Imaging Optical Code Scanner With Multi-Region Camera Module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Imaging-based optical code scanners face challenges in achieving high pass-by scanning speeds and reading diverse optical code formats, such as one-dimensional and two-dimensional barcodes, which are not efficiently handled by existing laser-based scanners.

Innovation Solution

An optical code scanner with improved vertical optics and image capture devices, featuring a camera module with multiple image capture devices and independently controlled illumination modules, captures images from multiple directions within the scanning volume, allowing for simultaneous image capture and processing from four regions, enhancing the ability to read various optical code types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If imaging-based optical code scanners are used to read diverse optical code formats, then the ability to read various code types is improved, but the scanning speed decreases due to processing more data

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to read optical code formatsVSAvoidscanning speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The scanning volume is divided into four distinct regions, each captured by a separate image capture device. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple code types simultaneously, maintaining high scanning speed while capturing diverse code formats across different regions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a vertical dimension to the scanning system by using multiple image capture devices positioned at different angles and heights. This multi-dimensional approach enables simultaneous capture of various code types (1D, 2D, stacked codes) that would require different scanning planes in traditional 2D systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple image capture devices are used to capture images from multiple directions, then the ability to read diverse optical codes is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to read optical code formatsVSAvoidcomplexity of image capture system

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple image capture devices, illumination modules, and mirror systems are merged into a single integrated camera module assembly. This consolidation reduces overall system complexity by combining what would otherwise be separate components into one unified structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The camera module is designed as a universal assembly that performs multiple functions: capturing images from four different regions, directing light paths via mirrors, and coordinating illumination. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate specialized components for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If four regions of the scanning volume are captured simultaneously, then the scanning efficiency is improved, but the synchronization and coordination complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvescanning efficiencyVSAvoidcomplexity of image capture coordination

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The four image capture devices operate continuously and simultaneously to capture images from all four regions of the scanning volume. This continuous parallel operation eliminates the need for sequential scanning, maintaining high scanning efficiency while the integrated camera module handles coordination internally.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated camera module is designed to self-coordinate the multiple image capture devices, illumination modules, and mirror systems internally. The module autonomously manages the synchronization and timing of all components without requiring external complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 solution enables high-speed scanning and decoding of diverse optical codes, including one-dimensional and two-dimensional barcodes, by capturing images from multiple angles and illuminating regions independently, thereby improving scanning efficiency and compatibility with various code formats.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of secondary fixed mirrors located within and attached to the vertical housing where the plurality of secondary fixed mirrors are positioned to direct images from four regions of an item scanning volume

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a plurality of illumination modules that direct generated light to the four regions of the item scanning area where each of the four regions is to be illuminated by one or more of the plurality of illumination modules

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight emission: Light

Data Source

PatentUS9367721B2Imaging optical code scanner with camera regions

Publication Date: 2016.06.14 NCR VOYIX CORP

AI summary

An imaging optical code scanner is presented that includes improved vertical optics for capturing images of items being presented for scanning. The improvements include multiple image capture devices, multiple illumination modules and viewing of items being scanning from four different directions. This allows for high pass-by scanning of items.