Rotating Image Scanner Mount for Vertical Read Area Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stationary scanner apparatuses with image scanners require complex and large structures to move the readable area vertically, leading to increased costs and inefficient space utilization around the scanner.
Innovation Solution
A stationary scanner apparatus with an image scanner that is rotatable about a horizontal axis, utilizing plate-shaped inclination holders and guide members to maintain the scanner's position with frictional force, allowing the readable area to be moved vertically without a lifting mechanism, thus simplifying the structure and reducing size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a lifting mechanism is used to move the bar code reader in the vertical direction, then the readable area can be moved vertically, but the structure becomes complicated and the size increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of moving the image scanner vertically through a lifting mechanism, the patent inverts the approach by keeping the scanner stationary and moving the readable area vertically through rotation about a horizontal axis. This eliminates the need for complex lifting mechanisms while achieving the same operational goal of vertical movement of the readable area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from vertical translation (one-dimensional movement) to rotational movement about a horizontal axis (two-dimensional movement). By rotating the support frame, the readable area achieves vertical displacement without requiring a vertical lifting mechanism, thereby simplifying the overall structure.
2Ease of operation
If a lifting mechanism is used to move the bar code reader in the vertical direction, then the readable area can be moved vertically, but the size of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by not moving the scanner vertically but instead rotating the support frame to move the readable area vertically. This eliminates the space requirements for vertical movement mechanisms, reducing the overall apparatus size while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
By utilizing rotational movement about a horizontal axis rather than vertical translation, the patent reduces the spatial footprint required for vertical adjustment. The rotation mechanism occupies less space than a full vertical lifting mechanism would require.
3Ease of operation
If a lifting mechanism is used to move the bar code reader in the vertical direction, then the readable area can be moved vertically, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional design by using rotation instead of vertical lifting, which eliminates the need for expensive lifting mechanisms, motors, and control systems. This simpler rotational approach reduces manufacturing costs while achieving the same functional outcome.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the expensive lifting mechanism from the design, replacing it with a simpler rotational support frame. This extraction of the complex vertical movement mechanism directly reduces manufacturing costs while preserving the essential function of vertical readable area positioning.
4Ease of operation
If a lifting mechanism is used to move the bar code reader in the vertical direction, then the readable area can be moved vertically, but the space around the scanner cannot be effectively utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the movement approach to allow the space previously occupied by vertical movement mechanisms to be repurposed. By using rotational movement, the area below the scanner becomes available for placing baskets or other accessories, improving space utilization and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables multi-functionality by making the space around the scanner available for multiple uses. The rotational mechanism allows the same apparatus to serve both as a scanner and as a platform that can accommodate baskets or other items in the previously wasted space below.
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
This design reduces the complexity and size of the scanner, lowers costs, and allows for effective space utilization around the apparatus by enabling the use of previously occupied space for other purposes, such as placing a basket.
Implementation Method 1
a rotational position of the image scanner is held with a frictional force produced between the inclination holders and the guide members
Data Source
AI summary
A stationary scanner apparatus 10 comprises an image scanner 20 operable to read an item code, an imager attachment member 30 fixed to the image scanner 20, a support frame 40 configured to support the imager attachment member 30 in a state in which the image scanner 20 and imager attachment member 30 are rotatable about a horizontal axis with respect to the support frame 40, and a support portion 83 fixed to the support frame 40. The imager attachment member 30 has a first plate-shaped inclination holder 32a formed on one side of lateral sides of the imager attachment member 30 and a second plate-shaped inclination holder 32b formed on another side of the lateral sides of the imager attachment member 30. The support frame 40 has a first plate-shaped guide member 42a arranged in contact with the first inclination holder 32a and a second plate-shaped guide member 42b arranged in contact with the second inclination holder 32b. A rotational position of the image scanner 20 is held with a frictional force produced between the inclination holders 32a, 32b and the guide members 42a, 42b.