Swappable Power Communication Module Reader
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Solution Overview
Problem
Handheld ID code readers face limitations due to the need for multiple interfaces and power sources, leading to ergonomic issues, limited battery life, and complex electronic requirements, as different communication protocols demand specific signal levels and power management, making it impractical to support all interfaces in a single device.
Innovation Solution
A modular system where a single reader module can be paired with various power/communication modules, including tethered and wireless options, with interchangeable connectors and optimized power management for each protocol, ensuring compatibility and flexibility without increasing device size or weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a reader includes multiple interfaces and power sources to support various communication protocols, then the reader becomes versatile and adaptable to different systems, but the connector size and handle diameter increase due to the high number of contacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the reader system into two separate modules: a handle module containing the imaging assembly and a separate power/communication module containing the connector. This segmentation allows the handle to remain small while the connector with multiple interface contacts is placed in a separate, interchangeable module that can be attached or detached as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The power/communication module is designed as a universal interface that can support multiple communication protocols (RS232, USB, Ethernet, Bluetooth, WiFi) and power sources (AC adapter, rechargeable battery, power over Ethernet) through a single standardized connector. This allows one module to perform multiple functions that would traditionally require separate dedicated modules or handles.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a reader includes multiple interfaces and power sources to support various communication protocols, then the reader becomes versatile and adaptable to different systems, but the cable weight increases and flexibility decreases due to more wires inside the tethered cable
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the power/communication module from the handle, the patent eliminates the need for a single heavy cable containing all interface wires. Instead, each interface can have its own dedicated cable or wireless connection, reducing the weight and improving flexibility for each individual connection type.
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply function is extracted from the tethered cable configuration and placed in a separate interchangeable module. This allows the use of wireless power transmission or localized power sources, eliminating the need for heavy wired power transmission over long distances.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a reader is configured to communicate via specific interfaces like RS232, then the reader can be used with legacy systems, but the reader cannot be used with systems that communicate via other interface types such as USB or Ethernet
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the interface functionality into a separate interchangeable module that can be detached and replaced. This allows the handle to maintain a simple, standardized interface while the complexity of supporting multiple communication protocols is concentrated in the separate module that can be swapped based on the specific application requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static, fixed interface configuration to a dynamic, reconfigurable architecture where the power/communication module can be interchangeably attached or detached. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt to different interface requirements without permanently incorporating all possible interfaces into the handle.
4Ease of operation
If a wireless reader with RF communication is used to operate without cables, then the reader gains mobility freedom, but the operating time is limited by battery capacity and power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the power management functions into the interchangeable module, allowing the handle to remain lightweight and cable-free. The module can be configured with different power sources (rechargeable battery, AC adapter, power over Ethernet) depending on the application, providing flexibility in managing operating duration without compromising mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic changes in power supply parameters by interchangeable modules. Users can switch between different power sources and power management configurations (battery capacity, charging rates, power consumption levels) to optimize operating time based on specific application requirements while maintaining wireless mobility.
Data Source
AI summary
A power/communication kit for use with a reader module where the code reader module includes a reader connector and a reader housing, the power/communication kit comprising a plurality of different power/communication modules wherein each module communicates via a different communication protocol and each includes a power source and a communication component suitable for communicating via an associated communication protocol, wherein, each of the modules is securable to the reader module in a similar fashion such that any one of the power/communication modules can be swapped for any other of the power/communication modules so that the reader can be used with different communication systems.