Barcode Scanner Asynchronous Screen Communication

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for reading barcodes from computer screens fail in high ambient light environments, such as direct sunlight, due to the requirement for in-focus optics and synchronized frame generation, which are sensitive to light conditions and not compatible with current screen technologies.

Innovation Solution

A method that allows asynchronous communication between a computer screen and a barcode scanner by displaying a communication sequence with multiple optical states, including an 'on', 'off', and intermediate state, enabling the scanner to operate independently of focus conditions and ambient light, using a unique identifier like a MAC address for wireless connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a barcode scanner uses in-focus optics and synchronized frame generation to read barcodes from a computer screen, then the barcode reading accuracy is improved, but the system fails in high ambient light environments such as direct sunlight

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebarcode reading accuracyVSAvoidoperation reliability in high ambient light

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the traditional approach by using out-of-focus optics instead of in-focus optics. The scanner operates in a defocused state where the photodiode captures blurred optical patterns from the screen. This inversion allows the system to detect optical states through temporal changes rather than spatial resolution, making it immune to ambient light interference while maintaining barcode reading capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements periodic action through asynchronous communication where the screen displays a communication sequence with multiple optical states that change over time. The scanner samples these periodic changes to detect encoded information. This temporal modulation approach enables reliable detection against the static background of ambient light, solving the contradiction between accuracy and environmental reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

2Reliability

If a barcode scanner operates in a defocused state without synchronized frame generation, then the system can operate in high ambient light environments, but traditional barcode reading methods break down

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperation reliability in high ambient lightVSAvoidbarcode reading accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical/optical focusing system with an electronic/temporal detection system. Instead of relying on precise optical focus and synchronized frame generation, the system uses asynchronous sampling of optical states over time. This substitution eliminates the need for complex synchronization mechanisms while maintaining detection precision through temporal analysis of the communication sequence

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operating parameters of the scanner from focused to defocused state, and from synchronized to asynchronous operation. This parameter change transforms the detection mechanism from spatial resolution-based to temporal change-based detection. The system detects barcodes by measuring changes in optical intensity over time rather than relying on sharp spatial patterns, enabling reliable operation in high ambient light conditions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 reliable data transfer from a computer screen to a barcode scanner in high ambient light conditions, allowing for successful barcode reading and wireless communication without the need for synchronized frame generation or focused photodiodes, thus overcoming the limitations of existing technologies.

Implementation Method 1

The scanner may use its internal CMOS sensor for this detection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10896361B2High ambient light electronic screen communication method

Publication Date: 2021.01.19 HAND HELD PRODS INC

AI summary

The present invention embraces a method to obtain barcoded information off a computer screen under high ambient lighting conditions, including a direct sunlight environment. The method includes a user prompting a computer to present an active window on all or a portion of its screen. The computer generates a communication sequence, comprising information commonly included on a barcode, and displays the communication sequence on the computer screen. After activating the scanner into an alternative or screen mode, the user places the scanner on the active window of the computer screen and the scanner asynchronously receives the communication sequence. The scanner decodes the received communication sequence and obtains encoded information of the computer. The encoded information may include a unique identifier of the computer, such as a MAC address. With the MAC address, the scanner may wirelessly communicate with the computer to exchange other information.