Barcode Reader PPM Threshold Range Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Barcode readers often scan barcodes beyond their intended range due to their long working distance, leading to the need for selecting specific scanning ranges to prevent unwanted barcode identification.
Innovation Solution
A barcode reader system that includes an imaging sensor and processor to determine the pixel-per-module (PPM) of a barcode, allowing users to set predetermined PPM threshold ranges to selectively decode barcodes within a desired reading distance, which is a subset of the reader's working range, thereby controlling the scanning range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If the barcode reader uses its maximum working range, then the reading distance is extended, but barcodes beyond the intended identification range are also scanned
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the barcode reader by implementing PPM (pixels per module) threshold filtering. The system captures barcodes at various distances and uses software-based PPM analysis to distinguish between intended and unintended scans, allowing the reader to maintain its long working distance capability while achieving precise scanning range control through parameter-based discrimination.
2Productivity
If the barcode reader scans all barcodes within working range, then no barcodes are missed, but unwanted barcodes outside the desired range are also identified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the PPM value of each scanned barcode is calculated and compared against predetermined threshold ranges. This feedback loop allows the system to automatically determine whether a barcode scan is valid or spurious, enabling high throughput while maintaining reliability by filtering out unwanted identifications based on the PPM feedback from each scan.
3Measurement precision
If the barcode reader allows selection of scanning ranges, then unwanted barcode identification is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the barcode reader to self-regulate scanning range by automatically calculating PPM values and comparing them against stored threshold ranges. The system performs self-service range validation without requiring external intervention or complex configuration, as the PPM thresholds are inherently determined by the relationship between barcode size, distance, and camera resolution.
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 precise control over the scanning range by only generating a successful decode signal for barcodes within the set PPM threshold, preventing the reading of barcodes outside the desired distance, thus improving accuracy and reducing errors in barcode identification.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging assembly positioned at least partially within the housing, the imaging assembly including an imaging sensor configured to capture images of an environment appearing within a field of view (FOV) of the optical imaging assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for user choice of barcode scanning ranges are provided. This is achieved through the identification of a predetermined pixel-per-module threshold range. The pixel-per-module of a barcode being read by a reader is compared to the predetermined pixel-per-module threshold range, and a successful decode of the barcode is carried out only if the pixel-per-module of the barcode falls within the predetermined range. Thus, a user may select a desired reading distance range such that barcodes within a working distance range may not generate successful decodes if such barcodes are outside of the desired reading distance range.