Modular Barcode Reader Assembly Using Segmented Optical Frames

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing barcode reading devices face challenges in achieving efficient and accurate assembly, particularly in the positioning and arrangement of optical elements, which affects the clarity and speed of barcode reading.

Innovation Solution

The barcode reading device is designed with modularized assemblies, including a first modularized assembly for illumination and a second modularized assembly for imaging, which are positioned within a housing using frames and adjustment members to ensure precise alignment and easy assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If optical elements are arranged and positioned manually in traditional barcode reading devices, then the positioning precision can be adjusted, but the assembly time is long and assembly efficiency is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precision of optical elementsVSAvoidassembly efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into modular assemblies (illumination assembly, imaging assembly, light path assembly) that can be pre-assembled and tested independently, then quickly integrated into the housing. This segmentation allows parallel assembly processes and reduces overall assembly time while maintaining positioning precision through dedicated fixture designs for each module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Positioning fixtures and alignment tools are introduced as intermediary devices during the assembly process. These fixtures provide standardized reference surfaces and mechanical constraints that ensure precise positioning of optical elements without requiring manual measurement and adjustment, thereby speeding up assembly while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Manufacturing precision

If optical elements are positioned manually with adjustments, then positioning accuracy can be achieved, but the assembly procedure is complex and manual operation influence is high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracy of optical elementsVSAvoidassembly procedure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning fixtures are designed with pre-established reference surfaces and mechanical constraints that automatically guide optical elements to their correct positions. Alignment features such as precision-machined locators and guide surfaces are prepared in advance on the housing and assemblies, eliminating the need for complex manual measurement and adjustment procedures during assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Stability of the object's composition

If traditional non-modular assembly is used, then device integration is achieved, but assembly time is long and consistency is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly consistencyVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The barcode reading device is divided into standardized modular assemblies (illumination assembly with light sources, imaging assembly with cameras, light path assembly with mirrors and lenses). Each module is designed with standardized interfaces and mounting features, allowing consistent reproduction across multiple units. This modularity enables parallel assembly of multiple modules simultaneously, significantly reducing total assembly time while ensuring consistent positioning through standardized fixtures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 modular approach simplifies the assembly process, enhances the consistency and accuracy of element positioning, and significantly reduces assembly time, thereby improving the overall efficiency and minimizing the impact of manual operation.

Implementation Method 1

a first modularized assembly disposed in the housing and comprising at least one first light source for illuminating the barcode, at least one second light source for illuminating the barcode

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

a second modularized assembly disposed in the housing and comprising at least one reflective optical element for reflecting a light from the barcode, at least one imaging unit for receiving an image of the barcode reflected by the at least one reflective optical element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS12307322B1Barcode reading device
Publication Date: 2025.05.20 DELTA ELECTRONICS INC(CN)
  • US12307322B1 patent drawing
  • US12307322B1 patent drawing
  • US12307322B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A barcode reading device includes a housing, a first modularized assembly and a second modularized assembly. The housing has a window for placing a barcode. The first modularized assembly is disposed in the housing and includes a first light source, a second light source, and a first frame for disposing and positioning the first light source and the second light source. The second modularized assembly is disposed in the housing and includes a reflective optical element, an imaging unit, and a second frame for disposing and positioning the reflective optical element and the imaging unit. Positions of the first light source, the second light source, the reflective optical element and the imaging unit relative to the window are defined by positioning the first frame and the second frame in the housing.