Barcode Reader Lighting Module for Data Matrix Decoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barcode readers face challenges in decoding Data Matrix direct part marks, especially on difficult surfaces, due to limited lighting options and angles, which affects the accuracy and reliability of image capture and decoding.
Innovation Solution
A barcode reader system equipped with both on-axis and off-axis lighting modules, utilizing LEDs of different colors, allows for adjustable angles and simultaneous or sequential illumination to create bright field and dark field images, enhancing the possibility of decoding by analyzing multiple images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single lighting module is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the decoding reliability deteriorates due to limited lighting options and angles
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting module is segmented into multiple independent lighting elements (on-axis LED and off-axis LED) that can be controlled separately. Each lighting element provides a specific lighting function (on-axis for bright field, off-axis for dark field), allowing the system to achieve high decoding reliability through multiple lighting options while keeping each individual lighting element relatively simple in structure.
2Measurement precision
If multiple lighting elements are used, then the measurement precision of barcode decoding is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting elements are activated periodically and sequentially rather than continuously simultaneously. The controller activates the on-axis LED for bright field imaging, then activates the off-axis LED for dark field imaging, creating periodic lighting cycles that reduce overall energy consumption while still achieving high measurement precision through multiple imaging opportunities.
3Measurement precision
If multiple images are captured sequentially, then the decoding accuracy is improved, but the time required for decoding increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing multiple images with different lighting conditions (bright field and dark field) before the decoding process begins. This preliminary multi-image capture ensures that at least one suitable image with high contrast and clear barcode features is obtained in advance, thereby improving decoding accuracy without significantly extending the overall decoding time since the images are captured in rapid succession.
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 system improves the decoding performance by providing better contrast and increasing the chances of successfully reading Data Matrix barcodes on various surfaces, including those that are difficult to illuminate, such as recessed areas.
Implementation Method 1
a lighting module that comprises set of lighting elements that emit light
Data Source
AI summary
Certain exemplary embodiments can comprise a system, which can comprise a barcode reader adapted to obtain an image of a barcode. The barcode reader can comprise a camera. The camera can define a camera axis. The barcode reader can comprise a lighting module that comprises set of lighting elements that emit light. The barcode reader can be adapted to automatically obtain and/or decode a sequential set of images.