Detachable Data Collection Module for Hands-Free Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable data terminals lack a hands-free, multi-interface design that allows for efficient scanning and data entry in warehousing and delivery environments, where users need to interact with packages and recipients while maintaining mobility and usability.
Innovation Solution
A portable data terminal system comprising a terminal module and a detachable data collection module, where the data collection module can be securely attached to a hand or ring, enabling hands-free scanning and reattaching for keypad and display access, with integrated imaging and illumination assemblies, and communication interfaces for data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a portable data terminal is designed for hands-free scanning, then scanning efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple attachment interfaces and modules
Solution Approach 1:
The portable data terminal is divided into two separate modules: a scanning module that can be worn hands-free and a terminal module with display and keyboard. This segmentation allows the scanning function to operate independently while maintaining full functionality when combined.
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning module incorporates multiple attachment interfaces (ring interface, hand interface, wrist interface) that allow it to be configured for different wearing methods. This multi-functionality enables a single device to adapt to various user needs and scenarios.
2Ease of operation
If the data collection module is constantly worn on the person, then hands-free scanning is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in accessing keypad and display
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static worn state to a dynamic configuration where the scanning module can be easily attached to and detached from the terminal module. This dynamic design allows users to switch between hands-free scanning mode and full interaction mode as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal module serves as an intermediary that provides the display and keyboard functions when attached to the scanning module. This mediator approach allows the scanning module to maintain its compact wearable form while accessing full input capabilities through the terminal module.
3Ease of operation
If the scanner module is removed from the person, then keypad and display access is improved, but scanning efficiency deteriorates due to constant device handling
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into independent scanning and terminal modules, allowing the scanning module to remain worn on the person for continuous scanning operations while the terminal module provides display and keyboard access when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal module acts as an intermediary that can be attached to the scanning module when full interaction is needed, without requiring removal of the scanning module from the user's person. This maintains scanning readiness while providing access to input/output functions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple attachment interfaces are provided for the data collection module, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The data collection module incorporates multiple attachment interfaces (ring, hand, wrist) within a single unified design, allowing it to adapt to different wearing configurations without requiring separate devices or complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple attachment interfaces are merged into a single integrated data collection module, consolidating what could have been separate devices into one unified unit with multiple attachment options.
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 hands-free scanning and efficient data entry in warehousing and delivery environments, maintaining user mobility and improving usability by allowing barcode scanning without the need for constant device handling or separation from the terminal.
Implementation Method 1
an illumination assembly configured to illuminate a target, such as a bar code
Implementation Method 2
receive light scattered and/or reflected back from a bar code symbol or indicia
Implementation Method 3
The received light is interpreted by an image processor to extract the data represented by the symbol
Data Source
AI summary
A data collection module including an illumination assembly and an imaging assembly, a processor configured to operate the illumination and imaging assemblies, at least one network interface configured to communicate with a terminal module, at least one power supply and a terminal module interface configured to communicate with a terminal module when the data collection module is mated with the terminal module.