Barcode Reader Illumination Pattern Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Imaging-based barcode readers often project bright illumination patterns that can be annoying to users due to reflection from windows, causing discomfort and distraction.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an invisible illumination light source, such as infrared, and an accompanying visible illumination light source that activates only upon motion detection and successful barcode decoding, with both light sources projecting patterns in directions that minimize direct exposure to users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If bright illumination patterns are projected for barcode scanning, then imaging quality is improved, but user comfort deteriorates due to light reflection and exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is segmented into multiple independent light sources (first visible illumination light source, second visible illumination light source, and invisible illumination light source), each projecting illumination patterns in different directions. This allows the system to provide sufficient total illumination for barcode scanning while distributing the light sources to minimize direct exposure and reflection to users.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the workstation receive different illumination characteristics. The illumination patterns are directed toward specific areas (e.g., toward the rear, toward the front) to provide localized lighting where needed for scanning while avoiding areas where users are positioned, thus creating local quality variations that satisfy both imaging needs and user comfort.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple illumination light sources are used to improve scanning coverage, then barcode reading capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple illumination light sources and their control logic are merged into an integrated workstation system with a single housing. The controller unifies the operation of all light sources, coordinating their activation based on motion detection and barcode detection status, thereby managing complexity through integration rather than separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination system serves multiple functions: the invisible illumination light source provides primary illumination for barcode scanning without visible glare, while the visible illumination light sources provide supplemental illumination and visual feedback. The system adapts its illumination strategy based on whether motion is detected and whether a barcode is successfully decoded, making the illumination system multi-functional and context-aware.
3Reliability
If visible illumination light sources activate continuously to ensure barcode visibility, then scanning reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The visible illumination light sources operate periodically rather than continuously. The controller activates the second visible illumination light source only when motion is detected and a barcode has not yet been decoded. This periodic activation ensures reliable barcode scanning when needed while minimizing energy consumption during periods when scanning is not required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses motion detection capability to automatically determine when illumination is needed. When motion is detected, the system self-adjusts by activating the supplemental visible illumination light source if a barcode hasn't been decoded, eliminating the need for continuous operation or manual control while maintaining scanning reliability.
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
Reduces user exposure to bright light, minimizing discomfort and allowing for efficient barcode scanning while maintaining effective illumination for imaging processes.
Implementation Method 1
The invisible illumination light source is operative to project an invisible illumination pattern that is at least partially incident upon the first window or the second window
Implementation Method 2
The visible illumination light source is operative to project a visible illumination pattern out of the housing, and the visible illumination pattern has a visible center ray propagating in a direction different from the invisible center ray
Implementation Method 3
some of the project illumination patterns can be reflected by the windows of the workstation
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for projecting illumination patterns from barcode readers. The apparatus includes a housing, an invisible illumination light source, and a visible illumination light source. The housing comprises a first window located in a generally horizontal plane and a second window located in a generally upright plane that intersects the generally horizontal plane. The invisible illumination light source is operative to project an invisible illumination pattern that is at least partially incident upon the first window or the second window after the invisible illumination pattern is projected out of the housing. The visible illumination light source operative to project a visible illumination pattern out of the housing, and the visible illumination pattern has a visible center ray propagating in a direction different from the invisible center ray of the invisible illumination pattern.