Dual Laser Scanner Indicia Reader Single Trigger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Indicia reading devices face challenges in efficiently reading both near and far indicia with a single action trigger, as existing systems often require multiple scans or mode changes, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The development of an indicia reader with a dual laser scanner or dual image engine system that allows for near and far scanning modes to be activated with a single trigger pull, using different laser or image scanning engines and configurations to alternate between scanning distances based on trigger actuations, enabling efficient reading of indicia at varying distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single laser scanner is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot scan both near and far indicia effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The single laser scanner is divided into two distinct scanning engines: a first laser scanner configured for near indicia and a second laser scanner configured for far indicia. Each scanner is optimized for its specific distance range, allowing the system to handle both near and far scanning requirements simultaneously without compromising performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicia reader is designed with multi-functionality by integrating both near and far scanning capabilities into a single device. The system can automatically select the appropriate scanning engine based on the distance to the target indicia, providing universal scanning coverage without requiring separate devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple scanning modes are implemented, then scanning versatility is improved, but the operation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic distance estimation to determine which scanning engine should be activated. By self-assessing the distance to the target and selecting the appropriate scanner automatically, the system eliminates the need for manual mode selection, maintaining ease of operation while providing multiple scanning capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning system dynamically switches between near and far scanning modes based on real-time distance estimation. The system adapts its behavior according to the detected distance, automatically selecting the appropriate laser scanner to ensure optimal performance without requiring user intervention.
3Measurement precision
If automatic distance estimation is added, then scanning accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a feedback mechanism where the distance estimation module continuously monitors the distance to the target indicia and provides information to the control system. Based on this feedback, the system automatically selects the appropriate scanning engine, improving measurement precision while keeping the control logic manageable through iterative refinement.
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 seamless switching between near and far scanning modes with a single trigger action, enhancing the versatility and efficiency of indicia reading devices by allowing operators to read indicia at both close and distant ranges without manual mode changes, reducing operational complexity and improving data capture accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
transmit light onto a symbol and receive light scattered and/or reflected back from a bar code symbol or indicia
Implementation Method 2
receive light scattered and/or reflected back from a bar code symbol or indicia
Implementation Method 3
converting the directed reflected light into a representative output signal
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating an indicia reader for reading information bearing indicia (IBI) positioned in a field of view of the reader includes: transmitting a first laser light beam adapted for scanning an IBI on a target located a first distance from the indicia reader; transmitting a second laser light beam adapted for scanning an IBI on a target located a second distance greater than the first distance from the indicia reader; activating at least one of the first and second laser light beams; scanning at least one of the laser light beams with a flat unitary scan mirror to generate at least one of a first laser light beam pattern and a second laser light beam pattern; directing light reflected from the target from either the first or second laser light beams patterns through a common receive path; the common receive path including being reflected with the flat unitary scan mirror onto a focusing mirror; the focusing mirror directing reflected light along a directed reflected light path; the directed reflected light path including an optical filter outputting directed reflected light; converting the directed reflected light into an output signal with a photodetector; decoding IBI information derived from the output signal, wherein the operating steps are completed by devices supported in a hand held indicia reader housing and wherein an operator selectively activates the first laser light beam and/or the second laser light beam with a single action trigger.