Hybrid fixed focus engine with autofocus engine with ranging

Abstract

Apparatus, systems, and methods for providing hybrid fixed-focus during marker reader operation. Example systems include: at least one imaging component; a controller; and one or more processors configured to: (a) initiate a ranging operation; (b) determine a range value associated with the distance between the imaging component and an object; (c) retrieve a threshold range value from memory; (d) compare the range value with the threshold range value; (e) initiate a hybrid fixed-focus operation including: (i) energizing an illumination component to provide illumination; and (ii) in response to the range value not exceeding the threshold range value, capturing a first set of images at fixed-focus positions corresponding to the range value, and in response to the range value exceeding the threshold, capturing a first set of images at fixed-focus positions corresponding to the threshold range value; and (f) terminating the hybrid fixed-focus operation based on a termination signal.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Barcode reading systems (such as handheld tag readers) perform ranging operations when a targeting light is projected onto the surface of an object to determine the distance between the barcode reading system and the object, as well as its barcode, (e.g., during a purchase at checkout). This distance information can be used to capture a focused image of the barcode for subsequent barcode identification and decoding. However, in some cases, the distance determined by the ranging operation may incorrectly represent the actual distance between the barcode reading system and the object. For example, if the object is made of glass, has holes in its surface (e.g., a milk carton), or is suspended in the air, these conditions or similar scenarios can cause the targeting light to reflect off surfaces other than the object during the ranging operation. This can cause the barcode reading system to determine incorrect distance information associated with the object and capture an out-of-focus image of the barcode, resulting in unsuccessful barcode identification and / or decoding. As a result, barcode reading systems may initiate one or more consecutive ranging operations, image capture operations, and / or cause the user to rescan the object to attempt to obtain a focused image of the barcode, wasting time and energy in the process and leading to user frustration. Therefore, systems and methods that can reduce or eliminate the detrimental effects of ranging operations that provide inaccurate distance information leading to unsuccessful barcode decoding will improve checkout speed, reduce power and resource consumption, and enhance the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0002] In an embodiment, a method for providing a hybrid fixed focal length during tag reader operation is provided. The method includes: (a) initiating a ranging operation of an imaging component having a field of view; (b) determining, based on the ranging operation, a range value associated with a distance between the imaging component and an object in the field of view; (c) locally retrieving a threshold range value from a memory associated with the imaging component; (d) comparing the range value with the threshold range value; (e) initiating a hybrid fixed-focus operation via a controller, the hybrid fixed-focus operation including: (i) energizing an illumination component to provide illumination of the field of view during the hybrid fixed-focus operation; and (ii) capturing a first set of one or more images at a fixed focal length position via the imaging component, the first set including image data of the environment appearing in the field of view, wherein the fixed focal length position corresponds to the range value in response to the range value not exceeding the threshold range value, and wherein the fixed focal length position corresponds to the threshold range value in response to the range value exceeding the threshold; and (f) terminating the hybrid fixed-focus operation based on the controller receiving a termination signal.

[0003] In a variation of the embodiment, the method further includes: initiating the ranging operation to determine an updated range value in response to not receiving the termination signal, wherein the termination signal is based on the successful decoding of a marker contained in at least one image in a first set of images captured during the hybrid fixed-focus operation; and initiating an enclosure operation via the controller, the enclosure operation including: capturing a second set of multiple images at an enclosure set of focal length positions around the fixed-focal-length position corresponding to the updated range value by means of the imaging component, the second set including image data of the environment appearing in the field of view; and energizing the illumination component to an illumination intensity determined based on the updated range value.

[0004] In yet another variation of the embodiment, the method further includes: initiating a ramp operation via the controller in response to the failure to receive the termination signal, wherein the termination signal is based on the successful decoding of the marker contained in at least one image of a second set of a plurality of images captured during the encirclement operation, the ramp operation including: capturing a plurality of images by means of the imaging component using a plurality of associated focal length parameters defining a plurality of different focus regions, the plurality of images including image data of the environment appearing in the field of view, the ramp operation generating image data at each focus region of the plurality of focus regions; and energizing the illumination component to an illumination intensity determined based on each focus region of the plurality of focus regions.

[0005] In yet another variation of the embodiment, the ranging operation further includes: energizing a targeting light source configured to project targeting light into the field of view; capturing one or more images through the imaging component, the one or more images including image data of the field of view containing the targeting light; analyzing the position of the targeting light in the one or more images to determine the range value; and storing the range value locally on a memory associated with the imaging component.

[0006] In a variation of the embodiment, the ranging operation further includes locally retrieving the most recently known range value from the memory associated with the imaging component.

[0007] In yet another variation of the embodiment, the lighting assembly includes at least one near-field lighting assembly and at least one far-field lighting assembly.

[0008] In yet another variation of the embodiment, energizing the illumination assembly during the hybrid fixed-focus operation includes energizing the near-field illumination assembly.

[0009] In a variation of the embodiment, the illumination assembly includes at least one near-field illumination assembly and at least one far-field illumination assembly; the plurality of focal length parameters include focal length parameters defining a first plurality of focal regions corresponding to the at least one near-field illumination assembly and a second plurality of focal regions corresponding to the at least one far-field illumination assembly; and the ramp operation further includes generating image data by the imaging assembly at each of the plurality of focal regions and / or at each of the second plurality of focal regions.

[0010] In yet another variation of the embodiment, terminating the hybrid fixed-focus operation based on the controller receiving the termination signal further includes: providing image data of at least one image from the first set of one or more images to a decoding module; analyzing the image data from the at least one image from the one or more images by the decoding module to decode a marker contained in the at least one image; and receiving the termination signal in response to decoding the marker contained in the at least one image.

[0011] In yet another variation of the embodiment, the threshold range value is at least one of user-provided, generated by a machine learning model, or based on historical range values ​​for the object in the field of view.

[0012] In another embodiment, a system for providing a hybrid fixed focal length during marker reader operation. The system includes: an imaging assembly having a field of view; a controller; one or more processors; and a memory associated with the marker reader, the memory storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: (a) initiate a ranging operation of the imaging assembly; (b) determine, based on the ranging operation, a range value associated with a distance between the imaging assembly and an object in the field of view; (c) locally retrieve a threshold range value from the memory associated with the imaging assembly; (d) compare the range value with the threshold range value; and (e) initiate a hybrid fixed focal length operation via the controller, wherein the hybrid... The fixed-focus operation includes the one or more processors configured to: (i) energize an illumination assembly to provide illumination of the field of view during the hybrid fixed-focus operation; and (ii) capture a first set of one or more images at a fixed focal length position via the imaging assembly, the first set including image data of the environment appearing in the field of view, wherein the fixed focal length position corresponds to the range value in response to the range value not exceeding the threshold range value, and wherein the fixed focal length position corresponds to the threshold range value in response to the range value exceeding the threshold; and (f) terminate the hybrid fixed-focus operation based on the controller receiving a termination signal.

[0013] In yet another embodiment, a tangible machine-readable medium includes instructions that, when executed, cause the machine to perform at least the following operations: (a) initiate a ranging operation of an imaging component having a field of view; (b) determine a range value associated with the distance between the imaging component and an object in the field of view based on the ranging operation; (c) locally retrieve a threshold range value from a memory associated with the imaging component; (d) compare the range value with the threshold range value; and (e) initiate a hybrid fixed-focus operation via a controller, wherein the hybrid fixed-focus operation further includes instructions that, when executed, cause the machine to perform at least the following operations: The machine: (i) powers on the illumination assembly to provide illumination of the field of view during the hybrid fixed-focus operation; and (ii) captures a first set of one or more images at a fixed focal length position via the imaging assembly, the first set including image data of the environment appearing in the field of view, wherein the fixed focal length position corresponds to the range value in response to the range value not exceeding the threshold range value, and wherein the fixed focal length position corresponds to the threshold range value in response to the range value exceeding the threshold; and (f) terminates the hybrid fixed-focus operation based on the controller receiving a termination signal. Attached Figure Description

[0014] The accompanying drawings (in which the same reference numerals denote the same or functionally similar elements throughout the different views) together with the following detailed description are incorporated into and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate embodiments including the concepts of the claimed invention, and to explain the various principles and advantages of those embodiments.

[0015] Figure 1 A stereoscopic front view and a stereoscopic rear view of an example scanner according to various embodiments are shown; Figure 2 Example imaging devices (such as) are shown Figure 1 A block diagram of an example scanner; Figure 3A An example imaging device (such as) is shown. Figure 2 Example aiming pattern on an object at near-end distance of an example imaging device; Figure 3B An example imaging device (such as) is shown. Figure 2 Example aiming pattern on an object at a far distance from an example imaging device; Figure 3C Examples of imaging devices (such as...) are shown. Figure 2 Example lookup table of focal length and illumination parameters for example imaging devices; Figure 4AAn example field of view (FOV) is shown in which an example imaging device aims a targeting pattern onto an object and focuses on the object; Figure 4B An example FOV is shown in which an example imaging device aims the pattern beyond the object, resulting in an image of the object being blurred; Figure 5 A signal diagram is shown for an example scenario of providing a hybrid fixed focal length during marker reader operation, based on the techniques described herein.

[0016] Figure 6A and Figure 6B A flowchart is shown as an example method for providing a hybrid fixed focal length during marker reader operation according to the techniques described herein.

[0017] Those skilled in the art will understand that the elements in the accompanying drawings are shown for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to aid in understanding embodiments of the invention.

[0018] The apparatus and method configurations have been indicated in appropriate places in the accompanying drawings by conventional symbols, which show only those specific details relevant to understanding embodiments of the invention, so as not to obscure this disclosure with details that would be obvious to those skilled in the art who benefit from the description herein. Detailed Implementation

[0019] As previously mentioned, ranging operations that result in an incorrect representation of the object's actual distance can waste the imaging system's and / or the user's time, energy, and resources. Therefore, the object of this disclosure is to provide a system and method capable of providing a hybrid fixed focal length during tag reader operation. Consequently, the tag reader can ignore distance values ​​exceeding a threshold provided by the ranging operation, thereby allowing the tag reader to decode barcodes more quickly, reduce checkout time, and thus provide the user with a more efficient and pleasant checkout experience.

[0020] Additionally, it should be understood that the terms "marking" and "marking scanning / decoding method" are used herein primarily for discussion purposes only, referring to barcodes and barcode scanning / decoding. The systems and methods disclosed herein can be applied to any marking associated with an object (e.g., barcodes, quick response (QR) codes, graphics, logos, etc.).

[0021] Switch to the attached image. Figure 1 An example tag reader 100 with a housing 102 is shown, which has a handle portion 104 and a head portion 106. The head portion 106 includes a window 108 and is configured at the top of the handle portion 104. The head portion 106 includes an imaging lens (e.g., regarding the following...). Figure 2The imaging lens 244, depending on the implementation, is a variable focal length optics element and / or includes a variable focal length optics element.

[0022] The handle portion 104 is configured to be gripped by a reader user (not shown) and includes a trigger 110 for user activation. Optionally, a base portion (not shown) is included in the embodiment, which may be attached to the handle portion 104 opposite the head portion 106 and is configured to stand upright on a surface and support the housing 102 in a generally upright position. When the tag reader 100 is placed on a workbench or other workstation surface, the tag reader 100 can be used as a fixed workstation in hands-free mode. The tag reader 100 can also be used in handheld mode when it is picked up from the workbench or base and held in the operator's hand. In hands-free mode, the product can be swiped, swiped, or presented to window 108 for the reader to initiate a barcode reading operation. In handheld mode, the tag reader 100 can be moved toward the barcode on the product, and the trigger 110 can be manually pressed or engaged to initiate a ranging operation and / or otherwise image the barcode.

[0023] Other implementations can provide either handheld-only configuration or hands-free-only configuration. Figure 1 In this embodiment, the reader 100 is ergonomically configured as a pistol-shaped housing 102 for the user's hand, but other configurations may be used as will be understood by those skilled in the art. As shown, the lower handle 104 extends downward and rearward away from the body 102 along a centroidal axis that is angled relative to the central FOV axis of the imaging assembly within the scanning head 102.

[0024] Next reference Figure 2 A block diagram of an example architecture for an imaging device 200 (such as a handheld imaging device 100) is shown. For at least some reader embodiments, the imaging component 245 includes a light detection sensor or imager 241 operatively coupled to or mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) 242 in the imaging device 200, such as... Figure 2As shown. In some implementations, imager 241 is a solid-state device (e.g., a CCD or CMOS imager) having a one-dimensional array of addressable image sensors or pixels arranged in a single row, or a two-dimensional array of addressable image sensors or pixels arranged in mutually orthogonal rows and columns, and operable to detect reflected light captured by imaging assembly 245 along imaging axis 246 through window 208 at the field of view. Imager 241 may also include and / or be used as a monochrome sensor, and in further implementations, may also include and / or be used as a color sensor. It should be understood that the terms “imager,” “image sensor,” and “imaging sensor,” etc., are used interchangeably herein. Depending on the implementation, imager 241 may include a color sensor (such as a vision camera) as an addition to and / or replacement for the monochrome sensor. In some implementations, imager 241 is or includes a barcode reading module (e.g., a monochrome imaging sensor). In further implementations, imager 241 is additionally or alternatively a vision camera (e.g., a color imaging sensor). It will be understood that, although imager 241 in Figure 2 The imager 241 is depicted as a single frame, but it can be multiple sensors distributed at different locations in the imaging device 200.

[0025] The returned light is scattered and / or reflected from object 118 on the FOV. Imaging lens 244 (included in imaging assembly 245 in at least some reader implementations) is operable to focus the returned light onto an array of image sensors to enable imaging of object 118. Specifically, light striking pixels is sensed and the output of these pixels produces image data associated with the environment present within the FOV (which may include object 118). This image data is typically processed by controller 258 (typically by sending it to a decoder) which identifies and decodes decodable tags captured in the image data. Once decoding is successfully performed, the tag reader can signal that object 118 (e.g., a barcode) has been successfully “read”. Object 118 can be located anywhere within a working distance range between a near working distance (WD1) and a far working distance (WD2). In one implementation, WD1 is approximately one and six-tenths (1.6) inches from window 208, and WD2 is approximately thirty (30) inches from window 208.

[0026] In some implementations, the imaging lens 244 includes a variable focal length optics element. In further implementations, the variable focal length optics element is a lens operated and / or adjusted by a ball bearing motor lens or a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator (i.e., a VCM lens). In implementations where the variable focal length optics element is a ball bearing motor or a VCM lens, the ball bearing motor or VCM lens may have a focal length range extending from one and six-tenths (1.6) inches to infinity (i.e., to optical infinity), or any other suitable focal length range. In further embodiments, the variable focal length optics element may be any lens or optical element with similar focal length adjustment capabilities, such as a liquid lens, a T-lens, a ball bearing focusing actuator, and any other similar lens known in the art. Depending on the implementation, the controller 258 or other processor associated with the imaging assembly 245 may control the variable focal length optics element.

[0027] The illumination assembly may also be mounted in, attached to, or associated with the imaging device 200. The illumination assembly includes an illumination source 251 (such as at least one light-emitting diode (LED) or other suitable light source, and at least one illumination lens 252, and preferably multiple illumination sources and illumination lenses), which is configured to generate an illumination pattern of substantially uniformly distributed illumination light on and along the object 118 to be imaged. At least a portion of the scattered and / or reflected return light originates from the illumination pattern of light on and along the object 118.

[0028] although Figure 2 A single illumination source 251 is shown, but it will be understood that illumination source 251 may include multiple illumination sources. In at least one implementation, the illumination assembly may include at least one near-field illumination assembly (e.g., at least one near-field illumination source and at least one illumination lens 252) and at least one far-field illumination assembly (e.g., at least one far-field illumination source and at least one illumination lens 252). In at least some embodiments, illumination source 251 may include a near-field illumination source (such as a near-field LED) and a far-field illumination source (such as a far-field LED). In at least some implementations, the near-field illumination source may be suitable for illuminating objects closer to imaging device 200 (e.g., when capturing an image of object 118, the image may include markers for decoding), while the far-field illumination source may be a suitable illumination source for illuminating objects 118 farther from imaging device 200. Illumination sources including illumination source 251 may be energized individually and asynchronously, simultaneously, or any combination thereof.

[0029] In at least one implementation, the light sources of illumination source 251 may have different illumination capabilities, power levels, or other illumination characteristics. For example, the light sources may be different, such as one or more of infrared (IR), LED, organic LED (OLED), etc. In another example, a near-field illumination source may be able to fully illuminate the object 118 at a distance from imaging device 200 (e.g., in the region between WD1 and WD3) for imaging purposes (e.g., decoding barcodes), while a far-field illumination source may be able to fully illuminate the object 118 at a distance beyond the near-field illumination LED (e.g., in the region between WD3 and WD2) for imaging purposes. In at least one implementation, the far-field illumination source may provide illumination such that it is less suitable and / or less ideal for illuminating the object 118 at a distance closer to imaging device 200 (e.g., closer than WD3). For example, energizing a far-field illumination source to illuminate the object 118 at a distance may result in overexposure of the object 118 and / or the markings on it when captured in an image by imaging device 200. Therefore, one or more of the illumination sources 251 may be powered only when the imaging device 200 is imaging an object at a distance associated with certain range values, for which the illumination source 251 will be most suitable.

[0030] For example, continuing the example above, where WD1 is one and six-tenths (1.6) inches from window 208 and WD2 is about thirty (30) inches from window, the near-field LED is most suitable for illuminating objects in an area of ​​one and six-tenths (1.6) inches to ten (10) inches when capturing an image for decoding, and the far-field LED is most suitable for illuminating objects in an area of ​​more than ten (10) inches and up to thirty (30) inches when capturing an image for decoding. Illuminating object 118 using the most suitable light source 251 can provide improved exposure of the object / marker in the captured image.

[0031] In at least one implementation, the power level of one or more illumination sources 251 can be variable, for example, using one or more of the duration of an electrical pulse or a variable current during the duty cycle of the source powering the illumination source 251. In some implementations, adjusting and / or changing the power level of the illumination source 251 can correspondingly change the illumination intensity of the associated illumination source. For example, operating an LED at full power can provide a higher illumination intensity than operating at half power. Therefore, to further optimize the exposure level of the illuminated object 118 and / or the image of the object 118, one or more of the light sources 251 can be energized at a specific intensity when the imaging device 200 images the object 118 based on the distance between the imaging device 200 and the object 118. In some implementations, the distance can be represented by an associated range value. Certain object distance, range values, and / or focal length parameters can provide for energizing a specific illumination source at a specific illumination intensity (i.e., illumination parameters), which can further improve the exposure of the object 118 and / or the mark in the captured image.

[0032] The aiming light assembly may also be mounted on, attached to, or associated with the imaging device 200, and preferably includes an aiming light source 223 (e.g., one or more aiming LEDs and / or laser sources) and an aiming lens 224 for generating a visible aiming beam and guiding the visible aiming beam from the imaging device 200 to the object 118 in the direction of the FOV of the imager 241.

[0033] Furthermore, the imager 241, illumination source 251, and aiming light source 223 can be operatively connected to a programmed microprocessor or controller 258 operable to control the operation of these components. In some implementations, the controller 258 is or includes an imaging processor as described herein. In further implementations, the controller 258 is used as or communicatively coupled to the imaging processor for receiving, processing, and / or analyzing image data captured by the imager. For example, in one embodiment, the imaging device 200 includes a tag decoder (e.g., a barcode scanner) in communication with the imager 241 and is configured to receive image data, locate, and / or decode one or more tags captured in the image data. In at least some embodiments, the tag decoder and / or tag decoding module can be controlled independently of the imager 241 (e.g., via the controller 258 or other suitable processor, device, and / or component). In at least some embodiments, the tag decoder can be part of a tag decoding module. In at least some embodiments, the tag decoder and / or tag decoding module may be part of the imaging device 200 and / or the imager 241, or may be a separate component that is not part of the imaging device and / or the imager 241, but is communicatively and / or operatively connected to the imaging device 200 and / or the imager 241.

[0034] The memory 260 is connected to and accessible by the controller 258. Preferably, the controller 258 is the same as the processor used to process the captured reflected light from the illuminated object 118 to obtain data related to the object 118. Although not shown, additional optical elements such as collimators, lenses, apertures, partitions, etc., may be provided within the housing. Figure 2 The imager 241, illumination source 251, and aiming source 223 are shown mounted on the same PCB 242. However, it should be understood that different implementations of the imaging device 200 may mount these components on separate PCBs, or in different combinations, on separate PCBs. For example, in one implementation of the imaging device 200, the illumination LED source 251 is provided as off-axis illumination (i.e., having a central illumination axis that is not parallel to the central FOV axis).

[0035] In some implementations, object 118 is or includes a mark for decoding (e.g., a decoding mark), such as a barcode, QR code, label, UPC code, digital matrix code, logo, image, etc. In further implementations, object 118 is or includes a digital watermark, which may include multiple repeating barcodes, product codes, code patterns, or other such marks constituting the digital watermark. In some such implementations, the digital watermark is invisible or nearly invisible to the human eye, but can be detected and / or imaged by imaging device 200.

[0036] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Aiming pattern 330A in a near-end FOV 300A at a near-end working distance WD1 and aiming pattern 330B in a far-end FOV 300B at a far-end working distance WD2 are shown respectively. Specifically, in at least some embodiments, imaging device 200 (e.g., via a controller (such as controller 258) or an imaging processor of imaging assembly 245) determines the distance between center point 320 and (e.g., as projected by aiming modules (such as aiming LED 223 and aiming lens 224)) aiming patterns 330A and 330B to determine the distance between imaging device 200 and the object being imaged (such as object 118). The distance can be determined by a ranging operation, as further described below.

[0037] In at least some embodiments, FOV 300A and FOV 300B can be divided into an equal number of imaging regions 310. Based on which region the aiming pattern 330A and / or aiming pattern 330B falls into, the imaging device 200 determines the distance between the imaging device 200 and the object. In at least some embodiments, if the imaging regions 310 are used to determine the distance between the imaging device 200 and the object, determining the distance between the center point 320 and the aiming patterns 330A and 330B is not necessary. It will be understood that, although... Figure 3A and Figure 3B The exemplary embodiment depicts eight imaging regions 310 of equal size, but depending on the embodiment, the imaging device 200 may divide the FOV 300A and FOV 300B into four regions, sixteen regions, thirty-two regions, etc. Similarly, the imaging regions 310 may have different shapes and / or sizes.

[0038] Distance can have associated range values. For example, in Figure 3A In an exemplary embodiment, the imaging device 200 determines that the aiming pattern 330A is in a second region 310A (e.g., six regions away from the center 320), and subsequently determines that the object is located at a distance (one and six-tenths (1.6) inches, one (1) inch, or two (2) inches, etc.) from the imaging device 200 WD1, which may have a first associated range value. Similarly, in Figure 3BIn an exemplary embodiment, imaging device 200 determines that the aiming pattern 330B is in a seventh region 310B (e.g., a region away from the center 320), and subsequently determines that the object is at a distance (thirty-two (32) inches, forty (40) inches, or forty-eight (48) inches, etc.) from imaging device 200 WD2, which may have a second associated range value. Therefore, imaging device 200 can use parallax techniques to determine the distance and associated range value between imaging device 200 and the object 118 to be scanned.

[0039] In some examples, the imaging device 200 is calibrated during manufacturing to accommodate (among other possible tolerances) tolerances in the spacing between the imager 241 and the aiming light source 223 and / or tolerances in the optical alignment of the imager 241 and the aiming light source 223. Such manufacturing tolerances affect the amount and / or geometry of the parallax between the imager 241 and the aiming light source 223. Therefore, the imaging device 200 stores a calibration table (e.g., stored in memory 260) that represents a focus area (also simply referred to as a “region”), or equivalently, each of a finite number of fixed focal distances that make up the focus area. The calibration table may also store other information, such as illumination parameters and / or focal parameters associated with one or more focal distances, focus areas, object distances, range values, etc., as further described below.

[0040] In some implementations, these distances and their associated range values ​​can be stored in memory, for example as... Figure 3C The LUT 350 is a lookup table (LUT) in memory 260. When the distance between imaging device 200 and object 118 is known, for example, via a ranging operation, imaging device 200 (e.g., via a controller (such as controller 258), an imaging processor, or other suitable device and / or component) can access LUT 350 and retrieve the associated range value based on the known distance. At one or more times (such as immediately following the execution of a ranging operation, an image capture operation (e.g., a hybrid fixed focal length, bracketing, or ramp operation), or a decoding operation), the range value can be stored by imaging device 200 and / or retrieved from memory (such as memory 260). For example, a successful ranging operation detects a distance of fifty-five (55) inches between object 118 and imaging device 200, which, according to LUT entry 355, falls within a focus region ten (10) having a focus region range spanning from fifty and a tenth (50.1) inches to sixty (60) inches and has a corresponding range value of sixty (60).

[0041] Although Figure 3CA LUT 350 with focus area 357, area range / distance, and range values, as well as other information, is shown, but the information can be stored in any other suitable data structure, including but not limited to calibration tables, lists, databases, etc. Furthermore, the number and values ​​in the rows and columns of the LUT 350 are for illustrative purposes only. In other implementations, the LUT 350 may include more, fewer, and / or different numbers of rows and / or columns, and may include different values ​​and / or information types. For example, the LUT may include twenty-five (25) focus areas, each covering a span of eighteen (18) inches.

[0042] Furthermore, while LUT 350 and / or other examples indicate range values ​​with values ​​similar to the maximum area range, this is for illustrative purposes only. In other implementations, the range value can be the same as the focus area value, any value associated with distance, or any other suitable value. In some implementations, the range value can indicate a numerical value associated with the distance between imaging device 200 and object 118, such that in some implementations, an increased range value corresponds to an increased / greater distance between imaging device 200 and object 118, and in other implementations, a decreased range value can correspond to an increased / greater distance between imaging device 200 and object 118. In some implementations, the area and range values ​​can be non-numerical values. For the purposes discussed herein, an increased numerical range value corresponds to an increased / greater numerical distance between imaging device 200 and object 118, such as... Figure 3C As shown in the image.

[0043] In at least some implementations, aiming pattern 330A and / or aiming pattern 330B are detected and the imaging area is identified when the total brightness difference meets a predetermined threshold. When aiming pattern 330A and / or aiming pattern 330B are not detected, the ranging operation may result in the distance and / or range value to the object being unknown to the imaging device 200.

[0044] In some implementations, imaging device 200 may retrieve range values ​​from memory (such as local memory 260), for example, when one or more subsequent ranging operations fail to produce consistent range values ​​(e.g., range values ​​change between ranging operations), or when a ranging operation does not produce any range values ​​(e.g., when the distance to the object cannot be determined), resulting in a distance not being established during the ranging operation. In some implementations, the range values ​​in memory are range values ​​saved during previous ranging operations and may be the most recently known range values ​​of imaging device 200. In at least some implementations, an unknown range value may lead to retrieving the most recently known range value from memory, initiating a subsequent ranging operation, or initiating an imaging operation based on the most recently known range value (e.g., mixed fixed focal length, bracketing, ramp operation), or any other suitable action.

[0045] In some implementations, the range value, distance to object 118, and / or focus area 357 may have associated focal length parameters, such as focal distance / focal length, frame rate, exposure, aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and / or any other suitable parameters that can affect the image captured by imaging device 200 and / or imaging assembly 245. For example, when determining the associated distance, range value, and / or focus area 357 (e.g., from LUT 350 based on ranging operations), a controller (such as controller 258), imaging processor, or any other suitable component / device may send signals, instructions, or other indications to imaging assembly 245, imaging processor, or other suitable component / device, including the focal length parameters associated with the distance, range value, and / or focus area 357. Imaging assembly 245, for example via imager 241 and imaging lens 244, may use the focal length parameters to capture one or more images, which may, for example, provide a “sharp” and / or sufficiently focused image of the object and markers located thereon based on the distance to the object for decoding. In some implementations, the focal length parameter may be stored in the LUT 350, a calibration table, a list, a database, and / or other suitable data structures, and may further be stored in local memory (such as local memory 260). Again, the information provided in the LUT 350 is for illustrative purposes only and, as previously stated, may vary in other implementations.

[0046] In some implementations, while one or more images are being captured, imaging device 200 may illuminate the FOV, such as for subsequent decoding of tags located within one or more images. Illumination source 251 may be powered, for example, by a controller (such as controller 258), immediately following the capture of one or more images by imaging assembly 245. Imaging system (e.g., tag reader 100, imaging device 200) may determine illumination parameters, including the illumination source and associated illumination intensity, based on ranging operations, the distance between imaging device 200 (or tag reader 100) and object 118, range values, focal length parameters, and / or other suitable information. Returning to the previous example, ranging operations may determine that the object is fifty-five (55) inches from imaging device 200 and therefore within a focal region of sixty (60), having an associated range value of ten (10) according to LUT entry 355. LUT entry 355 further indicates that the illumination source 251 associated with this distance, focal region 357, and / or range value is a near-field LED (such as in…). Figure 2 The near-field LED described herein also has an associated illumination intensity of sixty percent (60%). Immediately following an image capture operation of object 118 at a distance of fifty-five (55) inches from the imaging device 200, the controller 258 may send a signal to the illumination source 251 to power the near-field LED to sixty percent (60%) illumination intensity. In some implementations, illumination source and / or illumination intensity information may be stored in the LUT 350, calibration tables, lists, databases, and / or other suitable data structures, and may further be stored in local memory (such as local memory 260). The information provided in the LUT 350 is for illustrative purposes only and, as previously stated, may vary in other implementations.

[0047] In at least some implementations, after the ranging operation, where the imaging system (e.g., marker reader 100, imaging device 200) determines a range value associated with the distance between the imaging system and object 118, the imaging system may, for example, initiate one or more image capture operations, such as a hybrid fixed-focus operation, bracketing operation, and / or ramp operation described below, via a controller (such as controller 258). In at least some implementations, the ranging operation may precede the image capture operation. In such implementations, if the ranging operation fails to determine a range value, controller 258 or other suitable processor, component, or device may initiate a ramp operation described below. If the ramp operation requires a range value, a recently known range value (e.g., a range value stored in local memory) may be used.

[0048] In at least some implementations where the ranging operation is performed before each image capture operation and where the range value is indeed determined, the range value may be compared with a recently known range value (e.g., a recently known range value stored in local memory). In at least some implementations, if the recently known range value is substantially similar to the range value from the immediate ranging operation (e.g., the distance to the object being measured has not changed between the immediate ranging operation and the previous ranging operation that produced the recently known range value), an image capture operation may be initiated after the immediate ranging operation. In at least some implementations, if the recently known range value is not substantially similar to the range value from the immediate ranging operation (e.g., the distance to the object being measured has changed between the immediate ranging operation and the previous ranging operation that produced the recently known range value), one or more subsequent ranging operations may be initiated until the most recent ranging operation determines the range value and the recently known range value is also substantially similar to the range value of the most recent ranging operation.

[0049] In at least some embodiments, the imaging system can initiate a non-hybrid fixed-focus operation, i.e., capturing one or more images at a fixed focal length location using focal length parameters and / or illumination parameters associated with a focal distance within a single focal region (i.e., as indicated by a ranging operation / range value). For example, a ranging operation could indicate that object 118 is located at a distance of thirty (30) inches from imaging device 200, within a focal region 357 thirteen (13), and has a range value of thirty (30). The controller can then initiate imaging assembly 245 to capture one or more images using focal length parameters and illumination parameters associated with a thirty (30)-inch fixed focal length distance associated with the focal region 357 thirteen (13) and / or (e.g., as indicated by a LUT, calibration table, etc.) a range value of thirty (30).

[0050] As previously mentioned, in some cases (e.g., if a ranging operation is initiated before aiming at object 118), the ranging operation may incorrectly indicate or fail to indicate the distance between imaging device 200 and object 118. This can cause imaging device 200 to use focal length and / or illumination parameters associated with an incorrect distance, resulting in the capture of blurry and / or overexposed images, inability to decode markers within the captured image data, requiring the user to scan object 118 more than once to successfully decode the markers associated with object 118, reduced checkout speed, user inconvenience and frustration, and other problems.

[0051] Next reference Figure 4A and Figure 4B Imaging device 490 (e.g., tag reader 100, imaging device 200, etc.) focuses to capture an image of FOV 400. Specifically, Figure 4AAn embodiment is depicted in which the imaging device 490 properly aims the aiming pattern 405A onto the object 420A, and the imaging device 490 focuses on the object 420A. Therefore, the object 420A and the decoded mark 410A (e.g., a barcode) associated with the object 420A are sufficiently focused (e.g., sharp) in the image of the FOV 400. However, Figure 4B An embodiment is depicted in which the imaging device 490 aims the aiming pattern 405B beyond the object 420B, and the imaging device 490 then focuses on a second object 450 (e.g., a wall) at a distance Δ from the object 420B. This can occur, for example, when a user of the imaging device 490 initiates a ranging operation while the imaging device 490 is moving and pointing at the second object 450 before aiming at the object 420A. Consequently, the object 420B and the decoded marker 410B associated with the object 420B appear out of focus (e.g., blurred) in the image of the FOV 400.

[0052] To address the drawbacks of erroneous distance information, imaging systems (e.g., marker reader 100, imaging device 200, imaging device 490, etc.) can initiate a hybrid fixed-focus operation. In at least some implementations, a threshold range value is stored in local memory (such as memory 260). When the ranging operation indicates a distance to an object with an associated range value that does not exceed the range value threshold, the hybrid fixed-focus operation can perform a focusing operation similar to the non-hybrid fixed-focus operation just described; that is, one or more images are captured at a fixed focal length position using focal length parameters and / or illumination parameters associated with the range value indicated by the ranging operation (or its associated distance, focus area, etc.). However, if the ranging operation returns a distance with an associated range value that does indeed exceed the threshold range value, a hybrid fixed-focus operation is performed using the focal length parameters and / or illumination parameters associated with the threshold range value to capture one or more images at the fixed focal length position. In such implementations, the threshold range value may have associated fixed-focal-length position focal length parameters and / or illumination parameters that provide optimal conditions for capturing an image of the object, or may have focal length / illumination parameters that are better than those associated with fixed-focal-length positions that exceed the threshold range value. Either of these can increase the likelihood that a sufficiently focused and / or sharp image of the object and its associated markers will be captured, resulting in marker decoding. As further described below, the hybrid fixed-focus operation may be performed more than once, such as more than once before the imaging system receives a termination signal. In at least some embodiments where the hybrid fixed-focus operation is performed more than once, the threshold range value may not be used during all ranging operations prior to the hybrid fixed-focus operation. For example, the threshold range value may be used only during a first ranging operation prior to the first hybrid fixed-focus operation. In such example embodiments, an additional ranging operation prior to an additional hybrid fixed-focus operation outside of the first hybrid fixed-focus operation will result in compliance with the range value from the additional ranging operation, regardless of whether the threshold range value is exceeded.

[0053] Furthermore, for the purposes of this discussion, the increased numerical range corresponds to an increased / greater numerical distance between the imaging device and the object. Therefore, and as described herein, range values ​​exceeding the threshold range are associated with distances exceeding and greater than the threshold distance (i.e., the threshold distance indicated by the threshold range value). In other implementations, the range value may have an inverse relationship with the distance between the imaging system and the object, such that range values ​​exceeding the threshold range are associated with distances closer than the threshold distance; however, implementations with an inverse relationship between distance and range value will not be shown herein.

[0054] Back Figure 4A and Figure 4B A user can initiate a ranging operation by engaging trigger 410 of imaging device 490. In response, a controller (such as controller 258), imaging processor, or other suitable device and / or component can power on aiming light source 223 to project aiming light (i.e., aiming patterns 405A, 405B) into FOV 400. The controller, imaging processor, or other suitable device and / or component can activate imaging assembly 245 to capture one or more images, which include image data of FOV 400. Imaging device 490 (e.g., via controller, imaging processor, or other suitable device and / or component) determines a range value associated with the distance between imaging device 490 and objects 420A and 420B in FOV 400. Imaging device 490 retrieves a threshold range value from local memory (such as memory 260), which, along with / or the associated threshold distance, is stored in the local memory. Figure 4A and Figure 4B The middle is indicated as RV th Imaging device 490 (e.g., via a controller, imaging processor, or other suitable device and / or component) compares the range value with a threshold range value and initiates a hybrid fixed-focus operation. The controller, imaging processor, or other suitable device and / or component then initiates the hybrid fixed-focus operation and, during the hybrid fixed-focus operation, energizes illumination components (e.g., illumination source 251 and illumination lens 252) to provide illumination to FOV 400, and a first set of one or more images, comprising image data of the environment appearing in FOV 400, is captured by imaging component 245 at a fixed focal length position.

[0055] exist Figure 4A In one embodiment shown, the range value to object 420A and / or the associated distance from the ranging operation is indicated as RVA, and does not exceed the threshold range value RV. th According to the hybrid fixed-focus operation, the fixed focal length position will correspond to the range value RVA, which results in capturing one or more sharp and / or sufficiently focused images of the object 420A and the associated decoding marker 410A, and further provides successful decoding of the decoding marker 410A via a controller (e.g., by being sent to a decoder) or other suitable device and / or component.

[0056] exist Figure 4B In one embodiment shown, the range value to object 420B and / or the associated distance from the ranging operation is indicated as RVb, and indeed exceeds the threshold range value RV. th According to the hybrid fixed-focus operation, the fixed focal length position will correspond to the threshold range value RV. thAs a result, instead of capturing a blurred and / or out-of-focus image of the object 420B and the associated decoded marker 410B, a hybrid fixed-focus operation using a fixed focal length position based on a threshold range will result in capturing an image similar to... Figure 4A One or more clear and / or sufficiently focused images of object 420A and associated decoding mark 410A are used to allow successful decoding of decoding mark 410A.

[0057] In at least some implementations, a threshold range value (or associated focus area or distance) can be associated with an optimal distance (or range) at which the object being scanned is expected to be located. For example, a grocery store may determine that a shopper using the handheld tag reader 100 typically scans items at a distance of no more than twenty-four (24) inches, which has an associated range value of thirty (30). Therefore, if a ranging operation at the grocery store indicates that the shopper is scanning an item with a range value of one hundred and fifty (150) and an associated distance of one hundred and forty-five (145) inches from the handheld tag reader 100, the distance and associated range value indicated by the ranging operation may be incorrect. Conversely, if a ranging operation at the grocery store indicates that an item with a range value of twenty (20) and an eighteen (18)-inch distance from the handheld tag reader 100 is scanned, the distance and associated range value of the item indicated by the ranging operation may be valid. If the ranging operation indicating a range value of 150 (150) for an object 100 to 145 (145) inches from the handheld marker reader is indeed incorrect, and the object is at most 24 (24) inches away, then the hybrid fixed-focus operation will ignore the incorrect range value that exceeds the threshold range value and instead use a fixed focal length position corresponding to the threshold range value to capture the image. In this way, the associated focal length and / or illumination parameters can provide improved conditions for image capture, as well as an increased likelihood of decoding markers located on the object, compared to using a fixed focal length position corresponding to a range value of 150 (150).

[0058] For example, as illustrated just with the grocery store example, the threshold range value is based on the associated distance at which the scanned object might be located from the imaging component 245. In some implementations, the threshold range value may be determined based on historical range values ​​from historical ranging operations of the imaging system, such as the range values ​​of successful decodings that produced the markers. For example, imaging device 200 successfully decoded markers on ninety-five (95) of the most recent one hundred (100) scanned objects. Each of the ninety-five (95) preceding successful decodings indicated a range value of fifty (50), with five failed decodings having range values ​​exceeding fifty (50), such that a range value of fifty (50) could be the optimal threshold range value when analyzing historical range values. In some implementations, analyzing historical range values ​​to determine one or more optimal threshold range values ​​can be achieved using algorithms, artificial intelligence (such as machine learning), etc. One or more threshold range values ​​may be determined in any other suitable manner.

[0059] In some implementations, the threshold range value can be automatically determined and (e.g., via a software application, algorithm, or other suitable means) stored in local memory and recommended to the user of the imaging system, who then (e.g., via the imaging system's user interface or other suitable means of storing the threshold range value in memory) stores the preferred threshold range value in memory, or stores it in memory in any other suitable manner.

[0060] In at least some embodiments, the imaging system may store or be provided with more than one threshold range value. In such embodiments, the imaging system may be able to use more than one threshold. For example, a user (e.g., via a user interface associated with the imaging system) may be provided with multiple threshold range values ​​and select one threshold range value to be used during at least one scan. In one example, different threshold range values ​​may be used according to a schedule, for example, a first threshold range value may be used during the morning hours of a weekday when the tag reader 100 is being used for inventory and scanning barcodes applied to milk cartons (which often results in incorrect range values), and a second threshold value may be used at all other times / dates when the tag reader 100 is being used by a customer for self-checkout.

[0061] In at least some implementations, following a hybrid fixed-focus operation (regardless of whether it results in successful decoding), an imaging system (e.g., marker reader 100, imaging device 200, etc.) may perform subsequent ranging operations and / or non-hybrid fixed-focus imaging operations as described herein. In at least some implementations, if the imaging system is unable to decode the marker during a hybrid fixed-focus operation based on a threshold range value, the imaging system may subsequently perform a non-hybrid fixed-focus operation using a range value exceeding the range value threshold, a new range value from a new ranging operation, a range value stored in memory, or any other suitable range value.

[0062] In at least some implementations, after performing a hybrid fixed-focus operation, the imaging system may initiate a bracketing operation to capture one or more images using multiple object distances and / or multiple focal lengths within a single focal region. The bracketing operation may include range values ​​and / or focal length parameters, illumination parameters, or other information associated with the range values. The range values ​​used for the bracketing operation may be range values ​​stored in memory, range values ​​from a new ranging operation, threshold range values, range values ​​from previous image capture operations (such as range values ​​determined during a hybrid fixed-focus operation), or any other suitable range values.

[0063] Bracketing operations can include a series of consecutive focal distances that are close to each other and within a single focus area. (Use a reference...) Figure 3C An example of the value in LUT 350, where a rangefinding operation prior to the bracketing operation determines that the object is located at a distance of twenty-five (25) inches from the imaging system, indicates that the associated focal area of ​​thirteen (13) has a focal area range of twenty-one-tenths (20.1) inches to thirty (30) inches. During the bracketing operation for the twenty-five (25)-inch focal distance, the imaging system can successively capture a series of six (6) images of the object, one image each at focal distances of (i) twenty-one-tenths (20.1) inches, (ii) twenty-two (22) inches, (iii) twenty-four (24) inches, (iv) twenty-six (26) inches, (v) twenty-eight (28) inches, and thirty (30) inches, all of which fall within the focal area of ​​thirteen (13). One or more images captured at these six different focal distances can each use focal length and illumination parameters associated with their respective focal distances, such as those indicated by LUT 350, calibration tables, etc. As with other image capture operations, the values ​​provided in the bracketing focus operation example are for illustrative purposes only. For example, the number of images captured, focal distance, the order in which the images are captured by focal distance, and / or other parameters may differ in other examples and / or implementations.

[0064] In some implementations (such as when the distance cannot be determined during a ranging operation), when other image capture operations (e.g., mixed fixed-focus or bracketing operations) do not result in successful tag decoding, or in any other suitable scenario, the imaging system (e.g., tag reader 100, imaging device 200) may initiate a ramp operation. During the ramp operation, the imaging system may continuously capture one or more images at one or more associated focus areas. In some implementations, the ramp operation may include: at each focus area, the imaging system (e.g., according to LUT 350) initiating the setting of imaging component 245 to a focal length parameter corresponding to a specific focus area, object distance, and / or range value; energizing (or keeping energized) illumination source 251 according to illumination parameters (e.g., according to LUT 350) corresponding to the specific focus area, object distance, and / or range value; capturing one or more images at the specific focus area; and attempting a decoding operation to decode tags within one or more captured images. If the decoding operation is successful, the ramp operation may terminate. If decoding fails, the ramp operation can be repeated as part of a ramp sequence for another focus region. The ramp sequence can include moving through successive focus regions in an incremental manner. This can include ramping or ramping through all focus regions consecutively during the ramp sequence, i.e., if the ramp sequence is not terminated, moving from focus region 15 (15), then to focus region 14 (14), then to focus region 13 (13), and so on, finally descending to region zero (0), and then ramping in the other direction, i.e., moving from focus region zero (0), then to focus region one (1), then to focus region two (2), and so on.

[0065] In at least some implementations, the image capture operation (such as a hybrid fixed-focus operation, bracketing operation, and / or ramp operation) may terminate upon receiving a termination signal (e.g., via controller 258). The termination signal may be received in response to successful decoding of markers in the captured image data, termination of the scan operation by the user of the imaging system (e.g., by releasing trigger 110 of marker reader 100), system failure or power loss, or any other suitable condition leading to the receipt of the termination signal. In at least some implementations, the image capture operation may terminate due to a timeout (e.g., if the imaging system does not receive a termination signal after sixty (60) seconds) or in any other suitable manner.

[0066] Next reference Figure 5In scenario 500, the imaging system controller 505 communicates with the imaging component 515 and the light source 525. In some implementations, the light source 525 may include a targeting source (e.g., targeting light source 223) and one or more illumination sources (e.g., illumination source 251 including far-field and near-field illumination sources). Depending on the implementation, some of the controller 505, imaging component 515, and / or light source 525 may be components of the same device, and the transmissions described below may be or include messages, signals, commands, or other indications transmitted internally. In further implementations, each or any of the controller 505, imaging component 515, and light source 525 may be different devices, and these transmissions are transmitted between the different devices.

[0067] In scene 500, controller 505 initializes scene 500 by transmitting signal 502 to imaging component 515 to initiate ranging operation 503, and also transmits signal 504 to light source 525 to energize the aiming light source for ranging operation 503. In some implementations, controller 505 receives a signal to initiate the image acquisition process of scene 500 when a user of the imaging system (e.g., marker reader 100, imaging system 200) engages a trigger (such as trigger 110) of the marker reader, when an object (such as a user or object to be scanned) is detected at the imaging system, or any other suitable signal.

[0068] In response to transmission 504, the aiming light source 525 is energized immediately following the ranging operation 503, and provides a beam (such as aiming pattern 330A, aiming pattern 330B) for the ranging operation 503. In response to transmission 502, the imaging component 515 captures one or more images during the ranging operation 503, as previously described. Figure 3A and Figure 3B The imaging component 515 transmits image data from the ranging operation 503 to the controller 505 via data transfer 506.

[0069] Generally, when receiving image data from ranging operations (such as ranging operation 503, ranging operation 503A, ranging operation 503B), controller 505 attempts to determine distance information 509, 509A, 509B. This may also include (e.g., via LUT 350) determining one or more range values, focal length parameters, and / or illumination parameters associated with the distance information. Regarding ranging operation 503, if controller 505 cannot determine distance 509 based on transmission 506 from imaging component 515, controller 505 transmits signal 550 to initiate ramp operation 527, as further described below.

[0070] If controller 505 (e.g., via LUT 350) successfully determines distance 509 and associated range value based on transmission 506, controller 505 retrieves a threshold range value locally from memory and compares the range value to the threshold range value during threshold determination 511. Controller 505 transmits signal 508 to imaging assembly 515, thereby initiating hybrid fixed-focus operation 507. If the controller determines that the range value 511 does not exceed the threshold range value, the signal transmitted 508 can indicate (e.g., from LUT 350) the range value and associated focal length parameter to imaging assembly 515. If the controller determines that the range value 511 is indeed a threshold range value, the signal transmitted 508 can indicate (e.g., from LUT 350) the threshold range value and associated focal length parameter to imaging assembly 515. As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, threshold determination 511 may not be necessary; for example, it may occur only once during scene 500 (such as only when the first ranging operation 503 occurs during scene 500, only before the first hybrid fixed-focus operation 507, or any other suitable condition). Therefore, threshold determination 511 in... Figure 5 It is described as optional.

[0071] When the range value does not exceed the threshold range value, controller 505 further (e.g., via LUT 350) determines 511 the lighting parameters associated with the range value, and when the range value does exceed the threshold range value, controller 505 determines 511 the lighting parameters associated with the threshold range value. Controller 505 transmits signal 510 to light source 525, thereby indicating the lighting parameters associated with the threshold range value (i.e., when the threshold range value is exceeded) or (i.e., when the threshold range value is not exceeded) the lighting parameters associated with the range value. In response to transmission 510, light source 525 illuminates one or more lighting sources, as further described below.

[0072] The transmission 510 also includes a signal for disconnecting the power to the aiming light source in response to the completion of the ranging operation 503. Although Figure 5 The image depicts a targeting light source being instructed to be energized at transmission 504 and de-energized at transmission 510, but the targeting light source may not be energized for the entire duration between these two transmissions 504 and 510. For example, transmission 504 may include timing information such that the targeting light source is energized only for a portion of the time between transmissions 504 and 510 (such as at least a portion of the ranging operation 503), outside of ranging operation 503, or at any other suitable timing. In such an example, the targeting light source may have already been de-energized when the light source 525 receives transmission 510. Therefore, the targeting light source is... Figure 5The description of being energized throughout is for illustrative purposes only and can vary in other implementations and examples, particularly as depicted for ranging operations (such as ranging operation 503, ranging operation 503A, ranging operation 503B, etc.) where the aiming light source is de-energized / energized.

[0073] In response to transmission 510, light source 525 energizes one or more illumination sources according to illumination parameters (e.g., far-field LEDs, near-field LEDs, illumination intensity, etc., as indicated by LUT 350), which are associated with range values ​​or threshold range values ​​determined by controller 505 from ranging operation 503. Once energized, the one or more illumination sources can illuminate the object using the illumination intensity of the illumination parameters immediately following the hybrid fixed-focus capture operation 507. Illumination from the one or more energized illumination sources can provide appropriate exposure for the captured image of the object and / or markers during the hybrid fixed-focus operation 507.

[0074] During the hybrid fixed-focus operation 507, the imaging component 515 uses the focal length parameter transmitted 508 to capture one or more images, including image data of objects marked thereon and within the FOV of the imaging system. Upon completion of the hybrid fixed-focus operation 507, the imaging component 515 transmits the image data from the hybrid fixed-focus operation 507 to the controller 505 via transmission 512. Generally, although... Figure 5 Scene 500 depicts an imaging component 515 capturing and transmitting image data of one or more images captured at different times in the same transmission (e.g., transmission 506, transmission 512, transmission 520, transmission 526, etc.), but the imaging component 515 may capture each image individually and transmit the associated image data individually, capture and / or transmit fewer than all images and image data individually, any combination thereof, or in any other suitable manner.

[0075] Next, controller 505 attempts to decode a marker (such as a barcode) in the image data transmitted 512 via transmission 513. Upon successful decoding 513, controller 505 may transmit signal 556, which causes controller 505 to transmit a termination signal via transmission 552 to imaging assembly 515 and transmission 554 to light source 525, thereby ending scene 500. In some implementations, the termination indication may cause light source 525 to be de-energized as a result of transmission 554, and / or the imaging assembly to be initialized to focal length parameters, which may be indicated in transmission 552, thereby terminating image capture, and / or other appropriate responses.

[0076] If the controller 505 fails to successfully decode the 513 tag from the image data, the controller 505 may transmit a 514 signal to the imaging assembly 515, indicating that unsuccessful decoding has occurred, and thus instructing the imaging assembly 515 to initiate a second ranging operation 503A. The second ranging operation 503A may be similar to the first ranging operation 503, i.e., detecting the distance between the tag reader and the object, since the distance may have changed between the first ranging operation 503 and the second ranging operation 503A.

[0077] If controller 505 fails to successfully decode marker 513 from image data transmitted 512, the controller also transmits signal 516 to light source 525 to power on and aim at the light source immediately following second ranging operation 503A, as similarly accomplished using transmission 504. Transmission 516 can also instruct light source 525 to disconnect power to one or more illumination sources, for example, as a result of hybrid fixed-focus operation 507. Similar to aiming at a light source, although... Figure 5 Typically, one or more aiming light sources are depicted as being energized at transmission 510 and de-energized via transmission 516, but the aiming light sources may not be energized for the entire duration between these two transmissions 510 and 516. For example, transmission 510 may include timing information such that the aiming light sources are energized only for a portion of the time between transmissions 510 and 516 (such as at least a portion of the hybrid fixed-focus image capture operation 507), outside of the hybrid fixed-focus image capture operation 507, or at any other suitable timing. In such an example, when light source 525 receives transmission 516, the illumination light sources may have already been de-energized. Therefore, Figure 5 The depiction of one or more lighting sources is for illustrative purposes only and may vary in other implementations and examples, particularly as depicted for operations (such as operation 507, operation 519, operation 503A, etc.) where the lighting source is disconnected / energized.

[0078] In response to transmission 514, the imaging component initiates a second ranging operation 503A. Similar to the first ranging operation 503, the imaging component 515 captures one or more images during ranging operation 503A. The imaging component 515 transmits the image data from ranging operation 503A to the controller 505 via transmission 520.

[0079] If the controller 505 cannot determine the distance 509A based on the transmission 520 from the ranging operation 503A, the controller 505 transmits a signal 550A to initiate the ramp operation 527.

[0080] If the second ranging operation 503A determines 509A that the distance between the indicator reader and the object has changed since the first ranging operation 503, then scenario 500 can restart according to controller transmission 518, that is, when appropriate, the controller 505 issues signals 502 and 504 to restart sequence 500. As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, threshold determination 511 may occur only once. Therefore, if the sequence 500 is restarted in consideration of transmission 518, threshold determination 511 may not occur.

[0081] If controller 505 successfully determines distance 509A and the associated range value, and the distance remains the same as the previous distance determination 509, even if the distance and / or the associated range value exceeds a threshold range value, the controller also determines the range value and focal length parameter 509A based on transmission 520 (e.g., via LUT 350). Controller 505 transmits the determined signal 522 to imaging assembly 515, which then performs a bracketing focus operation 519, i.e., capturing multiple images across the focus area, as shown in the image. Figure 3C As described, similar to the hybrid fixed-focus operation 507, the surround-focus operation 519 includes a controller 505 transmitting a signal 524 to a light source 525. Transmission 524 may instruct the light source 525 to disconnect from the aiming light source immediately following the completion of the second ranging operation 503A. Transmission 524 also includes illumination parameters that instruct the light source 525 to energize one or more appropriate illumination sources (e.g., near-field or far-field LEDs) based on illumination intensity associated with range values ​​from the ranging operation 503A. The light source 525 may energize one or more illumination sources immediately following the surround-focus operation 519 based on transmission 524.

[0082] Imaging component 515 can transmit image data 526 from multiple images captured during surround focusing operation 519 to controller 505 to decode 513A a marker contained in one or more images of the image data. Upon successful decoding 513, controller 505 can transmit signal 556, which causes the transmission of termination signal 552 to imaging component 515 and termination signal 554 to light source 525, respectively, thereby ending scene 500 as previously discussed. If controller 505 fails to successfully decode marker 513A from the image data, it can transmit signal 528 to imaging component 515 to perform a third ranging operation 503B. The third ranging operation 503B can be similar to the first ranging operation 503 and the second ranging operation 503A.

[0083] If the controller 505 fails to successfully decode the 513A marker from the image data transmitted 526, the controller also transmits a 530 signal to the light source 525 to power on and aim at the light source immediately following a third ranging operation 503B, as similarly accomplished using transmissions 504 and 516. Transmission 530 may also instruct the light source 525 to disconnect power to one or more illumination sources, for example, as a result of the surround focusing operation 519.

[0084] In response to transmission 528, imaging component 515 initiates a third ranging operation 503B. Similar to other ranging operations 503 and 503A, imaging component 515 captures one or more images during ranging operation 503B. Imaging component 515 transmits the image data from ranging operation 503B to controller 505 via transmission 534.

[0085] If the controller 505 cannot determine the distance 509B based on the transmission 534 from the ranging operation 503B, the controller 505 transmits a signal 536 for the imaging system to initiate a ramp operation 527, as previously described, using a focal length parameter associated with the most recently known range value (e.g., stored in memory and retrieved by the controller 505 during the determination of 509B).

[0086] If controller 505 determines that the distance between the indicator tag reader and the object has changed since the second ranging operation 503A, the scenario 500 can restart according to controller 505 transmission 518A, i.e., restarting sequence 500 by issuing signals 502 and 504 from controller 505, similar to indication 518. As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, threshold determination 511 may occur only once. Therefore, if sequence 500 is restarted in view of transmission 518A, threshold determination 511 may not occur.

[0087] If the controller 505 successfully determines the distance 509B from the transmission 534, and the distance remains the same as the previous distance determination 509A, the controller 505 determines the range value, focal length parameter, and illumination parameter of 509B based on the transmission 534 (e.g., via LUT 350). Next, the controller 505 transmits a signal 536 indicating the focal length parameter to the imaging assembly 515, which then performs a ramp operation 527.

[0088] Similar to the hybrid fixed-focus operation 507, the ramp operation 527 may include a signal 538 transmitted by the controller 505 to the light source 525. This signal may instruct the light source 525 to disconnect from the aiming light source immediately following the completion of the third ranging operation 503B. The transmission 538 also includes illumination parameters (i.e., illumination parameters determined 509B by the controller 505) that instruct the light source 525 to energize (one or more) appropriate illumination sources (e.g., near-field or far-field LEDs) based on illumination intensity associated with range values ​​from the ranging operation 503B. The light source 525 may energize (one or more) illumination sources immediately following the ramp operation 527 based on the transmission 538.

[0089] In at least some implementations, if scene 500 causes ramp operation 527, in response to controller 505 being unable to determine distances 509, 509A, and 509B based on one or more ranging operations 503, 503A, and 503B, controller 505 may determine illumination parameters and / or focal length parameters 509B based on the most recently known range values ​​stored in memory.

[0090] In some implementations, as the imaging system fails to successfully decode markers 513 and 513A after the hybrid fixed-focus operation 507 and the bracketing focus operation 519, respectively, and as the controller 505 determines that the distance to 509B has not changed, the imaging component 515 enters the ramp-up operation 527. In some implementations, as the controller 505 fails to determine the distances to 509, 509A, and 509B based on one or more ranging operations 503, 503A, and 503B, the imaging component 515 enters the ramp-up operation 527.

[0091] The ramp operation 527 may include capturing multiple images at various focal distances / across sequential focus areas, as previously described. In at least some embodiments, the focal distance may increase or decrease incrementally across various focal distances, resulting in the imaging assembly 515 capturing images across the entire range of focal distances (if not terminated) in an attempt to obtain a sharp and / or sufficiently focused image of the marker to successfully decode the marker 529.

[0092] Immediately following the ramp operation 527, the light source 525 can energize one or more lighting sources (e.g., near-field LEDs or far-field LEDs) based on the lighting intensity associated with the lighting parameters from the transmission 538 from the controller 505.

[0093] The ramp operation 527 can be ramped and incremented through steps of various focal lengths. During each step of the ramp operation 527 with an associated focal length, the imaging component can capture one or more images containing image data, which is then transmitted to the controller 505 for tag decoding. For example, during ramp operation 527, the imaging component 505 can begin with a first ramp step, which is equivalent to imaging an object three (3) inches from the tag reader based on a ranging operation. The controller 505 can determine a range value 509B associated with three (3) inches and transmit the associated focal length parameter 536 to the imaging component 515. The imaging component 515 can set the focal length distance according to the focal length parameter and capture multiple images at the focal length distance. The imaging component can transmit image data 540 to the controller 505 for decoding 513B the image data from ramp 527. If the marker 513B is successfully decoded, sequence 500 ends, where controller 505 initiates transmission 556B, which causes transmissions 552 and 554 to imaging assembly 515 and light source 525 respectively, thereby indicating termination, as previously described.

[0094] If decoding 513B is unsuccessful, the ramp operation enters a ramp increment loop 555. While in loop 555, controller 505 transmits signal 542 to imaging assembly 515 to ramp to the next incrementing step in ramp operation 527. This involves ramping the focal distance to the next value associated with the incrementing step, whether that involves increasing or decreasing the focal distance, as ramp operation 527 can include either as the next step, i.e., ramping down or ramping up as previously described. Imaging assembly 515 then captures one or more images associated with the incrementing step and transmits image data 540 from the images of the incrementing step to controller 505 for subsequent decoding 513B. The ramp operation incrementing to the next step can be repeated indefinitely in ramp increment loop 555 until successful decoding 516B of one or more images from one or more steps, resulting in transmission 556B. In some implementations, when controller 505 transmits termination instructions 552, 554 (e.g., as a result of a user releasing a tag reader trigger, or for any other suitable reason), sequence 500 exits loop 555.

[0095] While exemplary sequence 500 depicts a range value determined by controller 505, this is for illustrative purposes only. In some implementations, imaging component 515, another controller, processor, or other suitable component / device associated with the imaging system may determine the range value.

[0096] Next reference Figure 6A and Figure 6BMethod 600 illustrates a flowchart of an example method for providing a hybrid fixed focal length during operation of a tag reader (such as tag reader 100). Although Method 600 is described below with respect to components such as controllers (such as controller 258), imaging components (such as imaging component 245), and light sources (e.g., aiming light source 223, illumination components including illumination light source 251 and illumination lens 252, etc.), it will be understood that other similar suitable imaging devices and / or components (e.g., imaging device 200, imaging device 490, etc.) may instead be used.

[0097] Method 600 includes initiating a ranging operation of an imaging component having a field of view (FOV) at block 610. In some implementations, initiating the ranging operation 610 may be in response to receiving a command (e.g., a signal, instruction, etc.) from a controller (such as controller 258). For example, a user may engage a trigger of a tag reader (such as trigger 110 of tag reader 100), and as a result, the controller generates a command to initiate the ranging operation 610. In some implementations, initiating the ranging operation 610 may be in response to an object (e.g., an item having tags for decoding, a user of the tag reader, etc.) entering the FOV of an imaging component (such as imaging component 245), receiving input from the user via the user interface of the tag reader, or any other suitable means of initiating the ranging operation 610.

[0098] The ranging operation of method 600 may include energizing an aiming light source (such as aiming LED 223) at block 612. The aiming light source may be configured to project aiming light into the field of view (FOV) of the imaging assembly. At block 614, method 600 may further include capturing one or more images by the imaging assembly, the one or more images including image data of the FOV containing the aiming light.

[0099] At box 616, based on a ranging operation, method 600 may include: determining a range value associated with the distance between the imaging assembly and an object in the field of view (FOV). For example, aiming a light source can project an aiming pattern into the FOV of the imaging assembly, as per [reference to...]. Figure 3A and Figure 3B The method described involves determining the distance between an object and a tag reader (e.g., via a controller, imaging processor, or other suitable device and / or component), and determining a range value. In at least some embodiments, method 600 may include: locally storing the range value on memory (such as memory 260) associated with the imaging component at block 618. In at least some embodiments, method 600 may include (e.g., when ranging operations fail to generate distance and / or range values, as previously described) locally retrieving the most recently known range value from memory associated with the imaging component at block 620.

[0100] Method 600 may include: retrieving a threshold range value locally from memory associated with the imaging component at box 622, and comparing the range value with a threshold range value at box 624. The comparison at box 624 may indicate whether the range value exceeds a threshold, which may indicate that the object is at a distance from the imaging component greater than the distance associated with the threshold range value. In at least some implementations of method 600, the threshold range value is (i) provided by a user, (ii) generated by a machine learning model, or (iii) based on at least one of historical range values ​​for objects in the field of view.

[0101] Method 600 may include initiating a hybrid fixed-focus operation via a controller at block 626. The hybrid fixed-focus operation may include energizing an illumination component at block 628 during the hybrid fixed-focus operation to provide illumination of the field of view. In at least some implementations of method 600, the illumination component includes at least one near-field illumination component (e.g., a near-field LED) and at least one far-field illumination component (e.g., a far-field LED). In at least some implementations of method 600, energizing the illumination component at block 628 during the hybrid fixed-focus operation may further include energizing the near-field illumination component.

[0102] The hybrid fixed-focus operation of method 600 may further include, at block 630, a first set of one or more images captured by the imaging component at a fixed focal length position, the first set including image data of the environment appearing in the FOV, (i) wherein, in response to a range value not exceeding a threshold range value (e.g., indicating that an object is at a distance no further from the imaging component than a distance associated with the threshold range), the fixed focal length position corresponds to the range value, and (ii) wherein, in response to a range value exceeding a threshold (e.g., indicating that an object is at a distance further from the imaging component than a distance associated with the threshold range), the fixed focal length position corresponds to the threshold range value.

[0103] Method 600 may include terminating the hybrid fixed-focus operation at block 632 based on the controller receiving a termination signal. As previously described, the termination signal may be generated based on (e.g., via a tag decoding module) successful decoding of a tag, when the user releases the trigger of the tag reader, due to a system timeout, or for any other suitable reason. One or more suitable devices and / or components of the tag reader, one or more suitable devices and / or components operatively coupled to the tag reader, one or more suitable devices and / or components communicating with the tag reader, etc., may generate and / or provide the termination signal to the controller.

[0104] In at least some embodiments of method 600, terminating the hybrid fixed focus operation at block 632 based on the controller receiving a termination signal may further include: (i) providing image data of at least one image from a first set of one or more images to a decoding module, (ii) having the decoding module analyze the image data from at least one image from one or more images to decode a marker contained in at least one image, and (iii) receiving a termination signal at block 632 in response to decoding the marker contained in at least one image.

[0105] In at least some embodiments, in response to the failure to receive a termination signal at block 632, wherein the termination signal is based on the successful decoding of a marker contained in at least one image in a first set of images captured during the hybrid fixed-focus operation, method 600 may include initiating a ranging operation at block 634 to determine an updated range value.

[0106] In at least some embodiments, method 600 may include initiating a bounding operation via a controller at block 636. The bounding operation of method 600 may further include, at block 638, capturing a second set of images at a bounding set of focal length positions around a fixed focal length position corresponding to an updated range value, the second set including image data of the environment appearing in the field of view, via an imaging component. The bounding operation of method 600 may further include, at block 640, energizing an illumination component to an illumination intensity determined based on an updated range value (e.g., indicated by a LUT (such as LUT 350), a calibration table, other structures in memory, etc.).

[0107] In at least some embodiments, in response to the failure to receive a termination signal at block 642, wherein the termination signal is based on the successful decoding of a marker contained in at least one image in a first set of images captured during the hybrid fixed-focus operation, method 600 may include: initiating a ramp operation via a controller at block 644. The ramp operation of method 600 may include: at block 646, capturing multiple images using an imaging component and associated multiple focal length parameters defining multiple different focus regions, the multiple images including image data of the environment appearing in the field of view, the ramp operation generating image data at each focus region of the multiple focus regions. The ramp operation of method 600 may further include: at block 648 energizing an illumination component to an illumination intensity determined based on each focus region of the multiple focus regions.

[0108] In at least some embodiments of the ramp operation of method 600, (i) the illumination component may include at least one near-field illumination component and at least one far-field illumination component, (ii) the plurality of focal length parameters may include focal length parameters defining a first plurality of focal regions corresponding to at least one near-field illumination component and a second plurality of focal regions corresponding to at least one far-field illumination component, and (iii) the ramp operation may further include generating image data by the imaging component at each focal region in the plurality of focal regions and / or at each focal region in the second plurality of focal regions.

[0109] In at least some embodiments, method 600 may terminate in response to receiving a termination signal at block 650, i.e., the ramp operation is terminated based on the controller receiving a termination signal at block 650. In at least some embodiments, method 600 may continue indefinitely with ramp operation in response to no termination signal being received at block 650.

[0110] It will be understood that the foregoing represents one potential implementation, and other implementations are conceivable. For example, in some implementations, a dual-window barcode scanner can be used as an imaging device.

[0111] Specific embodiments have been described in the foregoing specification. However, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. Therefore, the specification and drawings are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this teaching. Additionally, the described embodiments / examples / implementations should not be construed as mutually exclusive, but rather as potentially composable if such combinations are permitted in any way. In other words, any feature disclosed in any of the foregoing embodiments / examples / implementations may be included in any of the other foregoing embodiments / examples / implementations.

[0112] These benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any one or more elements that may make any benefit, advantage, or solution occur or become more prominent are not to be construed as key, essential, or necessary features or elements of any or all claims. The invention is defined solely by the appended claims, including any amendments made during the pending period of this application and all equivalents of these claims in the patent announcement.

[0113] Furthermore, in this document, relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, etc., may be used individually to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action, without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “has,” “having,” “includes,” “including,” “contains,” “containing,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes, has, includes, or contains a list of elements includes not only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Elements beginning with "comprises," "has," "includes," or "contains" do not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes, has, includes, or contains that element, unless otherwise expressly stated herein. The term "a / an" is defined as one or more unless otherwise expressly stated herein. The terms "substantially," "essentially," "approximately," "about," or any other version of these terms are defined as being as close as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting embodiment, these terms are defined as within 10%, in another within 5%, in yet another within 1%, and in yet another within 0.5%. The term "coupled" as used herein is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly connected or mechanically connected. A device or structure that is “configured” in a certain way is configured at least in that way, but may also be configured in ways not listed.

[0114] This abstract is provided to allow the reader to quickly determine the nature of the disclosure. This abstract is submitted with the understanding that it is not intended to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the above detailed description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of making the disclosure coherent. This method of disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than expressly recited in the claims. Rather, as reflected in the appended claims, the inventive subject matter may lie in fewer than all the features of a single disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the appended claims are thus incorporated into the detailed description, wherein each claim represents itself as a separately claimed subject matter.

Claims

1. A method for providing hybrid fixed focus during tag reader operation, comprising: Initiate a ranging operation for the imaging component with a field of view; Based on the ranging operation, a range of values ​​associated with the distance between the imaging component and an object in the field of view are determined; Retrieve the threshold range value locally from the memory associated with the imaging component; Compare the range value with the threshold range value; A hybrid fixed-focus operation is initiated via a controller, the hybrid fixed-focus operation including: Powering the illumination components to provide illumination of the field of view during the hybrid fixed-focus operation; and The imaging component captures a first set of one or more images at a fixed focal length position, the first set including image data of the environment appearing in the field of view. Wherein, in response to the range value not exceeding the threshold range value, the fixed focal length position corresponds to the range value, and wherein, in response to the range value exceeding the threshold, the fixed focal length position corresponds to the threshold range value; and The hybrid fixed-focus operation is terminated based on the controller receiving a termination signal.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: In response to the failure to receive the termination signal, wherein the termination signal is based on the successful decoding of a marker contained in at least one image in the first set of images captured during the hybrid fixed-focus operation, the ranging operation is initiated to determine an updated range value. as well as An encirclement operation is initiated via the controller, the encirclement operation including: The imaging component captures a second set of multiple images at a set of focal positions surrounding the fixed focal length position corresponding to the updated range value, the second set including image data of the environment appearing in the field of view; as well as The lighting components are powered to a lighting intensity determined based on the updated range value.

3. The method of claim 2, further comprising: In response to the failure to receive the termination signal, wherein the termination signal is based on the successful decoding of the marker contained in at least one image of the second set of a plurality of images captured during the encirclement operation, a ramp operation is initiated via the controller, the ramp operation comprising: The imaging component captures multiple images using associated focal length parameters that define multiple different focus regions. These multiple images include image data of the environment appearing within the field of view. The ramp operation generates image data at each focus region within the multiple focus regions. The lighting component is powered to a lighting intensity determined based on each of the plurality of focal regions.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the ranging operation includes: The aiming light source is energized and configured to project aiming light into the field of view; The imaging component captures one or more images, the one or more images including image data of the field of view containing the aiming light; Analyze the position of the aiming light in the one or more images to determine the range value; as well as The range values ​​are stored locally on a memory associated with the imaging component.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the ranging operation comprises: The most recently known range value is retrieved locally from the memory associated with the imaging component.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the lighting component comprises at least one near-field lighting component and at least one far-field lighting component.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein energizing the illumination assembly during the hybrid fixed-focus operation includes energizing the near-field illumination assembly.

8. The method of claim 3, wherein: The lighting assembly includes at least one near-field lighting assembly and at least one far-field lighting assembly; The plurality of focal length parameters include focal length parameters that define a first plurality of focal regions corresponding to at least one near-field illumination component and a second plurality of focal regions corresponding to at least one far-field illumination component; as well as The ramp operation further includes generating image data at each of the plurality of focal regions and / or at each of the second plurality of focal regions via the imaging component.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein terminating the hybrid fixed-focus operation based on the controller receiving the termination signal further comprises: Provide image data of at least one image from the first set of one or more images to the decoding module; The decoding module analyzes the image data from at least one of the one or more images to decode the markers contained in the at least one image; as well as The termination signal is received in response to decoding the marker contained in the at least one image.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the threshold range value is at least one of user-provided, generated by a machine learning model, or based on historical range values ​​for the object in the field of view.

11. A system for providing a hybrid fixed focal length during tag reader operation, comprising: An imaging component having a field of view; Controller; One or more processors; as well as A memory associated with the tag reader, the memory storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: Initiate the ranging operation of the imaging component; Based on the ranging operation, a range of values ​​associated with the distance between the imaging component and an object in the field of view are determined; Retrieve the threshold range value locally from the memory associated with the imaging component; Compare the range value with the threshold range value; Initiating a hybrid fixed-focus operation via the controller, wherein the hybrid fixed-focus operation includes the one or more processors being configured to: Power the lighting components to provide illumination of the field of view during the hybrid fixed-focus operation; as well as The imaging component captures a first set of one or more images at a fixed focal length position, the first set including image data of the environment appearing in the field of view. The fixed focal length position corresponds to the range value in response to the range value not exceeding the threshold range value, and the fixed focal length position corresponds to the threshold range value in response to the range value exceeding the threshold value. as well as The hybrid fixed-focus operation is terminated based on the controller receiving a termination signal.

12. The system of claim 11, further comprising the one or more processors being further configured to: In response to the failure to receive the termination signal, wherein the termination signal is based on the successful decoding of a marker contained in at least one image in the first set of images captured during the hybrid fixed-focus operation, the ranging operation is initiated to determine an updated range value. as well as An encirclement operation is initiated via the controller, wherein the encirclement operation includes the one or more processors being configured to: The imaging component captures a second set of multiple images at a set of focal positions surrounding the fixed focal length position corresponding to the updated range value, the second set including image data of the environment appearing in the field of view; as well as The lighting components are powered to a lighting intensity determined based on the updated range value.

13. The system of claim 12, further comprising the one or more processors being further configured to: In response to the failure to receive the termination signal, wherein the termination signal is based on the successful decoding of a marker contained in at least one image in the second set of a plurality of images captured during the enclosing operation, a ramp operation is initiated, wherein the ramp operation includes the one or more processors being configured to: The imaging component captures multiple images using associated focal length parameters that define multiple different focus regions. These multiple images include image data of the environment appearing within the field of view. The ramp operation generates image data at each focus region within the multiple focus regions. The lighting component is powered to a lighting intensity determined based on each of the plurality of focal regions.

14. The system of claim 11, wherein the ranging operation includes the one or more processors configured to: The aiming light source is energized and configured to project aiming light into the field of view; The imaging component captures one or more images, the one or more images including image data of the field of view containing the aiming light; Analyze the position of the aiming light in the one or more images to determine the range value; as well as The range values ​​are stored locally on a memory associated with the imaging component.

15. The system of claim 11, wherein the ranging operation includes the one or more processors configured to: The most recently known range value is retrieved locally from the memory associated with the imaging component.

16. The system of claim 11, wherein, in order to energize the illumination component during the hybrid fixed-focus operation, the one or more processors are further configured to energize a near-field illumination component of the illumination component.

17. The system according to claim 13, wherein: The lighting assembly includes at least one near-field lighting assembly and at least one far-field lighting assembly; and The plurality of focal length parameters include focal length parameters defining a first plurality of focal regions corresponding to at least one near-field illumination component and a second plurality of focal regions corresponding to the at least one far-field illumination component, wherein the ramp operation generates image data at each of the plurality of focal regions and / or at each of the second plurality of focal regions.

18. The system of claim 11, wherein terminating the hybrid fixed-focus operation based on the controller receiving the termination signal includes the one or more processors being further configured to: Provide image data of at least one image from the first set of one or more images to the decoding module; The decoding module analyzes the image data from at least one of the one or more images to decode the markers contained in the at least one image; and The termination signal is received in response to decoding the marker contained in the at least one image.

19. The system of claim 11, wherein the threshold range value is at least one of user-provided, generated by a machine learning model, or based on historical range values ​​for the object in the field of view.

20. A tangible machine-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed, cause a machine to perform at least the following operations: Initiate a ranging operation for the imaging component with a field of view; Based on the ranging operation, a range of values ​​associated with the distance between the imaging component and an object in the field of view are determined; Retrieve the threshold range value locally from the memory associated with the imaging component; Compare the range value with the threshold range value; A hybrid fixed-focus operation is initiated via a controller, wherein the hybrid fixed-focus operation further includes instructions that, when executed, cause the machine to: Power the lighting components to provide illumination of the field of view during the hybrid fixed-focus operation; as well as The imaging component captures a first set of one or more images at a fixed focal length position, the first set including image data of the environment appearing in the field of view. The fixed focal length position corresponds to the range value in response to the range value not exceeding the threshold range value, and the fixed focal length position corresponds to the threshold range value in response to the range value exceeding the threshold value. as well as The hybrid fixed-focus operation is terminated based on the controller receiving a termination signal.

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