Imaging Scanner Multiple Object Sensors Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Imaging-based barcode readers face limitations in scanning throughput, particularly in handfree systems, where decoding is triggered by an object entering the field of view, and subsequent decodes are not allowed until the first item has fully exited, restricting the ability to scan multiple items simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
Implementing multiple object sensors with diverse object fields of view allows for simultaneous decoding of multiple items by determining the direction of movement and spatial relationships between objects, enabling continuous scanning without unnecessary triggers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single object sensor is used to trigger decoding, then the system is simple to implement, but scanning throughput is limited because subsequent decodes cannot occur until the first item exits the field of view
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the field of view into multiple zones by using multiple object sensors positioned at different locations. Each sensor independently monitors its specific zone, allowing the system to detect and decode multiple items simultaneously at different positions within the scanning area, thereby increasing throughput without requiring a single complex sensor system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point detection approach to a multi-point spatial distribution approach by arranging object sensors at different positions and orientations. This dimensional expansion of the detection field allows concurrent monitoring of multiple items at different locations, enabling parallel decoding operations and significantly improving scanning throughput
2Productivity
If multiple object sensors are used to increase scanning throughput, then multiple items can be decoded simultaneously, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection function across multiple independent object sensors, each responsible for monitoring a specific zone. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple items without requiring a single complex sensor system, maintaining relative simplicity while improving throughput
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs only the minimum number of object sensors needed to achieve simultaneous multi-item detection, avoiding excessive complexity. By strategically positioning a small number of sensors at critical locations, the system achieves sufficient coverage for high throughput without over-engineering the sensor array
3Productivity
If decoding is triggered by object entry into field of view, then the system responds to items, but it cannot decode multiple items simultaneously causing delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions multiple object sensors to detect items before they enter the central decoding zone. By monitoring items at different stages of approach and using predictive algorithms, the system can prepare decode operations in advance, reducing the time items spend in the decoding queue and increasing overall throughput
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous decoding operations by having multiple object sensors simultaneously detect and queue multiple items for decoding. While one item is being processed, other items detected by different sensors are already prepared or in-progress, eliminating idle time and maintaining continuous productive operation
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 approach significantly increases scanning throughput by enabling the decoding of multiple items while the first item is still in the field of view, improving efficiency and reducing user interaction, as demonstrated in both stationary and portable scanner implementations.
Implementation Method 1
Each object sensor is associated with a corresponding object field of view. Each object sensor is operative to detect the presence of an object within the corresponding object field of view
Data Source
AI summary
A method of decoding using an imaging scanner having multiple object sensors each associated with an object field of view. The method includes determining a moving direction of the object using at least two of the multiple object sensors. The moving direction of the object points from a first side to a second side of the imaging scanner. The method includes detecting whether a new object is presence with the object sensor located on the first side of the imaging scanner, and upon detecting the presence of the new object within the object field of view of the object sensor located on the first side of the imaging scanner, capturing an image of the new object in memory with the solid-state imager.