Laser Barcode Scanner Single-Board Optical Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional laser barcode scanner designs are complex, requiring time-consuming alignment of optical paths and multiple circuit boards, which increases cost and assembly time, while also being prone to stray light issues.
Innovation Solution
A simplified laser barcode scanner system using a single two-sided circuit board with a non-retro electromagnetic radiation path, featuring a light source and photodiode positioned on opposite sides, and a flipper mirror assembly for scanning, which mitigates stray light and simplifies assembly by eliminating the need for additional alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional scanner designs are used, then proper performance can be achieved, but device complexity increases and assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light source, photodiode, and optical components onto a single circuit board, eliminating the need for multiple separate circuit boards and complex folded optical paths. This integration reduces device complexity while maintaining scanner performance through direct optical coupling between components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the optical path into distinct functional zones: a light source region, a scanning region with mirrors, and a photodiode detection region. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while simplifying the overall assembly process and reducing alignment complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple circuit boards are used, then functional requirements can be met, but manufacturing cost increases and assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple circuit boards into a single integrated circuit board that houses all necessary components including the light source, scanning mechanism, photodiode, and signal processing circuits. This consolidation reduces assembly steps and manufacturing complexity while maintaining all required functional capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The single circuit board is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: generating laser light, scanning it via mirrors, detecting reflected light, and processing signals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate circuit boards and reduces overall assembly time.
3Ease of operation
If traditional optical paths are used, then scanning function is achieved, but stray light interference occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes stray light from the optical path by using a non-retro configuration where the photodiode is positioned to detect only light reflected directly from the barcode, excluding ambient and scattered light. This extraction of harmful light paths improves scanning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical filters and careful geometric arrangement as intermediaries between the light source and photodiode. These intermediaries selectively transmit the desired reflected light while blocking stray light, improving the signal-to-noise ratio for barcode detection.
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
The solution results in a compact, cost-effective, and easy-to-assemble laser scanner that effectively reads indicia with reduced complexity and stray light interference, improving performance without additional alignment requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a light source for projecting electromagnetic radiation (e.g., laser light) toward indicia
Implementation Method 2
a photodiode or other sensor for collecting the electromagnetic radiation reflected from the indicia (e.g., reflected laser light)
Implementation Method 3
a light-deflecting assembly for scanning the radiation
Data Source
AI summary
The present laser barcode scanner employs (i) a simplified scan mechanism made from a semi-flexible substrate that eliminates complicated optical assemblies, (ii) a layout with location features eliminating the need for special alignment, and (iii) a layout with all surface mounted devices on a single layer eliminating the need for extra soldering. Together these strategies, when used with a method of mitigating stray-light by separating light paths with a circuit board, combine to achieve a laser barcode scanner of unique simplicity and performance.