Movable Lens Holder for Multi-Range Barcode Scanner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging scanner products require multiple devices for different barcode scanning applications due to their specific range and field of view limitations, leading to increased costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
An add-on device for image scanners that includes a housing with a movable lens holder, allowing for the alignment of standard, high-density, and extended range lenses, along with apertures and filters, using a motor and self-locking thread mechanism to switch between them, enabling a unified scanner with multi-field of view and multi-focus capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple scanners are used for different barcode applications, then scanning capability for various barcode types is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single scanner device that can perform multiple scanning functions by incorporating different lenses (standard range, high-density, extended range) that can be positioned in the optical path. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple separate scanners while maintaining capability to read various barcode types including fine pitch high-density codes and distant barcodes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple lens elements (standard range lens, high-density lens, extended range lens) and optical components (apertures, filters) into a single integrated scanner device. The lens holder assembly merges these separate optical elements that would traditionally require separate scanner devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatile scanning capability
2Measurement precision
If different lenses are used for near and far range scanning, then focusing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic lens switching mechanism where the lens holder can be positioned at different locations along the optical axis to bring different lenses into the optical path. A motor assembly enables automatic switching between standard range, high-density, and extended range lenses based on scanning requirements, providing dynamic adaptability while maintaining focusing precision for each lens type
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the optical system into distinct lens modules (standard range lens, high-density lens, extended range lens) each optimized for specific scanning conditions. The lens holder assembly divides the optical path into separate functional zones, allowing each lens segment to be independently positioned and optimized for its specific purpose without interfering with other lens functions
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 allows for a single scanner to handle various barcode scanning tasks with different ranges and densities, reducing the need for multiple devices and minimizing costs while maintaining accurate alignment and performance.
Implementation Method 1
The motor is provided with a threaded shaft. The lens holder is provided with a threaded receiver. The motor is coupled to the lens holder via the threaded shaft being received into the threaded receiver.
Data Source
AI summary
An add-on device for an image scanner for scanning barcodes is provided. The add-on device includes a housing mounted to the standard range lens front on an image scanner, and a lens holder. The lens holder has a first position for holding a first lens, a second position being an aperture, and a third position for holding a second lens. A high-density lens is mounted in the first position. An extended range lens is mounted in the third position. The lens holder is mounted in the housing and is transverse to the optical axis of the standard range lens of the image scanner. Further, the lens holder is movable within the housing in order to alternately position the high-density lens, the aperture, and the extended range lens to be in alignment with the optical axis of the standard range lens of the image scanner.