Portable Barcode Scanner with Projected Routing Indicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable data capture devices for barcodes in shipping applications have high human error rates and incur costs due to the need for multiple routing labels, which can lead to package routing errors.
Innovation Solution
A portable handheld barcode scanner with optical scanning componentry and a sensory indicator system that confirms successful data capture with a visual indicator light, processes barcode data, and communicates with a package tracking server to reduce human error by projecting a conveyor belt color identifier onto the barcode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a separate computer with display is used to present routing selection, then routing information can be displayed, but human error rate increases when operator reads and acts on the information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a visual indicator (light) as an intermediary between the routing system and the package. The light is projected directly onto the package or conveyor belt, serving as a direct visual mediator that eliminates the need for the operator to read and interpret text on a display screen, thereby reducing human error in routing decisions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual system of reading text displays with an optical signaling system. Instead of requiring the operator to visually process text information on a computer display, the system uses projected light indicators that can be directly perceived and acted upon, substituting a more reliable optical signaling mechanism for the text-based display system
2Reliability
If routing labels are printed and affixed to packages, then visual routing indication is provided, but costs increase and routing errors occur when multiple labels are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical projection to create a virtual copy of the routing indicator directly in the field of view, eliminating the need for physical label materials. The routing information is copied onto the package or conveyor belt surface as light, providing the same visual indication function without consuming physical label resources
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the routing indicator from material-based (printed labels) to energy-based (projected light). By transforming the routing indication from a tangible physical object to an intangible optical signal, the system eliminates material consumption while maintaining the visual indication function
3Productivity
If multiple routing labels are generated and affixed, then routing selections are updated, but package routing errors increase if earlier labels are not properly covered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic routing indication system using projected light that can be changed in real-time without physical replacement. The optical indicator can be updated instantly by changing the projection parameters, allowing flexible routing changes without the lag and error-prone processes of printing, affixing, and covering physical labels
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary routing determination and projects the indicator before the package moves to the routing point. This allows the routing decision to be made and visually indicated in advance, eliminating the need for multiple label applications and reducing the chance of routing errors from misapplied or outdated labels
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 solution significantly reduces human error in package routing by providing a visual confirmation of data capture and automatically determining the correct routing selection, thereby minimizing the need for multiple labels and improving package handling efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The reflected image of the light beams are focused onto the linear light receiver through the light condensing lens
Implementation Method 2
converted into digital data by some type of signal processor
Implementation Method 3
An indicator associated with the at least one characteristic is presented by a sensory indicator component of the portable data capture device
Data Source
AI summary
A portable data capture device and method for using the same are provided. The portable capture device includes a data capture module, a processor and a sensory indicator component. The data capture module captures data from a data bearing element. The processor determines that that the data has been successfully captured, subsequently processes the data to extract at least one characteristic thereof, and determines an indicator associated with the at least one characteristic. The sensory indicator component presents the indicator.