Imaging Reader Working Distance Control via Aiming Light Pattern
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging readers face challenges in controlling the working distance range, leading to unintended target reading in hands-free mode and increased processing burden, especially in retail environments where multiple products are scanned simultaneously, and EAS/RFID disabling circuitry is less effective at long ranges.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses an aiming light pattern to determine the target distance relative to the housing, allowing the microprocessor to process electrical signals only when the target is within a restricted zone, thereby limiting the working distance range and reducing processing overload.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the working distance range is extended to enable reading targets on remote shelves or large products, then the reading capability is improved, but unintended targets in the field of view are accidentally read and processing burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by projecting an aiming light pattern onto the target before image capture. This aiming pattern serves as a reference that allows the system to pre-determine target distance and location, enabling the microprocessor to decide in advance whether to process the captured image based on whether the target is within the restricted working distance zone, thus avoiding unnecessary processing of unintended targets
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the aiming light pattern as an intermediary element between the imaging reader and the target. This pattern provides reference information that mediates the distance determination process, allowing the system to accurately assess target distance and selectively process only those targets that fall within the desired working distance range
2Area of stationary object
If the working distance range is extended for hands-free mode operation, then the field of view coverage is improved, but EAS/RFID disabling circuitry becomes less effective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing a restricted working distance zone that concentrates the imaging and EAS/RFID disabling functions in a specific spatial region. The aiming light pattern helps define this local zone, ensuring that EAS/RFID disabling circuitry operates effectively only within the restricted zone where targets are properly positioned, rather than attempting to disable tags at all distances in the extended field of view
3Productivity
If multiple targets are processed simultaneously in hands-free mode, then the productivity is improved, but the microprocessor becomes overloaded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by having the microprocessor process only a subset of captured images - specifically, only those targets that are determined to be within the restricted working distance zone based on the aiming light pattern analysis. This selective processing approach maintains productivity by handling multiple targets but reduces microprocessor load by excluding targets outside the zone from detailed processing
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 solution effectively restricts the working distance range to prevent unintended target reading and reduces processing burden, enhancing the reliability of EAS/RFID disabling circuitry and improving the efficiency of the imaging reader in hands-free mode.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging engine or module supported by the housing and having a solid-state imager with a sensor array of photocells or light sensors that correspond to image elements or pixels
Implementation Method 2
an illuminating light assembly for illuminating the target with illumination light from an illuminating light source, e.g., one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs)
Implementation Method 3
an aiming light assembly for projecting an aiming light pattern or mark, such as a 'crosshair' pattern, with aiming light from an aiming laser or one or more LEDs
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement for, and a method of, electro-optically reading a target by image capture, employ an aiming assembly for projecting an aiming light pattern on the target that is located within a range of working distances relative to a housing, an imaging assembly for capturing an image of the target and of the aiming light pattern over a field of view, and for generating an electrical signal indicative of the captured image, and a controller for determining a distance of the target relative to the housing based on a position of the aiming light pattern in the captured image, and for processing the electrical signal into information relating to the target when the target lies in a restricted zone within the range of working distances.