Barcode Reader Real-Time Clock Synchronization via Encoded Symbols
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Solution Overview
Problem
Barcode readers with a real-time clock function require periodic time setting or resetting, especially when powered off, to accurately associate time with decoded data.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for setting the internal real-time clock of a barcode reader using a 1D or 2D barcode that encodes time, allowing the reader to synchronize its clock with the encoded time upon reading, ensuring accurate timestamping of decoded data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the barcode reader uses an internal real-time clock function to maintain time, then the device can associate time with decoded data, but the clock requires periodic setting or resetting especially when powered off
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by encoding the current time into a barcode clock before the barcode reader needs to read it. A computing device generates and renders the barcode clock with embedded time information in advance, so when the barcode reader scans it, the time is already prepared and available for immediate synchronization, eliminating the need for manual clock setting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by transferring time information from a computing device's time source to the barcode reader's internal clock via a barcode. Instead of directly connecting or manually setting the clock, the time data is copied into a barcode format that the barcode reader can scan and process, creating a simple information transfer mechanism that bypasses complex clock synchronization procedures.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the barcode reader powers off to conserve energy, then energy consumption is reduced, but the internal clock cannot maintain time
Solution Approach 1:
The computing device performs preliminary action by generating and displaying the barcode clock with current time information before the barcode reader needs to read it. This allows the barcode reader to quickly synchronize its clock upon startup without needing to maintain continuous power for timekeeping, enabling it to power off for energy conservation while still being able to restore accurate time functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by enabling the barcode reader to automatically synchronize its internal clock by scanning the barcode clock generated by the computing device. The barcode reader independently obtains time information without requiring manual intervention or continuous power supply to maintain the clock, allowing it to power off for energy savings and still maintain time accuracy when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a system and method for setting the time for an internal clock function of a barcode reader and enabling the barcode reader to associate time, as determined by the internal clock function, with production barcodes read during operator use of the barcode reader and delivery of the combination of production barcodes and the associated time to a host system.