Multi-Pattern Aiming Assembly for Dual-Range Imaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Imaging systems with separate aiming and imager axes face challenges in working range and alignment, particularly when using multiple imagers for near- and far-field operations, leading to interference and complexity in aiming subsystems.
Innovation Solution
An imaging system with two imagers and an aiming assembly that emits different patterned beams of light into distinct fields-of-view, using a common light pathway that diverges into separate pathways to avoid interference, allowing for precise aiming and imager selection based on target distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single aiming subsystem is used with one imager, then the aiming function is simple and effective, but the working range is limited and cannot accommodate both near-field and far-field imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The aiming subsystem is segmented to provide different light patterns for different imaging scenarios. The system divides the aiming function into multiple patterns (e.g., first pattern for near-field, second pattern for far-field) that can be selectively activated based on the imaging distance and imager being used, allowing one subsystem to serve multiple purposes without requiring separate aiming devices for each imager
Solution Approach 2:
The aiming subsystem is designed with multi-functionality to serve both near-field and far-field imagers. By implementing multiple light patterns within a single aiming subsystem, the system achieves universality where one subsystem can properly aim and indicate for multiple imagers with different working ranges, eliminating the need for separate aiming subsystems for each imager
2Measurement precision
If the aiming subsystem is coaxially aligned with the imager, then the aiming indicator is centered in the field-of-view, but the aiming light interferes with the imager's ability to capture images
Solution Approach 1:
The aiming light is configured with specific local quality characteristics - using visible wavelengths that are distinct from the infrared or other wavelengths used by the imager. This allows the aiming light to be visible to users for precise aiming while being distinguishable from or non-interfering with the actual imaging light, enabling both functions to coexist without compromising image capture quality
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the aiming subsystem is offset from the imager axis, then the aiming light does not interfere with image capture, but the light pattern shifts relative to the field-of-view center at different target distances
Solution Approach 1:
The aiming subsystem incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities to compensate for the offset configuration. By dynamically adjusting the aiming light pattern (such as changing its position, angle, or divergence) based on the target distance and active imager, the system maintains accurate aiming indication despite the physical offset between the aiming subsystem and imager axes, ensuring the light pattern remains properly aligned with the active field-of-view center
4Adaptability or versatility
If two imagers are used for near-field and far-field operations, then the working range is extended, but the aiming subsystem becomes more complex due to switching between imagers with different working ranges and imaging axes
Solution Approach 1:
The aiming subsystem is configured in advance with multiple pre-programmed light patterns corresponding to different imagers and working ranges. Before switching between near-field and far-field imaging, the appropriate light pattern is already prepared and can be rapidly activated, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments or manual reconfiguration when switching imagers, thus simplifying operation during imager transitions
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
Enhances the working range and reduces interference by providing clear visual indicators for imager selection and aiming, improving the imaging system's efficiency and accuracy in acquiring encoded indicia.
Implementation Method 1
an aiming assembly configured to selectively output light having at least one of a plurality of light patterns
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system includes a first imager, a second imager, and an aiming assembly. The aiming assembly is configured to selectively output light having at least one of a first pattern or a second pattern, where the light having the first pattern intersects a first imaging axis of the first imager and the light having the second pattern intersects a second imaging axis of the second imager. The aiming assembly defines a first light pathway that is common to the light for the first pattern and the second pattern and defines second and third light pathways. The light travels from the first light pathway along the second light pathway to selectively output the first pattern and travels from the first light pathway along the third light pathway to selectively output the second pattern.