Bioptic Reader Assembly Layout for Integrated Video Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Bioptic reader assemblies lack sufficient space within the lower portion of the housing for integrating a video processing module and routing required cables, hindering the implementation of machine vision capabilities for object recognition and anti-shrink applications.

Innovation Solution

Position the video processing module within the upper portion of the housing, utilizing a separate decoder module and multiple imaging assemblies to capture and process image data for both indicia decoding and vision processing, with cables routed through the top portion to facilitate efficient integration and operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the video processing module is integrated into the lower portion of the housing, then the barcode reading function can be maintained, but there is insufficient space for the video processing module and cable routing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevideo processing capabilityVSAvoidhousing space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent relocates the video processing module from the lower portion to the upper portion of the housing, utilizing the previously underutilized upper space. This dimensional relocation resolves the space conflict by exploiting the vertical dimension of the housing structure, allowing both barcode scanning and video processing functions to coexist without interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the video processing module is added to enable machine vision capabilities, then object recognition and anti-shrink applications become possible, but the device complexity and cable routing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemachine vision capabilityVSAvoidcable routing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the video processing module as a separate, independent component located in the upper portion, distinct from the barcode scanning subsystem in the lower portion. This separation allows each module to have dedicated cable routing paths, reducing overall system complexity and making installation and maintenance easier.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple imaging assemblies are integrated for both indicia decoding and vision processing, then functional versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedual functionalityVSAvoidimaging assembly integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the imaging system into two separate segments: a first imaging assembly for barcode/indicia decoding positioned in the lower portion, and a second imaging assembly for video processing positioned in the upper portion. Each assembly is independently optimized for its specific function, with separate processing modules, reducing the complexity of integrating multiple functions into a single system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 compact and efficient integration of video processing capabilities, allowing for object recognition, anti-shrink applications, and other vision processing tasks without disturbing the weighing functionality of the bioptic reader assembly.

Implementation Method 1

A first imaging assembly is configured to capture first image data over a first field of view (FOV) extending through at least one of the bottom-portion window and the top-portion window

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical transmission: Refraction

Implementation Method 2

A second imaging assembly is configured to capture second image data over a second FOV extending through at least one of the bottom-portion window and the top-portion window

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical transmission: Refraction

Implementation Method 3

A platter is positioned adjacent the top section of the bottom portion of the housing, the platter having an optically transmissive window that aligns with the bottom-portion window of the bottom portion of the housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical transmission: Refraction

Data Source

PatentUS20260057201A1Bioptic Reader Assembly with Video Processing Module
Publication Date: 2026.02.26 ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES CORP
  • US20260057201A1 patent drawing
  • US20260057201A1 patent drawing
  • US20260057201A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A bioptic indicia reader assembly includes a housing with a bottom portion and a top portion, each containing respective windows. A platter with an optically transmissive window aligns with the bottom-portion window. The assembly features a decoder module for decoding indicia from image data and a separate video processing module (VPM) for processing video streams. The VPM is strategically positioned within the top portion of the housing. The assembly includes a first imaging assembly capturing image data for the decoder module and a second imaging assembly capturing image data for the VPM, each extending through the respective windows. The top portion of the housing may include separate compartments for optical components and the VPM, with environmental sealing and heat dissipation features. The VPM is configured for various machine vision tasks, enhancing the functionality of the bioptic indicia reader in retail and other applications.