Imager Reader Hand Gesture Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imager-based indicia reading terminals require cumbersome and time-consuming methods to switch modes of operation, often necessitating access to programming barcodes or companion devices, which can lead to user dissatisfaction and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
An imager-based system that includes a two-dimensional image sensor array, an imaging lens, and a hand gesture attribute library, allowing users to switch modes by performing predefined hand gestures, which are correlated with specific terminal operations using a central processing unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If configuration barcodes or companion devices are used to switch modes, then mode switching capability is achieved, but operation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical system of scanning configuration barcodes with a gesture recognition system using the device's camera and image processing algorithms. Users perform hand gestures in the field of view, and the system automatically recognizes and executes mode switching commands, eliminating the need to physically scan barcodes or connect to companion devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses its own imaging capabilities and processing power to recognize gestures and switch modes autonomously. The system self-services by utilizing the device's existing camera, processor, and software to implement mode switching without requiring external configuration tools or barcodes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If programming barcodes are required for configuration, then mode switching is enabled, but user accessibility and satisfaction decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the manual process of locating and scanning programming barcodes with an automated gesture recognition system. The camera captures hand gestures, image processing algorithms identify the gesture type, and the system automatically switches modes, making the process accessible to all users regardless of technical proficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the device's own imaging capabilities to capture and analyze gestures, creating a digital copy of the user's hand motion. This digital representation is then processed to determine the intended command, replacing the need for physical configuration barcodes with a virtual gesture-based interface.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration methods are used, then mode switching is achieved, but operational efficiency and user experience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual configuration operations with automated gesture recognition and processing. The system continuously monitors the field of view, automatically detects gestures, and executes mode switching commands without requiring users to manually search for configuration options or interact with complex menus, thereby significantly improving operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously capturing images and pre-processing gesture data in real-time. When a gesture is detected, the system has already prepared the recognition algorithms and mode switching logic, enabling immediate execution without delay, thus enhancing operational efficiency.
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 quick and intuitive mode switching without additional hardware or complex steps, reducing user frustration and increasing operational efficiency by leveraging hand gestures to change terminal modes.
Implementation Method 1
a two-dimensional image sensor array and an imaging lens for focusing an image on the two-dimensional image sensor array
Implementation Method 2
which often is a charge-coupled device (CCD) that converts light signals into electric signals
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for decoding an encoded symbol character associated with a product is provided herein. The system includes an imager-based indicia reading terminal comprising a housing and a two-dimensional image sensor array and an imaging lens for focusing an image on the two-dimensional image sensor array. The terminal is adapted to read an encoded symbol character, and further adapted to image a hand gesture. The terminal includes a digital link to transmit the image of the hand gesture. The system further includes a memory coupled to the indicia reading terminal via a digital connection. The memory includes a hand gesture attribute library to associate predefined hand gestures with a terminal mode of operation. The system further includes a central processing unit connected to the digital link to receive the image of the hand gesture, correlate the image with the predefined hand gestures in the hand gesture attribute library, and execute the associated terminal mode of operation.