Stationary Barcode Scanner Optical Path Bending
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stationary-type information code reading apparatuses face challenges in maintaining a compact size while ensuring a wide view area for imaging information codes near the reading opening, as increasing the distance of the optical system to the reading opening to achieve this results in a thicker apparatus and potential obstruction of the image forming unit within the view area.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a reflecting unit that reflects light entering through the reading opening, with a configuration where the image forming unit leads the reflected light to the light-receiving area, and the view areas are designed to bend inside the case, allowing for a longer optical path without significant thickness increase, and the reflecting unit is positioned to prevent its lower end from appearing in the imaging area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the distance from the optical system to the reading opening is increased to secure a wide view area, then the view area is improved, but the apparatus thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reflecting unit that redirects the optical path at an angle, transforming the optical path from a straight vertical arrangement to a bent path that extends in the horizontal dimension. This allows the optical path length to be extended without increasing the vertical thickness of the apparatus, effectively resolving the contradiction between view area and apparatus thickness.
2Length of stationary object
If a reflecting unit is introduced to extend the optical path, then the apparatus thickness is reduced, but the image forming unit may appear in the view area causing imaging interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the reflecting unit semi-transparent in the regions where it might interfere with the view area. This allows light from the information code to pass through these regions while still providing reflection in other areas, thus preventing the reflecting unit itself from appearing in the captured image while maintaining the extended optical path functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameter of the reflecting unit by making it semi-transparent rather than fully reflective. This parameter change allows the reflecting unit to perform dual functions: reflecting light to extend the optical path while simultaneously allowing light to pass through, preventing interference with the imaging area.
3Volume of moving object
If the reflecting unit is positioned closer to the image forming unit to reduce size, then the apparatus compactness is improved, but the lower end of the reflecting unit may appear in the imaging area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical parameter of the reflecting unit by making it semi-transparent, which allows it to be positioned closer to the image forming unit without causing interference in the imaging area. The semi-transparent property ensures that even if part of the reflecting unit is within the view area, it will not appear as an obstruction in the captured image.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by making specific regions of the reflecting unit semi-transparent where they would otherwise interfere with the view area. This allows the reflecting unit to be compactly positioned while maintaining full view area coverage, as the semi-transparent regions allow light to pass through without obstruction.
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 configuration reduces the overall thickness and size of the apparatus while ensuring a wide view area for imaging information codes, preventing the image forming unit from appearing in the captured image and minimizing the risk of warped code images.
Implementation Method 1
a reflecting unit 29 that reflects light that has entered through the reading opening 5 from outside the case 3
Data Source
AI summary
A stationary-type reading apparatus (1) that reads an information code is provided. The apparatus (1) includes a case (3) that has a reading opening (5). An imaging unit (23), an image forming unit (27), and a reflecting unit (29) are housed inside the case (3). The reflecting unit (29) reflects light that has entered through the reading opening (5) towards the image forming unit (27), The reflected light is led to a light receiving area of the imaging unit (23) by the image forming unit (27). The image forming unit (27) prescribes a view area in which the imaging unit (23) is able to perform imaging. The view area is configured by a first view area (AR1) that is positioned between the image forming unit (27) and the reflecting unit (29) and a second view area (AR2) that is positioned towards outside of the case (3), through the reading opening (5) from the reflecting unit (29). A lower end of a reflection area of light from the reflecting unit (29) is positioned at least at the lower end of the first view area (AR1). The image forming unit (27) is disposed in a position off the second view area (AR2).