Indicia Reading System 3D Scan Volume Decoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Indicia reading systems in retail environments often face challenges with duplicate scanning due to limited counterspace, leading to incorrect charges and increased checkout times.
Innovation Solution
The system combines a 2D imaging assembly with a 3D imaging assembly, using a processor to perform decoding operations only when the indicia or object is within a defined 3D scan volume, preventing duplicate readings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a wide field of view is used to capture indicia, then the coverage area is improved, but duplicate scanning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third dimension (depth) to the traditional 2D field of view by implementing a 3D scan volume. This volumetric approach allows the system to distinguish between different spatial positions along the depth axis, enabling the system to determine whether an indicia is within the intended scan zone. The 3D boundary conditions prevent duplicate scans by evaluating spatial position in three dimensions rather than two, resolving the contradiction between wide coverage and duplicate scanning.
2Productivity
If the system reads indicia in limited counterspace, then scanning coverage is improved, but duplicate readings increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the 3D position of indicia within the scan volume and using this information to control the decoding operation. The processor evaluates whether the indicia meets the 3D boundary conditions before performing decoding, creating a feedback loop that prevents duplicate readings. This feedback mechanism ensures that scanning coverage is maintained while eliminating redundant scans that waste time.
3Reliability
If decoding operations are performed on all captured indicia, then decoding completeness is improved, but incorrect charges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a specific 3D region (scan volume) with distinct boundary conditions within the broader field of view. Only indicia that fall within this locally defined volumetric region are subject to decoding operations. This spatial differentiation ensures that decoding is performed completely for all relevant indicia while preventing incorrect charges by excluding indicia that are outside the intended scanning zone.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for adjusting scan volume are provided. An example includes an indicia reading system comprising a two-dimensional (2D) imaging assembly having at least one 2D imaging sensor and operable to capture 2D image data over at least one 2D field of view (FOV); a three-dimensional (3D) imaging assembly having at least one depth sensor and operable to capture depth data over at least one 3D FOV; and a processor configured to: perform a decoding operation on an indicia appearing in the 2D image data and transmit a payload of the indicia to a host when (i) the indicia is captured in the 2D image data and (ii) at least one of the indicia or an object bearing the indicia is positioned within a 3D scan volume.