Dual-Sided Information Reading Device with Shared Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional information reading devices for optically reading information on both sides of a medium, such as ID cards, are complex and vulnerable to security breaches, requiring separate image sensors and multiple operations which can lead to illegal data access.
Innovation Solution
An information reading device with a single imaging element, utilizing a transparent placing member, dual illuminators, and a beam splitter to read both sides of the medium simultaneously, with a shutter mechanism to control light paths and improve accuracy, and adjustable optical systems for enhanced security and simplified configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate image sensors are used to read both sides of the information recording medium, then reading capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate image sensors into a single shared image sensor that alternately captures images of both sides of the information recording medium. This merging approach maintains the dual-sided reading capability while reducing device complexity by eliminating redundant components and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic switching mechanisms including a movable mirror and shutter that alternate the optical path to direct light from either the top or bottom side of the medium to the single image sensor. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt between different reading modes (top side, bottom side, or both sides) while using a fixed, simplified hardware structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate image sensors are used to read both sides of the information recording medium, then reading capability is improved, but operation becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary positioning actions where the information recording medium is initially placed on a transparent stage in a standardized orientation. The system then automatically controls the sequence of capturing top and bottom side images through programmed shutter and mirror operations, eliminating the need for manual repositioning or complex user operations to switch between sides.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically alternating between capturing images of the top and bottom sides of the medium using the shared image sensor. The control unit manages the entire reading process including shutter timing, mirror positioning, and image sequence generation without requiring user intervention, thereby simplifying operation while maintaining dual-sided reading capability.
3Reliability
If information on both sides is read sequentially with one sensor, then security is improved, but reading efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous useful action by capturing images of both sides of the information recording medium in rapid succession without interrupting the reading process. The shared image sensor alternates between top and bottom side capture with minimal delay, maintaining continuous operation that ensures security through complete data capture while achieving high reading efficiency through automated sequential imaging.
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 device simplifies the reading operation, enhances security by preventing unauthorized access, and stabilizes the optical path for accurate information retrieval from both sides of the medium using a single imaging element.
Implementation Method 1
a first illuminator configured to irradiate a back side of the information recording medium placed on the placing member, with light
Implementation Method 2
a second illuminator configured to irradiate a top side of the information recording medium placed on the placing member, with light
Implementation Method 3
an image-forming optical system configured to cause the light passing through the first optical system to form an image onto an imaging element
Implementation Method 4
cause the light passing through the second optical system to form an image on the imaging element
Data Source
AI summary
An information reading may include an imaging element; a transparent placing member on which the information recording medium is placed; a first illuminator configured to irradiate a back side of the information recording medium placed on the placing member, with light; a second illuminator configured to irradiate a top side of the information recording medium placed on the placing member, with light; a first optical system configured to read information recorded on the back side of the information recording medium placed on the placing member; a second optical system configured to read information recorded on the top side of the information recording medium placed on the placing member; and an image-forming optical system configured to cause light passing through the first optical system to form an image onto the imaging element and cause light passing through the second optical system to form an image on the imaging element.