Optical Code Scanner With Segmented Windows For Printed And Electronic Codes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical code scanners face challenges in efficiently reading both printed and electronic codes due to the need for optimized scanning modes, leading to potential failure in reading codes on the first attempt, which can slow down purchase transactions.
Innovation Solution
The optical code scanner employs multiple scanning windows with different scanning modes, where each window is assigned a specific mode to optimize readability for either printed or electronic codes, using variable duty cycles and adaptive settings to adjust based on the type of code being presented.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single scanning mode is used for all scanning windows, then the device complexity is reduced, but the readability for different forms of optical codes (printed vs electronic) deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the scanning system into multiple scanning windows (first scanning window and second scanning window), where each window is assigned a specific scanning mode optimized for particular code types. This segmentation allows different parts of the system to handle different code forms (printed vs electronic) independently, resolving the contradiction between device simplicity and reading reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Each scanning window is configured with local quality optimized for its specific function - the first window uses settings optimized for printed codes while the second window uses settings optimized for electronic codes. This local optimization ensures high readability for each code type without requiring the entire system to accommodate all variations, thus maintaining simplicity while improving reliability.
2Device complexity
If the scanning mode is fixed for each window, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to changing code forms deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptability by allowing the processor to receive indications of code form and automatically switch which scanning window is active. While each window has a fixed optimized mode, the system dynamically selects the appropriate window based on the code form being scanned, thus achieving adaptability without increasing the complexity of individual window configurations.
3Device complexity
If image based scanning technology is not optimized for the specific presentation method, then the scanning system remains simple, but the transaction speed deteriorates due to failed reads
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary configuration by assigning specific scanning modes to specific windows before scanning begins. The processor pre-configures the first window for printed codes and the second window for electronic codes, so when a code needs to be scanned, the system can immediately use the pre-optimized settings without delay, thus improving transaction speed without adding operational complexity.
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 improves the scanner's ability to read codes on the first attempt, enhancing transaction efficiency by optimizing settings for the specific form of code presented, whether during item identification or payment phases.
Implementation Method 1
a first illumination device located within the housing such that it directs light generated by the device through the first scanning window
Implementation Method 2
a first image capture device located within the housing such that it receives an image through the first scanning window
Data Source
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AI summary
An optical code scanner (130) is presented that includes multiple scanning windows (220, 235, 365) for reading an optical code where each scanning window (220, 235, 365) can be optimized for reading optical codes presented in either printed or electronic form. The optical code scanner (130) supports multiple scanning modes where each scanning mode is based on a different method of reading optical codes and each method offers different advantages. Each of the multiple scanning windows (220, 235, 365) is assigned to use one of the scanning modes. The scanning mode for a window (220, 235, 365) can also be reassigned at any time to a different mode.