Dual-Illumination Image Sensor for Cheque Pattern Decoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices cannot effectively read and decode both graphical and magnetic patterns, as well as micro-perforated patterns on cheques, which are necessary for fraud prevention, and lack a simple and integrated solution.
Innovation Solution
A device equipped with image sensors that use flashing light to read graphical patterns by reflection and micro-perforated patterns by passing light through them, utilizing grey scale, color scale, and infrared signals, along with a control circuit to manage and decode these patterns into bit-maps and symbols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a device is designed to read both graphical patterns and micro-perforated patterns, then the functionality and versatility are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a single reading device to handle both graphical patterns and micro-perforated patterns through dual illumination modes (transmitted and reflected light) and dual detection modes, eliminating the need for separate devices for each pattern type
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the reading process into distinct phases: transmitted light reading for micro-perforated patterns and reflected light reading for graphical patterns. This segmentation allows the device to switch between different reading modes based on the pattern type, managing complexity through structured process division
2Measurement precision
If high reading resolution is required for micro-perforated patterns with diameter lower than 0.254 mm, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the illumination parameter by using transmitted light instead of reflected light for micro-perforated patterns, and adjusts the detection parameters to capture the specific optical characteristics of micro-holes, achieving high resolution without requiring overly complex device structures
3Productivity
If the reading process needs to be very fast and reliable for fraud prevention, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains continuous reading action by seamlessly switching between transmitted light and reflected light modes without interrupting the document processing flow, ensuring fast and reliable reading of both pattern types in a single pass through the device
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 reliable and fast reading and decoding of both graphical and micro-perforated patterns, providing a high-security level for cheque validation without requiring complex equipment, and can be integrated into a single device.
Implementation Method 1
reading means provided with the image sensor are arranged to read both graphic patterns by using light reflection
Implementation Method 2
micro-perforated patterns by using light passing through them
Data Source
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AI summary
A device and method for reading and decoding paper or non- paper documents (12) including micro-perforated or "watermark" patterns and graphic patterns. The device comprises at least one image sensor (11) having light flashing means (33, 44) arranged to flash first light signals on a first side (12a, 12b) of a document (12), and image sensor reading means (31, 41) arranged to read the first light signals reflected by the graphic patterns (6, 7). The device further comprises at least one array of infrared light emitting means (14, 24) located in front of said image sensor (11) and arranged to flash second light signals on a second side (12b) of the document (12) whereby the image sensor reading means (31, 41) are arranged to read the infrared light signals passing through the micro- perforated or "watermark" patterns (5).