Scan-Free Barcode Reader Using Multi-Camera Volume Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical scanning systems require explicit presentation of structured identifiers, such as barcodes, which increases processing time and workflow inefficiencies in facilities handling large quantities of items.
Innovation Solution
A camera-based 'scan-free reader system' using multiple high-quality imaging sensors and a computing system to detect and decode structured identifiers within a predefined scanning volume, allowing items to be scanned without explicit presentation, even in unstructured or limited structured manners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional optical scanning systems are used to read barcodes, then structured identifiers can be read accurately, but processing time increases and workflow efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing multiple images of items as they move through the scanning volume before decoding is needed. The images are captured in advance during normal item flow, and the decoding process then identifies barcodes from these pre-captured images, eliminating the need for explicit item presentation and reducing processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static scanning (requiring items to be stopped and explicitly presented) to dynamic scanning (capturing items in motion). Multiple cameras capture images of items as they move through the defined scanning volume, allowing the system to read barcodes from items in unstructured or limited structured motion, significantly improving workflow efficiency.
2Measurement precision
If conventional optical scanning systems require explicit presentation of barcodes, then reading accuracy is maintained, but workflow efficiency and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it captures images for quality inspection, monitors item flow, and reads barcodes all within the same scanning volume without requiring separate scanning stations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for explicit barcode presentation and improves overall workflow efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Items are scanned automatically as they pass through the defined volume without requiring operator intervention to present them. The system self-services by capturing images and decoding barcodes from items in motion, eliminating manual handling steps and improving productivity.
3Loss of time
If multiple high-quality imaging sensors are deployed to enable scan-free reading, then processing time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the scanning function across multiple cameras positioned at different locations within the scanning volume. Each camera captures images from its specific viewpoint, and the system processes these segmented image sets to identify barcodes. This segmentation allows simultaneous multi-angle capture, reducing scanning time while distributing system complexity across modular camera units.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and techniques for performing a scan-free reading of a structured identifier are provided. One technique involves obtaining a first set of images of an object within a scanning volume of an environment. The object is passed through the scanning volume without an explicit presentation of the structured identifier to an optical scanner within the environment. For each image of a plurality of the first set of images, an indication of a first region of interest of the structured identifier on the object within the image is obtained, based in part on a second set of images of the object having a lower quality than the first set of images. The first region of interest of the structured identifier is extracted from a first image of the plurality of the first set of images. The structured identifier within the first region of interest within the first image is decoded.