Barcode Scanner Focus Distance Segmentation for Faster Decoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Barcode scanners often require trying multiple focus distances to decode barcodes, increasing the maximum time needed, which can cause user frustration and limit performance in applications where barcodes are within a limited range.
Innovation Solution
Configuring the barcode scanner to use a reduced decode range by determining the closest and furthest focus distances within the range and only using those discrete focus distances for subsequent decoding attempts, thereby reducing the time needed to locate and decode barcodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the barcode scanner uses all discrete focus distances to decode barcodes, then the decode range is maximized, but the time to decode barcodes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the full range of discrete focus distances into a subset of relevant focus distances based on the specific application's decode range requirements. This segmentation allows the scanner to divide the complete focus distance spectrum into necessary and unnecessary portions, thereby reducing the number of focus distances that need to be tested while maintaining adequate coverage for the intended application scope.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of focus distance selection by determining the closest and furthest focus distances that correspond to the nearest and farthest barcodes within the reduced decode range. This parameter change enables the scanner to adjust its focus distance testing strategy dynamically based on the specific application requirements, rather than using a fixed set of all possible focus distances.
2Loss of time
If the barcode scanner uses a reduced decode range with fewer focus distances, then the time to decode barcodes is reduced, but the decode range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by optimizing the focus distance selection specifically for the local application requirements rather than using a universal approach. By determining the closest and furthest focus distances based on the specific decode range needed for particular barcode locations, the system tailors the focus distance subset to match the local operational context, achieving faster decoding without sacrificing reliability within the intended range.
3Productivity
If the barcode scanner determines closest and furthest focus distances through calibration, then the focus distances are optimized for the application, but the configuration process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by performing calibration to determine the closest and furthest focus distances before actual barcode scanning operations begin. This preliminary determination of focus distance parameters allows the system to optimize scanning performance in advance, establishing the subset of relevant focus distances that will be used during normal operation, thereby improving productivity without adding complexity to the ongoing scanning process.
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 approach speeds up the barcode scanning process by limiting the focus distances used to those necessary for the specific application range, reducing the time to decode barcodes within the reduced decode range.
Implementation Method 1
focusing the optical assembly of the barcode scanner at each of the plurality of focus distances
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for configuring reduced decode ranges for barcode scanners are disclosed. An example method includes determining a closest focus distance of a plurality of focus distances at which a barcode placed at a furthest limit of a reduced decode range can be successfully decoded; determining a furthest focus distance of the plurality of focus distances at which the barcode placed at a closest limit of the reduced decode range can be successfully decoded; determining a subset of the plurality of focus distances that consists of the closest focus distance, the furthest focus distance, and focus distances between the closest focus distance and the farthest focus distance; and configuring the barcode scanner to only use the subset of focus distances during subsequent attempts to decode barcodes.