Optical Code Reader Fold Mirror Multi-View Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Imager-based optical code readers typically provide only a single point of view, limiting their ability to recognize optical codes, especially when labels are oriented at extreme angles or obstructed by the package, and require multiple cameras or complex hardware, increasing size and cost.
Innovation Solution
An optical code reader that partitions the image field into multiple regions to capture separate views using a plurality of imagers and fold mirrors, allowing for multiple perspectives without the need for spatially separated cameras, thus reducing the size and complexity of the reader.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple spatially separated cameras are used to capture multiple perspectives, then code recognition capability is improved, but device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple camera functions into a single imager by using fold mirrors to direct light from multiple perspectives onto different regions of the same image sensor. This merging approach maintains the ability to capture multiple views while eliminating the need for multiple separate cameras, circuit boards, and mounting hardware, thereby reducing device size and complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces fold mirrors as intermediary optical elements that redirect light paths from multiple perspectives to a single imager. These mirrors act as mediators that enable multiple view capture without requiring spatially separated cameras, effectively resolving the contradiction between code recognition capability and device complexity
2Volume of moving object
If a single imager is used with folded light paths, then device size is reduced, but image capture from multiple perspectives is achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses fold mirrors to redirect light paths in three-dimensional space, creating folded optical paths that capture images from multiple perspectives. By utilizing spatial dimensionality and angular separation rather than simply placing multiple cameras side-by-side, the system achieves compact form factor while maintaining multiple view capability
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 robust code capture at various locations and orientations, improving usability, first pass read rate, and throughput, while utilizing a single circuit board and optimizing space for a smaller reader design.
Implementation Method 1
directing a first field of view of the first imager via a first mirror set from a position of the first imager into the view volume from a first perspective
Data Source
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AI summary
A data reader including one or more imagers, the data reader having fold mirrors (130) that permit the imagers (60) to be closer to each other and permit an optical code reader housing (82) to confine them to a smaller housing volume or capacity. A plurality of sets of fold mirrors (130) can also be employed to convey at least a portion of at least two different perspectives of a view volume (134) to different regions of an image field of a common imager (60). The sets of fold mirrors (130) may also include one or more split mirrors that have mirror components that reflect images from different view volumes (134) to different imagers (60) or different regions of an image field of a single imager (60).