Apparatus, method and computer program product for integrated focusing in imaging environment

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure include methods, computer program products, and apparatus configured for selecting a lens focusing scheme based on a detectability level of a sight pattern. The imaging engine projects a sight pattern onto a target object within a field of view of a first imager of the imaging engine. The imaging engine acquires a first image of the target object via the first imager. The imaging engine selects a lens focusing scheme based on a detectability level of the sight pattern in the first image, wherein the lens focusing scheme is selected between a first lens focusing scheme associated with a position of the sight pattern and a second lens focusing scheme associated with at least one predefined lens position. The imaging engine determines a focal position of a lens according to the lens focusing scheme.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to lens focusing in imaging environments such as barcode scanners and / or other symbol scanners. Background Art

[0002] An imaging device, such as a barcode scanner, may include an imaging engine having one or more imaging devices ("imagers"). The one or more imagers may be utilized to capture images of corresponding fields of view of the one or more imagers. The one or more imagers may have corresponding operating ranges and capabilities. For example, a first imager may be configured to operate at a short range, while a second imager may be configured to operate at a longer range than the first imager. In various contexts, the imaging engine may utilize an aimer to focus one or more imagers included in the imaging engine. The imaging engine may use the aimer to project a light pattern into an environment. For example, the imaging engine may project an aimer pattern in a particular direction so that the aimer pattern is on or near a target object (e.g., for capturing an image of the target object). A user of the imaging engine may use the aimer pattern as an indicator, for example, to determine whether the imaging engine is oriented in the appropriate direction for capturing one or more images of the target object using the one or more imagers. Additionally, the imaging engine may use the aimer pattern to perform distance measurements, for example, to focus one or more imagers used to capture one or more images.

[0003] There is a need for new techniques for focusing one or more imagers using a crosshair pattern. The present inventors have identified numerous areas for improvement in existing techniques and methods, which are the subject of the embodiments described herein. Through dedicated effort, ingenuity, and innovation, many of these deficiencies, challenges, and problems have been addressed by developing solutions included in the embodiments of the present disclosure, some examples of which are described in detail herein. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In general, embodiments of the present disclosure provided herein are configured for lens focusing in a multi-imager environment, such as in a multi-imager imaging device. Other specific implementations for lens focusing in a multi-imager environment will be or will become apparent to one skilled in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. All such additional specific implementations are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims.

[0005] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, a method is provided. The method can be implemented using any of a myriad of specific implementations, such as via hardware, software, and / or firmware of an imaging engine and / or a multi-imager imaging device as described herein. In at least one example implementation of the method, the example method includes projecting a sight pattern onto a target object within a field of view of a first imager of an imaging engine during a first opportunity. The example method also includes acquiring a first image of the target object via the first imager during the first opportunity. The example method also includes selecting a lens focusing scheme based on a level of detectability of the sight pattern in the first image, wherein the lens focusing scheme is selected between a first lens focusing scheme associated with a position of the sight pattern and a second lens focusing scheme associated with a predefined lens position. The example method also includes determining a focal position of a lens in the imaging engine based on the lens focusing scheme.

[0006] In some embodiments of the method, the method further includes selecting the first lens focusing scheme based on the detectability level of the aimer pattern satisfying a threshold, wherein the focal position of the lens is determined according to the first lens focusing scheme.

[0007] Additionally or alternatively, in some such embodiments of the example method, the method further comprises: identifying the position of the aimer pattern based on the first image; and determining the focal position of the lens based on the position of the aimer pattern using one or more lookup tables.

[0008] Additionally or alternatively, in some such implementations of the example method, the one or more lookup tables are associated with the first imager.

[0009] Additionally or alternatively, in some such embodiments of the example method, the method further comprises: estimating a distance between the imaging engine and the target object using a first lookup table of the one or more lookup tables, wherein the distance is based on the position of the aimer pattern; and determining the focal position of the lens based on the distance using a second lookup table.

[0010] Additionally or alternatively, in some such embodiments of the example method, the method further comprises selecting an imager of the imaging engine based on the distance, wherein the lens is included in the imager, and wherein the imager comprises the first imager or a second imager of the imaging engine.

[0011] Additionally or alternatively, in some such embodiments of the example method, the method further comprises: determining a second focal position of the lens based on the position of the aiming pattern using the one or more lookup tables, the position of the aiming pattern corresponding to an intermediate focal position between the focal position and the second focal position; acquiring a second image of the target object based on the focal position using the lens; and acquiring a third image of the target object based on the second focal position using the lens.

[0012] Additionally or alternatively, in some such embodiments of the example method, the method further comprises: acquiring a second image of the target object using the lens according to the focal position; performing one or more operations to decode visual markers within the second image; and determining a second focal position of the lens based on a failure to successfully decode the visual markers within the second image according to the second lens focusing scheme.

[0013] In some embodiments of the method, the method further comprises determining the focal position of the lens based at least in part on the position of the aimer pattern using a single lookup table.

[0014] In some embodiments of the method, the method further includes selecting the second lens focusing scheme based on the detectability level of the aimer pattern failing to meet a threshold, wherein the focal position of the lens is determined according to the second lens focusing scheme.

[0015] Additionally or alternatively, in some such embodiments of the example method, the method further comprises selecting a predefined lens position for the focal position of the lens, wherein the predefined lens position is based on a priority associated with the predefined lens position, and wherein the priority corresponds to a likelihood of successfully decoding a visual marker in an image acquired using the predefined lens position.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively, in some such embodiments of the example method, the predefined lens position is based on one or more lens positions used to acquire one or more other images via the imaging engine prior to the first opportunity, wherein decoding of the visual marker included in the one or more other images was successful.

[0017] Additionally or alternatively, in some such embodiments of the example method, the priority is based on a depth of field associated with the predefined lens position, a distance between a previous position of the lens and the predefined lens position, a decoding state associated with one or more other images acquired using the predefined lens position, an environment of the target object, or any combination thereof.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, in some such embodiments of the example method, the predefined lens position is one of a plurality of candidate lens positions, and wherein the predefined lens position is selected according to a sequence based on a respective priority associated with each of the plurality of candidate lens positions.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively, in some such embodiments of the example method, the method further comprises: acquiring a second image of the target object using the lens according to the predefined lens position during a second opportunity after the first opportunity; and selecting a second predefined lens position according to the sequence based on a failure to successfully decode the visual marker within the second image, wherein the second predefined lens position comprises another candidate lens position from the plurality of candidate lens positions, and wherein the predefined lens position has a higher priority than the second predefined lens position.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively, in some such embodiments of the example method, the method further comprises positioning the lens in the predefined lens position during the first opportunity, wherein the lens is included in a second imager of the imaging engine.

[0021] In some embodiments of the method, the method further comprises selecting an illuminator source for acquiring one or more images using the lens according to the predefined lens position, wherein the illuminator source is selected based on the focal position.

[0022] In some embodiments of the method, the method further includes: projecting the aimer pattern onto a second target object during a second timing after the first timing, wherein the second target object includes the target object or another target object; acquiring a second image of the second target object according to the focal position of the lens during the second timing, wherein the second image is acquired during the second timing based on a predefined periodicity or expiration of a timer; and determining a second focal position based on the detection capability level of the aimer pattern in the second image.

[0023] In some embodiments of the method, the detectability level is based on an average region of interest and an intensity difference between one or more pixels in the first image associated with the aimer pattern and one or more other pixels in the first image.

[0024] In some embodiments of the method, the imaging engine comprises a multi-imager imaging engine.

[0025] In some embodiments of the method, the position of the aimer pattern corresponds to the position of at least one pixel in the first image.

[0026] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a device is provided. The device may be implemented as any combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware as described herein. In at least one example embodiment, the device includes an imaging engine. The example device also includes one or more processors in communication with the imaging engine, and the one or more processors may be embodied as any of countless specific implementations via hardware, software, and / or firmware (including but not limited to memory, microprocessors, ASICs, FPGAs, etc.). In some embodiments of the device, the one or more processors include one or more memory devices or communicate with one or more memory devices. The one or more processors of the example device configure the device to perform any of the example methods described herein.

[0027] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program product is provided. The computer program product includes at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer code stored thereon. When executed by at least one processor, the computer program code is configured to perform any of the example methods described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The description of the exemplary embodiments may be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, the elements shown in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements. Embodiments incorporating the teachings of the present disclosure are shown and described with respect to the drawings presented herein, in which:

[0029] Figure 1 shows a block diagram of an example multi-imager imaging engine according to at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 2 A block diagram illustrating an example multi-imager imaging apparatus according to at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0031] Figure 3 A flowchart depicting example operations of a process for lens focusing in a multi-imager environment is shown, in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0032] Figure 4 Diagrams associated with operational functionality of a multi-imager imaging device are shown according to at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Various embodiments of the present disclosure are described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, some, but not all, of which are shown. In practice, the embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms, and therefore, the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. On the contrary, the embodiments set forth herein are provided so that the present disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

[0034] As used herein, the term "comprising" means including but not limited to, and should be interpreted in the manner in which it is typically used in a patent context. The use of broader terms such as "including," "comprising," and "having" should be understood to provide support for narrower terms such as "consisting of," "consisting essentially of," and "composed essentially of."

[0035] The phrases "in various embodiments," "in one embodiment," "according to one embodiment," "in some embodiments," etc. generally mean that the particular feature, structure, or characteristic following the phrase may be included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, and may be included in more than one embodiment of the present disclosure (importantly, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment).

[0036] The word “example” or “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations.

[0037] If the specification states that a component or feature "may," "could," "might," "should," "will," "preferably," "likely," "typically," "optionally," "for example," "usually," or "might" (or other such language) be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have that characteristic. Such a component or feature may optionally be included in some embodiments, or it may be excluded.

[0038] The use of the term "circuitry" as used herein with respect to components of a system or device should be understood to include specific hardware configured to perform the functions associated with the particular circuitry as described herein. The term "circuitry" should be broadly understood to include hardware and, in some embodiments, software for configuring the hardware. For example, in some embodiments, a "circuitry" may include processing circuitry, communication circuitry, input / output circuitry, etc. In some embodiments, other elements may provide or supplement the functionality of a particular circuit.

[0039] Overview

[0040] An imaging device, such as a barcode scanner, may be configured to capture one or more image data objects for the purpose of decoding the captured data to perform one or more image processing tasks. In one example context, the imaging device may be configured to process one or more captured image data objects in an attempt to identify and / or decode visual markers within the captured data. For example, the imaging device may include one or more imagers configured to detect a barcode (e.g., capture an image of the barcode) and use the captured image to decode the barcode. In some examples, the lens of the imager may be improperly positioned. In such examples, the barcode may be relatively unclear in the image (e.g., out of focus), and the imaging device may be unable to decode the barcode. For example, the position of the lens in the imaging device (referred to herein as the focus position) may be determined based on a measured (or estimated) distance between the scanner and a target object (e.g., a barcode). Therefore, inaccurate distance measurements may result in an inappropriate or unsuitable focus position for the lens.

[0041] In order to improve the accuracy of distance measurement, the imaging device may be configured with a sight. The sight may have multiple functions. In some non-limiting examples, the sight can be used for distance measurement and as a user indicator. For example, the user can use the sight to project a sight pattern onto the target object (for example, a barcode to be decoded). The position of the sight pattern can indicate the orientation of the imaging device (for example, the direction in which the imaging device is pointing). Therefore, based on the position of the sight pattern, the user can determine whether the scanner is pointing in the direction of the target object, and accordingly, determine whether the target object can be captured in the image obtained by the imaging device. The imaging device may additionally or alternatively use the sight pattern to perform one or more distance measurements. For example, the imaging device may use triangulation based on the position of the sight pattern to perform distance measurement for determining the focal position of the lens, and the imaging device can be used to capture one or more images of the target object.

[0042] Imaging devices have a wide range of applications across various industries and are therefore used in highly dynamic environments. For example, users may utilize imaging devices (e.g., barcode scanners) in a variety of environments with varying ambient light conditions. In one non-limiting example, a user may utilize a barcode scanner in environments ranging from a warehouse with relatively low ambient light conditions (e.g., approximately 3 lux) to an outdoor area with relatively high ambient light conditions (e.g., approximately 100K lux). The presence of extraneous light in relatively high ambient light conditions can reduce the contrast of images captured under such conditions. For example, extraneous light may cause the pixel intensity distribution in the captured image to be relatively narrow (e.g., may cause relatively small variations in brightness levels across the image), and due to the lack of contrast (or relatively low contrast) between adjacent pixels, distinctions between objects or features in the image may appear dim or blurred. Consequently, for images with relatively low contrast (e.g., images captured under relatively high ambient light conditions, images with a relatively narrow pixel intensity distribution), the accuracy and / or reliability with which a sight pattern can be distinguished from one or more surrounding objects may be relatively low, potentially resulting in inaccurate and / or unreliable distance measurements. Additionally or alternatively, other environmental factors, such as dust and uneven lighting, may reduce the detectability of the sight pattern in the image.

[0043] Further, some barcode scanners may be configured with a relatively large number of focus positions (e.g., step size, lens state) to accommodate increased barcode density and / or increased distance ranges over which the barcode scanner is used. In some cases, configuring the scanner with a relatively large number of focus positions may reduce the system responsiveness of the barcode scanner. For example, if distance measurements are inaccurate (or not being used), the barcode scanner may be configured to capture multiple images using the lens at multiple different focus positions in an attempt to identify a suitable focus position for the lens. In other words, the barcode scanner may revert to cycling through some or all of a relatively large number of focus positions in order to identify a suitable focus position for the lens. In some cases, cycling through a large number of focus positions (e.g., trying many focus positions) may be relatively time consuming and, as such, may reduce the system responsiveness of the barcode scanner (e.g., may reduce scanning agility).

[0044] Various aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to lens focusing in an imaging environment, and more specifically to a framework for integrated lens focusing in a dual-channel scanning system. The framework for integrated lens focusing as described herein can provide improved performance in a dual-channel scanning system. For example, the present disclosure can provide improved agility and robustness for a dual-channel scanning system utilized in a highly dynamic range of ambient light conditions (e.g., 0K lux to 100K lux).

[0045] According to various aspects of the present disclosure, a multi-imager imaging device (e.g., a dual-channel scanning system) may select a lens focusing scheme based on the detection capability of a sight pattern. For example, the multi-imager imaging device may project a sight pattern onto a target object within the field of view of a first imager of a multi-imager imaging engine included in the multi-imager imaging device during a first opportunity. The first imager may include a near-field imager or a far-field imager. The multi-imager imaging device may also acquire a first image of the target object via the first imager during the first opportunity (e.g., to attempt to capture an image of the projected sight pattern). The multi-imager imaging device may then select a lens focusing scheme based on the detection capability level of the sight pattern in the first image. For example, the multi-imager imaging device may then select a lens focusing scheme to determine the focal position of a lens in an imager of the multi-imager imaging engine. The imager may include the first imager or another imager in the multi-imager imaging engine. That is, the imager may include a near-field imager or a far-field imager. In various embodiments, a lens focusing scheme is selected between a first lens focusing scheme associated with the position of the aimer pattern (e.g., a triangulation-based focusing scheme) and a second lens focusing scheme associated with a predefined lens position (e.g., a default focusing scheme).

[0046] In various aspects of the present disclosure, a multi-imager imaging device may select a first lens focusing scheme based on a detection capability level of a sight pattern meeting a threshold. In other words, when a sight can be detected, the multi-imager imaging device may select a focusing scheme based on triangulation to determine the focal position of the lens. In various embodiments, in order to determine the focal position according to the first lens focusing scheme, triangulation based on one or more lookup tables (and the position of the sight pattern) is performed. That is, according to various embodiments of the first lens focusing scheme, the lens is moved according to the lookup results, which are based on triangulation using the position of the sight pattern. In various embodiments, the distance the lens moves depends on the current position of the lens. In other words, the distance the lens moves may correspond to the difference between the selected lens position and the current position of the lens.

[0047] In various embodiments of the present disclosure, a multi-imager imaging device may select a second lens focus scheme based on a failure of the detection capability level of a sight pattern to meet a threshold. In other words, when the sight pattern cannot be clearly detected (e.g., under various signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) criteria), the multi-imager imaging device may select a default focus scheme. In various embodiments, a priority-based sequence is performed to determine a focus position according to the second lens focus scheme. That is, the second lens focus scheme may include moving the lens to a predefined focus position according to a priority-based sequence. The multi-imager imaging device may determine the sequence by sorting a plurality of candidate focus positions according to a corresponding priority associated with each candidate focus position. In such an example, the first focus position in the sequence may correspond to the candidate focus position with the highest priority among the plurality of candidate positions. In various embodiments, the priority of the candidate focus positions may be formed based on one or more criteria such as: the depth of field (DOF) coverage associated with the focus position, the distance the lens has moved (e.g., the distance between the focus position and the current position of the lens), and the decoding status associated with one or more images acquired using the focus position (e.g., whether one or more previous images collected according to the focus position were successfully decoded). In various embodiments, the lens is moved to a predefined focus position associated with a previously successfully decoded image (e.g., the last or most recently successfully decoded image) according to a second lens focusing scheme. In various embodiments, the multi-imager imaging device may move the lens to a predefined focus position (e.g., the first focus position in a predefined sequence or a predefined focus position associated with a previously successfully decoded image) during a first opportunity. That is, the multi-imager imaging device may move the lens to the predefined focus position and simultaneously acquire the first image. In other words, the multi-imager imaging device may move the lens to the predefined focus position while acquiring the first image. In some examples, moving the lens to the predefined focus position based on priority (and / or while acquiring another image) may increase the rate at which images are successfully decoded (e.g., may enable a scanner to capture decodable images relatively quickly), thereby improving the agility and robustness of the multi-imager imaging device.

[0048] In some embodiments, some of the operations described above may be modified or further amplified. In addition, in some embodiments, additional optional operations may also be included. Modifications, amplifications, or additions to the operations described above may be performed in any order and in any combination.

[0049] Those skilled in the art of the present disclosure that benefit from the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings will appreciate many modifications and other embodiments of the present disclosure set forth herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments are not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. In addition, although the foregoing description and the associated drawings have described example 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, as may be set forth in some of the appended claims, it is also contemplated that combinations of elements and / or functions different from those explicitly described above are also contemplated. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used only in a general and descriptive sense, and not for restrictive purposes.

[0050] The term "illuminator source" refers to one or more light generating hardware, devices, and / or components configured to produce illumination within a field of view. Non-limiting examples of illuminator sources include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), one or more lasers, and the like.

[0051] The term "near-field illuminator source" refers to an illuminator source configured to generate illumination configured to illuminate a near field of view associated with a near-field imager. In at least one example context, the near-field illuminator source is configured to generate illumination having a wider field of view than a field of view of a far-field illuminator source.

[0052] The term "far-field illuminator source" refers to an illuminator source configured to generate illumination configured to illuminate a far field of view associated with a far-field imager. In at least one example context, the far-field illuminator source is configured to generate illumination having a narrower field of view than a field of view of a near-field illuminator source.

[0053] The term "illumination" refers to one or more light rays generated by an illuminator source within a field of view. In various embodiments, illumination includes continuous illumination and / or pulsed illumination.

[0054] In at least one example context, continuous illumination comprises one or more continuous streams of light generated by one or more corresponding illuminator sources.

[0055] In at least one example context, illumination comprises one or more light pulses generated by one or more corresponding illuminator sources.

[0056] The term "near-field illumination" refers to illumination produced by a near-field illuminator. In some embodiments, near-field illumination is associated with illumination of a near field of view captured by a near-field imager.

[0057] The term "far-field illumination" refers to the illumination produced by a far-field illuminator. In some embodiments, the far-field illumination is associated with the illumination of a far field of view captured by a far-field imager.

[0058] The term "ray" refers to light that travels in a straight line in any one direction. In at least one example context, a light beam comprises a set of light rays generated from an illuminator source.

[0059] The term "imager" refers to one or more components configured to capture an image representing a particular field of view. In at least one example context, the imager includes at least one optical component (e.g., at least one lens and / or at least one associated housing) that defines the particular field of view. Additionally or alternatively, in at least one example context, the imager includes an image sensor configured to output an image based on light, such as that interfaced with the image sensor via the optical components. The term "image" refers to electronic data generated by the imager that embodies a captured representation of the imager's field of view.

[0060] The term "near-field imager" refers to an imager configured to acquire an image of a near field of view. In at least one context, a near-field imager includes at least one near-field optical component defining the near field of view and a near-field image sensor. The term "near-field image" refers to electronic data generated by the near-field imager that embodies a captured representation of the near field of view.

[0061] The term "far-field imager" refers to an imager configured to acquire an image of a far field of view. In at least one context, a far-field imager includes at least one far-field optical component defining the far field of view and a far-field image sensor. The term "far-field image" refers to electronic data generated by the far-field imager that embodies a captured representation of the far field of view.

[0062] 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 example contexts, the image sensor converts light waves interacting with the image sensor into signals representing the image output by the sensor.

[0063] The term "image capture optics" refers to one or more lenses and / or one or more corresponding housings that define an aperture to receive reflected light. In some embodiments, the image capture optics are associated with an image sensor such that the image capture optics, in combination with the image sensor, define a field of view captured by such components. It should be understood that the image capture optics may include one or more lenses constructed from any of a variety of materials, including but not limited to 3-glass lenses, 3-plastic lenses, etc.

[0064] The term "lens" refers to any transmissive optical device that focuses or disperses light by refraction. In at least one context, a lens may include any lens that focuses light received through an input face of the lens to a particular focal point.

[0065] The term "input face" with respect to a lens refers to the portion of the lens that is intended to receive light.

[0066] The term "output face" with respect to a lens refers to that portion of the lens from which light received by the lens is projected.

[0067] The term "projection optics" refers to one or more lenses and / or one or more corresponding housings configured to receive light generated by an illuminator source and generate illumination of a predefined illumination pattern from the received light. Projection optics may be referred to herein as an illumination lens. In at least one example context, one or more physical characteristics of the projection optics define an illumination pattern associated with the projection optics, such as based on a defined shape and / or curvature of the projection optics.

[0068] The term "imaging engine" refers to a device that includes at least one imager that is configured to capture image data objects (e.g., images) associated with various focus ranges and / or fields of view. In some embodiments, the imager of the imaging engine includes a sensor, an illuminator source, and image capture optics that define a field of view. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the imaging engine includes one or more illuminator sources. In some such embodiments, the illuminator source is associated with the one or more imagers. In at least one example context, the imaging engine includes at least a far-field imager or a near-field imager.

[0069] The term "multi-imager imaging engine" refers to a device comprising a plurality of imagers configured to be capable of capturing image data objects (e.g., images) associated with various focus ranges and / or fields of view. In some embodiments, the imagers of the multi-imager imaging engine comprise a sensor, an illuminator source, and image capture optics that define a field of view. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the multi-imager imaging engine comprises a plurality of illuminator sources, wherein the illuminator sources are associated with one or more imagers. In at least one example context, the multi-imager imaging engine comprises at least a far-field imager and a near-field imager.

[0070] The term "imaging device" refers to a device comprising at least one imaging engine configured to capture image data objects (e.g., images) associated with various focus ranges and / or fields of view. In at least one example context, the imaging device is a scanner, such as a barcode scanner.

[0071] The term "multi-imager imaging device" refers to a device that includes at least one multi-imager imaging engine configured to capture image data objects (e.g., images) associated with various focus ranges and / or fields of view. In at least one example context, the multi-imager imaging device is a scanner, such as a barcode scanner.

[0072] The term "projection" refers to directing light through optics, such as a lens. In at least one example context, projecting light includes directing light from an illuminator source onto a target object.

[0073] The term "sight" refers to one or more components of a device that are configured to project illumination for aligning the device with a target object. In at least one example context, the sight is used to align the device with the target object for capturing an image of the target object. In at least one example context, the sight includes an illuminator source (e.g., one or more light-generating elements) that generates light used to project illumination for aligning the device with the target object. Additionally, in at least one example context, the sight includes at least one optical component (e.g., at least one lens and / or at least one associated housing) that is configured to receive light generated by the illuminator source and generate a predefined illumination pattern from the received light. The predefined illumination pattern is referred to herein as a sight pattern. In at least one example context, the sight pattern provides a visual guide or marker for aligning the device with the target object. In various embodiments, the sight pattern varies based on one or more characteristics of the sight (such as the illuminator source and / or projection optics). Some non-limiting examples of sight patterns include circles, thin lines, crosshairs, a dot matrix, and the like. In at least one example context, a sight may be configured to project a pattern or outline around a target object. In such an example context, the sight pattern may include a pattern or outline projected around the target object.

[0074] The term "target object" refers to a surface onto which a sight pattern is projected. In at least one example context, the target object includes any surface or material that interacts with the sight pattern by, for example, redirecting at least a portion of the sight pattern in the direction of an imager. Light redirection may be referred to as reflection. In at least one example context, the target object includes a surface displaying a visual indicia. In some non-limiting examples, the visual indicia is displayed on the target object via printing, engraving, embossing, debossing, etching, projection, digital display, tactile marking, or hologram.

[0075] The term "visual indicia" refers to a visual pattern that conveys encoded data. In at least one example context, the visual indicia includes a visual pattern that conveys the encoded data in a machine-readable format. A non-limiting example of a visual indicia includes a barcode.

[0076] The term "field of view" refers to the range of an image that an optical device, such as an imager, can capture at a given moment. In at least one example context, the field of view comprises the physical area that can be imaged by a lens system. In at least one example context, the field of view comprises a portion of the area that fills the imager sensor. In various embodiments, the field of view may comprise a horizontal or vertical field of view. In at least one example context, the horizontal field of view is defined based on the horizontal angle of the horizontal field of view and the distance between the left and right edges. In at least one example context, the field of view of an imager depends on one or more components of the imager, such as the focal length of a lens in the imager.

[0077] The term "reference position" and the like refers to the location of a calibration point. In various embodiments, a reference point can be defined in terms of one or more coordinates.

[0078] The term "acquiring an image" and the like refer to the process of capturing an image using a device such as an imager.

[0079] The term "lens focusing scheme" refers to one or more operations performed by a device to focus a lens. In at least one example context, a lens focusing scheme includes one or more operations for selecting a focal position of a lens.

[0080] The term "focal position of a lens" and the like refers to the position within the imager at which the lens is positioned to capture an image of a target object. In various embodiments, the focal position of a lens corresponds to a specific distance between the lens and the target object.

[0081] The term "position of the sight pattern" refers to the position of one or more pixels in the image corresponding to the position from which the sight pattern is reflected. In at least one example context, the position of the sight pattern is based on the area of ​​the surface onto which the sight pattern is projected. For example, light reflected from the surface by the sight pattern can be captured (e.g., detected) in the form of an image via an imager. In such embodiments, the position of the sight pattern corresponds to the position of one or more pixels in the image corresponding to the reflected light of the sight pattern. In various embodiments, the position of the sight pattern can be defined according to one or more coordinates.

[0082] The term "lookup table" refers to a data structure configured to map input values ​​to corresponding output values. In various embodiments, a lookup table includes a tabular representation of one or more functions or a set of relationships between input data and output data.

[0083] The term "communicatively coupled" refers to a state that enables transmission of data signals between components, devices, or systems in one or both directions.

[0084] Exemplary systems, apparatus, and methods

[0085] Figure 1 An example multi-imager imaging engine is shown in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure. More specifically, as Figure 1 As shown, an example multi-imager imaging engine is embodied as a multi-imager imaging engine 100. The multi-imager imaging engine 100 includes a plurality of imagers, namely a near-field imager and a far-field imager configured to capture image data objects in a near field of view associated with the near-field imager and a far field of view associated with the far-field imager. In at least one example context, the multi-imager imaging engine 100 is configured to capture images for barcode reading purposes at different ranges, such as a close range using the near-field imager and a long range using the far-field imager.

[0086] As shown, the multi-imager imaging engine 100 includes near-field image capture optics 104A. The near-field capture optics 104A may be embodied as one or more lenses and / or other optical components configured to enable light to laterally transmit through and interact with a corresponding image sensor (i.e., the near-field image sensor 102A). In this regard, the near-field image capture optics 104A may define a particular field of view that may be captured by the near-field image sensor 102A. In some embodiments, the near-field image capture optics 104A defines a near field of view associated with a first focus range such that objects located within the first focus range and / or within a determinable offset from the first focus range may be sharper in images captured by the near-field image sensor 102A than other objects located outside the first focus range.

[0087] Additionally, if Figure 1As shown, the multi-imager imaging engine 100 includes far-field image capture optics 104B. The far-field image capture optics 104B may be embodied as one or more lenses and / or other optical components configured to enable light to laterally transmit through and interact with a corresponding image sensor (i.e., the far-field image sensor 102B). In this regard, the far-field image capture optics 104B may define a second field of view that may be captured by the far-field image sensor 102B. In some embodiments, the far-field image capture optics 104B defines a far field of view associated with a second focus range, such that objects located within the second focus range and / or within a determinable offset from the second focus range may appear sharper in images captured by the far-field image sensor 102B than other objects located outside the second focus range. In some such embodiments, the near field of view is wider than the far field of view, such that the captured data represents more of the environment within the field of view of the multi-imager imaging engine 100. The far field of view may be narrower than the near field of view and focus at a farther range to enable more clear capture of objects located at a greater range than can be clearly captured in the near field of view.

[0088] In some embodiments, the imager is associated with one or more components for generating illumination configured to illuminate the field of view defined by the imager. Figure 1 As shown, the multi-imager imaging engine 100 includes a near-field illuminator source 106B and a corresponding near-field projection optical device 108B. The near-field illuminator source 106B is configured to generate light in the direction of the near-field projection optical device 108B. The light is refracted through the near-field projection optical device 108B to generate near-field illumination, which can be generated as a pattern based on the configuration and design of the near-field projection optical device 108B. In this regard, the illumination generated by the light exiting the near-field projection optical device 108B can illuminate a specific field of view (such as a near field of view that can be captured by the near-field image sensor 102A). It should be understood that in some embodiments, the near-field illuminator source 106B and / or the near-field projection optical device 108B can be designed so that the near-field illumination specifically illuminates the near field of view and can affect the function of the far-field image sensor 102B without adversely affecting the function of the near-field image sensor 102A. For example, due at least in part to the close proximity between components, reflected light may interact with the far-field image sensor 102B and adversely affect images created via the far-field image sensor 102B.

[0089] Additionally, if Figure 1As shown, the multi-imager imaging engine 100 includes a far-field illuminator source 106A and a corresponding far-field projection optical device 108A. The far-field illuminator source 106A is configured to generate light in the direction of the far-field projection optical device 108A. The light is refracted through the far-field projection optical device 108A to generate far-field illumination, which can be generated into a desired pattern based on the configuration and design of the far-field projection optical device 108A. In this regard, the far-field illumination can illuminate a specific field of view (such as a far field of view that can be captured by the far-field image sensor 102B). It should be understood that the far-field illuminator source 106A and / or the far-field projection optical device 108A can be designed so that the far-field illumination specifically illuminates the far field of view without generating reflections sufficient to adversely affect the operation of the near-field image sensor 102A and / or the far-field image sensor 102B.

[0090] Additionally, the multi-imager imaging engine 100 includes an aimer illuminator source 110. The aimer illuminator source 110 is configured to generate light in the direction of the aimer projection optics 112. For example, the aimer illuminator source includes one or more laser diodes and / or one or more high-intensity LEDs configured to generate sufficiently powerful and / or concentrated light. The light is refracted through the aimer projection optics 112 to generate aimer illumination, which can be generated in a desired pattern based on the configuration and design of the aimer projection optics 112. In one example context, the aimer pattern can be generated as a thin line (e.g., a laser line pattern) for purposes such as barcode scanning.

[0091] The multi-imager imaging engine 100 also includes a protective window 114. The protective window 114 includes one or more optical components configured to allow generated light to exit the multi-imager imaging engine 100 and to allow incident light to be received by the near-field image capture optics 104A and the far-field image capture optics 104B for interaction with corresponding image sensors (e.g., near-field image sensor 102A and far-field image sensor 102B). In some contexts, the protective window 114 reflects at least a portion of the illumination projected by the far-field projection optics 108A and / or the near-field projection optics 108B, and at least a portion of the illumination can interact with the near-field image sensor 102A and / or the far-field image sensor 102B by light leakage or by passing through the corresponding image capture optics (e.g., near-field image capture optics 104A and / or far-field image capture optics 104B). For example, at least a portion of the near-field illumination may be reflected toward far-field image sensor 102B and, if far-field image sensor 102B is triggered when the illumination pulse occurs, at least a portion of the near-field illumination may adversely affect the operation of the far-field image sensor. In at least one example context, far-field illuminator source 106A generates concentrated light and / or otherwise sufficiently designed light such that the far-field illumination generated by far-field projection optics 108A is not sufficiently reflected to adversely affect near-field image sensor 102A.

[0092] It should be understood that in other embodiments, the multi-imager imaging engine can include any number of image capture optics, image sensors, illuminator sources, and / or any combination thereof. In this regard, the engine can be expanded to capture any number of fields of view, each of which can be associated with a corresponding illuminator designed to specifically illuminate the corresponding field of view.

[0093] In some imaging engines, distance measurements can be made using triangulation based on a sight pattern projected from the imaging engine. For example, the imaging engine can project a sight pattern onto a target object, which can cause at least a portion of the sight pattern to be reflected back to the imaging engine. In such examples, the imaging engine can detect the reflected portion of the sight pattern and can use triangulation to determine the distance between the imaging engine and the target object based on the detected portion of the sight pattern. However, in relatively high ambient light conditions (such as outdoor sunlight conditions), the detected portion of the sight pattern may not be distinguishable from other light reflected from other objects within the imaging engine's field of view. That is, the sight pattern may not be recognizable in the image of the target object. In such cases, distance measurements based on the sight pattern may be inaccurate and unreliable. That is, if the sight pattern cannot be sufficiently distinguished in the image of the target object, the distance measurement between the imaging engine and the target object may be inaccurate, which may lead to inaccurate selection of the focus position of one or more lenses in the imaging engine.

[0094] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, an imaging engine such as the multi-imager imaging engine 100 may select a focusing scheme based on a level of detectability of a sight pattern in an image. Thus, the present disclosure may provide for integrated lens focusing of an imager under various field conditions (e.g., a highly dynamic range of conditions, such as conditions having 0 lux to 100K lux). For example, under relatively low ambient light conditions, the sight pattern may be sufficiently distinguishable in the image of the target object. In various embodiments, if the level of detectability of the sight pattern meets a threshold, the sight pattern may be sufficiently distinguishable in the image of the target object. Under such conditions, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the multi-imager imaging engine 100 may select a first focusing scheme in which the focal position of the lens is determined via triangulation based on the position of the sight pattern. Under relatively high ambient light conditions, the sight pattern may not be sufficiently distinguishable in the image of the target object. In various embodiments, if the level of detectability of the sight pattern fails to meet the threshold, the sight pattern may not be distinguishable in the image of the target object. Under such conditions, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the multi-imager imaging engine 100 may select a second focusing scheme in which the focal position of the lens is determined based on a predefined lens position. Utilizing one or more integrated lens focusing techniques as described herein may increase the rate at which the multi-imager imaging engine 100 selects a suitable focal position for the lens (e.g., a focal position at which the target object in an image collected using the lens is sufficiently sharp to be successfully decoded). Consequently, one or more integrated lens focusing techniques as described herein may also increase the rate at which the multi-imager imaging engine 100 successfully decodes an image.

[0095] In some embodiments, the multi-imager imaging engine 100 includes one or more processing components (e.g., processors and / or other processing circuitry) for controlling the activation of one or more components of the multi-imager imaging engine 100. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the multi-imager imaging engine 100 includes a processor configured to select a lens focusing scheme, determine the focal position of the lens based on the selected scheme, time the illumination pulses of the near-field illuminator source 106B and / or the far-field illuminator source 106A, and / or control the exposure of the near-field image sensor 102A and / or the far-field image sensor 102B. In some such contexts, the processor is embodied as any of a myriad of processing circuit implementations, such as an FPGA, an ASIC, a microprocessor, a CPU, and the like. In at least some embodiments, the processor can 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 can include one or more sub-processors, remote processors (e.g., "cloud" processors), and / or can communicate with one or more additional processors for performing such functionality. For example, in at least one embodiment, the processor can communicate with another processor within the imaging device (e.g., Figure 2 The processor 202) is depicted and described as being in communication with and / or operating in conjunction with the other processor.

[0096] Figure 2 An example multi-imager imaging device (eg, multi-imager imaging device 200) is shown in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 As shown, the multi-imager imaging device 200 includes a device base 210 for housing the various components of the multi-imager imaging device 200. In this regard, it should be understood that the device base 210 can be embodied as any of numerous base designs, using any of numerous materials, etc., suitable for positioning the various components of the multi-imager imaging device 200 for operation. In at least one example context, the device base 210 can be embodied as a handheld device base, a wearable base, etc.

[0097] The multi-imager imaging device 200 includes the Figure 1The multi-imager imaging engine 100 is described. The multi-imager imaging device 200 also includes a processor 202. The processor 202 (and / or one or more other coprocessors and / or processing circuitry assisting the processor 202 and / or otherwise associated with the processor 202) can provide processing functionality to the multi-imager imaging device 200. In this regard, the processor 202 can be embodied in any of a myriad of ways and can, for example, include one or more processing devices configured to execute independently. Additionally or alternatively, the processor can include one or more processors configured to operate in tandem via a bus to enable independent execution of instructions, pipelining, and / or multithreading, etc. The use of the terms "processor," "processing module," and / or "processing circuitry" can be understood to include single-core processors, multi-core processors, multiple processors, microprocessors, other central processing units ("CPUs"), and / or one or more remote or "cloud" processors. In other embodiments, the processor 202 is configured as one or more field programmable gate arrays ("FPGAs"), application-specific integrated circuits ("ASICs"), etc.

[0098] In at least one example embodiment, the processor 202 is configured to provide functionality for operating one or more components of the multi-imager imaging device 200. For example, the processor 202 may be configured to activate the far-field illuminator source 106A, the near-field illuminator source 106B, and / or the aimer illuminator source 110. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the processor 202 is configured to activate the near-field image sensor 102A and / or the far-field image sensor 102B to expose the corresponding image sensor, and / or to read out captured data to generate an image based on the data captured during the exposure. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the processor 202 is configured to process one or more captured images, for example, based on one or more image processing tasks. In one such example context, the processor 202 is configured to perform one or more operations to attempt to detect and decode visual markers, such as 1D and / or 2D barcodes, from the captured images. In this regard, the processor 202 may be configured to utilize a visual marker parsing algorithm and / or a visual marker decoding algorithm to provide such functionality.

[0099] Additionally or alternatively, the multi-imager imaging device 200 includes an activation component 206. The activation component 206 may include hardware, software, firmware, and / or a combination thereof configured to instruct a user to initiate (and / or terminate) a desired function. For example, the activation component 206 may transmit an activation signal to cause the processor 202 to begin operation of the multi-imager imaging device 200, such as to begin illumination by one or more of the illuminator sources (e.g., the far-field illumination source 106A and / or the near-field illumination source 106B) and / or to capture by the near-field image sensor 102A and / or the far-field image sensor 102B, as described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the activation component 206 may transmit a deactivation signal to the processor 202 to terminate the corresponding function, such as to stop scanning via one or more of the illuminators and / or one or more of the image sensors. In some embodiments, the activation component 206 is embodied as one or more buttons, triggers, and / or other physical components on the body of the device base 210. For example, in at least one example context, the activation component 206 is embodied as one or more "trigger" components that, when engaged by an operator (e.g., when the operator squeezes a trigger), transmits a signal to the processor 202 to initiate a corresponding function. In some such embodiments, when the operator disengages the component (e.g., when the operator releases the trigger), the activation component may transmit a deactivation signal to the processor 202 to cease such function. Additionally or alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the activation component 206 is embodied as having no components that are directly engaged by the operator. For example, the activation component 206 may be embodied as hardware and / or software, or a combination thereof, for detecting that the multi-imager imaging device 200 has been raised and / or positioned to a predefined "scanning" position and / or lowered from such position to trigger deactivation.

[0100] Additionally or alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the multi-imager imaging device 200 further includes a display 208. The display 208 may be embodied as an LCD, LED, and / or other screen device configured to display data provided by one or more components of the multi-imager imaging device 200. For example, in some embodiments, the display 208 is configured to render a user interface comprising text, images, control elements, and / or other data provided for rendering by the processor 202. In some embodiments, for example, the display 208 is embodied as an LCD and / or LED monitor integrated with a surface of the device base 210 and visible to an operator, for example to provide information decoded from a barcode and / or information associated with such information decoded from a barcode. In one or more embodiments, the display 208 may be configured to receive user engagement and / or may transmit one or more corresponding signals to the processor 202 to trigger a function based on the user engagement. In some such embodiments, the display 208 provides user interface functionality embodying the activation component 206, for example to enable an operator to initiate and / or terminate a scanning function via interaction with the user interface.

[0101] Additionally or alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the multi-imager imaging device 200 further includes a memory 204. The memory 204 may provide storage functionality, for example, to store data processed by the multi-imager imaging device 200 and / or instructions for providing the functionality described herein. In some embodiments, the processor 202 may communicate with the memory 204 via a bus to transfer information between components of the device and / or retrieve instructions for execution. The memory 204 may be non-transitory and may include, for example, one or more volatile memories and / or non-volatile memories. In other words, for example, the memory 204 may be an electronic storage device (e.g., a computer-readable storage medium). The memory 204 may be configured to store information, data, content, applications, instructions, etc. for enabling the multi-imager imaging device 200 to perform various functions according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the memory 204 includes computer-coded instructions for execution by the processor 202, for example, to perform the functionality described herein and / or in conjunction with hard-coded functions executed by the processor 202. For example, when the processor 202 is embodied as an executor of software instructions, the instructions may configure the processor 202 to perform the algorithms and / or operations described herein when the instructions are executed.

[0102] The multi-imager imaging engine 100 may include multiple imagers, such as a near-field imager including at least near-field image capture optics 104A and a near-field image sensor 102A, and a far-field imager including at least far-field image capture optics 104B and a far-field image sensor 102B. The near-field imager and the far-field imager may include one or more lenses. According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, the multi-imager imaging device 200 may select a focal position of one or more lenses included in the near-field imager and / or the far-field imager.

[0103] For example, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the multi-imager imaging device 200 may select a focusing scheme based on the level of detection capability of an aimer pattern in an image. In at least one example embodiment, the multi-imager imaging device 200 may use an aimer to project an aimer pattern onto a target object within the field of view of a first imager (e.g., a near-field imager or a far-field imager) of the multi-imager imaging engine 100 during a first time period. The aimer may include at least an aimer illuminator source 110 and aimer projection optics 112. The multi-imager imaging device 200 may acquire an image of the target object via the first imager while projecting the aimer pattern onto the target object. For example, the multi-imager imaging device 200 may acquire a first image of the target object during the first time period. The first imager may include a near-field imager and / or a far-field imager. For example, the multi-imager imaging device 200 may use the near-field imager or the far-field imager, or both, to determine the focal position of a lens in the multi-imager imaging device 200. In various embodiments, the first imager may be a global shutter imager or a rolling shutter imager.

[0104] The multi-imager imaging device 200 may select a lens focus scheme based on the level of detection capability of the aiming pattern in the first image. In various embodiments, the lens focus scheme is selected between a first lens focus scheme associated with the position of the aiming pattern and a second lens focus scheme associated with a predefined lens position. The multi-imager imaging device 200 may determine the focal position of a lens in the multi-imager imaging engine based on the selected lens focus scheme. The lens may be included in a near-field imager or a far-field imager. In various embodiments, the focal position may be continuous or categorized into discrete steps.

[0105] That is, the lens may be included in the first imager or the second (different) imager of the multi-imager imaging device 200. In some examples, selecting a lens focusing scheme based on the level of detection capability of the aimer pattern as described herein may result in improved performance of the multi-imager imaging device 200. For example, selecting a lens focusing scheme based on the level of detection capability of the aimer pattern as described herein may increase the rate at which the multi-imager imaging device 200 successfully decodes visual indicia included in target objects. Although Figure 1 and 2 A multi-imager imaging engine is depicted, but it should be understood that various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in an imaging engine having one or more imagers.

[0106] Figure 3 A flowchart is shown that depicts example operations of a process for lens focusing in an imaging environment (e.g., a single imager imaging environment, a multi-imager environment) according to at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, the process includes one or more integrated lens focusing techniques as described herein. Figure 3 As shown, an imaging device (eg, including a single imaging engine or a multi-imager imaging engine) may use one or more aspects of a process to select a focus solution based on a level of detectability of a sight pattern in an image.

[0107] In various embodiments, at 300, Figure 3 The process may be initiated. The initiation of the process may be initiated by a user of the imaging device. Additionally or alternatively, the imaging device may automatically initiate the process. In some non-limiting examples, the imaging device may automatically initiate the process in response to a trigger, according to a predefined periodicity, or in response to the expiration of one or more timers.

[0108] At 305, the aimer is activated. The aimer may be activated by a user, or the imaging device may activate it automatically. In some non-limiting examples, the imaging device may automatically activate the aimer in response to a trigger, according to a predefined periodicity, or in response to the expiration of one or more timers. In various embodiments, the imaging device may automatically activate the aimer in response to a timer that is initiated in response to successfully decoding an image. In some such embodiments, the duration of the timer may correspond to a threshold duration for the imaging device to operate without successfully decoding an image. In other words, if the imaging device fails to successfully decode an image and the timer expires, the aimer may be activated (e.g., so that the imaging device can capture an image of an aimer pattern for distance measurement). In various embodiments, at 305, the aimer may project the aimer pattern onto a target object within the field of view of a first imager among one or more imagers included in an imaging engine (e.g., included in the imaging device). The first imager may include a near-field imager or a far-field imager of the imaging engine.

[0109] At 310, the imaging device may acquire a first image of the target object via the first imager. In various embodiments, the imaging device may acquire the first image simultaneously with projecting the aiming pattern onto the target object. For example, one or more operations associated with 305 and 310 may be performed during the first opportunity.

[0110] In various embodiments, at 315, the imaging device may determine whether the aiming pattern is detected in the first image. For example, the imaging device may determine whether the level of detectability of the aiming pattern in the first image meets a threshold. In various embodiments, the threshold may be based on one or more characteristics of the aiming pattern and / or a region of interest (ROI). In other words, the determination at 315 may be based on an intensity difference associated with the aiming pattern and an average ROI. In various embodiments, the level of detectability is based on the average ROI and the intensity difference between one or more pixels in the first image associated with the aiming pattern and one or more other pixels in the first image. In various embodiments, the imaging device may acquire a background image. The background image may indicate the environment of the target object. In some such embodiments, the imaging device may use the background image to perform one or more image processing operations, for example, to improve the detectability of the aiming pattern in the first image. For example, the imaging device may subtract the background image from the first image (or one or more other images).

[0111] Additionally, if Figure 3 As shown in the example of , the imaging device may select a lens focusing solution based on determining whether the aiming pattern is detected in the first image at 315. In various embodiments, the lens focusing solution is selected between a first lens focusing solution associated with the position of the aiming pattern and a second lens focusing solution associated with at least one predefined lens position.

[0112] In some examples, at 315, the imaging device may determine that a sight pattern is detected in the first image (e.g., may determine "yes"). For example, the imaging device may determine that a level of detectability of the sight pattern in the first image satisfies a threshold. In such examples, the imaging device may determine a focal position of a lens in an imaging engine (e.g., a lens in a near-field imager or a lens in a far-field imager) according to a first lens focusing scheme. The first focusing scheme may include determining the focal position based on the position of the sight pattern. For example, according to the first lens focusing scheme, the imaging device may identify the position of the sight pattern (e.g., based on the first image) and may determine the focal position of the lens based on the position of the sight pattern using one or more lookup tables.

[0113] In some examples of the first lens focusing scheme, the imaging device may measure the aiming offset. In various embodiments, to measure (e.g., estimate, determine) the aiming offset, the multi-imager management device may identify the position of the aiming pattern in the first image. The position of the aiming pattern may be associated with the position from which the aiming pattern is reflected. In various embodiments, the position of the aiming pattern may include the position of one or more pixels in the image corresponding to the reflected light of the aiming pattern. In other words, the position of the aiming pattern may correspond to the position of the aiming pattern pixels in the first image. In various embodiments, the aiming offset corresponds to a first distance between the position of the aiming pattern and one or more reference points. In various embodiments, the reference points are based on a calibration performed at one or more known fixed distances. In other words, in various embodiments, the one or more reference points are one or more calibration data points. In various embodiments, the aiming offset may be determined based on the pixel offset between the aiming pattern pixels (e.g., one or more pixels in the image corresponding to the aiming pattern) and one or more reference pixels (e.g., one or more other pixels in the image corresponding to the one or more reference points). In such examples, the pixel offset can be used to determine the distance between the left edge of the imager's field of view and the location of the aimer pattern in space (e.g., parameter "t"), which can then be used to determine the aimer offset and / or a second distance between the imaging engine and the target object.

[0114] At 325, the imaging engine may estimate the focal position of the lens (e.g., the lens position) using the second distance using one or more lookup tables. For example, the imaging device may use a first lookup table in the one or more lookup tables to estimate the second distance between the imaging engine and the target object. In such an example, the second distance is based on the position of the sight pattern. Additionally, in various embodiments, the imaging device may use a second lookup table to determine the focal position of the lens based on the second distance. In various embodiments, the first lookup table and the second lookup table may be combined into a single lookup table (e.g., one or more functions associated with the first lookup table and one or more functions associated with the second lookup table may be combined in a single lookup table). In other words, the two lookup tables may be combined into one table, according to which the sight position may be directly mapped to the lens position (e.g., the focal position).

[0115] In various embodiments, one or more lookup tables may be associated with the first imager or the second imager. For example, the imaging device may be configured with one or more lookup tables associated with a near-field imager and one or more lookup tables associated with a far-field imager. In various embodiments, the lookup table may be associated with one or more focal positions of the imager and / or the lens in the imager. For example, an imager (e.g., a near-field imager, a far-field imager) may be associated with a single lookup table or multiple lookup tables, wherein the lookup table (e.g., each lookup table) is associated with a corresponding focal position. Thus, the first lookup table and / or the second lookup table may depend on whether the first imager is a near-field imager or a far-field imager (e.g., whether the first image is captured using a near-field imager or a far-field imager). In some such embodiments, the second lookup table may depend on whether the lens is a near-field imager or a far-field imager (e.g., whether the first image is captured using a near-field imager or a far-field imager).

[0116] In various embodiments, the imaging device may select an imager of the imaging engine based on the second distance. For example, the second distance may be such that a near-field focus position is suitable for capturing a relatively clear (e.g., decodable) image of the target object. In such examples, the imaging device may select a near-field imager. In some other examples, the second distance may be such that a far-field focus position is suitable for capturing a relatively clear (e.g., decodable) image of the target object. In such examples, the imaging device may select a far-field imager. In various embodiments, the focus position is selected based on the selected imager.

[0117] In some examples, a multi-image imaging device may determine multiple focal positions for a lens. For example, the imaging device may use one or more lookup tables to determine a focal position and a second focal position for a lens based on the position of a sight pattern, with the position of the sight pattern corresponding to an intermediate focal position between the focal position and the second focal position. In other words, the second distance may be such that an intermediate focal position between the two focal positions is suitable for capturing a relatively clear image of a target object. In one non-limiting example, the second distance may be such that a suitable focal position corresponds to an intermediate focal position between a mid-focus position in a far-field imager and a far-focus position (or near-focus position) of the far-field imager. In various embodiments, the imaging device may use the focal position and the second focal position to acquire multiple images (e.g., two images). For example, the imaging device may use the lens to acquire an image of a target object based on a focal position, and may use the lens to acquire another image of the target object based on a second focal position. In some examples, selecting multiple (e.g., two) focal positions for the lens may increase the depth of field associated with the imaging device.

[0118] At 330, the imaging device may perform image acquisition using the estimated lens position (eg, the focal position determined using one or more lookup tables). For example, the imaging device may acquire a second image of the target object using the lens according to the focal position.

[0119] At 335, the imaging device may perform decoding of the second image. For example, the imaging device may perform one or more operations to decode visual indicia within the second image.

[0120] At 340, the imaging device may determine whether the decoding at 335 was successful. In some examples, the imaging device may determine that the decoding at 335 was successful (e.g., a "yes" determination may be made at 340). In such examples, the process may end at 350. In some other examples, the imaging device may determine that the decoding at 335 failed (e.g., a "no" determination may be made at 340). In some such examples, the imaging device may determine to perform a default image acquisition using a predefined lens position (e.g., at 345). For example, in response to failing to successfully decode the visual indicia within the second image, the imaging device may determine a second focal position of the lens according to a second lens focusing scheme. That is, in response to failing to detect the sight pattern in the first image (e.g., in response to a "no" determination at 315) and / or failing to successfully decode the visual indicia in the second image (e.g., in response to a "no" determination at 340), the imaging device may determine to perform a default image acquisition at 345 (e.g., according to the second lens focusing scheme). In some other examples, in response to failing to successfully decode the visual indicia within the second image, the imaging device may determine a third focal position for the lens, which may be relatively close to the focal position. For example, the imaging device may determine one or more focal positions relatively close to the focal position and select the third focal position from among the one or more focal positions. In some such examples, the imaging device may use the lens to collect an image based on the third focal position. In some examples, in response to failing to decode the image, the imaging device may determine the second focal position for the lens based on a second lens focusing scheme.

[0121] In various embodiments, the imaging device may select a second lens focusing solution based on the detection capability level of the aimer pattern failing to meet the threshold at 315. Thus, the imaging device may determine the focal position of the lens according to the second lens focusing solution.

[0122] At 345, the imaging device may perform a default image acquisition using a predefined lens position according to a second lens focusing scheme. For example, the imaging device may determine to perform a default image acquisition and, accordingly, may select a predefined lens position for the focal position of the lens. In various embodiments, the predefined lens position is selected based on a priority associated with the predefined lens position. The priority may correspond to a likelihood of successfully decoding a visual marker in an image acquired using the predefined lens position. Thus, selecting the predefined lens position as the focal position of the lens may result in improved system response of the imaging device. In various embodiments, the priority is based on a depth of field (DOF) associated with the predefined lens position, a distance between a previous position of the lens and the predefined lens position, a decoding status associated with one or more other images acquired using the predefined lens position, the environment of the target object (e.g., whether the target object is estimated to be relatively close to the imaging device or relatively far away from the imaging device), or any combination thereof.

[0123] In various embodiments, the predefined lens position is based on one or more lens positions used to acquire one or more other images via the imaging engine prior to the first opportunity (e.g., based on one or more historical images). For example, the one or more other images may include images that were successfully decoded by the imaging device prior to the first opportunity (e.g., prior to acquiring the first image). In various embodiments, the predefined lens position may include a focus position used to acquire a most recently decoded (successfully decoded) image. The focus position associated with the most recently decoded (successfully decoded) image may be referred to herein as a last successfully decoded position.

[0124] In various embodiments, the predefined lens position is one of a plurality of candidate lens positions, and the predefined lens position is selected according to a sequence. In various embodiments, the sequence is based on a respective priority associated with each of the plurality of candidate lens positions. For example, the imaging device may sort a plurality of candidate lens positions (e.g., a plurality of candidate focus positions of a lens) in a sequence based on priority such that the first focus position in the sequence corresponds to a focus position with the highest priority among the plurality of candidate focus positions, and the last focus position in the sequence corresponds to a focus position with the lowest priority among the plurality of candidate focus positions. In various embodiments, the sequence may include one or more candidate focus positions associated with one or more imagers. For example, the sequence may include one or more candidate focus positions associated with a near-field imager and / or one or more candidate focus positions associated with a far-field imager. A non-limiting example of a sequence is shown in the following data structure of Table 1:

[0125]

[0126] Wherein a value of 1 corresponds to the first focus position within the sequence, a value of 2 corresponds to the second focus position within the sequence, a value of 3 corresponds to the third focus position within the sequence, and a value of 4 corresponds to the fourth focus position within the sequence. Although Table 1 shows a sequence of 4 candidate focus positions, it should be understood that a sequence may include more than 4 candidate focus positions or fewer than 4 candidate focus positions. In the example of Table 1, "near" corresponds to a near-field imager, "far-far" corresponds to the far focus of a far-field imager, "far-mid" corresponds to the mid focus of a far-field imager, and "far-near" corresponds to the near focus of a far-field imager. Although Table 1 shows a single focus position (e.g., "near") for a near-field imager, it should be understood that a near-field imager may include multiple candidate focus positions. Additionally, although Table 1 shows three candidate focus positions for a far-field imager (e.g., "far-far," "far-mid," and "far-near"), it should be understood that a far-field imager and (and similarly a near-field imager) may have more than 3 candidate focus positions. For example, the far-field imager may include one or more focus positions between the far-far focus position and the far-intermediate focus position and / or one or more focus positions between the far-intermediate focus position and the far-near focus position.

[0127] In some such embodiments, during the second opportunity, the imaging device may use the lens to acquire a second image of the target object according to a predefined lens position. In some examples, the imaging device may select the second predefined lens position from among a plurality of candidate lens positions based on an unsuccessful attempt to decode a visual marker within the second image according to the sequence. In such examples, the predefined lens position has a higher priority than the second predefined lens position.

[0128] In various embodiments, the imaging device may position the lens in a predefined lens position during the first opportunity. For example, the lens may be included in a second imager of the imaging engine, and as such, the imaging device may move the lens to the predefined lens position concurrently with acquiring the first image. In some examples, positioning the lens in the predefined lens position during (e.g., concurrently with) acquiring the first image may increase the rate at which the imaging device can decode visual indicia in the target image.

[0129] In various embodiments, the imaging device may select an illuminator source for acquiring one or more images (e.g., using a lens according to a predefined lens position). In some such embodiments, the illuminator source is selected based on the second imager. For example, the first image and the second imager may be associated with one or more illuminator sources, and as such, the imaging device may select an illuminator source based on the imager including the lens. In one non-limiting example, the second image may include a far-field imager and the imaging device may select a far-field illumination source.

[0130] In various embodiments, the imaging device may retry (e.g., retry) capturing an image of the sight pattern, for example, to obtain real-time data regarding changes in target distance. For example, during a second opportunity after the first opportunity, the imaging device may project the sight pattern onto a second target object (e.g., the target object or another target object). The imaging device may acquire a second image of the second target object based on the focus position of the lens during the second opportunity. In some examples, the second image is acquired during the second opportunity based on a predefined periodicity or expiration of one or more timers. The imaging device may then determine a second focus position based on the level of detectability of the sight pattern in the second image.

[0131] Figure 4 A diagram is shown that is associated with the operational functionality of an imaging device according to at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure. Various imaging devices, such as barcode scanners, can utilize triangulation based on a sight pattern to determine the distance to a target object or surface based on the angle of an observed reflection of the sight pattern. Some barcode scanners, such as long-range scanners equipped with dual imagers, can face a number of challenges that may be present in warehouse and manufacturing plant environments, such as excessive brightness, dust, and uneven lighting conditions. For example, under such conditions, it may be relatively difficult for the imager of a barcode scanner to properly capture a focused image.

[0132] Various aspects of the present disclosure provide improved scanning performance under various environmental conditions (e.g., excessive brightness, dust, and uneven lighting conditions) by periodically capturing images of a target object using an aimer pattern (e.g., a laser aimer dot). Figure 4 As shown, an imaging device (e.g., including at least imager 400) can use aimer 405 to project an aimer pattern onto a surface (e.g., the surface of a target object). When the projected aimer pattern interacts with the surface, at least a portion of the aimer pattern is reflected toward the imaging device (e.g., toward imager 400 of the imaging device). Imager 400 can capture an image of the reflected light and detect the aimer pattern location (e.g., coordinates) in the captured image.

[0133] exist Figure 4 In the example of , parameter "z" is the distance between the imaging device and the target object, parameter "a" is the horizontal field of view angle of the imager 400, parameter "b" is the tilt angle of the sight 405 about its optical axis, parameter "h" is the distance between the position of the sight pattern and the intersection of a line passing through the sight 405 and the normal to the image plane, parameter "t" is the distance between the left edge of the field of view and the sight pattern, parameter "v" is the distance between the optical axis of the imager 400 and the sight 405, and parameter "w" is the distance between the left and right edges of the field of view of the imager 400. Figure 4In the example of , the reference position is at w / 2. In some examples, the value of parameter "v" may depend on the imaging device (and may be fixed), and the corresponding values ​​of one or more other parameters may depend on the value of parameter "z".

[0134] In various embodiments, the imaging device may determine a position 410 of the aiming pattern (in space) based on one or more pixels associated with the aiming pattern in the captured image. Additionally or alternatively, the imaging device may determine an aiming offset 415 based on the position 410 of the aiming pattern. Figure 4 In the example of , the aimer offset 415 corresponds to the difference between the reference position and the aimer pattern's position 410. In other words, the aimer offset 415 corresponds to the difference between the parameter "v" and the parameter "h." In some examples, the aimer offset 415 may correspond to the distance between the aimer pattern's current position (e.g., position 410, which may be represented as Xcurrent) and a reference position (e.g., a calibration position, which may be represented as Xcal). In various embodiments, the aimer offset 415 is measured by calculating the difference between the current aimer position (target) in space and one or more known calibration data points.

[0135] In various embodiments, the imaging device may determine the value of the parameter "z" based on the position of one or more pixels associated with the aiming pattern in the captured image (e.g., based on the pixel position of the aiming pattern). For example, the pixels in the captured image may have (e.g., correspond to) an angular width, and the angular width may be used to determine the value of the parameter "z". In some examples, the position 410 may correspond to a first pixel, and the reference point (e.g., a calibrated point) may correspond to a second pixel (e.g., on the left side of the image, which corresponds to Figure 4 In some such examples, the value of the parameter "z" may be based on the angular width and the distance between the first pixel and the second pixel.

[0136] In various embodiments, one or more lookup tables may be used to estimate the distance between the imaging device and the target object based on the crosshair offset 415. In other words, one or more lookup tables may be used to estimate the value of the parameter "z" based on the position 410 (e.g., and the crosshair offset 415). In some examples, a first lookup table may be used to determine the value of the parameter "z" based on the position 410 (e.g., and the crosshair offset 415), and a second lookup table may be used to determine the focal position of the lens in the imager 400 based on the determined value of the parameter "z."

[0137] In some other examples, the imaging device may use a single lookup table to determine the focal position of the lens in imager 400 based on the position of the aiming pattern. For example, rather than using a first lookup table, the imaging device may calculate the value of parameter "z." In other words, the imaging device may calculate (e.g., directly calculate) an estimated distance from imager 400 to the target object (e.g., the value of parameter "z") based on aiming pattern offset 415 and one or more other parameters (such as "a," "b," and "v"). The imaging device may then use the estimated distance (e.g., the directly calculated distance estimate) as a key in a second lookup table. That is, the second lookup table may be used to determine the focal position of the lens in imager 400 based on the calculated value of parameter "z." In some examples, to increase the accuracy of the calculated distance, imager 400 (e.g., each imager in the imaging device) may be calibrated to obtain the values ​​of parameters "a," "b," and "v." In some such examples, the imaging device may determine (e.g., through calibration) multiple "a" and / or "v" values, for example, in the case of multiple image sensors and lens positions (e.g., in a multi-imager imaging environment). In various embodiments, calibration can be performed, for example, for one or more sensor and lens positions (e.g., for each image sensor and lens position) before the imaging device is deployed (e.g., at a factory). In some such examples, calibration can be performed by capturing multiple images at one or more known target distances. Additionally or alternatively, calibration can be performed by capturing a barcode (or another pattern of known dimensions) at multiple distances.

[0138] In some other examples, the imaging device may use a third lookup table to determine the focal length based on the position of the aimer pattern (e.g., the pixel position of the aimer pattern). For example, the first lookup table and the second lookup table may be reduced to (e.g., merged into) a single lookup table (e.g., the third lookup table). In some such examples, the imaging device may avoid calculating one or more intermediate values ​​(e.g., the value of parameter "t", the value of 415, the value of parameter "z"). For example, instead of calculating the value of parameter "z" and using that value to look up which sensor (e.g., imager) to use and / or which lens position to select, the imaging device may use the third lookup table (e.g., may transform the first lookup table and the second lookup table) so that the position of the aimer pattern (e.g., the pixel position of the aimer pattern) can be directly mapped to the sensor and / or lens position.

[0139] In some examples, periodically capturing images using a sight pattern provides real-time data / information about changes in target distance (e.g., changes in the value of parameter "z"). In various embodiments, information associated with changes in target distance is used, for example, to select an appropriate imager and determine the focal position of a lens in imager 400 (or another imager of the imaging device) and improve scanning performance. In various embodiments, multiple (e.g., two) lens positions can be selected, for example, to increase depth of field. In some examples (such as examples where the captured image becomes oversaturated), the imaging device can use a default lens focusing scheme to determine the focal position of the lens in imager 400.

[0140] in conclusion

[0141] Although an example 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 circuitry, or in computer software, firmware, or hardware (including the structures disclosed in this specification and their structural equivalents), or in a combination of one or more of them.

[0142] The embodiments of the themes and operations described herein may be implemented in digital electronic circuits, or in computer software, firmware, or hardware (including the structures disclosed in this specification and their structural equivalents), or in a combination of one or more thereof. The embodiments of the themes 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 an information / data processing device. Alternatively or additionally, the program instructions may be encoded on an artificially generated propagation signal (e.g., a machine-generated electrical signal, optical signal, or electromagnetic signal) that is generated to encode information / data for transmission to a suitable receiver device for execution by an information / data processing device. The computer storage medium may be a computer-readable storage device, a computer-readable storage substrate, a random access memory array or device, or a serial access memory array or device, or a combination of one or more thereof, or may be included in a computer-readable storage device, a computer-readable storage substrate, a random access memory array or device, or a serial access memory array or device, or a combination of one or more thereof. Furthermore, although a computer storage medium is not a propagated signal, a computer storage medium can be a source or destination of computer program instructions encoded in an artificially generated propagated signal. A computer storage medium can also be, or be included in, one or more separate physical components or media (e.g., multiple CDs, disks, or other storage devices).

[0143] The operations described herein may be implemented as operations performed by an information / data processing apparatus on information / data stored on one or more computer-readable storage devices or received from other sources.

[0144] The term "data processing apparatus" encompasses all types of apparatus, equipment, and machines for processing data, including, for example, a programmable processor, a computer, a system on a chip, or one or a combination of the foregoing. The apparatus may include dedicated logic circuitry, such as an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit). In addition to hardware, the apparatus may also include code that creates an execution environment for the computer program in question, such as code constituting processor firmware, a protocol stack, a repository management system, an operating system, a cross-platform runtime environment, a virtual machine, or a combination of one or more of these. The apparatus and execution environment may implement a variety of different computing model infrastructures, such as web services, distributed computing infrastructures, and grid computing infrastructures.

[0145] A computer program (also referred to as a program, software, software application, script, or code) can be written in any form of programming language (including compiled or interpreted languages, declarative languages, or procedural languages), and it can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, object, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program may, but need not, correspond to a file in a file system. A program may be stored in a portion 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 coordinated files (e.g., files storing one or more modules, subroutines, or portions of code).

[0146] The process and logic flow described herein can be performed by one or more programmable processors that execute one or more computer programs, to perform actions by operating input information / data and generating output. For example, the processor that is suitable for executing a computer program includes any one or more processors of both general-purpose microprocessors and special-purpose microprocessors and any kind of digital computer. Generally speaking, the processor will receive instructions and information / data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The basic element of a computer is a processor for performing actions according to instructions and one or more memories for storing instructions and data. Generally speaking, a computer will also include or be operably coupled to one or more mass storage devices (for example, magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks or optical disks) for storing data, to receive information / data from the one or more mass storage devices or to transmit information / data to the one or more 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 storage 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. The processor and memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated in, special purpose logic circuitry.

[0147] To provide for interaction with a user, embodiments of the subject matter described herein may 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, as well as a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse or trackball through which the user can provide input to the computer). Other kinds of devices may be used to provide for interaction with the user; for example, the feedback provided to the user may be any form of sensory feedback, such as visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and the input from the user may be received in any form, including acoustic input, voice input, or tactile input. In addition, a computer may interact with a user by sending documents to and receiving documents from a device used by the user; for example, by sending a web page to a web browser on a user's client device in response to a request received from the web browser.

[0148] Although this specification includes many specific implementation details, these details should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of any disclosure or claimed content, but rather as descriptions of features specific to a particular disclosed embodiment. Various features described herein in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. On the contrary, various features described in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in multiple embodiments or in any suitable sub-combination. In addition, although features may be described above as acting in combination and even initially claimed as such, in some cases, one or more features from the claimed combination may be deleted from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or a variation of the sub-combination.

[0149] Similarly, although operations are depicted in a particular order in the accompanying drawings, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in a sequential order or that all of the illustrated operations be performed to achieve desired results. In various cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. In addition, the separation of the various system components in the embodiments described above should not be understood as requiring this separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can be commonly integrated into a single software product or grouped into multiple software products.

[0150] Thus, certain embodiments of the present subject matter have been described. Other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. In some cases, the actions recited in the claims can be performed in a different order and still achieve the desired results. Furthermore, the processes depicted in the accompanying drawings do not necessarily require the particular order or sequential order shown to achieve the desired results. In various implementations, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous.

Claims

1. A method comprising: projecting a crosshair pattern onto a target object within a field of view of a first imager of an imaging engine during a first opportunity; acquiring, via the first imager, a first image of the target object during the first opportunity; selecting a lens focus solution based at least in part on a detectability level of the aimer pattern in the first image, wherein the lens focus solution is selected between a first lens focus solution associated with a position of the aimer pattern and a second lens focus solution associated with at least one predefined lens position; as well as A focal position of a lens in the imaging engine is determined according to the lens focusing scheme.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein selecting the lens focusing scheme comprises: selecting the first lens focusing scheme based at least in part on the detectability level of the aimer pattern satisfying a threshold, wherein the focal position of the lens is determined according to the first lens focusing scheme; identifying the location of the sight pattern based at least in part on the first image; as well as The focal position of the lens is determined based at least in part on the position of the aimer pattern using one or more lookup tables.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein determining the focus position comprises: estimating a distance between the imaging engine and the target object using a first lookup table of the one or more lookup tables, wherein the distance is based at least in part on the position of the aimer pattern; as well as The focal position of the lens is determined based at least in part on the distance using a second lookup table.

4. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: determining a second focal position of the lens based at least in part on the position of the crosshair pattern using the one or more lookup tables, the position of the crosshair pattern corresponding to an intermediate focal position between the focal position and the second focal position; acquiring a second image of the target object using the lens according to the focal position; as well as A third image of the target object is acquired using the lens according to the second focus position.

5. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: acquiring a second image of the target object using the lens according to the focal position; performing one or more operations to decode visual indicia within the second image; as well as A second focal position of the lens is determined according to the second lens focusing scheme based at least in part on an unsuccessful attempt to decode the visual indicia within the second image.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein selecting the lens focusing scheme comprises: The second lens focusing scheme is selected based at least in part on the detectability level of the aimer pattern failing to satisfy a threshold, wherein the focal position of the lens is determined according to the second lens focusing scheme.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein determining the focal position of the lens comprises: A predefined lens position of the at least one predefined lens position is selected for the focal position of the lens, wherein the predefined lens position is based at least in part on one or more lens positions used to acquire one or more other images via the imaging engine prior to the first opportunity, wherein decoding of visual indicia included in the one or more other images was successful.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein determining the focal position of the lens comprises: A predefined lens position of the at least one predefined lens position is selected for the focal position of the lens, wherein the predefined lens position is based at least in part on a priority associated with the predefined lens position, and wherein the priority corresponds to a likelihood of successfully decoding a visual marker in an image acquired using the predefined lens position.

9. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: projecting the aimer pattern onto a second target object during a second opportunity after the first opportunity, wherein the second target object includes the target object or another target object; acquiring a second image of the second target object according to the focal position of the lens during the second opportunity, wherein acquiring the second image during the second opportunity is based at least in part on a predefined periodicity or expiration of a timer; as well as A second focus position is determined based at least in part on a detectability level of the aimer pattern in the second image, wherein the detectability level is based at least in part on an average region of interest and an intensity difference between one or more pixels associated with the aimer pattern in the first image and one or more other pixels in the first image.

10. A device comprising: Imaging engine; as well as One or more processors operatively coupled to the imaging engine, wherein the one or more processors are configured to cause the apparatus to: projecting a crosshair pattern onto a target object within a field of view of a first imager of the imaging engine during a first opportunity; acquiring, via the first imager, a first image of the target object during the first opportunity; selecting a lens focus solution based at least in part on a detectability level of the aimer pattern in the first image, wherein the lens focus solution is selected between a first lens focus solution associated with a position of the aimer pattern and a second lens focus solution associated with at least one predefined lens position; as well as A focal position of a lens in the imaging engine is determined according to the lens focusing scheme.

Images