Barcode Scanner Conflict Resolution Logic

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing barcode scanning systems face challenges in accurately identifying and pricing items, particularly in scenarios with conflicting labels or packaging configurations, leading to errors and slowed checkout processes.

Innovation Solution

A scanner with advanced control logic and image processing capabilities that detects and resolves code conflicts by analyzing detection results, implementing waiting periods, and correctly reporting inner and outer codes to ensure accurate product identification and pricing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the scanner reads barcodes for individual items in a family pack, then the scanner can identify each item, but it may miss the family pack barcode or incorrectly price items individually rather than as a group

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebarcode detection accuracyVSAvoidpricing accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary detection of all barcodes in the scene before making pricing decisions. The controller captures an image frame, detects multiple barcodes including both individual item barcodes and family pack barcodes, then uses detection results to determine the correct pricing strategy before completing the scan operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback from barcode detection results to adjust pricing behavior. The controller analyzes detected barcodes, identifies family pack relationships, and uses this information to override individual item pricing in favor of family pack pricing when appropriate, thereby improving pricing accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If the scanner reads the family pack barcode, then the scanner can identify the group, but it may miss individual item barcodes or fail to treat items as part of the pack

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescan speedVSAvoiditem identification accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system captures all barcode information in advance within a single image frame before processing. By detecting both family pack and individual item barcodes simultaneously in the preliminary detection phase, the system ensures complete data collection regardless of scan sequence, then processes this comprehensive information to achieve accurate item identification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If the scanner operates quickly with scan operations under 1 second, then checkout efficiency is improved, but the system may miss detecting price change labels or conflicting codes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecheckout speedVSAvoiddetection completeness
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary detection of all barcodes and price change labels within the image frame before the scan operation completes. By capturing and analyzing all relevant information in advance, the system can quickly process comprehensive data and provide accurate pricing decisions without extending the overall scan time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates a complete digital copy of all barcode information visible in the image frame during the scan. This comprehensive capture includes individual item barcodes, family pack barcodes, and price change labels, allowing the controller to analyze all copied information and resolve conflicts before completing the pricing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

4Device complexity

If the scanner uses simple barcode reading, then the device complexity is low, but it cannot resolve conflicting codes or provide accurate pricing in complex scenarios

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescanner structureVSAvoidpricing accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The scanner system performs multiple functions using integrated components. The image capture device not only captures barcodes but also detects price change labels and identifies family pack relationships. The controller executes multiple processes including barcode detection, image analysis, conflict resolution, and pricing determination, enabling a single device to handle complex retail scenarios that would otherwise require multiple separate systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10853903B1Detection of encoded signals and icons
Publication Date: 2020.12.01 DIGIMARC LLC
  • US10853903B1 patent drawing
  • US10853903B1 patent drawing
  • US10853903B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to signal decoding and icon (e.g., a logo, shape, icon, etc.) detection. In some implementations, a first response is provided upon signal decoding but no icon detection within first captured image data, and a second response is provided upon signal decoding and icon detection within the first captured image data. Other aspects, combinations and implementations are described as well.