Optical Code Reader Camera Positioning via Cross-Drive Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical code reading systems are inefficient for fast-moving production lines and documents with multiple codes, as they require complex manual adjustments for accurate decoding, especially when codes are not in predetermined positions or orientations.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a camera with a cross-drive mechanism and fixed LED illumination, where document parameters (x and y coordinates) automatically position and focus the camera to capture clear images of optical codes, ensuring uniform illumination and alignment without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a camera system is used to capture images of optical codes anywhere on a document, then the code reading flexibility and position independence are improved, but the system complexity and time consumption increase due to manual adjustment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating the required camera position and illumination settings based on the detected code location. The cross-drive mechanism is pre-programmed with the x and y coordinates of the code, allowing the camera to be automatically positioned and focused before image capture, eliminating the need for manual adjustments during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the camera and illumination system automatically adjust themselves based on the code position detected by the sensor. The cross-drive mechanism autonomously moves the camera to the correct position, and the illumination system automatically positions itself to uniformly illuminate the code region, without requiring operator intervention.
2Measurement precision
If manual adjustment of scanning head position is performed for codes in different positions, then the code reading accuracy is improved, but the productivity decreases due to time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated cross-drive mechanism that uses motorized control to position the camera. The mechanical system is substituted with an automated control system that calculates and executes the required camera movements based on sensor input, enabling both high accuracy and high speed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback control where the sensor detects the code position, this information is fed back to the control system, which then adjusts the camera position accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that the camera is always positioned correctly relative to the code, maintaining high reading accuracy while operating at high document throughput speeds.
3Measurement precision
If the camera and illumination are moved to align with the code position, then the image quality and decoding accuracy are improved, but the operation simplicity and skill requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service operation where the camera and illumination system automatically adjust themselves based on the code position detected by the sensor. The cross-drive mechanism autonomously moves the camera to the correct position, and the illumination system automatically positions itself to uniformly illuminate the code region, without requiring operator intervention or specialized skills.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system that mediates between the sensor detection and the camera/illumination adjustment. This intermediary layer processes the sensor data, calculates the required adjustments, and controls the cross-drive mechanism, simplifying the overall operation to the point where no skilled manual adjustment is needed.
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
Enables rapid and accurate reading of various optical codes up to 100mm long, positioned anywhere on a document, in any orientation, suitable for high-speed production lines with minimal operator skill requirements.
Implementation Method 1
the light sources comprise light emitting diodes (LED's)
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for capturing an image of an optical code (1,2,3) located at a region of interest in a document (6), the system comprising: means for supporting the document; a source of light (8,9) arranged to illuminate the document (6); a mount (12) for supporting an imaging device at a position spaced from the document; a trigger for activating the imaging device to capture an image of the region of interest; and means for automatically moving the mount and operating the trigger in dependence upon at least one coordinate identifying the region of interest, the coordinate being contained in a label stored in document parameters.