2D Sensor Array Barcode Decoding via Aiming Pattern Illumination
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Imaging scanners face inefficiencies in processing one-dimensional barcodes due to the additional time required to capture and process images, and their limited range due to power constraints for illuminating the entire barcode surface.
Innovation Solution
A scanner with a two-dimensional array of sensors generates an aiming pattern that serves as concurrent illumination, allowing for quick processing of one-dimensional and simple two-dimensional barcodes by illuminating and decoding only a segment of the array, with the ability to switch between 1-D and 2-D modes to optimize power usage and range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an imager captures and processes an entire image to read one-dimensional barcodes, then the barcode can be decoded, but the processing time increases compared to laser scanners
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the two-dimensional sensor array into multiple segments, allowing the system to process only the relevant segment containing the barcode rather than the entire array. This segmentation enables faster processing by reducing the data volume that needs to be captured and analyzed, directly addressing the time loss issue while maintaining decoding accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial action by capturing and processing only a portion of the sensor array data that contains the barcode information, rather than processing the complete array. This approach reduces processing time and computational resources while still achieving accurate barcode decoding, effectively resolving the contradiction between processing speed and decoding accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If the illuminating system illuminates the entire barcode surface for image capture, then the barcode can be read, but the power consumption increases and range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments both the illumination area and the sensor array, so that only the portion of the barcode containing the relevant information is illuminated and captured. This reduces the power required for illumination while maintaining sufficient light for accurate reading, thereby extending the effective operating range without sacrificing readability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating illumination resources on the specific region of interest rather than uniformly illuminating the entire field of view. This localized approach reduces overall power consumption while ensuring adequate illumination for barcode decoding, directly addressing the energy usage contradiction.
3Measurement precision
If a high-resolution imager is used to capture barcode images, then detailed information can be captured, but the processing time and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the high-resolution sensor array to process only the relevant portion containing the barcode, maintaining the high resolution needed for accurate decoding while reducing the total number of pixels that require processing. This segmentation preserves image quality and measurement precision while improving processing speed and productivity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables faster decoding of barcodes and extends the scanning range by reducing the time and power needed for image capture, particularly in high-resolution imaging scanners.
Implementation Method 1
The scanner illuminates a portion of the indicia with an aiming pattern
Implementation Method 2
The aiming pattern can be generated by one or more LEDs whose light passes through a focusing lens
Implementation Method 3
Data indicative of an image reflected back from the portion of the indicia is collected in a segment of the two dimensional array of light sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A scanner with a two dimensional array of sensors generates an aiming pattern that is concurrently used as illumination for a segment of the array. In this manner, one-dimensional and simple two-dimensional barcodes can be quickly processed by loading and decoding only the segment of the array.