Electromagnetic Autofocus System for Extended Reading Field
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems require multiple optical readers or complex handling systems to achieve a large reading field, which are expensive and slow, necessitating a solution to extend a reading field with a single lector or without a complicated handling system.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetic autofocus system with cushioning for imager devices, utilizing a translating component with sliding bushings, motion coils, permanent magnets, and electromagnets to quickly and cost-effectively extend the reading field by rotating the optical axis, allowing a single imaging device to capture images beyond the initial field of view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple parallel optical readers are used to achieve a large reading field, then the reading field area is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple reading fields into a single optical reader by implementing an extended reading field mechanism. Instead of using multiple separate readers, the invention merges the functionality of multiple readers into one device that can capture images across an extended area through mechanical extension and rotation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic elements to the optical reader, including mechanical extension mechanisms that allow the reading field to be extended when needed, and rotation capabilities that enable the optical axis to pivot. This dynamic behavior allows a single reader to adapt its reading field coverage dynamically rather than requiring multiple static readers.
2Area of stationary object
If a moving single optical reader with a complicated handling system is implemented, then the reading field is extended, but the handling system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the handling functions directly into the optical reader structure itself. The extension and rotation mechanisms are built-in features of the reader rather than separate handling systems, merging the positioning and field-extension functions into the core device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical reader is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as the primary reading device and as its own handling system. The extension mechanism and rotation capability are integrated features that allow the single reader to perform multiple functions: standard reading, extended field reading, and repositioning, eliminating the need for separate handling equipment.
3Area of stationary object
If a single optical reader is used without extension capabilities, then the device complexity is low, but the reading field area is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic extension capabilities where the reading field can be extended mechanically when needed. The optical reader includes components that allow the reading head to extend beyond its normal position and rotate to access areas adjacent to the primary reading field, providing dynamic adaptability to different scanning requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the reading field by adding spatial dimensions to the optical reader's capabilities. Through mechanical extension in one dimension and rotation to access adjacent areas in another dimension, the single reader achieves coverage that would otherwise require multiple readers positioned at different locations.
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
Enables quick and cost-effective extension of the reading field with a single imaging device, maintaining focus and resolution across the extended area through magnetic levitation, reducing the need for multiple devices or complex handling systems.
Implementation Method 1
Electromagnets and at least two magnets create a magnetic levitation, which causes a rotation of the focusing device
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device has a focusing device flanked by electromagnets such that a magnetic levitation between the electromagnets and permanent magnets in the focusing device cause the focusing device to rotate about an axis. This rotation causes the optical axis of the focusing device to read an extended reading field beyond the ordinary reading field when the focusing device is in a balanced magnetic levitation position.