Barcode Scanner Adjusting Reading Distance for Handheld Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barcode readers lack accurate information reading capabilities, particularly when used in handheld mode, leading to potential misreading of barcodes from unintended commodities due to varying reading distances.
Innovation Solution
A reading device with a scanner, holder, and detecting unit that adjusts setting conditions to maintain a shorter reading distance when detached from the holder, ensuring accurate barcode reading by changing imaging parameters such as luminance, shutter speed, camera gain, and focal length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the barcode reader is used in handheld mode with long reading distance, then the user can read barcodes from heavy commodities without holding them, but the user may erroneously read barcodes from unintended commodities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the reading distance adjustable based on the operational mode. The system dynamically changes the reading distance parameter - using a longer reading distance when in stationary mode for ease of operation, and automatically switching to a shorter reading distance when handheld mode is detected, thus preventing misreading while maintaining operational flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the reading distance parameter according to the operational state. When the detector identifies that the barcode reader is in handheld mode, the system automatically adjusts the reading distance to a shorter value, which prevents erroneous reading of unintended barcodes while maintaining the ability to read barcodes from heavy commodities
2Productivity
If the barcode reader is fixed to the placing table, then the user can capture images of multiple commodities efficiently, but the reading distance is limited and may not accommodate all usage scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static fixed mounting to a dynamic configuration where the barcode reader can be alternatively mounted on a holder or held handheld. The system dynamically adapts between stationary and portable modes, allowing the user to switch between high-productivity stationary operation and versatile handheld operation based on the task requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The barcode reader is designed with multi-functionality to operate in multiple modes: it can be fixed to the placing table for stationary use, alternatively mounted on a holder for semi-portable use, or held handheld for fully portable use. This universal design allows the single device to serve multiple purposes and adapt to various usage scenarios
3Ease of operation
If the reading distance is increased for handheld use, then the user can read barcodes from farther away, but the likelihood of misreading unintended barcodes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs feedback through the detector that monitors whether the barcode reader is in handheld or stationary mode. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts the reading distance parameter - maintaining a shorter, more reliable reading distance when handheld mode is detected, while allowing longer reading distance when stationary mode is confirmed, thus ensuring reading reliability while maintaining ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
A reading device according to an embodiment includes a scanner configured to read code information indicated by a code symbol, a holder configured to detachably hold the scanner, a detecting unit configured to detect a first state in which the scanner is held by the holder and a second state in which the scanner is detached from the holder, and a setting-condition changing unit configured to, if the detecting unit detects the second state, set setting conditions relating to the reading by the scanner such that a reading distance of the scanner is shorter than the reading distance in the first state.