Hybrid Imaging Optical Code Reader with Switchable Optics
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging scanners used in retail checkout terminals are not ergonomically efficient and have a large footprint, limiting their throughput and causing operator fatigue, and handheld scanners cannot be easily integrated with stationary scanners due to differing optical paths.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid imaging optical code reader that can operate in both handheld and fixed configurations, using an optically active element to switch between two windows, allowing light to be directed to an image capture device based on the configuration, with a biasing mechanism such as magnets or motors to adjust the optical path, and incorporating a processor and wireless transceiver for data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If imaging scanners are used in fixed configurations, then 2D barcode reading capability is improved, but the footprint of the scanning area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The code reader is designed to perform multiple functions - it can operate in both handheld mode for 2D barcode reading and fixed mode for standard scanning, allowing a single device to replace multiple specialized scanners and reduce overall footprint
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element is made movable to dynamically switch between different optical paths - when in handheld configuration it directs light for 2D imaging, and when in fixed configuration it directs light for standard barcode scanning, enabling adaptability without increasing footprint
2Ease of operation
If handheld scanners are used, then ergonomic efficiency is improved, but integration with stationary barcode scanners is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The scanner incorporates a movable optical element that can be repositioned based on operational mode - in handheld mode the optical element is positioned for ergonomic operation, while in fixed mode it is positioned for integration with stationary scanner systems, enabling both ergonomic efficiency and integration capability
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed as a universal scanner that can function as both a handheld device for ergonomic operation and a fixed-mounted scanner for system integration, eliminating the need for separate specialized devices
3Stability of the object's composition
If fixed configuration scanners are used, then scanning stability is improved, but operator fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scanner allows dynamic switching between fixed and handheld modes - when stable mounting is available, fixed mode provides scanning stability; when portability is needed, handheld mode reduces operator fatigue by allowing flexible positioning and shorter scanning distances
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
Enhances ergonomic efficiency, reduces the scanning area's footprint, and allows seamless integration of handheld and stationary scanners, improving throughput, reducing operator fatigue, and enabling efficient reading of 2D barcodes and product recognition.
Implementation Method 1
an optically active element arranged to allow light passing through the first window to be incident upon the image capture device in the handheld configuration and being further arranged to allow light passing through the second window to be incident upon the image capture device in the fixed configuration
Implementation Method 2
a biasing mechanism comprising a magnet arranged to be attracted by a magnet located in a receiving portion of a scanning station to bias the optically active element to the second position
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless hybrid imaging optical code reader is operable in both handheld and fixed configurations, the fixed configuration corresponding to the imaging optical code reader being mounted upon a fixed laser optical code scanner. The imaging optical code reader comprises first and second imaging windows and an optical element which allows light from only one of the imaging windows to be incident upon an imaging device of the imaging optical code reader dependent upon whether the imaging optical code reader is being used in the hand held or fixed configuration.