Omni-Directional Optical Scanner for Retail Barcode Reading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barcode scanners lack true omni-directionality, failing to read labels on various surfaces, and are not compact enough for integration with retail devices, while also not being able to produce simultaneous overlapping scan patterns efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A dual-aperture optical scanner with a mirrored spinner and pattern mirrors that can produce single or dual scan patterns, allowing for omni-directional scanning and integration with retail devices like produce scales and RFID readers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional single-aperture barcode scanner is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot achieve true omni-directional scanning and reading capability on multiple surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The scanner is divided into two separate scanning apertures (first aperture and second aperture) positioned at different orientations. Each aperture has its own laser beam source, scanner, and detector assembly. This segmentation allows each aperture to independently scan specific surfaces, collectively achieving omni-directional coverage without requiring a single complex rotating mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by positioning apertures at different orientations (e.g., horizontal and vertical). The first aperture scans surfaces in one plane while the second aperture scans surfaces in another plane, effectively adding dimensional coverage to achieve omnidirectional scanning capability.
2Volume of moving object
If the scanner is designed to be compact for integration with retail devices, then the form factor is suitable, but it becomes difficult to accommodate multiple scanning apertures and components
Solution Approach 1:
The scanner components are nested within a compact housing structure. The first and second scanner assemblies are positioned within the same housing, with optical paths and detector arrays arranged in a nested configuration. This allows multiple functional apertures to be accommodated in a compact form factor suitable for integration with retail devices like produce scales.
3Productivity
If a single laser source is used, then the device is simpler, but it cannot produce simultaneous overlapping scan patterns for enhanced coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The laser source is segmented into multiple independent laser beam sources (first laser, second laser, etc.), each associated with a specific aperture and scanner. This allows simultaneous operation of multiple laser beams to generate overlapping scan patterns, increasing productivity without requiring a single complex modulated laser system.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple laser beams operate simultaneously and continuously to produce overlapping scan patterns. This continuous parallel operation ensures that no scanning gap exists between patterns, maintaining continuous useful action for enhanced barcode reading coverage and speed.
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 scanner achieves true omni-directional scanning capabilities, enabling reading on multiple surfaces and simultaneous pattern generation, enhancing its compactness and versatility for retail environments.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the detectors (22a, 22b) is oriented to receive light reflected from the item (30)
Data Source
AI summary
An optical scanner which is configurable to produce a single pattern or a plurality of patterns. The scanner includes an optics engine with first and second laser mounts, first and second detector mounts, a first laser in the first laser mount for producing a first scanning light beam, a mirrored spinner for directing the first scanning light beam, and a first detector in the first detector mount for converting first light reflected from an item with a barcode label into first electrical signals. The scanner further includes pattern mirrors for receiving the first scanning light beam from the mirrored spinner, for producing a first scan pattern from the first scanning light beam for scanning the item, and for directing the first light reflected from the item to the mirrored spinner, and control circuitry for controlling operation of the first laser and the mirrored spinner.