Multiple Linear Scanner Synchronization for Overexposure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machine-readable symbol readers with overlapping fields of view experience overexposure issues due to simultaneous illumination by multiple illuminators, leading to degraded image quality.
Innovation Solution
A system with multiple linear scanners and a controller that adjusts image acquisition based on conveyor speed, using synchronized triggers and adaptive scanning frequencies to prevent overexposure, employing a time-sensitive network for precise synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple linear scanners with overlapping fields of view simultaneously illuminate objects, then the coverage area is improved, but overexposure occurs leading to degraded image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by alternating the operation of multiple illuminators in time-separated intervals. Instead of simultaneous illumination, each illuminator operates in sequence with controlled timing, allowing the system to maintain broad coverage while preventing overexposure through temporal separation of illumination events.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic control of illuminator activation based on real-time detection of object presence and conveyor speed. The controller dynamically adjusts which illuminators are active and when, optimizing the balance between coverage area and preventing overexposure according to varying operational conditions.
2Device complexity
If multiple linear scanners operate independently, then system complexity is reduced, but image synchronization deteriorates leading to inconsistent quality across overlapping fields
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions of multiple linear scanners into a single centralized controller that coordinates all illuminators and scanners. This unified control approach ensures precise synchronization of image acquisition across all devices while maintaining relatively simple individual scanner designs, thus resolving the contradiction between system complexity and synchronization precision.
3Productivity
If image acquisition frequency is increased to capture fast-moving objects, then productivity is improved, but motion blur increases degrading image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies periodic action by using pulsed illumination synchronized with the conveyor belt movement and image acquisition cycles. This allows high-frequency capture of fast-moving objects while using controlled illumination bursts to freeze motion and prevent blur, thereby maintaining both productivity and image quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A system including at least one linear scanner. The system utilizes multiple modes to synchronize image acquisition of the at least one linear scanner. A first mode directly triggers image acquisition by the at least one linear scanner based on a distance a conveyor of the object carrying a machine-readable symbol has advanced. A second mode includes sending a speed value for the conveyor. The system transitions between the first mode and the second mode based on an operating parameter of the system to optimize performance of the system. The first mode is more accurate at slower conveyor speeds, for example during stop and go events, and the second mode uses less bandwidth at higher speeds, for example during steady-state operation.