Modular Off-Platter Detection Assembly for Barcode Readers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Barcode readers with weigh platters face issues with incorrect weight measurements due to products extending off the platter, leading to inaccurate pricing, and existing solutions are not easily upgradable or cost-effective.
Innovation Solution
A modular off-platter detection assembly for barcode readers, comprising a housing, light source, light sensor, and controller, which emits light along the platter edges and detects reflections to alert for off-platter conditions, allowing for field upgrades and preventing incorrect weight recording.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a barcode reader includes built-in off-platter detection capability, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The off-platter detection assembly is designed as a separate, modular unit that can be independently installed on the barcode reader. This segmentation allows the detection function to be added without redesigning the entire system, thus improving measurement precision while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular detection assembly can be applied to various barcode reader models and configurations, providing a universal solution for off-platter detection. This multi-functionality approach allows the same detection mechanism to serve different weighing and scanning needs without requiring model-specific customization.
2Measurement precision
If off-platter detection is integrated into all barcode reader models, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the detection system into a separate modular assembly, manufacturers can produce the detection component independently and only attach it to barcode readers that require off-platter detection capability. This reduces manufacturing costs for standard models while still providing precision measurement options for advanced models.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic configuration where the detection assembly can be added or removed based on specific application needs. This flexibility enables manufacturers to optimize production costs by not including the detection assembly in all models, while still meeting the precision requirements of applications that need it.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the barcode reader is designed for field upgrades, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection assembly is designed as a self-contained modular unit with its own housing and mounting structure, allowing it to be installed or removed without affecting the core barcode reader functionality. This segmentation enables straightforward field upgrades while keeping the base system simple and unchanged.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular housing acts as an intermediary structure that interfaces between the detection components and the barcode reader body. This intermediary design simplifies the integration process during field upgrades, as the housing provides a standardized mounting interface that reduces installation complexity.
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 effectively reduces incorrect weight measurements by providing alerts for off-platter conditions and enabling easy upgrades, ensuring accurate pricing and minimizing additional costs for customers.
Implementation Method 1
The first light sensor is positioned within the housing, has a first field-of-view along the first lateral edge, and is configured to detect at least a portion of the first light reflected towards the housing within the first field-of-view
Implementation Method 2
The first light diffusing barrier is configured to diffuse the first collimated light beam such that the first light diffusing barrier appears to be illuminated when contacted by the first collimated light beam
Data Source
AI summary
A modular off-platter detection assembly for use with a barcode reader includes a housing, a first light source, a first light sensor, and a controller operatively coupled to the first light source and the first light sensor. The housing is configured to be removably mounted to the barcode reader, a frame supporting the barcode reader, or the workstation. The first light source is positioned within the housing and emits a first light along a first lateral edge of a weigh platter. The first light sensor is positioned within the housing, has a first field-of-view along the first lateral edge, and is configured to detect at least a portion of the first light reflected towards the housing. The controller is configured to provide a first alert in response to receipt of a first value from the first light sensor indicating there is an object extending across the first lateral edge.