Compact Bioptic Barcode Reader Optical Path Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional bioptic barcode readers are expensive due to their size and need for support, necessitating the development of compact, low-cost alternatives for use in retail settings like self-checkout kiosks.
Innovation Solution
The design of a compact bioptic barcode reader with a housing that includes a primary field-of-view split by optical components, such as a splitter mirror and minimal mirrors, allowing a single image sensor to direct the field-of-view through horizontal and upright windows, reducing the number of components and manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional bioptic barcode readers are used, then reliable barcode scanning is achieved, but the device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions (primary scanning and bioptic verification) into a single integrated optical path using a single imaging sensor. The beam splitter mirror divides the optical path to capture both the main barcode area and the bioptic reference points simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate imaging assemblies and reducing device size while maintaining scanning reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The optical field is segmented into different regions using a beam splitter mirror, allowing simultaneous capture of the primary barcode scanning area and the bioptic reference points. This segmentation enables the single sensor to perform multiple functions that traditionally required separate imaging assemblies
2Reliability
If traditional bioptic barcode readers are used, then reliable barcode scanning is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple imaging functions into a single imaging assembly with one sensor, reducing the number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This consolidation lowers manufacturing complexity and cost while preserving the reliable bioptic scanning capability through optical path division
Solution Approach 2:
A single imaging sensor performs multiple functions: capturing the primary barcode region and simultaneously capturing bioptic reference points through the beam splitter. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated sensors for each function, reducing component count and manufacturing cost
3Volume of moving object
If compact design is implemented, then device size is reduced, but optical path complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a beam splitter mirror to create separate optical paths in different spatial dimensions from a single imaging sensor. This allows the compact design to accommodate multiple optical paths by utilizing dimensional separation rather than requiring additional sensors or larger physical space
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 solution results in a smaller, more affordable bioptic barcode reader with excellent performance, capable of being used in various retail environments without the need for additional imaging assemblies, enhancing usability and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
A generally horizontal window is positioned at the upper surface of the lower housing portion and is configured to allow a first light to pass between the product scanning region and an interior region of the housing
Implementation Method 2
a generally upright window is positioned in the upper housing portion and is configured to allow a second light to pass between the product scanning region and the interior region of the housing
Implementation Method 3
A set of optical components is positioned within the interior region of the housing and is configured to divide the primary field-of-view of the imaging assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A bioptic barcode reader has a housing having a lower housing portion with an upper surface and an upper housing portion extending above the lower housing portion. A generally horizontal window is positioned at the upper surface, a generally upright window is positioned in the upper housing portion, and an imaging assembly having a primary field-of-view and a set of optical components are positioned within the interior region. The housing has a width greater than or equal to 5 inches and less than or equal to 7 inches, the lower housing portion has a height greater than or equal to 3 inches, the upper housing portion has a height greater than or equal to 4 inches and less than or equal to 6 inches, and the upper surface has a length greater than or equal to 6 inches and less than or equal to 8 inches.