Processor Optimization for Combined Transaction Terminal and Scanner
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of scanner and transaction terminal hardware into a single device leads to processor overload due to the need for efficient resource management and synchronization, especially with the exponential growth of features and functions in checkout systems, which complicates peripheral scanner-based systems and reduces processing throughput.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for processor optimization that selectively throttles down item code processing operations based on the type of barcode, such as pausing or turning off imaging sensors, and issuing commands to control the capture and transmission of item code frames to free up processor utilization, allowing reallocation to higher priority tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If scanner and transaction terminal hardware are integrated into a single device, then processing efficiency and space efficiency are improved, but processor overload occurs due to resource sharing and synchronization requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic resource allocation where the processor dynamically adjusts its operation mode based on real-time task priorities. The processor can switch between full-performance mode for high-priority transactions and throttled mode for lower-priority scanning operations, allowing efficient resource sharing without constant overload
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the processor monitors its own utilization and task queue status, then adjusts scanning operation intensity accordingly. When processor load exceeds thresholds, the system automatically reduces scanning frame rates or pauses non-critical operations to maintain transaction processing performance
2Speed
If multiple imaging sensors are used to capture barcode images at high rates, then item code reading speed is improved, but processor utilization becomes excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by selectively processing only a subset of captured frames based on priority needs. Instead of processing all frames from multiple sensors at full rate, the system processes only the necessary number of frames to achieve acceptable reading speed, pausing or skipping lower-priority frames when processor capacity is constrained
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic action by alternating between high-rate capture periods and reduced processing periods. Multiple imaging sensors capture frames continuously, but processing occurs in periodic bursts synchronized with transaction needs, allowing the processor to recover between intensive processing tasks
3Adaptability or versatility
If computer vision-based applications are added for real-time fraud detection and item recognition, then system functionality is improved, but processing throughput is substantially slowed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments processing into distinct priority levels: critical transaction processing, important but non-critical functions like basic item recognition, and optional enhanced functions like advanced fraud detection. Each segment runs with appropriate resource allocation, allowing the system to maintain high throughput for transactions while selectively enabling vision-based applications based on available processor capacity
Data Source
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AI summary
Processor utilization for a combined transaction terminal and scanner device is controlled during item code image capture, item code reading, and/or read item code communications. Item image capture rates, item image frame reads, and read item code communications are controlled to override preconfigured processing and to reduce processor utilization on the device. This frees up processor capacity for performing other operations during transactions on the device.