Code Reader Trigger Label for Discount Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing code reading apparatuses struggle to reliably read discount labels when they are not affixed in the same image pickup area as the barcode, leading to difficulties in performing discounted sales.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a trigger label with a distinct shape, such as double concentric circumferences, which is detected to extend the time for reading benefit indications, allowing multiple image captures to ensure both barcode and discount label information can be read accurately.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the image pickup area is limited to capture both barcode and discount label in one shot, then reading accuracy improves, but the area where labels can be affixed is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the label detection process into two independent stages: first detecting the trigger label to identify commodities with discounts, then separately detecting the discount label to read the actual discount information. This segmentation allows each detection to be performed under optimal conditions without spatial constraints, resolving the contradiction between reading accuracy and label affixation flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger label serves as an intermediary element that bridges the barcode and discount label. By first detecting the trigger label, the system identifies which commodities have discounts applied, then selectively searches for corresponding discount labels. This intermediary mechanism enables flexible label placement while maintaining accurate reading through a structured detection sequence.
2Reliability
If multiple image captures are performed to ensure both labels are read, then reading reliability improves, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of the trigger label before searching for the discount label. This preliminary action identifies which commodities require discount processing, allowing the system to focus subsequent image captures only on relevant items. This approach maintains high reading reliability while minimizing unnecessary processing time for commodities without discounts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a periodic detection sequence where the system alternates between detecting trigger labels and discount labels in multiple passes. This periodic action ensures that both types of labels are reliably captured over time, with each detection cycle optimized for its specific target, thereby maintaining high reliability without requiring all labels to be visible simultaneously.
3Reliability
If the discount label detection is performed continuously, then reading completeness improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its detection behavior based on trigger label detection results. When a trigger label is detected, the system activates enhanced discount label detection; when no trigger label is present, the system skips discount label searching. This dynamic adaptation ensures complete reading of discount information where applicable while simplifying processing for regular items, thereby improving reading completeness without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a code reading apparatus includes an image capturing section, a first detecting section, a second detecting section, and an informing section. The image capturing section captures an image picked up by an image pickup section. The first detecting section detects a first symbol including commodity information of a commodity from the image captured by the image capturing section. The second detecting section detects a second symbol different from the shape of an element included in the first symbol in the image captured by the image capturing section. The informing section informs, if the second detecting section detects the second symbol, that a benefit indication indicating a benefit granted with respect to the commodity information is affixed to the commodity.