Optical Code Reader With Background Pattern Cap Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting caps on specimen containers are limited by fixed retroreflective targets, require high-performance sensors, fail to account for cap detection, and struggle with various container heights and colors, leading to inaccurate and complex identification.
Innovation Solution
An optical information reading apparatus that uses an imager to capture images of containers with attached codes and background patterns, and a controller to decode the code and detect the presence or absence of caps based on the pattern state, facilitating accurate cap detection through image recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a retroreflective target region is used for cap detection, then the detection contrast is improved, but the position of the cap that can be discriminated is limited and various heights of specimen containers cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a fixed two-dimensional retroreflective target region to a three-dimensional background pattern that extends vertically along the container. The background pattern is disposed on a surface that spans multiple height positions, allowing the imager to detect caps at various heights by comparing the background pattern state across different vertical positions in the captured image.
2Measurement precision
If multi-wavelength light sources are used for cap detection, then the identification capability is improved, but the sensor performance requirement increases and identification processing becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a background pattern with a specific visual appearance that is captured by the imager. Instead of using complex multi-wavelength light sources and high-performance sensors, the system creates a visual copy or representation of the background pattern in the captured image and compares this pattern state to detect the cap. The background pattern serves as a reference that can be visually compared to identify cap presence and characteristics.
3Extent of automation
If image recognition is used for cap detection, then the detection automation is improved, but the detection accuracy fails to account for cap presence and various container colors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a background pattern as an intermediary element between the imager and the cap detection process. The background pattern is disposed behind or adjacent to the container, and its visual appearance in the captured image serves as a reference for detecting the cap. By comparing the background pattern state (whether it is visible, obscured, or altered), the system can automatically detect cap presence and characteristics with high accuracy, regardless of container color variations.
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 apparatus effectively prevents probe damage by notifying users of cap removal failures, improving detection accuracy and ease of use, and can be implemented in existing barcode readers without hardware modifications, enhancing versatility and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
an image is obtained by imaging a container 6 and a background label 10
Implementation Method 2
acquiring an image by imaging a container to which a code is attached and a pattern arranged in a background of the container
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus that detects a cap attached to a container containing a specimen or a reagent, and includes: an imager that acquires an image of the container together with a pattern arranged in a background of the container; and a controller that decodes from the image a code attached to the container. The controller recognizes specific classified results including the pattern from the image, and detects the cap based on presence or absence of the specific classified results.