Handheld Indicia Reader with Laser and Optical Engines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Indicia reading devices face limitations in efficiently reading and decoding two-dimensional barcodes, particularly in portable and wireless settings, where data density and versatility are compromised due to the need for higher resolution scanning and image-based reading.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a hand-held indicia reader system equipped with a laser scanning engine and optical image engine, utilizing a double-sided rotating mirror, wobbling mirrors, and pattern mirrors to direct scanning patterns, combined with MMS text messaging for communication and configuration updates, enabling efficient data extraction and transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If image-based reading is used for 2D barcodes, then data density increases, but device complexity and resolution requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the 2D barcode reading function into two separate engines: a laser scanning engine for reading linear/barcode symbologies and an optical image engine for reading 2D matrix codes. This segmentation allows each engine to be optimized for its specific function, reducing the complexity burden on a single system while maintaining high data density capabilities for both 1D and 2D codes.
2Measurement precision
If higher resolution scanning is used for 2D barcodes, then data extraction accuracy improves, but portability and wireless operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the laser scanning engine and optical image engine into a single hand-held indicia reader device, allowing both high-precision reading modes to be available in one portable unit. The device can switch between laser scanning for linear codes and optical imaging for 2D codes, maintaining measurement precision across different barcode types while preserving portability through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic selection between different reading modes (laser scanning vs. optical imaging) based on the barcode type detected. The system can adaptively choose the appropriate engine for the current scanning task, optimizing both precision and power consumption for portable operation. The dual-engine architecture allows the device to dynamically adjust its reading strategy rather than relying on a single static approach.
3Adaptability or versatility
If MMS text messaging is implemented, then communication versatility improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) text messaging capability in the hand-held indicia reader, allowing the device to send and receive text messages, images, and other data via wireless network. This universal communication capability enables the device to function not only as a barcode scanner but also as a mobile communication tool, enhancing versatility while managing complexity through integration with existing mobile messaging infrastructure.
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 solution enhances the ability to read and decode 2D barcodes in portable settings, improving data density and versatility by integrating advanced scanning technologies with MMS communication for efficient data transmission and configuration management.
Implementation Method 1
indicia readers transmit light onto a symbol and receive light scattered and/or reflected back from a bar code symbol
Implementation Method 2
indicia readers transmit light onto a symbol and receive light scattered and/or reflected back from a bar code symbol
Implementation Method 3
2D matrix codes encode data as dark or light data elements within a regular polygonal matrix
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a reader system includes: establishment a hand held reader configured to read an information bearing medium at an establishment and accepting text message communications from the establishment; reading the information bearing medium at the establishment with the reader; and, sending at least one text message communication to an operator of the reader at the establishment on the reader GUI from the establishment when the establishment recognizes a need for a specific notice requirement after reading the information bearing medium.