Imaging Reader Variable Working Distance Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Point-of-transaction workstations using imaging readers face challenges in accurately reading one- and two-dimensional symbols due to restricted working distances, leading to accidental reading of nearby items when stationary and insufficient reading of distant symbols when handheld.
Innovation Solution
A portable electro-optical reader with a solid-state imager and adjustable working distance range, enabled by a high-speed strobe illuminator and controls such as magnetic or optical sensors, allows for varying the range based on the reader's mode of operation (stationary or handheld) and symbol size detection, ensuring accurate reading of symbols within a specific range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the reader has a fixed working distance range optimized for close-in symbols, then close-in symbols can be read accurately, but far-out symbols cannot be read
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic working distance range adjustment mechanism that allows the reader to switch between a first working distance range (optimized for close-in symbols) and a second working distance range (optimized for far-out symbols). This is achieved through a controller that adjusts the focus of the solid-state imager based on detected symbol distance, enabling the system to adapt its optical parameters to match the required reading scenario.
2Measurement precision
If the reader has a fixed working distance range optimized for distant symbols, then far-out symbols can be read accurately, but close-in symbols cannot be read
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the working distance range based on the operational context. When handheld operation is detected or when far-out symbols are identified, the controller switches to the second working distance range. When stationary operation is detected or close-in symbols are identified, the controller switches to the first working distance range, ensuring optimal reading accuracy for the current scenario.
3Device complexity
If the reader uses a fixed working distance range, then the device structure is simple, but the reader cannot adapt to different reading scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a controller that detects the operational mode (handheld or stationary) and automatically adjusts the working distance range accordingly. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the reader to adapt to different reading scenarios without requiring multiple separate devices, maintaining relatively simple device structure while achieving high versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the optical parameters of the solid-state imager by adjusting the working distance range based on detected conditions. The controller modifies focus and other optical parameters to optimize symbol reading for the current scenario, whether close-in or far-out symbols are being scanned.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the reader has a wide working distance range, then both close-in and far-out symbols can be read, but nearby items may be accidentally read when stationary
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the working distance range based on the detected operational mode. When stationary operation is detected, the controller limits the working distance range to prevent accidental reading of nearby items. When handheld operation is detected, the controller expands the working distance range to enable reading of both close-in and far-out symbols, thus adaptively managing the harmful effect of accidental reading.
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
The adjustable working distance range prevents accidental reading of nearby items when stationary and enables successful reading of distant symbols when handheld, improving the accuracy and flexibility of symbol detection in retail environments.
Implementation Method 1
A one- or two-dimensional, solid-state imager mounted in the housing includes an array of image sensors operative for capturing light from a one- or two-dimensional symbol through the window over a field of view during the reading
Implementation Method 2
The imager is preferably associated with a high-speed strobe illuminator to enable the image of the symbol to be acquired in a very short period of time
Data Source
AI summary
A solid-state imager in a reader for electro-optically reading indicia located in a range of working distances includes an array of image sensors for capturing light from the indicia over a field of view during the reading. The range of working distances in which the indicia are read is varied, either automatically or manually.