Shared-Sensor Near-Far Indicia Optics for Offset Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional dual optics indicia readers face challenges due to offsets between the aimer and imaging optics, leading to field of view mismatches and larger form factors, which affect scanning accuracy and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A triangular configuration of the aimer, near field optic, and far field optic with a shared imaging sensor array, along with a periscope prism setup, reduces optical axis offsets and allows for a smaller form factor by using a single PCB.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate imaging sensor array is used for each far field optic and near field optic, then each optic can independently capture indicia, but the device complexity and form factor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging sensor arrays into a single shared imaging sensor array that serves both the far field optic and near field optic. This merging reduces device complexity and form factor while maintaining the capability to independently capture indicia at different ranges through optical switching mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The single imaging sensor array is designed to perform multiple functions by capturing indicia from both far field and near field optics. The sensor array can be dynamically allocated to different optics based on scanning requirements, providing universal functionality across multiple imaging modes.
2Device complexity
If the aimer is positioned equidistant between the dual optics in a linear configuration, then the device structure is simplified, but field of view mismatch and aiming offsets increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a symmetric linear configuration to an asymmetric triangular arrangement where the aimer, near field optic, and far field optic are positioned at different spatial locations. This asymmetric positioning allows each component to have its optimal optical axis alignment, reducing field of view mismatch and aiming offsets while improving measurement precision.
3Ease of manufacture
If the optical axes of the aimer and imaging optics are offset, then the component alignment is easier, but scanning accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical switching mechanisms and beam combining optics as intermediaries between the aimer and imaging sensor array. These intermediary components allow the optical axes to be physically separated for easier manufacturing while maintaining accurate aiming through optical path management and beam steering mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, systems, and methods for providing a one sensor near far solution to minimize field of view mismatch and aiming offsets are provided. For example, an indicia reader utilizing dual optics may include an engine comprising a near field imaging optic and a far field imaging optic that split an imaging sensor array and a aimer; wherein the near field imaging optic, the far field imaging optic, and the aimer are configured in a triangular arrangement to minimize the field of mismatch and aiming offsets. In some embodiments, the far field imaging optic may be configured to utilize a two or more prisms to provide a periscope configuration.