Split-Type Code Scanner Base With Angled Reflector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing split-type code reading apparatuses are bulky, heavy, and costly due to design defects, making them inconvenient to use.
Innovation Solution
A split-type code reading apparatus with a base featuring a reflector parallel to the support surface and a light transmitting plate at an acute angle, allowing for a smaller volume, lighter weight, and lower cost, while maintaining ease of use through an inverted V-shaped design and detachable handheld scanner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional split-type code reading apparatus design is used, then code scanning functionality is achieved, but the apparatus becomes bulky, heavy, and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The code reading apparatus is divided into two independent parts: a base unit with reading window and a handheld scanner with camera. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the base can be compact while the handheld unit is lightweight and portable, resolving the contradiction between small volume and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical dimension by using a reflector positioned at a specific angle (45 degrees) to redirect light from the reading window to the camera. This dimensional arrangement in space allows the optical path to be folded, reducing the physical footprint of the apparatus while maintaining functionality.
2Weight of stationary object
If conventional split-type code reading apparatus design is used, then code scanning functionality is achieved, but the apparatus becomes bulky, heavy, and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical light guiding structures with a simple reflector positioned at a 45-degree angle. This substitution reduces the mechanical complexity and weight of the base unit while maintaining reliable light transmission from the reading window to the camera, ensuring scanning effectiveness.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional split-type code reading apparatus design is used, then code scanning functionality is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using complex lens systems or prisms to guide light, the patent inverts the approach by using a simple reflector positioned at 45 degrees to redirect light. This inverted approach using a mirror-like surface simplifies the optical system, reduces manufacturing complexity, and lowers costs while maintaining scanning functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the angle parameter of the reflector to 45 degrees, which is the optimal angle for redirecting light from a horizontal reading window to a vertical camera axis. This parameter optimization simplifies the overall structure and reduces manufacturing complexity compared to other angular configurations.
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 apparatus achieves a smaller size, lighter weight, and lower cost while maintaining effective code scanning capabilities, enhancing usability and reducing production costs.
Implementation Method 1
incident light from a graphic code to be scanned can reach the camera through the light transmitting hole after being reflected by the reflector
Implementation Method 2
a light transmitting plate mounted on the base and covering an outwardly-facing opening of the cavity
Data Source
AI summary
The present specification provides a two-part code reading apparatus, including: a supporting base with a reading window that comprises: a cavity formed in the supporting base; a reflector disposed on one side of the cavity, wherein the reflector is parallel to a flat surface when the supporting base is placed on the flat surface; a translucent plate that covers an opening of the cavity and forms an acute angle with the reflector; and a hole disposed on a side of the cavity opposite to the reflector, the hole allows light to pass through; and a handheld code scanner with a camera, wherein the camera is aligned with the hole when the handheld code scanner is detachably placed on the supporting base, so that incoming light reflected by the reflector is capable of being directed to the camera through the hole.