Imaging Engine Focus Switching for Aimer Detection Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Imaging devices face challenges in accurately focusing lenses due to inaccurate distance measurements and environmental factors like varying ambient light conditions, leading to reduced system response and inefficiency in decoding visual indicia.
Innovation Solution
A multi-imager imaging apparatus selects a lens focusing scheme based on the detectability of an aimer pattern, using triangulation when the pattern is clear and a priority-based sequence when it's not, to determine the focus position efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If triangulation-based focusing is used when aimer pattern is detectable, then focus accuracy is improved, but system response time increases when pattern is undetectable
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two focusing schemes based on real-time detectability of the aimer pattern. When the pattern is detectable, triangulation-based focusing is used for high accuracy. When undetectable, the system transitions to a priority-based sequence scheme to maintain responsiveness. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by optimizing the focusing approach according to environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter (focusing scheme selection) based on the detectability condition of the aimer pattern. By monitoring whether the pattern is detectable and adjusting the focusing strategy accordingly, the system achieves both high accuracy when conditions permit and fast response when conditions are adverse.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lens focusing schemes are maintained for different conditions, then adaptability to varying lighting conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging apparatus is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both triangulation-based focusing and priority-based sequence focusing capabilities within a single device. The controller selectively activates the appropriate focusing scheme based on aimer pattern detectability, enabling the system to adapt to varying lighting conditions without requiring multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic scheme selection where the controller monitors aimer pattern detectability and switches between focusing schemes in real-time. This dynamic approach allows the device to maintain adaptability to different lighting conditions while managing complexity through intelligent software control rather than hardware multiplication.
3Speed
If priority-based sequence focusing is used when aimer pattern is not detectable, then system response speed is improved, but focus precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The priority-based sequence focusing scheme serves as a preparatory or cushioning mechanism that ensures the system can respond quickly when the aimer pattern is not detectable. While this scheme sacrifices some precision compared to triangulation, it prevents complete system failure by providing a fallback focusing capability that maintains operational responsiveness under adverse conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the focusing parameter strategy based on detectability conditions. When the aimer pattern is detectable, high-precision triangulation is used. When undetectable, the system transitions to a speed-optimized priority sequence approach, accepting reduced precision in exchange for maintained system responsiveness and operational continuity.
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 snappiness and robustness of imaging devices by quickly and accurately focusing lenses, improving decoding performance in dynamic lighting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The imaging apparatus may use the aimer pattern for distance measurements, for example, to focus the one or more imagers for capturing the one or more images
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the disclosure include methods, computer program products, and apparatuses configured for selecting a lens focusing scheme based on a detectability level of an aimer pattern. An imaging engine projects an aimer pattern onto a target object within a field of view of a first imager of an imaging engine. The imaging engine acquires a first image of the target object via the first imager. The imaging engine selects a lens focusing scheme based on a detectability level of the aimer pattern in the first image, in which selection of the lens focusing scheme is between a first lens focusing scheme associated with a location of the aimer pattern and a second lens focusing scheme associated with at least one predefined lens position. The imaging engine determines a focus position for a lens in accordance with the lens focusing scheme.