Dual Optic Mobile Attachment for Barcode Scanning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Smartphones and similar devices have poor barcode reading capabilities, limiting their effectiveness in scanning and decoding barcodes efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A mobile device attachment with dual imaging optics systems, one optimized for barcode scanning and the other for capturing non-barcode images, along with illumination systems and software applications that enhance barcode reading capabilities, allowing simultaneous capture and decoding of barcodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single imaging system is used in smartphones, then device complexity is reduced, but barcode reading precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into two distinct optical pathways: a first imaging pathway optimized for barcode scanning with narrow field of view and precise focusing, and a second imaging pathway for general photography with wide field of view. Each pathway has dedicated imaging optics and processing algorithms, allowing specialized optimization for barcode reading without compromising overall device functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dimensional separation in the optical design by creating non-parallel optical pathways that diverge from a common light source. The first optical pathway is configured at a specific angle for barcode scanning while the second pathway captures broader scenes, effectively adding an angular dimension to the imaging architecture to accommodate multiple functions.
2Reliability
If dual imaging optics are added to improve barcode scanning, then barcode reading accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system achieves multi-functionality by integrating both barcode scanning and general photography capabilities within a unified attachment structure. The same attachment housing contains both imaging pathways and can be mounted on various mobile devices, providing universal applicability across different platforms while delivering specialized barcode reading performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second imaging optics are nested within a common attachment housing that attaches to the mobile device camera module. The compact design allows one imaging pathway to be positioned within or adjacent to the other, creating a space-efficient configuration where the dual-optics system is contained within a single attachable unit rather than requiring separate components.
3Manufacturing precision
If specialized imaging optics for barcode scanning are implemented, then scanning accuracy improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment replicates essential camera functionality by incorporating its own imaging optics and sensor array, effectively creating a copy of the mobile device's native camera system but optimized specifically for barcode scanning. This copied imaging subsystem can be manufactured independently using standard camera module production techniques, simplifying the manufacturing process compared to integrating custom optics directly into the mobile 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
Improves the accuracy and efficiency of barcode scanning and decoding on mobile devices, enabling reliable and user-friendly barcode reading experiences.
Implementation Method 1
a first set of imaging optics that receives, from within a first field of view, first light defining a first portion of image data captured by the image sensing system. The first set of imaging optics is positioned to direct the first light at the image sensing system
Implementation Method 2
a second set of imaging optics that receives, from within a second field of view, second light defining a second portion of the image data. The second set of imaging optics is positioned to direct the second light at the image sensing system
Implementation Method 3
The second set of imaging optics includes a selection from the group consisting of a movable lens that moves relative to the image sensing system to change the second angle
Implementation Method 4
a deformable lens that is deformable to change the second angle
Implementation Method 5
The first set of imaging optics can include a filter positioned on the first optical pathway to restrict passage of light of undesired frequencies through the first set of imaging optics
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment for a mobile device includes an attachment feature securable to the mobile device. The attachment also includes a first set of imaging optics that receives, from within a first field of view, first light defining a first portion of image data captured by an image sensing system of the mobile device. The first portion of the image data includes a barcode image. The first field of view is centered on a first optical pathway. The attachment also includes a second set of imaging optics that receives, from within a second field of view, second light defining a second portion of the image data. The second portion of the image data includes a non-barcode image. The second field of view is centered on a second optical pathway nonparallel to the first optical pathway.