Barcode Reader Aiming Light Pattern Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Barcode readers face challenges in accurately determining their field of view, especially when operating over a wide range of distances and using multiple imaging sensors, which can lead to diminished aiming system accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a barcode reader design that includes a housing with a cavity containing a first and second imaging assembly, each with a linear imaging sensor and lens assembly, and an aiming assembly with an aiming illumination source and beam shaper, configured to emit a linear aiming light pattern that is coplanar with the fields of view of the imaging assemblies, allowing for improved alignment and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If barcode readers use multiple imaging sensors to capture image data over multiple fields of view, then the coverage and versatility are improved, but the alignment accuracy and device complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging system into multiple separate imaging assemblies, each with its own imaging sensor and lens assembly. Each assembly is configured to capture image data over a specific field of view, allowing the system to handle multiple working distances and barcode sizes through segmented optical paths rather than a single complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an aiming assembly with an aiming illumination source and beam shaper as an intermediary component. This assembly projects a linear aiming light pattern that is coplanar with the fields of view of multiple imaging assemblies, serving as a visual reference that helps align the FOVs across different sensors and working distances, thereby resolving the alignment accuracy issue.
2Adaptability or versatility
If barcode readers operate over a wide range of working distances, then the versatility is improved, but the aiming system accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple imaging assemblies with different focal lengths and fields of view that can be selectively activated based on the working distance. The system dynamically switches between near-field and far-field imaging assemblies depending on the distance to the barcode, maintaining accurate imaging and aiming across a wide range of working distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The aiming assembly projects a linear aiming light pattern that remains coplanar with the fields of view across different working distances. This intermediary light pattern provides a consistent visual reference that maintains aiming accuracy whether the barcode reader is operating at near or far working distances.
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 configuration enhances the accuracy of the aiming light pattern, ensuring it aligns with the fields of view, even at varying working distances, thereby improving the operational efficiency of barcode readers.
Implementation Method 1
an aiming assembly having an aiming illumination source and an aiming beam shaper, the aiming assembly being configured to emit a linear aiming light pattern
Implementation Method 2
a first imaging assembly having a first linear imaging sensor and a first lens assembly, the first imaging assembly having a first linear field of view (FOV)
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, the present invention is an imaging engine including: a first imaging assembly having a first FOV; a second imaging assembly having a second FOV; and an aiming assembly configured to emit an aiming light pattern, the aiming light pattern including a first portion and a second portion, the first portion configured to correlate with the first FOV, the second portion configured to correlate with the second FOV, wherein the aiming light pattern is configured such that a combined power of any part of the aiming light pattern encompassed by a 7 mrad cone, as measured from the aiming assembly, is less than or equal to 1 mW, and the total combined power of the entire aiming light pattern is greater than 1 mW.