Laser Barcode Scanner Embedding Scanning Parameters

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Un-decoded laser and linear imager scan engines face challenges in effectively transmitting and decoding barcode data due to lack of embedded scanning parameters, leading to suboptimal decoding accuracy and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A laser scanning device that embeds scanning parameters, such as scan angle and AGC control method, into the digital bar pattern signal, allowing the host to extract and modify these parameters for improved decoding, enhancing the decoding process by appending metadata representing the scanning parameters to the digital bar pattern.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If scanning parameters are not embedded in the digital bar pattern, then the device complexity is reduced, but the decoding accuracy and efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedecoding accuracyVSAvoiddata structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The scanning parameters are embedded within the digital bar pattern data structure, nesting additional information inside the existing data format. This allows the host to access scanning parameters without creating a separate data transmission channel, thereby improving decoding accuracy while minimizing the increase in data structure complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The digital bar pattern serves as an intermediary carrier that transmits both barcode data and scanning parameters. By embedding parameters in the DBP, the system uses the existing data structure as a mediator to convey additional information, avoiding the need for separate parameter transmission mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If scanning parameters are embedded in the digital bar pattern, then the decoding efficiency is improved, but the data transmission size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedecoding efficiencyVSAvoiddata transmission size
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the transmission of scanning parameters with the barcode data by embedding parameters directly into the digital bar pattern. This combining approach allows both barcode information and scanning parameters to be transmitted simultaneously through the same data channel, improving decoding efficiency without proportionally increasing transmission size

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The digital bar pattern is transformed into a multi-functional data structure that simultaneously carries barcode information and scanning parameters. This universalization of the data structure allows a single transmission to serve multiple purposes, enhancing decoding efficiency while minimizing additional data overhead

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the host extracts and modifies scanning parameters, then the adaptability of the system is improved, but the processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter adjustment capabilityVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The scanning parameters are made available to the host in advance through embedding in the digital bar pattern, enabling the host to extract and modify parameters before the decoding process completes. This preliminary availability of parameter information allows for adaptive adjustments without significant delays to the overall processing timeline

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 enables improved decoding accuracy and efficiency by providing real-time scanning parameter information, allowing the host to adjust scanning settings for better barcode capture and decoding, thus enhancing the overall performance of barcode scanning systems.

Implementation Method 1

a laser for projecting a light beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Implementation Method 2

A mirror reflects the light beam onto a target

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 3

A detector generates an analog signal in response to detecting a reflection of the light beam from the target

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS8579198B2Enhanced laser barcode scanning
Publication Date: 2013.11.12 SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES LLC
  • US8579198B2 patent drawing
  • US8579198B2 patent drawing
  • US8579198B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A laser scanning device is described. The device includes a laser for projecting a light beam. A mirror is optically coupled to the laser. The mirror reflects the light beam onto a target. A detector generates an analog signal in response to detecting a reflection of the light beam from the target. A processor is capable of modifying a scanning parameter of the laser scanning device. The processor processes the analog signal to generate a digital bar pattern and can embed the scanning parameter in the digital bar pattern.