Duplex Card Scanner Mirror and Camera System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current card scanners face challenges in efficiently capturing images of both sides of identification cards, particularly in varying orientations, and in providing a reliable mechanism for card support and removal.
Innovation Solution
The development of duplex card scanners that utilize either a single high-resolution camera with mirrors for simultaneous image capture or two cameras to capture both sides of the card independently, along with advanced card support mechanisms involving guides, clamps, and movable bases for optimal image capture and easy card removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single camera with mirrors is used to capture both sides of the card simultaneously, then the scanning speed is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the mirror mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging task into two separate cameras, each capturing one side of the card independently. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex mirror mechanisms while maintaining simultaneous capture capability, thus resolving the contradiction between scanning speed and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a transparent window as an intermediary element that allows light from both sides of the card to pass through to a single camera sensor. This mediator enables simultaneous capture without requiring multiple cameras or complex mirror systems, resolving the contradiction by simplifying the device structure while maintaining high productivity.
2Reliability
If two cameras are used to capture both sides of the card independently, then the image capture reliability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single camera serve multiple functions by using a transparent window to capture images from both sides of the card simultaneously. This multi-functionality approach achieves reliable image capture of both card sides without the complexity and cost of two separate cameras.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the imaging function for both card sides into a single camera system using a transparent window. This merging of functions reduces device complexity and cost while maintaining reliable simultaneous capture of both card sides, resolving the contradiction between reliability and complexity.
3Ease of operation
If a card support mechanism with movable base and clamp is used, then the ease of operation for card insertion and removal is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable card base with spring-loaded clamps that can dynamically adjust to hold cards in place during scanning and then release for easy removal. This dynamic mechanism improves ease of operation while the spring-loaded design automatically returns components to their initial positions, reducing the need for complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The card support mechanism uses spring-loaded clamps that automatically engage with cards upon insertion and automatically release upon removal. This self-service mechanism improves ease of operation without requiring complex automated control systems, as the springs provide the necessary actuation force automatically.
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
These scanners achieve efficient and high-resolution image capture of both sides of cards in various orientations, while the card support mechanisms ensure smooth operation and easy card handling, enhancing the overall scanning process.
Implementation Method 1
Camera 11 captures an image that includes both sides of card 14
Data Source
AI summary
A card scanner has a card support mechanism for receiving a card and a camera system. A first mirror is mounted so that a first image of a first side of the card reflects to the camera system when the card is within the card support mechanism. A second mirror mounted is so that a second image of a second side of the card reflects to the mechanism camera when the card is within the card support mechanism. Once the card is within the scanner, the camera system captures the first image of the first side of the card and the second image of the second side of the card.