Optical Code Reader Illumination Timing to Suppress Flicker
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical information reading apparatuses cause discomfort due to flicker from long intervals of blinking light when reading optical codes.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus alternates illumination exposure with non-illumination exposure and controls the gravity centers of light quantities to minimize flicker by ensuring even intervals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If blinking light with long interval is used for reading optical codes, then the light can illuminate the code sufficiently, but flicker occurs causing discomfort to human eye
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic blinking light action to illuminate optical codes, where the light turns on and off at regular intervals. This periodic illumination allows sufficient light to reach the code for reading while controlling the timing to minimize flicker effects on the human eye.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the timing parameters of the blinking light, specifically controlling the interval duration and synchronization timing. By adjusting these temporal parameters, the system achieves adequate illumination for code reading while reducing the flicker that causes discomfort to observers.
2Productivity
If blinking light is used to read optical codes, then the reading function is enabled, but discomfort is caused to users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that detect the presence and characteristics of optical codes, then adjust the blinking light timing accordingly. This feedback loop enables the system to maintain effective code reading capability while adapting the illumination pattern to minimize user discomfort based on actual reading conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic blinking light with controlled intervals to enable code reading functionality. The regular on-off cycling provides sufficient illumination for detection while the timing is optimized to reduce flicker-related discomfort to users.
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
Suppresses flicker and discomfort by maintaining even intervals of light quantity gravity centers, enhancing user comfort.
Implementation Method 1
a light source, and a solid imaging element that captures an image of the optical code with the light from the light source
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4
AI summary
An optical information reading apparatus includes: a light source; an imaging element configured to repeat a first exposure and a second exposure; and a control part configured to control the light source such that a gravity center of a light quantity of exposure illumination at a time of the first exposure and a gravity center of a light quantity of dummy illumination before and after the second exposure or before the second exposure are at an even time interval.