Dual Digitizer Bar Code Decoding via Quality Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bar code scanning technologies face challenges in decoding bar codes due to poor image quality, damage, or environmental factors, leading to inefficient processing and incorrect readings.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing two digitizers and a processor to generate and compare digitized representations of a bar code, selecting the most accurate representation for decoding based on parameters to enhance margin detection, size estimation, and noise correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single digitizer is used to read the bar code, then the device complexity is reduced, but the decoding accuracy deteriorates when the bar code image is blurred or damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using two different digitizers with distinct characteristics (different resolutions, color formats, or sensing methods) to capture the same bar code. Each digitizer provides locally optimized quality for different image conditions, allowing the system to select the most appropriate digitized representation based on the specific quality metrics of each capture
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by capturing multiple digitized representations of the bar code before the actual decoding process. This preliminary multi-capture approach allows the system to evaluate image quality metrics in advance and select the best representation for decoding, thereby improving accuracy while avoiding the need for complex real-time processing during decoding
2Measurement precision
If multiple digitized representations are captured and compared, then the decoding accuracy is improved, but the processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by not fully processing all captured representations for decoding. Instead, the system compares quality metrics of multiple digitized representations and selectively processes only the best one for decoding. This partial processing approach maintains high decoding accuracy while significantly reducing the time loss associated with processing multiple representations
3Measurement precision
If the bar code reader is placed closer to obtain a sharper image, then the image quality improves, but the device cannot be placed close enough due to physical constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing multiple digitizers with different operational parameters (such as different resolutions, color sensitivities, or focal characteristics). This allows the system to capture the bar code at a fixed distance using digitizers with varying parameters, effectively compensating for the inability to adjust reading distance while maintaining image sharpness and decoding accuracy
Data Source
AI summary
Described is a system and method for bar code decoding. The system comprises first and second digitizers and a processor. The first digitizer outputs a first digitized representation of a bar code. The second digitizer outputs a second digitized representation of the bar code. The processor compares the first and second digitized representations to yield a set of parameters. The processor selects one of the first and second digitized representations to be decoded as a function of the set of parameters.