Code Reader Light Source Control for Optical Illusion Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Code readers using CCD image sensors face issues with optical illusions due to continuous light irradiation, which can affect the accuracy of code symbol reading, particularly when switching between code reading and liquid crystal screen reading modes.
Innovation Solution
A code reader with a light source control unit that changes light illuminating patterns between code reading and liquid crystal screen reading modes, ensuring the lighting unit illuminates continuously in code reading mode and intermittently in liquid crystal screen reading mode, synchronizing or desynchronizing light control signals with imaging pickup signals to prevent high-intensity reflected light and recognize mode changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If light is continuously irradiated from the light source to guarantee brightness for imaging pickup, then image quality is improved, but optical illusions are caused affecting reading accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The light source is controlled to emit light periodically at specific time intervals synchronized with the imaging pickup timing, rather than continuously. This periodic illumination provides sufficient brightness during image capture while avoiding continuous exposure that causes optical illusions, thereby resolving the contradiction between image quality and reading accuracy
2Reliability
If light is irradiated at certain time intervals during the period in which no image is picked up, then optical illusions are avoided, but image quality may deteriorate due to insufficient illumination
Solution Approach 1:
The light source control operates based on feedback from the imaging pickup timing signals. The control unit receives timing information from the imaging pickup unit and adjusts light emission accordingly, ensuring illumination occurs precisely when needed for image capture while maintaining the prevention of optical illusions by avoiding light during non-imaging periods
3Adaptability or versatility
If the code reader switches between code reading mode and liquid crystal screen reading mode, then versatility is improved, but mode recognition becomes difficult due to similar light illuminating patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The light source changes its illuminating pattern characteristics when switching between code reading mode and liquid crystal screen reading mode. These distinct light patterns serve as visual indicators that enable operators to easily recognize which mode is active, thereby resolving the contradiction between versatility and ease of operation
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
Improves image quality and operator recognition of mode changes, reducing optical illusions and enhancing reading accuracy in both code and liquid crystal screen reading modes.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging pickup unit; a light source configured to irradiate light onto an imaging pickup area by the imaging pickup unit
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, a code reader, comprising: an imaging pickup unit; a light source configured to irradiate light onto an imaging pickup area by the imaging pickup unit; a switching unit configured to switch between a code reading mode applicable for the imaging pickup unit to image pickup a code symbol in the imaging pickup area and a second mode which is carried out the control which is different from the control carried out in the code reading mode; and a light source control unit configured to enable the light source to illuminate light by changing light illuminating patterns when the switching unit switches between the code reading mode and the second mode.