Portable Indicia Reader 2D Imaging Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional indicia reading devices face limitations in efficiently reading large volumes of data, particularly with 1D stacked bar codes requiring multiple scans and lacking flexibility in orientation, and 2D matrix codes requiring high resolution and specific alignment.
Innovation Solution
The development of a portable indicia reader system with a 2D imaging module, including a color image sensor and aiming pattern generator, capable of reading 1D and 2D bar codes with flexible scanning modes and structured append features, allowing for efficient data extraction from multiple symbols in any order, and displaying animated GIF files for enhanced data communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If 1D stacked bar code symbologies are used to encode larger amounts of data, then data capacity is improved, but multiple linear scans are required which increases reading time and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear scanning to two-dimensional area imaging. The imaging module captures the entire 2D matrix code symbol in a single frame, allowing all data elements to be read simultaneously rather than requiring multiple sequential linear scans. This dimensional change enables efficient reading of large data volumes while maintaining orientation-free operation.
2Quantity of substance
If 2D matrix codes are used for orientation-free scanning and greater data densities, then data capacity and versatility are improved, but high resolution and specific alignment are required which increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging module is designed as a multi-functional device that can read multiple types of codes (1D bar codes, 2D matrix codes, stacked codes) using a single 2D imaging sensor. This universal approach eliminates the need for multiple specialized readers while maintaining the ability to handle various code densities and orientations through software-based decoding algorithms.
3Loss of information
If multiple linear scans are performed to read stacked bar codes, then complete message extraction is achieved, but the process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple scanning operations into a single 2D area capture. Instead of performing separate linear scans for each row or section of a stacked code, the imaging module captures the entire code structure in one frame. The connected processing then extracts and combines data from all rows simultaneously, reducing both time and operational complexity while ensuring complete message extraction.
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 efficient reading and decoding of large data volumes with orientation-free scanning, flexible operation modes, and increased data capacity by combining multiple symbols into a comprehensive message, suitable for various applications including mobile devices.
Implementation Method 1
Optical indicia reading devices typically transmit light onto a symbol and receive light scattered and/or reflected back from a bar code symbol or information bearing indicia
Implementation Method 2
Optical indicia reading devices typically transmit light onto a symbol and receive light scattered and/or reflected back from a bar code symbol or information bearing indicia
Implementation Method 3
Laser indicia reading devices typically utilize transmitted laser light
Data Source
AI summary
A method of reading indicia comprising the steps of: displaying a plurality of information data bearing indicia seriatim on a display; reading and decoding the displayed plurality of information data bearing indicia utilizing an indicia reader; and establishing a relationship of data provided in the plurality of information data bearing indicia utilizing a portion of the data provided in each of the plurality of information data bearing indicia.