Image Reader Search Strategy Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image reader devices face challenges in efficiently scanning and decoding multiple symbols or information bearing indicia, particularly in fixed positions, due to the need for high resolution and orientation-free scanning, which limits their data density and versatility.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a graphical user interface (GUI) application that allows users to program and configure a search strategy for the image reader, enabling the device to search for and decode information bearing indicia based on user-defined patterns and characteristics, such as position, type, and quantity, using a processor and image sensor with global shutter mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional image reader devices scan for symbols in fixed positions, then they achieve reliable symbol reading, but they lack versatility and efficiency in handling multiple symbols with varying positions and orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic search strategies that adapt to different symbol positions, orientations, and types within the field of view. The system transitions from static fixed-position scanning to dynamic multi-pattern searching, adjusting search parameters based on detected symbol characteristics and user-defined preferences.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes search parameters including search area, search orientation, and search pattern based on the detected symbol characteristics and user preferences. This allows the same hardware to efficiently handle diverse symbol configurations by modifying software-controlled search parameters rather than requiring multiple physical scanning mechanisms.
2Measurement precision
If the image reader uses high resolution scanning to ensure accurate symbol decoding, then reading accuracy is improved, but scanning speed and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs partial high-resolution scanning only in regions where symbols are detected, rather than scanning the entire field of view at maximum resolution. The image sensor captures the full scene, and processing focuses computational resources on identified symbol locations, achieving accurate decoding while maintaining overall scanning speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The field of view is segmented into multiple search zones and patterns, allowing the system to divide and conquer the scanning task. Each zone can be processed with appropriate resolution and search strategy, optimizing the balance between accuracy and speed for different regions of the image.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the reader searches for multiple types of symbols across the entire field of view, then versatility is improved, but processing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary analysis of the captured image to identify symbol locations, orientations, and types before initiating detailed decoding. User preferences and application context are pre-configured to guide the search, allowing the system to prioritize certain symbol types or regions based on expected content, reducing unnecessary processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous operation by processing multiple symbols in parallel when detected, and by using overlapping search patterns that allow seamless transitions between different symbol types and locations. The global shutter mode ensures continuous image capture while processing occurs concurrently, maximizing productivity.
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 approach enhances the image reader's ability to efficiently locate and decode multiple symbols, optimizing search patterns for specific applications and improving data processing efficiency, especially in fixed mount systems where symbols are consistently positioned.
Implementation Method 1
Optical indicia reading devices typically transmit light onto a symbol and receive light scattered and/or reflected back from a bar code symbol or indicia
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating an optical reading device for collecting and processing indicia data comprising the steps of: converting light with an image sensor into output signals representative of an image in a field of view (FOV) of the image sensor; user programming a processor to search the output signals according to a search strategy; searching the output signals for an information bearing indicia (IBI) within the FOV according to the user programmed search strategy; and, decoding information contained in the IBI.