Universal Barcode Scanner with Adjustable Lens Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bar code scanners are limited in their ability to read high-density and low-density bar code symbols at both near and far distances due to fixed field of view requirements, which restricts their versatility in scanning environments.
Innovation Solution
A universal bar code scanner with an adjustable lens configuration system that provides multiple focusable fields of view, allowing for effective scanning of bar code symbols across a range of dimensions and distances without the need for continuous zoom lenses, utilizing movable lens groupings to switch between different field of view modes based on object distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a wider field of view is used for near field scanning, then the entire bar code can be imaged, but the resolution of the scanned image is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable lens assembly that can dynamically adjust its position along the optical axis. The lens assembly includes a first lens group and a second lens group that can move relative to each other, allowing the system to switch between different field of view configurations. This dynamic adjustment enables the scanner to optimize both field of view and image resolution based on the scanning distance and bar code type.
2Measurement precision
If a narrower field of view is used for far field scanning, then the scanned image has sufficient resolution, but the entire bar code cannot be captured at near field
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable lens assembly that can dynamically adjust its position along the optical axis. The lens assembly includes a first lens group and a second lens group that can move relative to each other, allowing the system to switch between different field of view configurations. This dynamic adjustment enables the scanner to optimize both field of view and image resolution based on the scanning distance and bar code type.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed field of view scanner is used, then the device is simple, but it cannot read high density and low density bar code symbols at both near field and far field
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable lens assembly that can dynamically adjust its position along the optical axis. The lens assembly includes a first lens group and a second lens group that can move relative to each other, allowing the system to switch between different field of view configurations. This dynamic adjustment enables the scanner to optimize both field of view and image resolution based on the scanning distance and bar code type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the scanning system by adjusting the position of the lens assembly. By varying the distance between the first lens group and the second lens group, the system alters its effective focal length and field of view. This parameter change allows a single scanner to adapt to different scanning scenarios without requiring multiple fixed-focus devices.
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
Enables the scanner to capture and decode bar code symbols accurately at both close and far distances by adjusting the field of view, ensuring adequate resolution and coverage, thereby improving scanning efficiency in various environments.
Implementation Method 1
an adjustable lens configuration system that yields multiple focusable fields of view
Implementation Method 2
optical lens configuration that can be used in a universal bar code scanner
Data Source
AI summary
A device permitting multiple focusable fields of view, such as a universal bar code scanner that can read bar code symbols at both near and far distances for a range of X-dimensions, is described. The scanner uses an adjustable optical imaging system that has at least two different focused fields of view. In one embodiment, the optimal field of view for a target object can be automatically selected with the use of a range finder.