Barcode Reader Aim Dot and Visual Indicator Optical System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Low-profile barcode readers face challenges in providing both an aim dot and a visual indication of successfully decoded barcodes due to space constraints, as adding multiple optical systems is impractical.

Innovation Solution

A combined visual indicator system using a single projection lens and optical element to direct light from two separate light sources of different colors, allowing for both an aim pattern and a visual indicator to be projected without the need for additional optical systems, thus saving space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple optical systems are added to provide both aim dot and visual indication, then the functionality is improved, but the device size and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidoptical system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges two separate optical systems (aim dot projector and visual indicator projector) into a single integrated optical system. Both the aim dot and visual indicator share common components including a single projection lens, single optical path, and single light source assembly, eliminating the need for duplicate optical components while maintaining both functions simultaneously

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single optical system is designed to perform multiple functions: it projects both the aim dot pattern and the visual indicator (success/failure indicators) through the same optical path and projection lens. The system universally handles different indication types using different light sources that share the common optical infrastructure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple optical systems are added to provide both aim dot and visual indication, then the functionality is improved, but the physical space required increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidhousing space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The visual indicator light sources are positioned within or adjacent to the aim dot light source assembly, with both light sources sharing the same optical path through the projection lens. This nested arrangement allows one optical function to be embedded within the structure of another, maximizing space efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

Enables low-profile barcode readers to effectively provide both aim dot and visual indication of successful decoding, improving usability in loud environments and for hearing-impaired users without increasing physical size.

Implementation Method 1

an optical element configured to direct the first light from the first light source to the projection lens and configured to direct the second light from the second light source to the projection lens

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight refraction and direction: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS11210485B2Combined aiming and visual decode result system

Publication Date: 2021.12.28 ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES CORP

AI summary

A barcode reader includes an illumination assembly configured to illuminate a target; an imaging assembly configured to capture an image of the target, and a visual indicator assembly that includes: a projection lens; a first light source configured to emit first color light through the projection lens to project an aim pattern onto the target; a second light source configured to emit second color light through the projection lens to project a visual indicator onto the target; and an optical element configured to direct the light from both the first light source and the second light source to the projection lens. A memory and a processor of the barcode reader are configured to cause the first light source to emit light prior to the imaging assembly capturing the image; and cause the second light source to emit light subsequent to the processor successfully decoding a symbology in the captured image.