Parallel Decoding for Indicia Readers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Indicia reading devices face challenges in efficiently and accurately discriminating between different types of data, such as 1D and 2D barcodes, and in improving their versatility and practicality for portable and wireless applications.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a hand-held indicia reader with an image sensor and microcontroller that can automatically discriminate between various data types by using multiple processors to run decoding tasks in parallel, allowing for simultaneous decoding of different symbologies and improving image capture and processing functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple 1D stacked bar code symbologies are used to encode larger amounts of data, then data capacity is improved, but the complexity of scanning and decoding increases due to multiple linear scans at different locations being required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 1D stacked bar codes requiring multiple linear scans to 2D matrix symbologies where data is encoded in a two-dimensional grid pattern. This dimensional change allows the entire symbol to be read in a single scan, eliminating the complexity of multiple scans at different locations while maintaining or increasing data capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the decoding process into parallel operations by using multiple processors or processing threads that simultaneously decode different portions of the 2D matrix symbol or different symbologies. This segmentation allows concurrent processing of multiple decoding tasks, reducing overall decoding time and complexity.
2Quantity of substance
If image based reading is used for 2D matrix symbologies, then data density is improved, but the processing time and computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image processing and decoding tasks into segments that can be processed in parallel. Different regions of the 2D matrix symbol are processed simultaneously by multiple processing units, or different decoding algorithms are applied concurrently to different portions of the data, reducing overall processing time while maintaining high data density.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-processing the captured image to enhance specific features, such as strengthening the contrast of data elements, enhancing the visibility of finder patterns and reference structures, and preparing the image data in advance for decoding. This preliminary processing reduces the computational burden during the actual decoding phase.
3Productivity
If multiple decoding tasks are performed sequentially, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases due to inability to decode multiple symbologies simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the decoding functionality into separate processing units or threads that can operate independently and simultaneously. Each processor or thread is responsible for decoding a specific symbology or portion of the data, allowing parallel processing of multiple decoding tasks and significantly improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal decoding system where multiple processors or processing threads can handle different types of symbologies (1D bar codes, 2D matrix codes, etc.) simultaneously. This multi-functional approach allows the device to decode various data types in parallel, improving productivity without requiring separate dedicated decoding hardware for each symbology type.
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 fast and accurate decoding of various data types, enhancing the versatility and efficiency of indicia readers, particularly in portable and wireless applications by utilizing parallel processing to streamline data collection and communication.
Implementation Method 1
a converter for converting light reflected off an IBI into IBI signals representative of the IBI
Data Source
AI summary
A method for collecting and processing information bearing indicia (IBI) comprising the steps of: converting light reflected off an IBI into IBI signals representative of the IBI; running at least one signal process for processing the IBI signals on a first processor if the IBI is of a first type; and running at least one signal process for processing the IBI signals on a second processor if the IBI is of a second type, wherein the first processor and second processor are configured to run in parallel.