Integrated Imager PCB for Barcode Scanners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional barcode scanners require multiple Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) due to the large and bulky nature of components like image sensors, light sources, and processors, leading to increased costs and risks of product failure from potential connection issues.
Innovation Solution
Integrating multiple components, such as image sensors, light sources, and processor circuitry, onto a single printed circuit board, reducing the number of PCBs and enhancing electrical and mechanical connections for improved reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components (image sensors, light sources, processors) are mounted on separate PCBs, then each component can be individually replaced or upgraded, but the overall device complexity increases and the risk of connection failures increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate components (image sensor, light sources, processor, memory, and other circuit elements) onto a single integrated PCB. This consolidation reduces the number of separate PCB assemblies from multiple boards to one unified board, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining component functionality through integrated circuit design and on-board mounting.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate PCBs are used, then component individuality is maintained, but the risk of product failure from connection issues increases and overall cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating all components onto a single PCB with a unified circuit design, the patent eliminates multiple inter-PCB connections that were potential failure points. The single PCB architecture ensures reliable electrical connections through standardized mounting and wiring practices, reducing the risk of connection failures while maintaining component functionality through integrated design.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional bulky components are used, then each component can be independently manufactured, but the overall device size increases and mounting space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple bulky components onto a single PCB using integrated circuit technology and compact mounting arrangements. This integration dramatically reduces the total mounting area required while maintaining the functional capabilities of each component through optimized circuit design and efficient space utilization on the PCB.
4Reliability
If components are integrated onto a single PCB, then the overall device cost decreases and reliability improves, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves component integration on a single PCB through standardized mounting techniques and circuit board design practices. By using conventional PCB fabrication methods, standardized component footprints, and established assembly processes, the patent maintains manufacturing feasibility while achieving the reliability benefits of integration, avoiding the need for excessive manufacturing precision beyond standard industrial capabilities.
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 approach reduces the overall cost and risk of failure by consolidating components on a common PCB, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of barcode scanner engines while minimizing the constraints associated with traditional PCB size limitations.
Implementation Method 1
an image sensor integrated circuit having a plurality of pixels arranged in a plurality of rows and columns of pixels
Implementation Method 2
The light source bank may be an LED die
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for use in decoding a bar code symbol may include an image sensor integrated circuit having a plurality of pixels, timing, and control circuitry for controlling an image sensor, gain circuitry for controlling gain, and analog to digital conversion circuitry for conversion of an analog signal to a digital signal. The apparatus may also include a PCB for mounting the image sensor integrated circuit and light source bank. The connection between the image sensor integrated circuit and/or light source bank and the PCB characterized by a plurality of wires connecting a plurality of bond pads and a plurality of contact pads, where the wires, bond pads, and contact pads provide electrical input/output and mechanical connections between the image sensor integrated circuit and the PCB. The apparatus may be operative for processing image signals generated by the image sensor integrated circuit for attempting to decode the bar code symbol.