Barcode Scanner Retention via Vibration-Activated Magnetic Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barcode scanning systems face difficulties in securely retaining the scanner within a cradle, especially in industrial environments with vibrations, and require cumbersome removal processes, especially when the cradle orientation changes.
Innovation Solution
A scanning system that incorporates a cradle with a force sensor and a securing feature, such as a magnetic element or latch, which activates to retain the scanner when excessive vibrations or specific orientations are detected, allowing for easy installation and removal without user configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a strong mechanical retaining mechanism is used to withstand vibrations, then the scanner retention reliability is improved, but the ease of removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spring-loaded retention mechanism where springs provide dynamic force to engage retaining features. The springs allow the scanner to be securely held during normal operation and vibrations, but can be easily released when removal force is applied, thus resolving the contradiction between strong retention and easy removal
Solution Approach 2:
The retention force parameter is made variable through the spring mechanism. The springs can be compressed to increase retention force during vibration, but can also be easily decompressed for removal. This dynamic parameter change allows the system to adapt between strong retention and easy removal states
2Reliability
If a strong retaining feature is used to prevent inadvertent decoupling, then the scanner retention reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is segmented into multiple simple components: springs, retaining features on the cradle, and corresponding features on the scanner. This segmentation allows each component to be simple in design while collectively providing reliable retention, reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded mechanism is self-actuating and does not require external control systems or complex actuation mechanisms. The springs automatically engage and disengage based on physical interaction, providing reliable retention without adding device complexity through electronic controls
3Reliability
If the cradle is designed for vertical orientation retention, then the scanner retention reliability is improved in vertical position, but the adaptability to horizontal orientation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining features are designed with universal functionality to work in both vertical and horizontal orientations. The spring-loaded mechanism and geometric retaining features do not depend on gravitational orientation, allowing the same design to provide reliable retention in any orientation without requiring separate mechanisms
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
The system provides secure retention of the scanner in various orientations and environments, simplifying the removal process and alleviating the need for strong mechanical retention mechanisms, ensuring reliable operation in industrial settings.
Implementation Method 1
a force sensor (e.g., an accelerometer) may be provided that senses whether the scanner is experiencing excessive vibrations
Implementation Method 2
one of the first or the second securing features includes a magnetic element, and the other of the first or the second securing features includes a magnetic or ferrous material
Data Source
AI summary
Scanning systems are disclosed herein. An example scanning system includes a cradle and a barcode scanner. The cradle includes a cradle cavity portion, a cradle controller, a force sensor communicatively coupled therewith, and a first securing feature positioned at or near the cradle cavity portion and being communicatively coupled with the cradle controller. The barcode scanner includes a housing having a scanner housing cavity, an imaging assembly adapted to capture an image of an environment appearing in a field of view (FOV) and being at least partially disposed within the scanner housing cavity, a scanner controller adapted to control operation of the imaging assembly, and a second securing feature. In response to the force sensor sensing vibration exceeding a threshold value and/or the cradle being mounted in a predetermined orientation, the first and second securing features selectively interact to retain the barcode scanner within the cradle cavity portion.