Barcode Identification Terminal Using Image Capture for Logistics Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for monitoring the movement of goods during loading, unloading, and transfer are unreliable, with limitations such as restricted reading areas, low barcode reading accuracy, and lack of proof of operations, especially when using laser beam or PDA-type barcode readers.
Innovation Solution
A system employing a terminal with an image capturing device, diffusion sensors, and a control unit that captures and decodes barcodes on containers or container supports, allowing automatic identification and tracking of goods movements without stopping handling machines, and provides proof of operations through photo or film capture and timestamping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a laser beam barcode reader is used, then the reading area is limited, but the system complexity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical laser beam scanning system with an optical camera-based imaging system. The camera captures images of barcodes within a wider field of view, eliminating the need for mechanical scanning movements and expanding the effective reading area without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear scanning (laser beam moving across a line) to two-dimensional area imaging (camera capturing a plane). This dimensional change allows simultaneous reading of multiple barcodes across a broader area, effectively increasing the reading area capability.
2Ease of operation
If a PDA-type barcode reader is used, then portability is improved, but identification reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a camera to capture an optical copy (image) of the barcode, which is then processed by image recognition algorithms. This copying approach allows the system to read barcodes from a distance without requiring physical proximity or manual scanning operations, maintaining portability while significantly improving identification reliability through automated image processing.
3Device complexity
If manual identification is performed, then equipment complexity is reduced, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated system where the camera continuously captures images and the control unit automatically processes these images to identify barcodes. The system serves itself by autonomously performing identification without human intervention, eliminating time consumption associated with manual scanning while keeping equipment complexity manageable through software-based processing.
4Area of stationary object
If reading distance is increased, then coverage area is improved, but reading accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs continuous or periodic image capture by the camera, taking multiple images at different moments as objects move through the field of view. This periodic sampling ensures that even at increased distances, clear images are captured, and the system can process these images to maintain reading accuracy while covering a broader area.
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
Ensures reliable and continuous identification of containers or container supports during loading, unloading, and transfer, with flexibility in installation and operation, capable of reading barcodes at distances up to several meters and handling multiple containers, providing proof of movements and volumetric measurements.
Implementation Method 1
a first diffusion sensor and a second diffusion sensor indicating a passage in front of the terminal
Implementation Method 2
a second detection cell, the second detection cell having a first reflection sensor and a second reflection sensor, cooperating with a reflector positioned on the container(s)
Data Source
AI summary
A system for monitoring loading and unloading of goods or area transfers of goods. A terminal is positioned close to the point of passage of the goods. The goods being in containers, each container includes a barcode or a container carrier having a barcode. The terminal includes an image capturing device, configured to capture a photograph or film at the time when at least one container or container carrier passes in front of the terminal. A flash connected to the image capturing device triggers when a photograph or film is captured. A control unit includes a microcontroller driving the system and the database. A processing unit to process the photograph or film to identify the barcode captured in the photograph or film. A triggering unit to trigger the capture of a photograph or film based on at least detection of a container indicating passage in front of the terminal.