Indicia Reader Module for Thin Smart Devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing indicia readers, such as barcode scanners, face challenges when integrated into thin-profile smart devices due to limitations in illumination, aiming, stabilization, and focusing, leading to reduced efficiency in fast-paced work environments, and users prefer a single device that does not require switching from their smartphone.
Innovation Solution
A compact indicia-reading module with a sensor module, illuminator-aimer circuit subassembly, processing circuit subassembly, and interface circuit subassembly, featuring an adjustable imaging lens, LED illumination, and a sighting pattern for precise alignment, integrated into the narrow edge of a smart device using chip-on-board packaging and flexible circuitry to maintain compactness and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If an indicia reader is integrated into a thin-profile smart device, then the device portability and user convenience are improved, but the illumination, aiming, stabilization, and focusing performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The indicia reader is segmented into distinct functional modules: an illuminator module with LED array and optical elements, an imager module with lens and sensor, and a processor module. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall compactness, resolving the contradiction between thin profile and performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where the illuminator module is positioned adjacent to and integrated with the imager module, with optical elements nested within housing structures. The flexible circuit board nests connections between modules, allowing high-performance components to be packed into a thin overall form factor.
2Productivity
If a dedicated indicia reader device is used, then the indicia reading efficiency and accuracy are improved, but the need for multiple devices reduces user convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the indicia reader functionality with a smart device by integrating the imager, illuminator, and processor into a single unified system. The processor leverages the smart device's existing computing resources, while the dedicated optical components provide scanner-level performance, eliminating the need for separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicia reader module is designed with universal interfaces that can communicate with various smart device platforms. The processor can handle multiple tasks including indicia decoding, image processing, and communication with the host device, making the integration versatile across different device types and applications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If general-purpose mobile imaging devices are used for indicia reading, then device availability is improved, but the dedicated scanning features and performance are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing dedicated optical components (illuminator with specific LED wavelengths, optical elements for focusing, and IR filters) only where needed for indicia reading, rather than relying on general-purpose camera components. This localized optimization ensures high reading accuracy while maintaining overall device versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processor module that sits between the imager and the host device,专门化 for indicia processing. This intermediary handles image acquisition, preprocessing, and decoding algorithms, providing dedicated scanning capabilities while the host device maintains its general-purpose functionality.
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 efficient and accurate indicia reading with seamless integration into smart devices, enhancing performance and user experience by providing dedicated scanner features without bulkiness, ensuring reliable operation under various conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an adjustable imaging lens for imaging the indicia-reading module's field of view onto a sensor circuit
Implementation Method 2
LED illumination
Implementation Method 3
sensor circuit, which includes a plurality of pixels
Data Source
AI summary
An indicia-reading module is capable of integration into the smallest face of thin-profile smart device. The module employs chip-on-board packaging and a customized sensor enclosure to eliminate the stack-up height found in conventional packaging. The module also employs a customized frame to reduce volume by integrating circuit subassembly circuit boards into a unique architecture and by serving as the lenses for the illuminator and the aimer, thereby eliminating the need for any extra lenses or holders.