Barcode Reader Lens Integrating Collimation and Pattern Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Handheld barcode readers face limitations in real-estate for imaging arrangements, necessitating advancements in compact imaging solutions that can satisfy a width threshold of approximately 9 millimeters or less.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a single plastic-molded part that functions as both a collimating lens and a pattern generator, with a first surface structured to collimate light and a second surface to generate a pattern, along with an aperture to control light entry and an angled second surface to prevent reflective light re-emission, enabling efficient imaging within the constrained space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single plastic-molded part is used to integrate both collimating lens and pattern generator functions, then device complexity is reduced and width is decreased to meet the 9mm threshold, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the collimating lens and pattern generator into a single plastic-molded part, combining two previously separate optical components into one unified element. This merging reduces the overall number of parts, simplifies the imaging arrangement structure, and enables the device to meet the compact 9mm width requirement while maintaining both collimation and pattern generation functions
Solution Approach 2:
The single plastic-molded part performs multiple optical functions simultaneously: it acts as both a collimating lens to parallelize light rays and a pattern generator to create the desired light pattern. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components, reducing device complexity and size while consolidating optical operations into one universal element
2Measurement precision
If the second surface is angled to prevent reflective light re-emission, then light scattering is reduced and imaging precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second surface of the plastic-molded part is angled asymmetrically relative to the first surface, creating an asymmetric optical path that directs reflected light away from the imaging sensor. This asymmetric configuration prevents reflective light from re-entering the optical system and causing scattering, thereby improving imaging precision and reducing spurious signals
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
The solution allows for the production of imaging arrangements that meet the width threshold, enabling effective barcode reading while preventing light scattering and correcting for parallax, thus enhancing the performance of handheld barcode readers.
Implementation Method 1
The first surface is configured to face the light source and is structured to substantially collimate light received from the light source into a collimated beam
Implementation Method 2
The second surface includes surface structures structured to generate a patterned beam in response to receiving the collimated beam
Implementation Method 3
the second surface is angled such that light reflected from the second surface toward the light source is directed at an oblique angle relative to the central light axis
Data Source
AI summary
Imaging arrangements and barcode readers including such imaging arrangements. An imaging arrangement for use in a barcode reader includes a housing. The imaging arrangement also includes a light source configured to emit light along a central light axis. The light source is disposed in the housing. The imaging arrangement also includes a lens having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The lens is disposed in the housing. The first surface is configured to face the light source and is structured to substantially collimate light received from the light source into a collimated beam. The second surface includes surface structures structured to generate a patterned beam in response to receiving the collimated beam.