Dynamic Clipping Position Adjustment for Code Reading Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing code reading devices have low scanning efficiency due to a fixed clipping position in the image sensor, which does not adapt to the direction of merchandise flow, resulting in delayed symbol reading and reduced processing speed.
Innovation Solution
A code reading device with a decision unit that dynamically adjusts the clipping position and area of the image sensor based on input change information, allowing the center of the clipping area to be shifted upstream in the direction of merchandise flow for both rightward and leftward passages, thereby optimizing the read area and improving scanning efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If clipping position is fixed at the center of the image sensor, then device complexity is reduced, but scanning efficiency deteriorates because the read area cannot be moved upstream to start reading early
Solution Approach 1:
The clipping position is changed from fixed to dynamic. The image sensor clipping position is adjusted based on the passage direction (rightward or leftward) to move the read area upstream, enabling early symbol reading and improving scanning efficiency without requiring complex mechanical adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The clipping position parameter of the image sensor is changed according to the passage direction. By switching between predetermined first clipping positions for rightward passage and second clipping positions for leftward passage, the system optimizes reading efficiency while maintaining simple device structure.
2Measurement precision
If all image pickup elements are used for image processing, then measurement precision is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Only the necessary portion of image pickup elements is used for processing. By clipping a specific region of the image sensor that corresponds to the symbol reading area, the system processes only relevant data, reducing processing time while maintaining sufficient quality for code recognition.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using all image pickup elements, the system uses a partial subset that is sufficient for the intended purpose of reading symbols on merchandise. This partial action approach achieves the required measurement precision without the time cost of processing the entire sensor array.
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
This dynamic adjustment enables early and efficient symbol reading, enhancing the scanning efficiency of the code reading device by ensuring the merchandise enters the read area simultaneously with the image pickup area, regardless of the passage direction.
Implementation Method 1
The image sensor is a semiconductor sensor having a large number of image pickup elements and receives light entering from the lens of the camera. The code reading device performs image processing on the light received by the image sensor and thus converts the light into an electrical signal.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a code reading device includes: a camera including an image sensor with a plurality of image pickup elements, the camera being configured to pick up an image of a symbol attached to merchandise; a decision unit configured to decide a position of clipping in the image sensor, based on change information for changing a set position of clipping in the image sensor, when the change information is inputted; and an image processing unit configured to perform image processing on the symbol, based on an image by the image sensor corresponding to the decided position of clipping.