Hybrid Laser-Imaging Barcode Scanner for High-Speed 2D Decoding

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional optical code scanners, particularly those using lasers, are inefficient in reading two-dimensional bar codes and often struggle with damaged or small one-dimensional bar codes, limiting their ability to maintain high pass-by scanning rates across various applications.

Innovation Solution

The optical scanning system combines laser and imaging components, allowing the processing module to utilize laser scanning for high-speed detection and image capture for decoding, reducing processing load by focusing on specific image portions and switching between laser and imaging modes as needed to read diverse bar code types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If a laser based optical scanner is used to achieve high pass-by scanning rates for 1D bar codes, then scanning speed is improved, but the ability to read 2D bar codes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepass-by scanning rateVSAvoidability to read 2D bar codes

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The optical code scanner is designed to perform multiple functions by integrating both laser scanning capability for 1D bar codes and imaging capability for 2D bar codes. The system includes a laser device for high-speed scanning and an image capture device for capturing images of optical codes, allowing it to read both 1D and 2D bar code types effectively

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically switches between laser scanning mode and imaging mode based on the type of optical code detected. The processing module determines whether to use the laser device or the image capture device by analyzing the optical code characteristics, enabling adaptive operation to maintain high scanning rates for 1D codes while accurately reading 2D codes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If an optical code scanner is designed to read both 1D and 2D bar codes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to read multiple bar code typesVSAvoidscanner system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the laser scanning system and the imaging system into a single integrated optical code scanner. The laser device, image capture device, image optics, and processing module work together as a unified system, sharing common components such as the optical path and control architecture, which reduces overall system complexity compared to separate systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The processing module segments the optical code reading task by first using the laser to quickly identify and locate the optical code, then selectively activating the image capture device only when a 2D bar code is detected. This segmented approach reduces the operational complexity and processing load compared to continuously operating both systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If image capture is used to read 2D bar codes, then reading capability is improved, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to read 2D bar codesVSAvoidprocessing time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The laser device performs preliminary scanning to quickly locate and identify the optical code before the image capture device is activated. The processing module uses the laser to pre-process and determine the type of optical code, which prepares the system for selective image capture only when necessary, reducing overall processing time

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses partial action by activating the image capture device only for the specific portions of time when 2D bar codes are detected, rather than continuously operating both laser and imaging systems. The processing module selectively engages the image capture function based on real-time analysis, minimizing processing time while maintaining the ability to read 2D codes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

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 hybrid approach enables efficient reading of both 1D and 2D bar codes, including damaged or small codes, while maintaining high pass-by scanning rates, thereby enhancing the versatility and accuracy of optical code scanning systems.

Implementation Method 1

laser device for producing a laser beam

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

photo-detector for detecting laser light reflected from objects that are placed in the path of the laser beam

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS8567680B2Method, device and system for a laser bar code scanner with imaging assist

Publication Date: 2013.10.29 NCR VOYIX CORP

AI summary

An apparatus, method and system to read a bar code or other optical code using a laser device and an image capture device. Using both devices improves the probability that a bar code is read on the first pass while still allowing a high pass by speed. In addition, using both devices improves the probability of reading a damaged or partially obscured bar code.