Single Camera Imaging Scanner with Spatial Mirror Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laser-based barcode scanners lack the capability to capture barcodes from multiple surfaces and orientations efficiently, limiting their performance compared to image-based scanners which require multiple fields of view to effectively read barcodes on various surfaces of products as they move across scanning windows.
Innovation Solution
A bioptic imaging scanner system with spatial mirror switching and splitting of a single camera's field of view into multiple scan window fields of view, utilizing a rotor with rotating and stationary mirrors to provide omni-directional coverage, allowing for reading of barcodes on six orthogonal surfaces by generating eight fields of view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single field of view is used in an imaging scanner, then the device complexity is reduced, but the capability to capture barcodes on multiple surfaces and orientations is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single camera's field of view into multiple scan window fields of view using spatial mirror switching and splitting. A rotor with multiple mirrors alternately directs different portions of the scene into the camera, effectively segmenting the monocular FOV into multiple functional viewing zones that can capture barcodes on various surfaces simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension through the rotating mirror mechanism. By rapidly switching mirrors in sequence, the system creates multiple fields of view over time, transforming a single spatial FOV into multiple temporal-spatial FOVs that cover different surfaces and orientations
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fields of view are generated using multiple cameras, then the capability to capture barcodes on multiple surfaces is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple cameras into a single camera system. By using one camera with a rotating mirror assembly, the system combines what would otherwise require multiple separate imaging devices, reducing complexity while maintaining the capability to capture barcodes on multiple surfaces through temporal-multiplexed viewing
Solution Approach 2:
A single camera is made multi-functional through the mirror switching mechanism. The same camera sensor performs the work of multiple specialized cameras by rapidly directing different fields of view to it, making one device universal for capturing barcodes on top, bottom, leading, trailing, and side surfaces
3Measurement precision
If the exposure time is increased to capture moving products, then the image quality improves, but the blur during exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic mirror rotation synchronized with the camera exposure cycle. Mirrors are switched at specific periodic intervals during the exposure, allowing the system to capture multiple instantaneous views of moving products. This periodic switching enables effective imaging with shorter exposure times by compositeing multiple temporal snapshots
Solution Approach 2:
The mirror positions are pre-configured to anticipate product movement and orientation. The rotating mirrors are positioned in advance to direct the appropriate field of view into the camera at the optimal moment, allowing the system to capture clear images of moving products without requiring long exposure times that would cause blur
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
The system enables effective imaging and reading of barcodes on leading, trailing, top, bottom, vertical, and horizontal surfaces, surpassing the performance of laser-based systems by providing comprehensive omni-directional coverage and minimizing blur during exposure.
Implementation Method 1
uses spatial mirror switching and splitting of a single camera's field of view into multiple scan window fields of view
Implementation Method 2
The field of view from each rotating mirror is reflected via multiple further mirrors to provide multiple fields of view through a scanner window
Data Source
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AI summary
An imaging system (100) includes a camera (110) having a field of view (115), a set of axially spaced moveable mirrors (120 to 122) supported on a rotor (125) to rotate the mirrors (120 to 122) within the field of view (115) of the camera (110), and a set of stationary mirrors (135 to 137) supported to redirect the fields of view from the set of moveable mirrors (120 to 122) to provide multiple fields of view at different angles.