Indicia Reader Self-Configuration via NFC Data Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Indicia reading devices often require manual configuration to match the preprogrammed interface cable or NFC module, leading to compatibility issues and inefficient operation, as manufacturers cannot predict the specific kit configuration in mass production, and default settings may not align with user requirements.
Innovation Solution
The method involves configuring the indicia reading device to detect the absence of specified data sequences and indicate the need for an interconnect cable, allowing the device to self-configure with an interconnect cable containing a specified sequence of bar data elements, such as a FDI indicia, which includes an embedded RFID tag for wireless configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the indicia reading device uses default interface software configuration, then the device can be mass-produced with standardized settings, but the default configuration may not match the user's specific interconnect cable or NFC module requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The indicia reading device automatically detects the interconnect cable or NFC module configuration and self-configures the interface software accordingly. The system performs self-testing procedures to identify the connected interface type and automatically loads the appropriate driver software, eliminating the need for manual user configuration while maintaining adaptability to different interface types.
2Reliability
If the device requires manual configuration to match the interconnect cable, then the interface software can be precisely matched to the cable type, but the setup process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple interface software drivers are pre-loaded into the device's memory during manufacturing. The system is prepared with a library of compatible drivers for various interconnect cable types and NFC modules, enabling automatic selection and activation of the appropriate driver without requiring users to manually install or configure software.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs automatic detection and testing procedures to identify the connected interconnect cable or NFC module type. Based on the test results, the system provides feedback to select and activate the corresponding interface software driver, ensuring reliable compatibility while automating the configuration process.
3Loss of time
If the device performs automatic detection and self-configuration, then user setup time is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to additional detection and configuration mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The interface detection and self-configuration functions are integrated into the device's existing processor and memory systems. The same central processor that controls indicia reading operations also performs the interface detection and software selection, consolidating multiple functions into a single processing unit and minimizing additional hardware complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An indicia reading apparatus includes an NFC module and an indicia reading device. The indicia reading device is configured so that, if the indicia reader device is not configured to any NFC module and detects an indicia which does not contain one of a plurality of specified sequences of data elements that the indicia reading device will recognize and use to configure itself to operate with the NFC module, the indicia reading device will indicate to the user of the indicia reading device that the indicia reading device needs to be configured to operate with the NFC module.