Bi-optic Barcode Reader Thermal Transmitter Heat Dissipation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bi-optic barcode readers face challenges in efficiently gathering image-based data and managing heat generated by higher-powered components, necessitating improved accessories for effective heat dissipation and enhanced functionality.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a barcode reader design with a housing and platter assembly that includes a thermal transmitter to remove thermal energy, utilizing thermally conductive materials and structural elements like metallic frames with ribs or fins for efficient heat dissipation, and optionally incorporating supplemental sensing assemblies and processing modules for enhanced performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If higher-powered components are incorporated to perform more tasks, then functionality is improved, but heat generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the housing frame and platter frame, which are already present structural components, as heat dissipation pathways. The frames are thermally coupled to the higher-powered components (such as imaging assemblies and processing units) to conduct away generated heat, effectively converting the existing structural elements into beneficial thermal management solutions without adding separate cooling systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing frame and platter frame serve dual functions: providing structural support for the barcode reader components and simultaneously acting as thermal conduction pathways for heat dissipation. This multi-functionality allows the system to manage heat from higher-powered components without requiring additional dedicated cooling structures, thereby maintaining versatility while controlling temperature.
2Temperature
If thermal management components are added, then heat dissipation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the thermal management function with the existing structural framework of the barcode reader. The housing frame and platter frame are designed to serve both as mechanical support structures and as thermal conduction pathways. By integrating heat dissipation into the existing framework rather than adding separate cooling components, the system achieves effective thermal management while minimizing increases in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing structural components of the barcode reader (housing frame and platter frame) are utilized to perform the thermal management function. These components inherently possess thermal conduction properties and are positioned to naturally conduct heat away from higher-powered components. This self-service approach allows the structure to simultaneously support and cool the system without requiring external cooling systems.
3Temperature
If thermally conductive materials are used in supplemental modules, then heat transfer is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thermally conductive materials that are integrated into the housing frame and platter frame structures. These materials are selected to match the thermal and mechanical properties of the existing frames, ensuring uniform heat conduction throughout the structure. By using homogeneous materials with compatible properties, the patent achieves effective heat transfer while simplifying the manufacturing process, as the thermally conductive elements become an integral part of the existing framework rather than requiring separate assembly steps.
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 design effectively manages heat generated by high-power components, improving the barcode reader's scanning performance and operational efficiency while minimizing additional component costs and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The thermal transmitter is thermally coupled with at least one of the lower housing frame or the platter frame to transfer the thermal energy generated by the reader accessory thereto
Data Source
AI summary
At least some embodiments of the present invention are directed to barcode readers having a housing with upper and lower portions, and a platter. Additionally, the barcode readers include a platter frame and an imaging assembly, the first imaging assembly having a first field of view (FOV) directed through at least one of the substantially horizontal window or the substantially upright window of the housing, and a reader accessory removably coupled with at least one of the lower housing portion or the platter frame that includes a thermal transmitter. The thermal transmitter is thermally coupled with at least one of the housing frame or the platter frame to transfer thermal energy generated by the reader accessory thereto.