Document Reading Device Transparent Overlay Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Document reading devices for authentication documents face challenges in reducing their geometric dimensions while maintaining optical detection range, leading to large overall sizes.
Innovation Solution
A document reading device with a light-transparent overlay that embeds an image detector, allowing for transillumination and efficient image recording, potentially eliminating the need for an internal illumination source or using a space-saving external light source, and featuring a lens layer for focused image capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a conventional document reading device with separate light source and image detector is used, then the optical detection range is maintained, but the geometric dimensions and overall size become considerable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light source and image detector into a single integrated module positioned at one side of the document. The light source illuminates the document surface, and the image detector captures reflected light at the same location, eliminating the need for separate opposing components and reducing overall device dimensions while maintaining effective optical detection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a conventional linear beam path arrangement to a planar configuration where illumination and detection occur at the same spatial location but in different directional dimensions. The light source and detector are positioned to work on the document surface from the same side, utilizing angular separation rather than linear separation, which compactes the device footprint
2Length of stationary object
If the geometric dimensions of the document reading device are reduced, then the installation space is minimized, but the optical detection range is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible document support that can be tilted or adjusted to optimize the angle between the illumination/detection module and the document surface. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the compact module to maintain effective optical detection range by adapting the light path geometry rather than requiring fixed large dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters by using reflected light detection instead of transmitted light. The image detector captures light reflected from the document surface at specific angles, allowing effective detection with a compact side-mounted configuration rather than requiring the document to be positioned at a fixed distance from opposing components
3Adaptability or versatility
If an internal illumination device is included in the document reading device, then self-contained operation is achieved, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated illumination and detection module serves multiple functions: the light source provides illumination, the same module housing provides structural support, and the configuration works with documents in various positions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, simplifying the overall device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The document support structure itself serves dual purposes: it holds the document in position and provides the angled surface necessary for optimizing the light path between the illumination source and detector. The support geometry is designed to automatically position the document at the optimal detection angle, eliminating the need for additional adjustment mechanisms
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
The solution enables a compact document reading device with reduced energy consumption and efficient image recording capabilities, suitable for integration into various devices like smartphones or access control systems.
Implementation Method 1
the light-transparent overlay can be transilluminated with illuminating light for image recording of the authentication document
Implementation Method 2
a surface area of the light-transparent support forms or comprises a lens, in particular a Fresnel lens
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a document reading device (100) for optically detecting an authentication document (101), comprising a light-transparent support (105) for supporting the authentication document (101), the light-transparent support (105) can be transilluminated (107) for enabling an image of the authentication document (101) to be captured, and an image detector (109) for capturing an image of the authentication document (101), the image detector (109) being arranged in the light-transparent support (105).