Code Symbol Reading System Finger Pointing Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital imaging systems for reading bar code symbols at point of sale environments face challenges in accurately identifying and decoding multiple bar codes on a menu without manual targeting, as they require users to center each bar code individually, which is time-consuming and difficult, especially when multiple codes need to be read.
Innovation Solution
A digital imaging system that allows users to automatically read 1D and 2D bar code symbols by pointing their finger at the desired symbol, using advanced image capture and processing techniques to detect the pointing finger and locate the region of interest within the captured digital image, enabling automatic decoding of the bar code symbol adjacent to the finger.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a narrow region of interest (ROI) is analyzed in the center of the captured digital image using a targeting scheme, then the system can identify which bar code to read, but the coordination of the narrow light beam with the bar code is difficult and time consuming when multiple bar codes must be read
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the bar code menu into multiple candidate regions and processes them in parallel using image recognition algorithms, rather than sequentially coordinating a narrow light beam with each bar code. This allows simultaneous analysis of multiple potential targets, significantly reducing the time to read multiple bar codes while maintaining identification accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical targeting system (narrow light beam coordination) with an optical-digital hybrid system using wide-area illumination and image processing. The digital image processor automatically identifies bar codes through pattern recognition algorithms, eliminating the need for precise mechanical alignment of narrow beams and reducing user burden.
2Area of stationary object
If the entire page of bar codes is captured in a single digital image, then all bar codes are visible, but it becomes uncertain which bar code(s) should be scanned based on user intentions
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary targeting beam (laser pointer) that bridges the gap between the wide field of view and user intent. The laser pointer provides visual feedback to indicate which bar code the user is intending to scan, while the digital image processor simultaneously monitors both the laser position and bar code locations to determine the target for decoding.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses color or intensity changes in the visual display to indicate different states: the targeting beam highlights the intended bar code location, while the digital image processor identifies which bar code should be scanned based on the laser position. Visual cues such as color-coded indicators or brightness variations help users understand system status and confirm correct target selection.
Data Source
AI summary
A digital-imaging based system reads graphical indicia, including code symbols, on objects such as, but not limited to, code symbol menus by the user pointing his or her finger at the particular code symbol on the code symbol menu to be read, while digital images of the code symbol menu and the pointing finger are automatically captured, buffered and processed.