Scanning Device Single Drive Focus Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated analyzers require complex mechanics and high maintenance costs due to the need for two separate drives for focus and motion, while laser scanners have limited functionality and cannot read two-dimensional codes.
Innovation Solution
A scanning device with a single drive unit using a stepping motor and toothed belt to move a scanning unit with a camera, deflection mirrors, and lamps, allowing for adjustment of focus levels and scanning of various codes on objects with simple mechanics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate drives are used for focus setting and scanning unit motion, then both focus levels and multiple object distances can be acquired, but the device complexity increases and maintenance costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the focus adjustment function and scanning unit motion control into a single drive mechanism. The drive unit simultaneously controls both the position of the scanning unit and the focus level of the camera, eliminating the need for separate drives and reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining full functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The single drive unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls both the scanning unit's position along the optical path and the camera's focus level. This multi-functional design allows the system to acquire images at different object distances and focus levels using one integrated mechanism rather than separate specialized drives
2Device complexity
If a laser scanner is used to simplify mechanics, then device complexity is reduced, but the functionality is limited to barcode reading only
Solution Approach 1:
The camera-based scanning unit is designed to perform multiple scanning functions beyond just barcode reading. It can read both one-dimensional barcodes and two-dimensional codes, detect container caps, and identify various objects in the laboratory environment, all while using a simplified single-drive mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional laser scanning mechanism with a camera-based optical system. This substitution maintains mechanical simplicity while significantly expanding functional capabilities, as the camera can capture and process various types of visual information including codes, labels, and physical features of laboratory objects
3Adaptability or versatility
If two drives are used for focus and motion control, then comprehensive scanning capability is achieved, but the space requirement and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the focus adjustment mechanism and scanning unit positioning system into a single integrated drive unit, the patent reduces the overall space required for the scanning system. The combined mechanism eliminates the need for separate motor assemblies, control circuits, and mechanical components that would otherwise occupy additional space in the automated analyzer
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
Enables broad functionality with reduced complexity, lower maintenance risks, smaller space requirements, and lower costs, allowing for the reading of one and two-dimensional codes, container presence detection, and other functions.
Implementation Method 1
a scanning unit (20) enabled to move past and in front of an object (2) and set two different focus levels with one and the same drive unit (31, 32)
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a scanning method with simple mechanics for use in an automated analyzer to scan objects or codes on objects. The invention enables to move a scanning unit comprising a camera and two deflection mirrors and to set two different focus levels with one and the same drive unit.