Switchable Mirror Scanner for Multi-Field Optical Code Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical code scanners, such as laser-based scanners, face limitations in capturing multiple fields of view without moving parts and are less effective in identifying product color schemes due to reliance on single-wavelength reflectivity.
Innovation Solution
A scanner employing an electronically switchable mirror that alternates between reflective and transmissive states, synchronized with the camera's frame rate, to image multiple fields of view using white-light illumination, allowing for simultaneous data processing and robust color scheme identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional laser-based scanners are used to capture multiple fields of view, then moving parts are required to change viewing angles, but this increases device complexity and reduces reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by using an electronically switchable mirror that can dynamically change its state between reflective and transmissive without mechanical movement. The mirror is controlled by voltage changes that alter its optical properties, allowing the system to switch between different fields of view electronically rather than mechanically, thus eliminating moving parts while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by modifying the optical state of the mirror through electrical voltage control. The mirror's reflectivity and transmissivity parameters are changed dynamically by applying different voltages, enabling the system to capture multiple fields of view by altering the mirror's optical parameters rather than its physical position, thereby reducing device complexity.
2Device complexity
If single-wavelength laser illumination is used, then the scanning mechanism is simpler, but the ability to identify product color schemes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using white light illumination that contains multiple wavelengths simultaneously, allowing the single scanning mechanism to perform both the function of simple scanning and the additional function of color scheme identification. The white light source provides broad spectral coverage, enabling the system to detect various product color schemes without requiring multiple specialized illumination sources or complex scanning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes periodic action by alternating the switchable mirror between reflective and transmissive states in synchronization with the camera frame rate. This periodic switching allows the system to capture multiple fields of view sequentially, with each frame capturing a different angular perspective illuminated by white light, thereby enabling color identification through temporal multiplexing of the illumination and capture process.
3Device complexity
If the switchable mirror switching is not synchronized with the camera frame rate, then the control system is simpler, but the image capture quality and accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by synchronizing the switchable mirror's state changes with the camera's frame rate through a coordinated control system. The control system receives timing information from the camera and adjusts the mirror switching accordingly, ensuring that each captured frame corresponds to the intended field of view. This feedback mechanism maintains image capture accuracy while managing control system complexity through efficient timing coordination.
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 efficient capture of multiple fields of view without moving parts and enhances optical code identification by utilizing white-light illumination, improving color scheme detection and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
light that reflects from at least one mirror and reflects from the switchable mirror
Implementation Method 2
light that reflects from at least one mirror and transmits through the switchable mirror
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of white light emitting diodes can illuminate the scan volume
Data Source
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AI summary
A scanner (300) for scanning an item (302) positioned in a scan volume (304) can include: an electronically switchable mirror (306) configured to switch between a reflective state and a transmissive state, a plurality of mirrors (310, 312), and a camera (314) having a sensor. In a method for scanning the item, the scanner (300) can repeatedly: switch the switchable mirror (306) from the reflective state to the transmissive state, image a first field of view (316) of the item (302) onto the sensor with light that reflects from at least one mirror (310) and transmits through the switchable mirror (306), switch the switchable mirror (306) from the transmissive state to the reflective state, and image a second field of view (318) of the item (302) onto the sensor with light that reflects from at least one mirror (312) and reflects from the switchable mirror (306). In some examples, the scanner (300) can synchronize the switching of the switchable mirror (306) to a frame rate of the sensor.