Brand reader with reduced response time between triggering and decoding

Abstract

Handheld brand reader, including: a reader with a manual trigger; an image capture sensor that captures at least one pre-trigger image of the brand and at least one post-trigger image of the brand; wherein the brand reader is configured to perform a pre-release calculation process which calculates at least one pre-release image parameter for the at least one pre-release image; to execute a decoding process that decodes the at least one post-trigger image; and to execute a feedback process that uses at least one pre-trigger image parameter to control the decoding process.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED REGISTRATIONS

[0001] Not applicable. INFORMATION ON GOVERNMENT-FUNDED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of trademark or symbology readers used for reading trademarks (e.g. symbols, barcodes, text characters including alphanumeric characters, kanji characters, etc.) directly on objects, and in particular a reader configured to reduce the time between activation of the reader's trigger and sending back a response for successful decoding by the reader.

[0004] Barcode reading (also commonly referred to as barcode scanning) involves directing an image capture sensor (e.g., CMOS camera, CCD, etc.) or a vision system (e.g., VSoC) contained within the reader toward a location on an object that contains a barcode and capturing an image of the barcode. Barcodes are well-known and available in a range of shapes and sizes, and are designed to contain a set of predetermined patterns representing an ordered group of characters and shapes. The reader, including an attached data processor (e.g., a microcomputer), can derive useful information about the scanned object (e.g., serial number, type, model, price, etc.) from the barcode.

[0005] A handheld reader can be guided to cycle through various image capture parameters when reading each marker, such as exposure / gain settings and / or cyclically switching different lighting on and off, but this is time-consuming, as is integrating / analyzing the resulting images. Generally, the reading process for a reader considered efficient should take 200 milliseconds or less. Cycling through exposure / gain settings and / or lighting modes, saving results, and deriving a suitable image could exceed desired time limits.

[0006] With reference to Fig. 1. The image decoding process in known symbology readers typically works as follows. The user initiates the image decoding process by pressing a trigger on a handheld symbology reader, as described in process block 50. At this point, the reader may or may not be pointed at the mark to be decoded. Pressing the trigger turns on a light source on or in the reader, as described in process block 52, to illuminate the mark to be decoded. The user then points the reader and its associated light source at the mark to be decoded, so that the light is reflected from the desired mark and back to the reader and onto an image capture sensor in the reader, thus exposing it to capture an image of the mark, as described in process block 54. Optionally, in addition to capturing the image, the captured image could be transferred to memory (e.g., SDRAM) for storage.

[0007] Subsequently, a data processor executes a predetermined algorithm on the stored image data to analyze the image, as specified in process block 56. The algorithm determines whether the image data is acceptable (i.e., meets predetermined thresholds regarding contrast or sharpness) to attempt decoding the image data, or whether modifications to sensor parameters (e.g., exposure / gain) and / or other reader parameter settings (e.g., focal point, illumination) are necessary, as specified in decision block 58. If modifications are necessary, the new sensor and / or other reader parameter settings could be calculated and updated, as specified in process block 60. As specified in process block 62, a time delay might be required before the new parameters take effect; for example, a rolling shutter sensor might be necessary to obtain a readout from each sensor "line" (i.e.,to complete a series of image pixels).

[0008] The image acquisition process could be repeated in process block 54, now with the new parameters, and again the algorithm determines whether the image data is acceptable to attempt decoding. If the image data is now acceptable, it could be decoded or analyzed for the presence of an encoded data marker, as specified in process block 64.

[0009] If data encoded in the tag is found and successfully decoded, as specified in Decision Block 66, the reader typically transmits the decoded data by outputting the decoded data (or a variation thereof) and / or updating some form of user feedback, such as a beeper and / or status lights, and turns off the illumination, as specified in Process Block 68. The process can then be repeated if the trigger is activated by the user. If the decoding step does not result in a decoded image, the process typically returns to Process Block 54 to acquire another image for analysis.

[0010] While this solution works well for some applications, a drawback of the decoding process described above is the time between the user pressing the trigger to initiate the image decoding process and the eventual successful processing of an image. For example, typical transmission times from sensor to memory could be approximately 17 ms (using, for example, a global sensor like the APTINA MT9V024) to 33 ms (using, for example, a rolling shutter sensor like the APTINA MT9M001). Typical parameter update delays could be approximately 5 ms (global sensor) to 33–66 ms (rolling shutter). It is not uncommon for the parameter update process to be repeated at least three to six times or more, which can result in an undesirable delay of several hundred milliseconds or more.Furthermore, it is recognized that certain aspects of the brand itself can make it difficult to capture or decode within a limited number of images.

[0011] A recognized measure of the usability of handheld scanners is the response time between triggering and decoding, or the time between the user pressing the trigger to initiate the image decoding process and the scanner sending back a successful decoding response. There is a need for a branded scanner with a reduced response time between triggering and decoding.

[0012] Brand-reading devices are known from the prior art. For example, a portable imaging scanner is known from US 2007 / 0 002 163 A1. The imaging scanner relates to the use of images taken before the start of decoding to determine the settings of the imaging device, such as the exposure time and lighting settings, and to evaluate whether the images taken before the start of decoding are suitable for decoding. Sensor devices in general, and in particular an image sensor device which, in one embodiment, may include a character-decoding function, are known from US 2007 / 0 284 448 A1.US 2010 / 0 155 477 A1 relates to machine vision systems and, in particular, to a system in which a fast processor is used to facilitate a machine vision process in parallel with the acquisition of images at different focus positions of a camera lens and to accelerate the overall image processing process. BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing improved systems and methods for shortening the reaction time between triggering and decoding by performing some image processing before the user activates the trigger, thus obtaining a decodable image with a reduced delay.

[0014] Therefore, some embodiments include a handheld brand reader. The reader comprises a manual trigger and an image acquisition sensor. The sensor captures at least one pre-release image of the brand and at least one post-release image of the brand. The brand reader is configured to perform a pre-release calculation process that calculates at least one pre-release image parameter for the at least one pre-release image. The brand reader is configured to perform a decoding process that decodes the at least one post-release image. The brand reader is configured to perform a feedback process that uses the at least one pre-release image parameter to control the decoding process.

[0015] Other embodiments also include a handheld brand reader for reading a brand. The brand reader comprises a reader body that carries a manual release and an image acquisition sensor, the sensor being configured to capture a pre-release image of the brand and a post-release image of the brand. The brand reader is configured to perform a pre-release image acquisition process together with a first pre-release calculation process that calculates at least one exposure and gain parameter for the pre-release image. Furthermore, the brand reader is configured to perform a first decoding process that attempts to decode the pre-release image. The brand reader is further configured to perform a post-release image acquisition process together with a second decoding process that attempts to decode the post-release image.The token reader is configured to execute a feedback process that uses the first calculated parameter, or at least one parameter, to control the second decoding process.

[0016] Other embodiments include a brand reader for decoding an image. The reader comprises a body and an image sensor within the body, the image sensor being configured to capture a pre-release image and at least one portion of a brand. The body carries a manually operated shutter release, the release being configured to activate the image sensor to capture a post-release image of the at least one portion of the brand. A processor is coupled to the shutter release and the image sensor, the processor being configured to activate the image sensor prior to operation of the shutter release in order to capture the pre-release image of the at least one portion of the brand and to perform auto-exposure, auto-gain, auto-focus, and / or image decoding on the pre-release image captured prior to operation of the shutter release.The processor is further configured to decode the post-release image, which is captured after the shutter release has been activated, using calculated or computed auto exposure, auto gain, auto focus and / or image decoding.

[0017] In accordance with the foregoing, some embodiments include a method for decoding an image of a trademark using a handheld trademark reader, wherein the reader includes a trigger configured to initiate a recording of the image of the trademark.The procedure comprises a series of steps, including: a) providing a processor coupled to the shutter release and an image capture sensor; b) activating the processor to capture a pre-release image of the mark before the shutter release is activated; c) analyzing the pre-release image, and based on the analysis; d) calculating a pre-release capture parameter; e) adjusting the image capture sensor using the calculated pre-release capture parameter; f) repeating steps b) through e) until the shutter release is activated; g) after the shutter release is activated, capturing a post-release image of the mark; and h) decoding the post-release image using the calculated pre-release capture parameter.

[0018] To achieve the aforementioned and related objectives, the invention comprises the features described in full below. The following description and the accompanying drawings explain in detail certain illustrative embodiments of the invention. However, these embodiments show only some of the various ways in which the principles of the invention can be applied. Other aspects, advantages, and novel features of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention when considered in conjunction with the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DIFFERENT VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a flowchart showing a procedure in which a reader runs through cycles of a known image decoding process; Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view of a handheld reading device constructed according to the embodiments of the present invention; Fig. Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an improved method, wherein a reader constructed according to embodiments of the present invention runs through cycles of an image decoding process, wherein the time between activation of the reader's trigger and return of a response for successful decoding is shortened; Fig. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an optional method that can be used with the embodiments of the invention; Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an additional optional method that can be used with the embodiments of the invention; and Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an additional optional method that can be used with the embodiments of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] Referring to the drawings, in which the same reference numerals correspond to similar elements in all views, and in particular with reference to Fig. 2. The present embodiments are described in connection with an exemplary symbology reading system 100 designed for handheld operation. The exemplary handheld system is provided with a reading handpiece 102. The handpiece 102 comprises a grip section 104 and a body section 106. An image acquisition system 108, shown in phantom lines, can be controlled and can transmit image data to an integrated embedded processor 110. This processor can include a scanning software application 112, which can control the illumination, acquire images, and interpret image data, i.e., decode it into useful information derived from the tokens (such as the two-dimensional token 114 shown).Useful information can include, as non-restrictive examples, alphanumeric sequences, binary data, and binary data together with interpretive information, such as a flag indicating that the binary data should be interpreted as kanji character data. The decoded information can be transmitted via a cable 116 or a wireless connection to a PC or other data storage device and / or a processing device 118 (e.g., computer, programmable logic controller), which may have, for example, a display 120, a keyboard 122, and a mouse 124, where it can be stored and further manipulated using a suitable application 126.

[0020] Alternatively, the cable 116 can be directly connected to an interface (e.g., a USB port) in the reader 102 and a suitable interface in the computer 118, or the cable 116 can be replaced by a wireless connection. In some embodiments, the computer-based application 126 could perform various image interpretation / decoding and illumination control functions as needed. The precise arrangement of the handheld scanning device in relation to an embedded processor, computer, or other processor is highly variable. For example, a wireless connection can be provided in which no cable 116 is present.Likewise, the microcomputer shown can be replaced by another processing device or several processing devices, including an integrated processor or multiple integrated processors, or a miniaturized processing unit such as a personal digital assistant, or another small-scale computing device.

[0021] The scanning application 112 can be configured to respond to input from the reader 102. For example, when the operator switches a trigger 128, such as a manual trigger on the handheld reader 102, the light source 130 could be turned on, and an internal image sensor 132 (within the image acquisition system 108) could capture an image of a region of interest 134 on an object 136. The exemplary region of interest contains a two-dimensional marker 114 (as a non-restrictive example) that can be used to identify the object 136. The identification and other processing functions can be performed by the scanning application 112 based on image data sent from the handheld reader 102 to the processor 110. A visual indicator 138 can be illuminated by signals from the processor 110 to indicate successful reading and decoding of the marker 114.Audible indicators could also be activated to display related events.

[0022] According to one aspect of the embodiments described herein, the exemplary scanning system 100 could be configured to reduce the time from triggering to decoding by capturing and processing images before the user activates the trigger 128. In one embodiment, the reader is configured such that, before the user activates the trigger, a feedback loop mode (described in more detail below) is entered with the lighting off (i.e., based on ambient light), and one or more pre-trigger images are captured. In another embodiment, when the user then activates the trigger, one or more post-trigger image(s) could also be captured using settings determined solely by the ambient light. These post-trigger image(s) could then be processed by the decoder while simultaneously (e.g.,(parallel) the illumination could be switched on, and a post-trigger feedback loop could begin. As used here, it should be clear that "parallel" could define a processor that is truly parallel when supported by hardware, as with multiple processors or a multi-core processor, or parallel could define a process intertwined with another process, as when only one processor executes both. For marks that could be easily decoded in ambient light (e.g., typical label-based codes), the pre-trigger image and / or the post-trigger image could be decoded with the illumination switched on without revising the settings derived from the post-trigger feedback loop, thus also obtaining a reduced time between triggering and decoding.

[0023] With reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 illustrates an exemplary method of the image decoding process using the scanning system 100, where a system and a method for reducing the time between triggering and decoding are configured. After the scanning system 100 is initially switched on and before the trigger 128 is activated, the reader 102 could be set to a pre-trigger feedback loop mode with the illumination switched off, as specified in process block 200. Hereinafter, the term "feedback loop" is used generally to refer to a calculation and / or process, e.g., a feedback loop used for image acquisition, image analysis, and / or system parameter settings based on image analysis.Within the pre-release feedback loop process block 200, an exemplary feedback loop is shown, comprising a feedback loop 203 with an image acquisition process block 202, an image analysis process block 204, a pre-release parameter configuration process block 206, and a pre-release parameter delay process block 208. The processor 110, such as a DSP (digital signal processor) or other known processors, executes a predetermined algorithm on the pre-release image data acquired in process block 202 to analyze the image, as specified in process block 204. Based on the analysis, the algorithm could calculate desired system parameters, including, for example, exposure, gain, focal point, and / or lighting modes, and determine whether modifications to any of the pre-release parameters might be necessary, as specified in process block 206.As indicated in process block 208, a time delay could be added until the new parameters take effect.

[0024] In one embodiment, the feedback loop 203 of the pre-trigger feedback loop mode process block 200 could be an endless loop until, for example, the user presses the trigger, and in other embodiments, the feedback loop loop 203 could be configured as a loop for a predetermined number of loops, such as one or more than one loop, or, for example, until the image analysis determines that no new pre-trigger parameter settings are required.

[0025] With further reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, wherein the pre-trigger feedback loop mode process block 200 is actively traversing or has traversed one or more loops, the user initiates an image decoding process by pressing the trigger 128 on the handheld reader 102, as specified in process block 210. In an optional embodiment, pressing the trigger 128 allows the reader to first acquire one or more post-trigger images in process block 212, again without illumination. In another optional embodiment, pressing the trigger 128 allows the reader to skip process block 212 and first acquire one or more post-trigger images in process block 216 after the illumination source 130 has been switched on in process block 214.It is clear that additional post-trigger images could be acquired after the acquisition of at least one image in process block 212 and / or 216, and could be acquired with the lighting on or off. After acquisition, an attempt can be made to decode the image from process block 212 or, optionally, from process block 216, or to analyze it for the presence of coded data, as specified in process block 226.

[0026] In a further additional embodiment, the illumination source 130 in process block 214 could be switched on simultaneously with or before the image acquisition, in parallel with the attempted decoding of the post-trigger image by process block 212, to illuminate the region of interest 134. Subsequently, the reader acquires an illuminated image of the mark as specified in process block 216. In some embodiments, the illuminated image can be acquired using at least one of the pre-trigger parameters calculated in the feedback loop 203, as in a pre-calculated focal point setting as a non-restrictive example. In each of the present embodiments, the illumination source 130 can be integrated with the standard operating functions of the image acquisition system 108, such as strobe and trigger mechanisms, or can be controlled via the scanning application 112.Optionally, in addition to capturing the image, the captured image can be transferred to external storage (e.g. SDRAM).

[0027] Subsequently, processor 110, or possibly a separate processor, can execute a predetermined algorithm on the image data to analyze the image, as specified in process block 218. Afterward, an optional determination can be made as to whether the image data is acceptable (i.e., meets, for example, the predetermined thresholds for contrast or sharpness) to attempt decoding the image data, or whether modifications to the system parameters (e.g., exposure / gain) and / or other reader parameter settings (e.g., focal point / illumination) may be required, as specified in decision block 220. If modifications are required, the sensor and / or other reader parameter settings can be updated with the new post-release parameters, as specified in process block 222. As specified in process block 224, it may be necessary to insert a time delay until the new parameters take effect, e.g.,A rolling shutter sensor may be required to complete a readout of each sensor line (i.e., pixel row).

[0028] The process of capturing an image with the lighting on can be repeated in process block 216, now with the new parameters, and here too the algorithm can determine whether the image data is acceptable to attempt decoding. If the image data is acceptable, it can be decoded and analyzed for the presence of encoded data, as specified in process block 226.

[0029] If the decoding step, as specified in decision block 228, does not result in a decoded image, the process typically returns to process block 216 to acquire another illuminated image for analysis. This process can be repeated as many times as necessary to decode the image, or until the user releases the trigger, or until, for example, a timeout condition occurs. Once data encoded in the mark is located and successfully decoded, the reader transmits / presents the decoded data by outputting the decoded data (or a variation thereof) and / or activating some form of user feedback, such as a beeper and / or status lights, and turns off the illumination, as specified in process block 230. At this point, the reader 102 may be configured to return to process block 200 for one unilluminated feedback loop cycle (cycles) 232.

[0030] According to another aspect of the embodiments and with further reference to Fig. 3. The pre-release parameters configured in process block 206 can include pre-release parameters based on ambient light, i.e., with the lighting off, along with other pre-release parameters such as exposure, gain, focal point, etc. This allows the pre-release parameters to be stored separately from the post-release parameters configured in process block 222, which can be based on an illuminated image, i.e., with the lighting on, along with other post-release parameters such as exposure, gain, focal point, etc. The pre-release parameters would not be used during the calculation and configuration of the post-release parameters. This can help avoid interference when configuring parameters in both process block 206 and process block 222.

[0031] According to another aspect of the embodiments, the non-illuminated pre-trigger feedback loop mode process 200 of Fig. 3 can be modified, as in process block 200A in Fig. 4. As can be seen, process block 200A optionally contains a process block 201 where the illumination could be switched on and used during the feedback loop mode. Switching on the illumination can offer advantages. For example, a user of reader 102 could perceive the illumination as feedback that the reader is attempting to process (decode) a mark. Additionally, with the illumination switched on, the image captured during the pre-trigger feedback loop mode process 200A may be in a better condition for immediate encoding, as described in process block 226. Fig. 3 indicated.

[0032] According to another aspect of the embodiments, the non-illuminated pre-trigger feedback loop mode process 200 of Fig. 3 be modified, as in process block 200B in Fig. 5. In addition to analyzing the image in process block 204, processor 110 can further calculate whether the image data is acceptable (i.e., meets, for example, predetermined thresholds for contrast or sharpness) and in a state suitable for an attempt to decode the image data, as specified in decision block 205. Additionally or instead of process blocks 204 and / or 205, the image data can be decoded or analyzed for the presence of coded data, as specified in process block 209. If further modifications to the pre-release parameters are necessary, the parameter settings can be updated with the new pre-release parameters based on information from the image analysis of process block 204, and / or an image decoding attempt can be made by process block 209, as specified in process block 206.

[0033] Additionally, in some embodiments, information from the image analysis of process block 204 and / or the attempted image decoding of process block 209 can be used to optimize the post-trigger image acquisition (such as process blocks 212 to 224) and the image decoding of process block 226. Information such as mark type, orientation, scale, polarity, etc., can be advantageously used to improve the time spent attempting decoding.

[0034] In some further embodiments, the decoded data from process block 209 can be used to assist in determining a confidence level for the image decoding of process block 226. Improved confidence in a decoding can be advantageous because it helps to avoid the potential reporting of erroneous data.

[0035] According to another aspect of the embodiments, the feedback loop processes described herein, including, for example, the switching on and off of the lighting, can be modified as in process block 200C in Fig. 6. As can be seen, process block 200C contains an optional process block 207 in parallel to process block 206. It is clear that process block 207 can also be in series with the pre-trigger feedback loop 203 and does not have to be in parallel to process block 206. Process block 207 can use image analysis to calculate or predict a focal point setting for an adjustable component, such as a lens or mirror in the optical path. In this way, when the user activates the trigger in process block 210 (see Fig. 3) The focal point setting may already be configured, thus avoiding an additional delay when making further focal point adjustments.

[0036] In various embodiments described herein, a variable lens element known as a liquid lens can be used. The liquid lens is an optical device that can change the focal point position based on an applied voltage to a fluid or gel bound by a flexible polymer, which can change the shape of the lens. Lens response times are typically 20–50 ms. In combination with standard lenses, the liquid lens can focus from device contact to infinity.

[0037] Other focal point configurations can also be considered. For example, one or more lenses can be integrated if movement of the lens(es) could be achieved using small motors and / or voice coils and / or piezoelectric systems. Other variable lens elements could also be used, for example, by changing the refractive index of a transparent material.

[0038] In the various embodiments described herein, it should be clear that the type of data that can be read and recorded by the image sensor 132 is not limited to barcodes or other such symbols. Unless otherwise specified, in the various embodiments described herein, any type of symbol, character, or image (e.g., driver's license photos) or other data can be recorded by the image sensor 132. If such data is accessible to decoding, the processor 110 of the reader 102 can attempt to decode it; alternatively, the data can be forwarded for processing by a verification system, an optical character recognition system, a host system, or stored locally or remotely for later retrieval.

[0039] It should be noted that the various features described here, including the use of separate parameters before and after actuation of the trigger, feedback loops with lighting off and on, adjustable lens with lighting off and on, and the like, can each be used independently or in various combinations with one another, and can be user-selectable or non-selectable features, and can also have one or more system operating modes.

[0040] One or more specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above. It should be clear that, as with any technical development or design project, the development of any such actual implementation will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developers' specific objectives, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary between embodiments. Furthermore, it should be clear that such a development effort could be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine task in design, fabrication, and manufacturing for a person skilled in the art, given the benefits of this disclosure.

[0041] Finally, it is expressly considered that each of the processes or steps described herein may be combined, eliminated, or executed in a different order. In other embodiments, instructions may be provided on a computer-readable medium, with such instructions being executed by a processor to perform one or more of the processes or steps described herein. As such, it is expressly considered that each of the processes or steps described herein may be implemented as hardware, software (including program instructions executed on a computer), or a combination of hardware and software. Therefore, the description is to be understood as exemplary only and not as any limitation of the scope of this invention.

[0042] Thus, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives that are within the nature and scope of the invention as defined by the following accompanying claims.

Claims

[1] Handheld stamp reader, comprising: a reader with a manual trigger; an image capture sensor that captures at least one pre-trigger image of the brand and at least one post-trigger image of the brand; wherein the brand reader is configured to perform a pre-release calculation process which calculates at least one pre-release image parameter for the at least one pre-release image; to execute a decoding process that decodes the at least one post-trigger image; and to execute a feedback process that uses at least one pre-trigger image parameter to control the decoding process. [2] Handheld brand reader according to claim 1, wherein the feedback process includes a pre-release feedback loop that determines the at least one pre-release image parameter prior to manual activation of the shutter release. [3] Handheld brand reader according to claim 2, wherein the pre-release feedback loop comprises an image acquisition process, an image analysis process and a pre-release parameter configuration process. [4] Handheld brand reader according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a pre-release image capture process which uses the at least one pre-release image parameter to capture the at least one post-release image. [5] Handheld brand reader according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one pre-release image parameter comprises exposure, gain and / or focal point setting. [6] Handheld brand reader according to claim 5, wherein the pre-release image parameter for focal point setting includes an auto focal point parameter. [7] Handheld brand reader according to claim 5, wherein the pre-release image parameter for focal point setting comprises a focal point setting for a liquid lens. [8] Handheld brand reader for reading a brand, comprising: a reading device incorporating a manual release and an image capture sensor, the sensor being configured to capture a pre-release image of the brand and a post-release image of the brand; the brand reader is set up to perform a pre-release image capture process; a first pre-release calculation process that calculates at least one parameter for exposure and gain for the pre-release image; a first decoding process that attempts to decode the pre-trigger image; a post-trigger image capture process; a second decoding process that attempts to decode the post-trigger image; and to execute a feedback process that uses the first calculated parameter, at least one, to control the second decoding process. [9] Handheld brand reader according to claim 8, wherein a light source is switched off during the pre-release image capture process. [10] Handheld brand reader according to claim 8, wherein a light source is switched off during the pre-release image capture process and switched on during the post-release image capture process. [11] Handheld brand reader according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein a light source is switched on prior to the pre-release image capture process. [12] Handheld brand reader according to one of claims 8 to 11, further comprising a second pre-release calculation process which calculates contrast and / or sharpness for the pre-release image. [13] Handheld brand reader according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the first pre-release calculation process comprises a feedback loop comprising an image acquisition process, an image analysis process and a pre-release parameter configuration process. [14] Handheld brand reader according to claim 13, wherein information from the image analysis process and / or the first decoding process is used to optimize the post-trigger image acquisition process. [15] Handheld token reader according to claim 13, wherein information from the first image decoding process is used in a determination of a confidence level of the second decoding process. [16] Brand reader for decoding an image, the reader comprising: a body; an image sensor in the body, wherein the image sensor is configured to capture a pre-release image of at least one section of a mark; wherein the body has a manually operated trigger, wherein the trigger is configured to activate the image sensor in order to capture a post-trigger image of at least one section of the mark; a processor that is coupled to the shutter release and the image sensor in a ready-to-use state, wherein the processor is configured to activate the image sensor prior to operation of the shutter release in order to capture the pre-release image of at least one section of the mark and to calculate auto exposure, auto gain, auto focus and / or image decoding for the pre-release image captured prior to operation of the shutter release; and wherein the processor is further configured to decode the post-release image taken after activation of the shutter release, using the calculated auto exposure, auto gain, auto focus and / or image decoding. [17] Brand reader according to claim 16, further comprising a pre-release feedback loop for determining pre-release image parameters based on an unilluminated pre-release image and a post-release feedback loop for calculating post-release image parameters based on an illuminated post-release image. [18] Brand reader according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the pre-release image parameters are used for a first post-release image capture and the post-release image parameters are used for subsequent post-release image captures. [19] Method for decoding an image of a trademark using a handheld trademark reader, wherein the reader includes a trigger configured to initiate a recording of the image of the trademark, the method comprising: a) Providing a processor, wherein the processor is coupled to the trigger and to an image acquisition sensor in an operational state; b) Activating the processor to capture a pre-trigger image of the mark before the trigger is activated; c) Analyzing the pre-trigger image and based on the analysis; d) Calculating a pre-release recording parameter; e) Adjusting the image capture sensor using the calculated pre-release shooting parameter; f) Repeat steps b) to e) until the trigger is activated; g) after activation of the trigger, taking a post-trigger image of the brand; and h) Decoding the post-release image using the calculated pre-release shooting parameter. [20] Method according to claim 19, further comprising switching on a light source after activation of the trigger. [21] Method according to claim 19 or 20, further comprising determining, prior to activation of the trigger, whether the pre-trigger image meets predetermined image thresholds. [22] Method according to any one of claims 19 to 21, further comprising, prior to activation of the trigger, attempting to decode the pre-trigger image. [23] Method according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the pre-release recording parameter comprises a focal point setting for an adjustable lens. [24] Method according to any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein the pre-release recording parameter comprises a focal point setting for a liquid lens. [25] Method according to any one of claims 19 to 24, wherein the pre-trigger parameter comprises an auto-focal point parameter.

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