Barcode Reader Viewing Frame for Mobile Device Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional barcode readers are inadequate for scanning barcodes displayed on mobile devices, as they require users to hand over their devices for scanning, raising privacy and handling concerns, and can result in issues like accidental screen changes or shutdowns during the scanning process.
Innovation Solution
A barcode reader with a self-standing housing featuring a viewing frame and a scanning frame, allowing users to visually detect and read barcodes on mobile devices without needing to hand over their devices, ensuring the screen remains visible and active during scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional laser scanner is used to scan barcodes, then it can read barcodes printed on paper-based medium, but it cannot read barcodes displayed on mobile device screens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional laser scanning mechanism with an image sensor-based optical reading system. The image sensor captures images of barcodes displayed on mobile device screens, eliminating the need for physical contact or close proximity scanning. This substitution enables the system to read both paper-based and digital barcodes effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the barcode reading system by using image sensors capable of capturing digital displays. The system adjusts its optical parameters to accommodate the发光 characteristics of mobile device screens rather than relying on reflected laser light, thereby enabling versatile barcode reading across different media types.
2Productivity
If the customer hands the mobile device to the cashier for scanning, then the barcode can be scanned, but privacy concerns and mishandling risks arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service barcode scanning where the customer places their mobile device on the scanning platform and uses their own device's screen to display the barcode. The customer maintains control over their device throughout the process, eliminating the need to hand it over to the cashier while still enabling efficient scanning.
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning platform acts as an intermediary between the customer's mobile device and the barcode reading system. It provides a dedicated scanning zone that receives the mobile device without requiring physical handover, thereby mediating the interaction to maintain privacy and control while enabling scanning functionality.
3Ease of operation
If the customer turns the screen toward the cashier for scanning, then the barcode can be scanned, but the screen may accidentally switch to different display or fade to black
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a viewing frame that is pre-configured in the scanning platform to guide the customer on how to position their mobile device. The viewing frame provides visual guidance before scanning occurs, ensuring the screen remains stable and visible throughout the process by preventing accidental orientation changes or display switches.
Solution Approach 2:
The viewing frame provides continuous visual feedback to the customer during the scanning process, allowing them to monitor the screen display and make adjustments if necessary. This feedback mechanism helps maintain screen stability and prevents accidental switches by keeping the user engaged with the display throughout the scanning operation.
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 solution provides an intuitive and user-friendly experience by enabling users to scan barcodes themselves while maintaining control over their devices, reducing mishandling risks and ensuring proper barcode display during the scanning process.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor disposed within the housing, the image sensor being configured to read a barcode
Data Source
AI summary
Barcode reading devices for creating an easy-to-use experience are provided. In one implementation, a barcode reading apparatus comprises a housing having at least a scan body and an image sensor disposed within the housing. The image sensor is configured to read the barcode. The apparatus further includes a scanning frame and a viewing frame. The scanning frame is formed in a first bottom surface of the scan body and is configured to enable the image sensor to visually detect the barcode when the barcode is placed in a scanning zone at least partially below the scan body. The viewing frame is formed in a first top surface of the scan body and is configured to enable a user to view the barcode through both the viewing frame and scanning frame when the barcode is placed in the scanning zone.