Electrochromic Diffusive Illumination for Reflective Barcode Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing code scanners are designed for specific applications and struggle with issues such as limited depth of field, poor performance on reflective surfaces, and diminished contrast due to light reflections, preventing accurate decoding of machine-readable indicia.
Innovation Solution
A code reader equipped with a dynamic diffusive illumination system using an electrochromic component that adjusts opacity in response to image quality parameters, allowing it to adapt illumination based on the surface conditions to enhance decoding accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a code reader is designed for a specific application with fixed illumination, then it can perform well in that specific application, but it cannot accommodate multiple types of applications with different surface conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system transitions from a static, fixed-state design to a dynamic, adjustable design. An electrochromic component is introduced that can change its optical properties (from transparent to opaque) in real-time based on the imaging conditions, allowing the code reader to adapt to different surface types and lighting environments without requiring multiple dedicated devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the optical parameters of the illumination system by controlling the opacity of the electrochromic component. By adjusting the voltage applied to the electrochromic component, the system can dynamically modify light transmission properties to optimize imaging for different surface conditions, thereby achieving multi-application compatibility
2Illumination intensity
If strong light is used to illuminate the surface, then the code reader can capture images from a distance, but light reflections cause pixel saturation and reduce image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the processor analyzes image quality parameters (such as pixel saturation levels) and automatically adjusts the electrochromic component's opacity accordingly. When pixel saturation is detected, the system increases the electrochromic component's opacity to reduce light intensity; when image quality is insufficient, it decreases opacity to enhance illumination, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes image quality
Solution Approach 2:
The electrochromic component is positioned in the illumination path to preemptively control light intensity before it reaches the surface. By adjusting the component's opacity in advance based on detected surface conditions, the system prevents excessive light reflection and pixel saturation before they occur, rather than attempting to correct them after image capture
3Measurement precision
If the electrochromic component opacity is adjusted dynamically, then the system can improve image quality, but additional control circuitry and processing are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs self-service by utilizing the existing processor and image analysis capabilities already present in the code reader. The processor independently evaluates image quality parameters and automatically controls the electrochromic component without requiring external control systems or additional complex circuitry, thereby minimizing the increase in overall system complexity
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 system enables accurate decoding of machine-readable indicia on various surfaces, including reflective and transparent materials, by dynamically altering illumination, improving performance across multiple applications.
Implementation Method 1
An electrochromic component may be arranged in front of the light source, such that light generated by the light source passes through the electrochromic component. Driver circuitry may be configured to control opacity of the electrochromic component by controlling voltage applied to the electrochromic component.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for reading machine-readable indicia (e.g., barcodes) can include emitting, by a code reading device, a light to illuminate a surface including a machine-readable indicia. The code reading device can capture an image of the machine-readable indicia, and determine whether an image quality parameter of the image of the machine-readable indicia captured by the image sensor satisfies a predefined condition (e.g., no reflections on the machine-readable indicia). Based on a determination that the image quality parameter of the image of the machine-readable indicia does not satisfy the predefined condition, the voltage being applied to the electrochromic component may be adjusted to cause an opacity level of the electrochromic component to be altered. Otherwise, the voltage being applied to the electrochromic component may remain unchanged.