Compact Bar Code Imager Using Multi-Wavelength Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Previous long range, high resolution bar code imagers had large form factors, making them non-compact and difficult to position or move to proper imaging locations.
Innovation Solution
The development of compact bar code imagers that utilize a combination of illumination beams with different wavelengths and modulation frequencies, provided by either an array of fixed or movable lasers, to achieve long range and high resolution imaging while reducing physical size, using a light concentrator and detector to collect and convert reflected light into a readable electronic signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If long range high resolution bar code imagers are designed to achieve high resolution imaging at long distances, then imaging resolution and range are improved, but device form factor increases making it non-compact and difficult to position
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is segmented into multiple lasers operating at different wavelengths, allowing each laser to target specific bar code features. This segmentation enables high resolution imaging through spectral differentiation rather than relying solely on spatial resolution, thereby reducing the need for large optical components while maintaining long range imaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by employing multiple lasers with different wavelengths to illuminate the bar code. By varying the wavelength parameter and detecting the reflected light at corresponding wavelengths, the system achieves high resolution imaging at long distances without requiring large form factor optics, thus resolving the contradiction between imaging performance and device compactness.
2Measurement precision
If multiple lasers with different wavelengths are used to achieve high resolution long range imaging, then imaging capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple lasers with different wavelengths are integrated into a single illumination system that serves the universal function of illuminating bar codes at various distances and conditions. Each wavelength targets specific bar code characteristics, and the system processes all wavelengths through a unified detection and processing pathway, achieving high resolution imaging while managing complexity through functional integration.
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 the creation of high resolution images of bar codes at long distances with a reduced form factor, allowing for more flexible and compact device placement, and supports both long and short range applications.
Implementation Method 1
A bar code imager can be used to create an image of (e.g., read) a bar code. The bar code imager can create the image of the bar code by, for example, illuminating the bar code in the case of a low ambient light environment.
Implementation Method 2
The image of the bar code can then be used to determine (e.g., read) the data represented by the bar code.
Implementation Method 3
using a light concentrator and detector to collect and convert reflected light into a readable electronic signal
Data Source
AI summary
Bar code imagers and methods of operating bar code imagers are described herein. One method includes illuminating a bar code with a first illumination beam provided by the bar code imager device, wherein the first illumination beam has a first wavelength, and illuminating the bar code with a second illumination beam provided by the bar code imager device, wherein the second illumination beam has a second wavelength that is different than the first wavelength.