Barcode Reader Selective Field of View Session Initiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bi-optic barcode readers often initiate identification sessions unintentionally when a product or barcode is not being presented, leading to unnecessary energy consumption and potential errors in image decoding.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a processor-controlled imaging assembly with distinct field of view portions, where image data is processed to determine differential brightness and contrast, allowing the system to initiate an identification session only when a target enters a specific portion of the field of view, thereby preventing accidental activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the barcode reader continuously monitors the field of view for barcode detection, then the reliability of barcode reading is improved, but unnecessary energy consumption occurs when no barcode is being presented
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operational state based on detected conditions. The processor transitions between active barcode scanning mode and idle low-power mode based on whether a barcode is detected in the field of view, making the energy consumption adaptive to actual operational needs rather than continuous
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic sampling of the field of view to detect barcode presence. Instead of continuous monitoring, the processor periodically checks for barcodes and initiates scanning sessions only when needed, creating a rhythmic on-demand operation pattern that reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining detection capability
2Productivity
If the identification session is initiated whenever any object enters the field of view, then the productivity of the checkout process is improved, but errors in image decoding occur when no barcode is present
Solution Approach 1:
The field of view is divided into distinct regions: a first portion optimized for barcode detection and a second portion for other purposes. The processor selectively processes image data from the first portion for barcode identification, applying different quality standards and processing methods to different spatial regions based on their specific functions
Solution Approach 2:
The processor acts as an intermediary that filters and interprets raw image data before initiating identification sessions. It analyzes the captured images to determine whether they contain valid barcodes before triggering the scanning session, preventing false activations caused by non-barcode objects entering the field of view
3Measurement precision
If the illumination is continuously activated for barcode detection, then the measurement precision of barcode reading is improved, but the energy consumption increases unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination source is activated periodically only when the processor detects that a barcode may be present in the field of view. The lighting operates in pulses synchronized with detection needs rather than remaining continuously on, reducing energy waste while maintaining sufficient illumination for accurate barcode reading during active scanning sessions
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
This solution reduces unnecessary illumination and energy consumption while ensuring accurate image decoding by only initiating sessions when a target is correctly positioned within the designated field of view, enhancing the operational efficiency of bi-optic barcode readers.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging assembly having a field of view and configured to capture one or more images of the FOV associated with image data
Data Source
AI summary
An example barcode reader includes a housing and an imaging assembly positioned at least partially within the housing. The imaging assembly has a field of view (FOV) including a first portion of the FOV and a second portion of the FOV. The imaging assembly is configured to capture one or more images of the FOV associated with image data. The barcode reader also includes a processor communicatively coupled to the imaging assembly. The processor is configured to process the image data of the first portion of the FOV and to initiate an identification session when a target enters the first portion of the FOV and configured to not initiate the identification session when the target enters the second portion of the FOV.