging system 10 processes the one or more images to perform one or more image processing tasks, such as tag reading. Therefore, in some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the imaging system 10 may be partially or wholly embodied as a tag or symbol reader or a handheld device capable of reading tags and similar symbols. Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of the imaging system 10 is shown, the details of which will be described in subsequent parts of this disclosure.

[0052] The controller 20 may be configured to perform one or more control operations associated with the imaging system 10. For example, the controller 20 may control the imaging engine 100 to cause image capture of a target within the field of view of the imaging engine 100. Additionally, the controller 20 may process the captured images to perform one or more image processing tasks. The controller 20 may be embodied as a central processing unit (CPU) including one or more processors and memory. In some exemplary embodiments, the controller 20 may be implemented using one or more microcontroller units (MCUs) as one or more of a variety of hardware processing devices, such as coprocessors, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), processing elements with or without an accompanying DSP, or various other processing circuitry, including integrated circuits such as, for example, ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits), FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays), hardware accelerometers, dedicated computer chips, etc. In some embodiments, the processor of the controller 20 may include one or more processing cores configured to operate independently. Multi-core processors can implement multiple processing within a single physical package. Additionally or alternatively, the processor may include one or more processors configured in series via a bus to enable independent execution of instructions, pipelines, and / or multiple threads.

[0053] The memory may be non-transitory and may include, for example, one or more volatile and / or non-volatile memories. For example, the memory may be an electronic storage device (e.g., a computer-readable storage medium) including gates configured to store data (e.g., bits) that can be retrieved by a machine (e.g., a computing device such as a processor). The memory may be configured to store information, data, content, applications, instructions, etc., for enabling the device to perform various functions according to exemplary embodiments of the invention. For example, the memory may be configured to buffer data for processor processing. Additionally or alternatively, the memory may be configured to store instructions for processor execution.

[0054] The processor (and / or coprocessor or any other processing circuitry that assists the processor or is otherwise associated with the processor) may communicate with memory via a bus for transferring information between components of the imaging system 10. The processor may be configured to execute instructions stored in memory or otherwise accessible to the processor. Additionally or alternatively, the processor may be configured to perform hard-coded functions. Thus, whether configured by a hardware or software approach, or a combination thereof, the processor may represent an entity capable of performing operations and being configured accordingly (e.g., physically embodied in circuit form) according to embodiments of the invention. Thus, for example, when the processor is embodied as an ASIC, FPGA, etc., the processor may be hardware specifically configured to perform the operations described herein. Alternatively, for example, when the processor is embodied as an executor of software instructions, the instructions may specifically configure the processor to perform the algorithms and / or operations described herein when executing the instructions. Among other things, the processor may also include a clock, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), and logic gates configured to support the operation of the controller 20.

[0055] Communication interface 40 may include input and output interfaces for supporting communication to and from imaging system 10. Communication interface 40 may be any device, such as a hardware or hardware and software combination of equipment or circuitry, configured to receive and / or transmit data to / from a communication device communicating with imaging system 10. In this regard, communication interface 40 may include, for example, an antenna (or multiple antennas) and support hardware and / or software for implementing communication with a wireless communication network. Additionally or alternatively, communication interface 40 may include circuitry for interacting with the antenna to induce the transmission of signals via the antenna or to process signals received via the antenna. In some environments, communication interface 40 may alternatively or additionally support wired communication. Thus, for example, communication interface 40 may include a communication modem and / or other hardware and / or software for supporting communication via cable, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), Universal Serial Bus (USB), or other mechanisms.

[0056] The activation component 60 may include hardware, software, firmware, and / or combinations thereof configured to instruct a user to initiate (and / or terminate) a desired function. For example, the activation component 60 may transmit an activation signal to cause the controller 20 to begin operation of the imaging engine 100, such as initiating illumination by one or more illumination sources, and / or capturing one or more images by an image sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the activation component 60 may transmit a deactivation signal to the controller 20 to terminate the corresponding function, such as stopping scanning via the image sensor. In some embodiments, the activation component 60 is embodied as one or more buttons, triggers, and / or other physical components disposed in or on the body of the base. For example, in at least one exemplary context, the activation component 60 is embodied as one or more “trigger” components that, when engaged by an operator (e.g., when the operator squeezes the trigger), transmit a signal to the controller 20 to initiate the corresponding function. In some such embodiments, the activation component may transmit a deactivation signal to the controller 20 to stop such a function when the operator disengages the component (e.g., when the operator releases the trigger). Alternatively or additionally, in at least some embodiments, the activation element 60 is embodied without any components directly engaged by the operator. For example, when the imaging system 10 is embodied as an imaging device, the activation element 60 may be embodied as hardware and / or software or a combination thereof for detecting that the imaging device has been raised and / or positioned to a predefined “scan” position, and / or lowered from that position to trigger deactivation. Alternatively or additionally, the activation element 60 may be embodied as a user interface element of the imaging system 10. In such embodiments, the activation element 60, embodied as a user interface element, may be configured to receive input from the user on the user interface and subsequently transmit corresponding commands to the controller 20.

[0057] One or more peripheral components 80 include other structural and functional elements of the imaging system 10, such as, for example, a display device, user interface, housing, base, power supply, etc. One or more of the peripheral components 80 can be controlled by a controller and can operate according to instructions or controls provided by the controller 20.

[0058] Figure 1BAn exemplary imaging engine according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Specifically, as shown, the exemplary imaging engine is embodied as imaging engine 100. Imaging engine 100 includes one or more image sensors, such as near-field image sensors and / or far-field image sensors, which are configured to capture image data objects in a near field of view associated with the near-field image sensor and / or a far field of view associated with the far-field image sensor, respectively. In at least one exemplary context, imaging engine 100 is configured to capture images for the purpose of tag reading at different ranges, such as a near-range using the near-field image sensor and a far-range using the far-field image sensor.

[0059] As shown, the imaging engine 100 includes an image capture optics 104. The image capture optics 104 may be embodied as one or more lenses and / or other optical components configured to allow light to pass laterally through and interact with a corresponding image sensor (e.g., image sensor 102). The image sensor may include a pixel array adapted to operate in global shutter or full-frame shutter mode or alternatively in rolling shutter mode. The image sensor may be a color or monochrome 2D solid-state image sensor implemented using any of CCD, CMOS, NMOS, PMOS, CID, CMD, or back-illuminated technologies. The image sensor may be a progressive or interleaved imager. The image sensor may include an array of photosensitive photodiodes (or pixels) that convert incident light energy into electrical charge. An exemplary image sensor may use a monochrome image sensor, which may include a color filter element defining color-sensitive pixel elements dispersed throughout the monochrome pixel array. An exemplary image sensor may include an image sensor processor, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), and other circuitry.

[0060] Image capturing optics 104 may define a specific field of view that can be captured by image sensor 102. In some embodiments, image capturing optics 104 defines a field of view associated with a focal length range such that objects located within and / or at a determinable offset from the focal length range are clearly visible in the image captured by image sensor 102.

[0061] In some exemplary embodiments, image sensor 102 may include a global shutter to provide enhanced motion tolerance. Image sensor 102 may use a large field of view (FOV), which enables applications such as, but not limited to, optical character recognition (OCR), image reconstruction, machine learning, etc. Additionally or optionally, in some embodiments, image sensor 102 may include a rolling shutter. Image sensor 102 uses a small FOV to improve far-field sampling. Additionally, image sensor 102 may have an associated focusing mechanism. This focusing mechanism may include a focusing scheme that controls the movement of one or more focusing lenses along the optical axis of image sensor 102. For this purpose, in some embodiments, the focusing scheme may include one or more motion actuators, such as stepper motors or piezoelectric actuators. In some exemplary embodiments, the focusing scheme may be built into a lens, such as a variable (e.g., liquid) lens.

[0062] The focusing scheme can provide multiple discrete focus positions in the field of view, and a motor can move the focusing optics of a particular image sensor to each of these discrete focus positions to exhibit the focusing mechanism. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, to change the focus of image sensor 102, a corresponding motor can move the associated focusing optics of image sensor 102 to three discrete focus positions in the far field. The operation of the focusing mechanism can be controlled by a processing unit (such as...) Figure 1A The lens is controlled by a controller 20 or processor 202. In some exemplary embodiments, where the lens has a built-in focusing scheme, the processing unit can use estimated distance data to control the focusing of the lens.

[0063] In some embodiments, such as those shown, the image sensor 102 is associated with one or more components for generating illumination configured to illuminate a field of view defined by the image sensor 102. For example, as shown, the imaging engine 100 additionally includes a field-of-view illumination source 106 and a corresponding projection optics 108. In some exemplary embodiments, the illumination source 106 may be a near-field illumination source configured to generate light in the direction of the optical axis of the near-field projection optics. This light can be refracted through the projection optics 108 to generate near-field illumination, which can produce a desired pattern based on the configuration and design of the projection optics 108. In this respect, the illumination generated by the light exiting the projection optics 108 can illuminate a specific field of view, such as a near-field that can be captured by the image sensor 102.

[0064] Additionally, in some embodiments, the imaging engine 100 further includes a sight illumination source 110. The sight illumination source 110 is configured to generate light in the direction of the sight projection optics 112. For example, the sight illumination source includes one or more laser diodes and / or high-intensity LEDs configured to generate sufficiently strong and / or focused light. Light is refracted through the sight projection optics 112 to generate sight illumination, which can be generated as a desired pattern based on the configuration and design of the sight projection optics 112. In an example context, for purposes such as barcode scanning, the sight pattern can be generated as a laser line pattern, a laser dot pattern, as two parallel lines enclosing a finite area therebetween, etc.

[0065] The imaging engine 100 further includes an optical scanning window 114. The optical scanning window 114 can serve as a protective shield for elements of the imaging engine 100 that need to be exposed to external illumination. The protective window 114 includes one or more optical components configured to allow generated light to exit the engine 100 and to allow incident light to be received, for example, through an image capture optics 104 for interaction with the image sensor 102. In some exemplary embodiments, the optical scanning window 114 (hereinafter also referred to as optical window 114 or scanning window 114) may be made of a transparent or translucent material that allows radiation of at least some predetermined wavelengths to pass through. For example, the scanning window 114 may be made of a suitable material (such as fiber, glass, or plastic) that allows illumination to pass through. In some exemplary embodiments, the scanning window 114 may have a planar surface to prevent optical aberrations. In some exemplary embodiments, the scanning window 114 may have a non-linear surface, wherein at least some portions of the scanning window 114 exhibit optical properties such as magnification or reduction.

[0066] It should be understood that, in other embodiments, the imaging engine 100 may include any number of image capture optics, an image sensor, an illumination source, and / or any combination thereof. In this regard, the imaging engine 100 may be extended to capture any number of fields of view, each of which may be associated with a corresponding illuminator designed to specifically illuminate the corresponding field of view. One or more illumination sources may adversely affect the operation of another illuminator. In such cases, when one such illumination source is activated, the adversely affected image sensor may be activated between illumination pulses of the illumination source, as described herein. Such operation may be implemented in any combination of illumination sources and image sensors.

[0067] In some embodiments, the imaging engine 100 includes one or more processing components (e.g., a processor and / or other processing circuitry) for controlling the activation of one or more components of the imaging engine 100. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the imaging engine 100 includes a processor configured to time illumination pulses of illumination source 106 and / or control the exposure of image sensor 102. In some such contexts, the processor is embodied in any of a multitude of processing circuitry implementations, such as an FPGA, ASIC, microprocessor, CPU, etc. In at least some embodiments, the processor may communicate with one or more memory devices having computer-coded instructions that, when executed by the processor, implement such functionality. In some embodiments, it should be understood that the processor may include one or more subprocessors, a remote processor (e.g., a “cloud” processor), etc., and / or may communicate with one or more additional processors for performing such functionality. For example, in at least one embodiment, the processor may communicate with another processor within the imaging apparatus (e.g., relative to...). Figure 2 The processor 202 shown and described communicates with and / or operates in conjunction with the other processor.

[0068] Figure 2 A block diagram of an exemplary imaging device 200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the imaging device 200 includes a device base 210 for housing various components of the device. In this regard, it should be understood that the device base may be embodied in any of a number of base designs, using any of a number of materials, etc., to suit the positioning of the various components of the multi-sensor imaging device 200 for operation. In at least one exemplary context, the device base 210 may be embodied as a handheld device base, a wearable base, etc.

[0069] Imaging device 200 includes, as described above, relative to Figure 1B The imaging engine 100 is described. The imaging device 200 further includes a processor 202. The processor 202 (and / or any other coprocessor and / or auxiliary processor 202 and / or processing circuitry otherwise associated with the processor 202) can provide processing functions to the imaging device 200. In this respect, the processor 202 can be as described regarding Figure 1A The controller 20 is embodied in any of the numerous ways discussed.

[0070] In some exemplary embodiments, processor 202 is configured to provide functionality for operating one or more components of imaging device 200. For example, processor 202 may be configured to activate illumination source 106 and / or aiming illumination source 110. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, processor 202 is configured to activate image sensor 102 to expose the image sensor, and / or to read out captured data to generate an image based on the data captured during exposure. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, processor 202 is configured to process the captured image, for example, based on one or more image processing tasks. In one such exemplary context, processor 202 is configured to perform an attempt to detect and decode visual markers (such as 1D and / or 2D barcodes) from the captured image. In this regard, processor 202 may be configured to provide such functionality using visual marker parsing algorithms and / or visual marker decoding algorithms.

[0071] Additionally or alternatively, optionally in some embodiments, the imaging device 200 further includes an activation component 206. The activation component 206 may be as described regarding... Figure 1A The activation component 60 is manifested in numerous ways discussed.

[0072] Additionally or alternatively, optionally in some embodiments, the imaging device 200 further includes a display 208. The display 208 may be embodied as an LCD, LED, and / or other screen device configured for data provided by one or more components of the device 200. For example, in some embodiments, the display 208 is configured to render a user interface including text, images, control elements, and / or other data provided by the processor 202 for rendering. In some embodiments, for example, the display 208 may be embodied as an LCD and / or LED monitor integrated with the surface of the device base 210 and visible to the operator, for example to provide information decoded from a barcode and / or information associated with such information decoded from the barcode. In one or more embodiments, the display 208 may be configured to receive user interaction and / or may transmit one or more corresponding signals to the processor 202 based on user interaction to trigger a function. In some such embodiments, the display 208 may be configured to provide user interface functionality embodying the activation component 206, for example to enable the operator to initiate and / or terminate scanning functions via interaction with the user interface.

[0073] Additionally or alternatively, optionally in some embodiments, the imaging apparatus 200 further includes a memory 204. The memory 204 may provide storage functions, such as storing data processed by the imaging apparatus 200 and / or instructions for providing the functions described herein. In some embodiments, the processor 202 may communicate with the memory 204 via a bus to transfer information between components of the apparatus and / or retrieve instructions for execution. The memory 204 may be referenced... Figure 1A The controller 20 is embodied in numerous ways discussed herein. The memory 204 may be configured to store information, data, content, applications, instructions, etc., for enabling the imaging device 200 to perform various functions according to some exemplary embodiments. In some embodiments, the memory 204 includes computer-coded instructions for execution by the processor 202, for example, to perform the functions described herein and / or in conjunction with hard-coded functions executed via the processor 202. For example, when the processor 202 is embodied as an executor of software instructions, these instructions may specifically configure the processor 202 to perform the algorithms and / or operations described herein when executing these instructions.

[0074] In some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, the processor 202 and memory 204 may be embodied together as an imaging control device, and thus may be fixedly or detachably coupled to the imaging device 200, or may be partially or completely located outside the imaging device 200. In some embodiments, the imaging control device may be embodied as an integrated circuit operatively coupled to the imaging device 200.

[0075] Additionally or optionally, in some exemplary embodiments, the imaging device 200 may also include a feedback mechanism for communicating the completion of one or more successful events related to image capture by the imaging device 200. In this regard, in some exemplary embodiments, the feedback mechanism may include an indicator ring that illuminates upon completion of a successful event associated with image capture. The indicator ring may be positioned on the body of the imaging device 200 in a manner visible from all possible perspective views of the imaging device 200. For example, when the imaging device 200 is embodied as a polygon, the indicator ring may wrap around the perimeter of the imaging device 200 in one or more dimensions. The indicator ring may generate visible light illumination of multiple wavelengths, each of which may be associated with a specific image capture event. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the indicator ring may be illuminated with red light to indicate unsuccessful alignment of the imaging device 200 with the object to be imaged. Additionally or optionally, the indicator ring may be illuminated with green light to indicate successful alignment with the object to be imaged. In some exemplary embodiments, the indicator ring may generate illumination in patterns such as continuous, flashing, or a specific number of times to indicate successful image capture and / or decoding of the object. Within the scope of this disclosure, several other possible modifications and additions to the indicator ring are possible. In some exemplary embodiments, the indicator ring may coexist with the lighting source 106 as a duct illuminator or lighting source, as referred to below. Figure 3 Describe its details.

[0076] Figure 3 An exemplary dual-purpose illuminator according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Specifically, Figure 3A vertical cross-sectional view of a dual-purpose illuminator is shown. The illuminator 300 includes a tubular or pipe-like structure with a transparent or translucent outer casing. In some exemplary embodiments, the tubular or pipe-like structure may be a hollow cylinder or a cubic shape. The portion of the outer casing facing outwards from the imaging device (vertically upwards when viewed from the imaging device) can be considered the upper portion 308A of the outer casing. The portion of the outer casing facing the field of view (vertically downwards when viewed from the imaging device) can be considered the lower portion 308B of the outer casing. The upper portion 308A and the lower portion 308B of the outer casing may have the same or different optical properties. Since it may be desirable for the lower portion 308B to illuminate the near field of view, especially the area near the front of the imaging device 200, one or more light elements 304 may be disposed on the bottom substrate 306 such that the one or more light elements 304 emit light toward the area near the front of the imaging device. Additionally, since the tubular illuminator 300 also functions as an indicator ring conveying feedback in response to the successful completion of one or more image capture events, one or more light elements 302 can be disposed on the bottom substrate 306 such that the one or more light elements 302 emit light in a direction different from the emitted light from the one or more light elements 304. Therefore, when mounted on the imaging device 200, the tubular illuminator 300 can be enclosed in a specially designed recess on the outer body facing the front of the imaging device 200. In this configuration, light emitted from the one or more light elements 304 passes through the lower portion 308B of the outer casing and is dispersed in the near-field region of the imaging device 200. Additionally, in this configuration, light emitted from the one or more light elements 302 passes through the upper portion 308A of the outer casing and is dispersed in the area surrounding the imaging device 200, making it visible from all sides of the imaging device 200.

[0077] One or more light elements 302 and 304 may be of the same type. In some exemplary embodiments, one or more light elements 302 and 304 may be of different types. For example, light element 304, used as a near-field illumination source, may produce brighter monochromatic light compared to light element 302, which is used as an indicator and thus can produce polychromatic or monochromatic light. Therefore, the illumination produced by each of the light elements 302 and 304 may have the same or different wavelengths. In exemplary embodiments, some non-limiting examples of light elements 302 and 304 may illustratively include light-emitting diodes (LEDs). In various embodiments, LEDs having a wide variety of wavelengths and any combination of filters or wavelengths or filters may be used. Other types of light sources may also be used in other embodiments.

[0078] Figure 4AAn exemplary tag reading device according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. In some exemplary embodiments, imaging device 200 may be partially or wholly embodied as tag reading device 400A. Tag reading device 400A is configured to perform scanning and reading of tags (such as barcodes, QR codes, etc.). In some exemplary embodiments, tag reading device 400A may be handheld, mountable, or both. Tag reading device 400A includes a housing 402 that surrounds various parts and components of tag reading device 400A. Housing 402 also provides a form factor to tag reading device 400A. Tag reading device 400A includes a scanning window 404 on its front side. Scanning window 404 may be similar to that in previous references. Figure 1B The scanning window 114 under discussion. One or more image sensors 406 may reside within an optical region defined on the inner side of the scanning window 404. The image sensor 406 may be similar to the reference... Figure 1B The image sensor 102 under discussion. The housing 402 may have a pivotable protrusion on the underside of the tag reader 400A, which forms a hinge with another protrusion 408 of the base 410 of the tag reader 400A. This hinge provides a mechanism for rotating the tag reader 400A in one or more dimensions. In some exemplary embodiments, the tag reader 400A may be detachably connected to the base 410, allowing the user of the tag reader 400A to use it in both hands-free and handheld modes. Referring to the front of the tag reader 400A and through its outer side... Figure 3 The discussed conduit illuminator 300 may be disposed on the housing 402. To allow light from the lower portion 308B of the conduit illuminator 300 to reach the near-field region of the tag reader 400A, a cutout 412 may be present at least along one or more contact areas between the conduit illuminator 300 and the housing 402. Additionally, the conduit illuminator 300 may be configured such that the upper portion 308A of the housing of the conduit illuminator 300 is exposed to the surrounding environment of the tag reader 400A in one or more areas. In this manner, the conduit illuminator 300 can perform a dual purpose: providing unique or additional illumination to the near-field region of the tag reader 400A, and providing an indicator ring to output feedback regarding the completion of one or more successful image capture events. In some exemplary embodiments, the conduit illuminator 300 may be disposed in addition to the near-field illumination source of the tag reader 400A. In such embodiments, the conduit illuminator may illuminate at least a portion of the near-field region, particularly the portion of the near-field region near the scanning window 404.

[0079] In some exemplary embodiments, the duct light 300 may be reused for mounting or placement on the front of the tag reader 400A, rather than on the outside of the tag reader 400A. Figure 4B An exemplary embodiment of such a tag reading device 400B is shown. The tag reading device 400B may have the same structure and composition as the tag reading device 400A. A conduit illuminator 300 may be disposed on the front side of the tag reading device 400B such that the conduit illuminator 300 surrounds the periphery of the scanning window 404. In such an exemplary embodiment, the conduit illuminator 300 and the scanning window 404 may be coplanar or located on different planes. In such a configuration, the conduit light source 300 may surround the periphery of the scanning window 404 on a plane inclined at an angle to the optical axis of the imaging device 200. The positioning of the conduit illuminator 300 may be determined such that illumination from the conduit illuminator does not directly reach the image sensor 406. Simultaneously, illumination from the conduit illuminator 300 may fill the entire area of ​​the near field of view located within a threshold distance from the scanning window 404.

[0080] Figure 5A A visualization of the field of view and illumination in the near field of an exemplary tag reading device according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 5A Combination Figures 1A to 4B Described as follows. An exemplary tag reader 500 includes a housing 502, which is similar to... Figure 4A and Figure 4B The housing 402. Within the housing, a recess may be constructed to include a scanning window 504 and accommodate an image sensor 506 having a field of view 508. The scanning window 504 may be similar to... Figure 4A and Figure 4B The scanning window 404 under discussion. A conduit illuminator 300 may be disposed across the periphery of the scanning window 404 such that the conduit illuminator remains covered on two longitudinal sides and exposed on two lateral sides. That is, the conduit illuminator 300 is covered and held on the left and right sides while remaining exposed on the top and bottom sides. In this configuration, the conduit illuminator is configured to emit light only in the upward and downward directions. Because the interior of the conduit illuminator 300 is separated by a bottom substrate 306, the emission of light in a specific direction can be controlled as needed. In some exemplary embodiments, the conduit illuminator 300 may be disposed as a separate light source to provide illumination in a direction substantially parallel to the front of the scanner. In this regard, the tilt of the bottom substrate 306 on which one or more light elements 302, 304 may be mounted is set according to the desired illumination direction. Additionally or alternatively, one or more light elements 302, 304 may be tilted and mounted on the bottom substrate 306 to provide illumination in a direction substantially parallel to the front of the device.

[0081] The scanning window is located within a recessed portion on the front of the tag reader 500. That is, the front of the tag reader 500 has a recess in the area housing the optical components, including the scanning window 504 and the image sensor 506. Since the tubular illuminator 300 is located above the recess housing the optical components, therefore... Figure 5A The peripheral light AC indicates that direct light from the lower portion 308B of the tube illuminator 300 is prevented from entering the area behind the scanning window 504. Furthermore, since the tube illuminator 300 is exposed to the field of view 508, the lower portion 308B of the tube illuminator 300 can illuminate an area of ​​the field of view 508. Therefore, the illumination cone ABC of the tube illuminator 300 intersects at least a portion of the field of view 508 located at a close distance to the scanning window 504. Thus, the tube illuminator 300 can provide illumination to areas in the near field of view of the mark reading device 500 that would not otherwise be illuminated by a conventional illuminator. Figure 5B The illumination from a conventional illuminator and the illumination from the pipe-type illuminator 300 of the tag reading device 500A are shown in a comparative manner. Illumination cones A'B'C' correspond to the field of view illuminated by the conventional illuminator, while illumination cone ABC corresponds to the field of view illuminated by the pipe-type illuminator 300. As shown, illumination cones A'B'C' do not overlap with the field of view located near the scanning surface of the tag reading device 500. However, illumination cone ABC generated by the illuminator 300 clearly illuminates the portion of the scanning surface near the tag reading device 500. This results in the image sensor 506 effectively capturing the tag 510 even when the tag 510 is placed or passes near the scanning surface of the tag reading device 500. Therefore, it is still not necessary to perform recapture of the tag image to perform successful decoding.

[0082] In this way, even markers 510 that may be very close to the scanning window 504 can be illuminated to a considerable extent to allow for effective image capture, which leads to fast and efficient decoding of the information markers.

[0083] The upper portion of the pipe light source 300 can emit light to indicate the successful completion of one or more image capture events. For example, when decoding a mark on a tag 510, the tag reading device 500 is required to be substantially aligned with the tag 510 so that it is in focus. The image sensor 506 can dynamically capture images of the scene to identify whether the tag is aligned with, for example, a sight projection. If so, the controller of the tag reading device 500 can control the pipe illuminator to emit indicative illumination by illuminating a light element corresponding to the upper portion 308A of the tag reading device 500. (See also reference...) Figure 1BOther forms of feedback discussed. Therefore, the exemplary tag-reading device 500 shown in Figure 5 provides a dual-purpose illuminator 300 that offers significant advantages in both image capture and tag reading.

[0084] It is conceivable that the pipe illuminator could be used as the sole illumination source for the image sensor, or as an additional illuminator specifically for illuminating areas near the scanning window in an imaging device (such as a tag reading device 500). In this respect, the imaging device could have several other variations to support different imaging capabilities.

[0085] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating exemplary operation of a depiction imaging process 600 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Process 600 may be derived from reference to Figure 1A and Figure 2 The imaging system 10 or imaging device 200 described herein shall be implemented. It should be understood that, unless otherwise stated, one or more steps of process 600 may be performed sequentially or simultaneously. Process 600 includes, at 602, controlling a conduit light source of the imaging device to generate first illumination along a first direction extending toward the scene. This conduit light source may be similar to a conduit illuminator 300, which generates illumination in the near-field region of the imaging device. In some exemplary embodiments, the conduit light source may be a single illuminator or an additional illuminator specifically for near-field imaging. Thus, the conduit light source may illuminate independently, together with a main illumination source, or sequentially. In some exemplary embodiments, the main illumination source may be a reference... Figure 5B The described conventional illuminator. In some exemplary embodiments, step 602 can be performed at any time during the image capture process to provide the illumination required for successful image capture. In some exemplary embodiments, the illumination of the conduit light source at step 602 may also be accompanied by illumination from another illuminator (e.g., a conventional illuminator). A suitable control element, such as controller 20, may cooperate with the conduit light source to perform step 602. In some exemplary embodiments, step 602 may be triggered in response to controller 20 receiving a trigger signal. For example, controller 20 may receive a trigger signal from an activation component indicating that image capture has begun by the imaging device. In response, the controller performs step 602 to illuminate the scene using illumination from the conduit light source. In some exemplary embodiments, step 602 may be performed by default when the imaging device is turned on without requiring a trigger signal.

[0086] Process 600 further includes, at 604, acquiring a first image of the scene from the image sensor of the imaging device. Next, the image sensor captures the illuminated scene, thus acquiring the first image of the scene. Process 600 further includes, at 606, detecting objects in the first image. In this respect, a controller of the imaging device (such as controller 20) can perform image processing on the captured first image of the scene to identify objects in the first image. Suitable image processing techniques, such as pattern matching, can be used for this purpose.

[0087] Process 600 further includes, at 608, determining that an object in the first image is aligned with a pattern. The imaging device may generate a pattern projection onto a scene before capturing the first image. This projected pattern may be captured as part of the scene in the first image, and the controller 20 may determine whether the object is aligned with the projected pattern after detecting an object in the first image. In exemplary embodiments where the imaging device is used in a tag-reading device or as a tag-reading device, the object may be an information tag. Therefore, it is important to correctly align the object and the device before performing decoding. If they are correctly aligned, feedback in this regard can be provided by activating a conduit light source to generate a second illumination. Process 600 includes, at 610, controlling the conduit light source to generate a second illumination in a second direction different from the first direction in response to determining that the object is aligned with the pattern. If the object and the pattern are not aligned, negative feedback can be provided by generating illumination of a different type from the first and second illuminations. This negative feedback may also be provided by the conduit light source.

[0088] In some exemplary embodiments, method 600 may include Figure 6 Additional steps are not shown. For example, as part of the adaptive process, method 600 may include controlling the brightness of the scene to be imaged as required. To this end, the controller may control a piped light source to generate a first illumination at a first brightness level and capture a second image of the scene using an image sensor. Next, the controller may perform image analysis to determine whether the second image meets one or more imaging conditions. For example, it may be determined whether the first brightness is too high or too low for successful image capture. The controller may perform pixel-to-pixel analysis on the second image to determine the brightness level of the pixels in the image.

[0089] If the controller determines that the second image fails to meet one or more imaging conditions, it may control a pipe-type light source to generate first illumination at a second brightness level. The second brightness level may be higher or lower than the first brightness level, depending on the pixel analysis results. The adaptive process mentioned above may be repeated a predetermined number of times until the second image meets all or most of the one or more imaging conditions. In this respect, which conditions may be necessary and which may be unnecessary can be predefined according to the needs of the decoding process. If the adaptive process is repeated a predetermined number of times and the second image still does not meet one or more conditions, the controller may determine whether the last captured second image meets at least one basic imaging condition for successful decoding. If yes, the controller continues processing that version of the second image. If no, the controller terminates the process.

[0090] After setting the optimal brightness, the controller then obtains a third image of the scene illuminated by the first illumination at a second brightness level. If the optimal brightness cannot be set, the controller either terminates the process or continues processing the final version of the second image as discussed above. When the third image is available to the controller, it then processes it to attempt to decode the markers within it. If the markers are decodeable, the controller decodes them, and in response to successful decoding, a second illumination is generated by the pipelined light source. However, if the markers are not decodeable, negative feedback can be provided via the pipelined light source.

[0091] In this way, the exemplary embodiments described herein provide methods and machines for providing dual illumination in a pipe-type light source. The pipe-type light source serves a dual purpose: providing illumination in the near field of view and acting as an indicator relaying feedback related to image capture events. Imaging devices with such pipe-type illuminators will ultimately capture images at a distance greater than the imaging device. Therefore, the imaging device can be applied to areas requiring close-range scanning, such as retail stores and cash registers. Other advantages, such as a reduction in the number of recapture attempts, speed up the overall image capture and tag decoding process. Thus, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention reflect the significant advantages of the imaging device and method.

[0092] It should be understood that the above text is in Figure 6Each block in the flowchart shown, and combinations thereof, can be implemented by various means, such as hardware, firmware, processors, circuits, and / or other communication devices associated with the execution of software including one or more computer program instructions. For example, one or more of the processes described above can be embodied by computer program instructions. In this regard, computer program instructions embodying the processes described above can be stored by a memory device of a device employing an embodiment of the present invention and executed by a processor of an imaging device / system. It should be understood that any such computer program instructions can be loaded onto a computer or other programmable device (e.g., hardware) to produce a machine, such that the resulting computer or other programmable device performs the functions specified in the flowchart blocks. These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that instructs the computer or other programmable device to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of writing whose execution performs the functions specified in the flowchart blocks. Computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable device to cause a series of operations to be performed on the computer or other programmable device, thereby producing a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions executing on the computer or other programmable device provide operations for performing the functions specified in the flowchart blocks.

[0093] Therefore, the boxes in a flowchart support combinations of devices for performing a specified function and combinations of operations for performing a specified function / operation. It will also be understood that one or more boxes in a flowchart, and combinations of boxes in a flowchart, can be implemented by a hardware-based dedicated computer system or a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions to perform the specified function.

[0094] Although an exemplary processing system has been described above, specific implementations of the subject matter and functional operations described herein may be implemented in other types of digital electronic circuits or in computer software, firmware, or hardware (including the structures disclosed herein and their equivalents) or in a combination of one or more of them.

[0095] Embodiments of the subject matter and operations described herein may be implemented in digital electronic circuits, or in computer software, firmware, or hardware (including the structures disclosed herein and their equivalents), or in a combination thereof. Embodiments of the subject matter described herein may be implemented as one or more computer programs (i.e., one or more modules of computer program instructions) encoded on a computer storage medium for execution by an information / data processing device or for controlling the operation of the information / data processing device. Alternatively or additionally, program instructions may be encoded on artificially generated propagation signals (e.g., machine-generated electrical, optical, or electromagnetic signals) generated to encode information / data for transmission to a suitable receiver device for execution by the information / data processing device. The computer storage medium may be a computer-readable storage device, a computer-readable storage substrate, a random or serial access memory array or device, or a combination thereof, or may be included in a computer-readable storage device, a computer-readable storage substrate, a random or serial access memory array or device, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, while computer storage media are not propagating signals, they can be a source or destination of computer program instructions encoded in artificially generated propagating signals. Computer storage media can also be one or more separate physical components or media (e.g., multiple CDs, disks, or other storage devices), or be included within one or more separate physical components or media.

[0096] The operations described herein can be implemented as operations performed by an information / data processing device on information / data stored on one or more computer-readable storage devices or received from other sources.

[0097] The term "data processing apparatus" encompasses all kinds of devices, apparatuses, and machines used for processing data, including, for example, programmable processors, computers, systems-on-a-chip, or a combination of the foregoing. The apparatus may include special-purpose logic circuitry (e.g., FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) or ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits)). In addition to hardware, the apparatus may also include code that creates an execution environment for the computer program under consideration (e.g., code constituting processor firmware, protocol stacks, memory management systems, operating systems, cross-platform runtime environments, virtual machines, or combinations thereof). The apparatus and execution environment can implement various computing model infrastructures, such as web services, distributed computing infrastructures, and grid computing infrastructures.

[0098] Computer programs (also known as programs, software, software applications, scripts, or code) can be written in any form of programming language (including compiled or interpreted languages, declarative languages, or programming languages) and can be deployed in any form, including as a standalone program or as a module, component, subroutine, object, or other unit suitable for a computing environment. A computer program may, but does not necessarily, correspond to a file in a file system. A program may be stored as a part of a file that holds other programs or information / data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup language document), in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or in multiple coordinating files (e.g., a file storing portions of one or more modules, subroutines, or code).

[0099] The processes and logic flows described herein can be executed by one or more programmable processors that execute one or more computer programs to perform actions by manipulating input information / data and generating outputs. By way of example, processors suitable for executing computer programs include both general-purpose microprocessors and special-purpose microprocessors, as well as any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Generally, a processor receives instructions and information / data from read-only memory or random access memory, or both. The basic elements of a computer are a processor for performing actions according to instructions and one or more memories for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include one or more mass storage devices (e.g., magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks) for storing data, or operatively coupled to such mass storage devices to receive information / data from or transfer information / data to such mass storage devices, or both. However, a computer does not need to have such devices. Devices suitable for storing computer program instructions and information / data include all forms of non-volatile memory, media, and memory devices, including (by way of example) semiconductor memory devices such as EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. Processors and memory may be supplemented by or integrated into dedicated logic circuitry.

[0100] To provide interaction with the user, embodiments of the subject matter described herein can be implemented on a computer having a display device (e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor for displaying information / data to the user, and a keyboard and pointing device (e.g., a mouse or trackball through which the user provides input to the computer). Other types of devices may also be used to provide interaction with the user; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback); and input from the user can be received in any form, including sound, speech, or tactile input. Furthermore, the computer can interact with the user by sending documents to and receiving documents from the device used by the user; for example, by sending a webpage to a web browser in response to a request received from a web browser on the user's client device.

[0101] Although this specification contains many specific implementation details, these details should not be construed as limiting the scope of any disclosure or claimable content, but rather as descriptions of features specific to a particular disclosure and a particular embodiment. Certain features described herein in the context of individual embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented separately in multiple embodiments or in any suitable sub-combination. Furthermore, although features may be described above as functioning in certain combinations and even originally claimed in this way, in some cases, one or more features from the claimed combination may be removed from the combination, and the claimed combination may be for sub-combinations or variations thereof.

[0102] Similarly, although operations are depicted in a specific order in the accompanying drawings, this should not be construed as requiring such operations to be performed in the specific order shown or in sequential order, or to perform all of the shown operations to achieve the desired result. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Furthermore, the separation of the various system components in the above embodiments should not be construed as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or comprised of multiple software products.

[0103] Therefore, specific embodiments of this subject matter have been described. Other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. In some cases, the actions described in the claims can be performed in a different order and still achieve the desired result. Furthermore, the processes depicted in the drawings do not necessarily require the specific order or sequence shown to achieve the desired result. In some specific embodiments, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous.

Claims

1. An imaging device, the imaging device comprising: An image sensor is configured to capture a first image of the scene; An optical window, positioned in front of the image sensor, wherein the optical window is configured to transmit incident light to the image sensor; A light source configured as a conical structure to surround the periphery of the optical window, such that the illumination cone of the light source overlaps with a portion of the near field cone of the imaging device, wherein the portion of the near field cone extends from the surface of the optical window to a threshold distance from the optical window, wherein the light source is configured to generate first illumination along a first direction extending toward the scene; A sight illumination source, the sight illumination source being configured to project sight projection; and One or more processors, said one or more processors being configured to: Project the sight projection into the scene; The first image of the scene is processed to detect objects in the first image; Determine that the object in the first image is aligned with the projection of the aiming device; as well as In response to determining that the object is aligned with the projection of the aiming device, the light source is controlled to generate second illumination along a second direction, wherein the second direction is different from the first direction.

2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the light source surrounds the periphery of the optical window in a plane inclined at a certain angle to the optical axis of the imaging apparatus.

3. The imaging apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first illumination illuminates the entire portion of the near field cone of the imaging apparatus.

4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction.

5. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second illumination has a different wavelength from the first illumination.

6. The imaging apparatus of claim 1, wherein the light source and the optical window are located on the front side of the imaging apparatus, wherein light incident from the scene to be imaged enters the imaging apparatus through the front side.

7. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to: Control the light source to produce the first illumination at a first brightness level; A second image of the scene is obtained from the image sensor; The second image is processed to determine whether the second image meets one or more imaging conditions; as well as Based on the fact that the second image fails to meet one or more of the imaging conditions, the light source is controlled to produce the first illumination at a second brightness level.

8. An imaging method for an imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1-7, the imaging method comprising: The light source of the imaging device is controlled to generate first illumination along a first direction extending toward the scene, wherein the first illumination illuminates the scene such that the illumination cone of the light source overlaps with a portion of the near field cone of the imaging device, wherein the portion of the near field cone extends from the surface of the optical window of the imaging device to a threshold distance from the optical window; Project the sight projection into the scene; A first image of the scene is obtained from the image sensor of the imaging device; Detect objects in the first image; Determine that the object in the first image is aligned with the projection of the aiming device; as well as In response to determining that the object is aligned with the projection of the aiming device, the light source is controlled to generate second illumination along a second direction different from the first direction.

Images