Multi-Window Optical Scanner with Dual Camera Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical scanners have limited field-of-view and require specific orientations for successful barcode scanning, which can lead to inefficiencies and user inconvenience, especially in scenarios where customers need to scan auxiliary data like cell phone barcodes or coupons simultaneously with product barcodes.
Innovation Solution
A multi-window scanner with a customer interface featuring a housing with multiple transparent windows and scanning systems, including imaging cameras or laser light sources, allowing for simultaneous scanning of target and auxiliary data through separate fields of view, enabling customers to scan auxiliary data from the rear side while employees scan products on the front side.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-camera imaging system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the field-of-view is limited and requires specific orientations for successful scanning
Solution Approach 1:
The scanner is divided into multiple independent camera systems (first camera system and second camera system), each with its own field-of-view. This segmentation allows each camera to cover a specific scanning zone, collectively providing comprehensive coverage without requiring complex mechanical adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by positioning camera systems at different locations (front and rear of the housing) with different orientations. This multi-dimensional arrangement expands the effective field-of-view beyond what a single camera could achieve, allowing scanning from multiple angles simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple camera systems are positioned to cover different fields-of-view, then the adaptability and field-of-view are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple camera systems are integrated into a single housing structure that serves universal scanning purposes. Each camera system can independently scan different types of barcodes (target barcodes on products and auxiliary barcodes on devices like cell phones), making the system multi-functional without requiring separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple camera systems, window assemblies, and scanning functions into a single integrated housing structure. This combination consolidates what would otherwise be separate scanning devices into one unified system, managing complexity through integration rather than proliferation of separate components.
3Device complexity
If customers and employees share the same scanning interface, then the device complexity is reduced, but the transaction time increases due to physical transfer of items
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning interface is segmented into distinct first and second window assemblies positioned at different locations on the housing. This allows simultaneous independent scanning operations by different users (employees at the front, customers at the rear) without requiring physical transfer of items between parties.
Solution Approach 2:
The second window assembly enables customers to independently scan auxiliary barcodes (such as coupons or loyalty program codes on their cell phones) without requiring employee assistance or physical transfer of products. This self-service capability reduces transaction time and improves efficiency.
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 scanning efficiency by allowing customers to scan auxiliary data independently, reducing transaction time and eliminating the need for physical transfer of items, while maintaining ergonomic compatibility with existing checkout setups.
Implementation Method 1
A barcode is a coded pattern of graphical indicia comprised of a series of bars and spaces of varying widths, the bars and spaces having differing light reflecting characteristics
Implementation Method 2
a first scanning system having one of an imaging camera and a laser light source positioned within the housing interior region defining a field of view for reading the target barcode
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-window scanner (10) and method (500) of operating multi-window scanner for imaging a target object (44) and auxiliary object (204) includes a housing (16) supporting a first window assembly (22) for scanning a target barcode (42). The scanner also comprises a first scanning system (34) having one of an imaging camera (208/209) and a laser light source (38) positioned within the housing defining a field of view for reading the target barcode upon the target object. The scanner further comprises a second window assembly for reading auxiliary data (206) from an auxiliary object (204) relating to one or more target objects being scanned and a second scanning system (202) positioned within the housing for imaging the auxiliary data from the auxiliary object through the second window assembly (28).