Handheld Bar Code Verification Reader with Illumination Dome
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack portable solutions for verifying the quality of one-dimensional, two-dimensional, and direct part marking bar code symbols, leading to errors in inventory control and potential fines for retailers and manufacturers due to unreadable bar codes.
Innovation Solution
A handheld bar code verification reader capable of capturing and processing images of various bar code types, including 1D, 2D, and DPM, using a controller with a camera assembly and illuminator, and adhering to industry standards for quality verification, with real-time LED indicators for user feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a fixed verification system is used to ensure accurate bar code quality verification, then measurement precision is improved, but device portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple verification functions (1D, 2D, and DPM bar code verification) into a single handheld device, integrating the capabilities of multiple separate systems into one portable unit that maintains verification accuracy while enabling mobile operation
Solution Approach 2:
The verification device is designed to universally verify all three types of bar code symbols (1D, 2D, and DPM) with a single device, eliminating the need for multiple specialized verification systems and enabling portability without sacrificing verification capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of bar code symbols are verified with a single device, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates multiple verification algorithms and imaging capabilities within a single system, enabling it to handle 1D, 2D, and DPM bar codes through unified processing architecture that manages complexity while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The verification system dynamically adapts its parameters and processing methods based on the detected bar code type, automatically adjusting verification criteria and imaging settings to optimize performance for each specific symbol type without requiring manual configuration
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 effective, portable verification of bar code quality across different types, reducing errors and fines by ensuring compliance with industry standards and providing real-time feedback.
Implementation Method 1
A handheld bar code verification reader capable of capturing and processing images of various bar code types
Implementation Method 2
using a controller with a camera assembly and illuminator
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are disclosed of an apparatus including an illuminator. The illuminator includes an illumination dome having a wide end through which illumination is emitted, a narrow end with a camera opening, and a plurality of sidewalls. An annular light tray including a plurality of dome-light sources is positioned around a perimeter of the wide end so that light emitted by the plurality of light sources is directed toward an interior of the illumination dome. A set of low-angle light sources is positioned in each of the plurality of sidewalls. A camera is coupled to the illuminator, the camera's optics being optically coupled to an image sensor and to the camera opening. A controller is communicatively coupled to the illuminator and to the camera.