Metrologic Instruments, Inc. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20150144698 | LASER SCANNING CODE SYMBOL READING SYSTEM PROVIDING CONTROL OVER LENGTH OF LASER SCAN LINE PROJECTED ONTO A SCANNED OBJECT USING DYNAMIC RANGE-DEPENDENT SCAN ANGLE CONTROL - Method of and system for reading bar code symbols using a hand-supportable laser scanning bar code symbol reading system supporting an improved level control over the length of laser scan lines projected onto scanned objects, at any instant in time, in a manner dependent the detected location, distance or range of the scanned object in the scanning field of the system during system operation. The length characteristics of the laser scan line are controlled by setting the laser scan sweep angle as a function of detected or estimated distance or range of the object from the system. In the illustrative embodiment, the laser scan sweep angle is controlled by supplying a drive current to the scanning mechanism, as a function of detected or estimated distance or range of the object from the scanning system. | 05-28-2015 |
20140346233 | IMAGING BASED BARCODE SCANNER ENGINE WITH MULTIPLE ELEMENTS SUPPORTED ON A COMMON PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD - An apparatus for use in decoding a bar code symbol may include an image sensor integrated circuit having a plurality of pixels, timing and control circuitry for controlling an image sensor, gain circuitry for controlling gain, and analog to digital conversion circuitry for conversion of an analog signal to a digital signal. The apparatus may also include a printed circuit board for receiving the image sensor integrated circuit. The connection between the image sensor integrated circuit and the printed circuit board characterized by a plurality of conductive adhesive connectors disposed between a plurality of electrode pads and a plurality of contact pads, where the conductive adhesive connectors provide electrical input/output and mechanical connections between the image sensor integrated circuit and the printed circuit board. The apparatus may be operative for processing image signals generated by the image sensor integrated circuit for attempting to decode the bar code symbol. | 11-27-2014 |
20140217180 | INDICIA DECODING DEVICE WITH SECURITY LOCK - A securable indicia encoding system with a lock receiving portion is disclosed herein. In one illustrative embodiment, a securable indicia decoding device may include an imaging subsystem, a memory, a processor, and a housing. The imaging subsystem may include an image sensor array and an imaging optics assembly operative for focusing an image onto the image sensor array. The memory may be capable of storing frames of image data comprising data communicated through the read-out portion of at least some of the pixels during the imaging operation. The processor may be operative for receiving one or more of the frames of image data from the data storage element and performing a decode operation for attempting to decode a decodable feature represented in at least one of the frames of image data. The housing may encapsulate the illumination subsystem and the imaging subsystem. The housing may include a lock receiving portion for receiving a security lock. | 08-07-2014 |
20140197238 | TERMINAL HAVING IMAGE DATA FORMAT CONVERSION - There is set forth herein an indicia reading terminal having data format conversion capabilities. The indicia reading terminal includes an image sensor integrated circuit with an image sensor array comprising a plurality of pixels. The image sensor integrated circuit is configured to output image data in a first data format to a data formatting circuit for conversion to image data in a second data format. The data formatting circuit is configured to provide the image data in the second data format to the at least one data interface of a microprocessor integrated circuit, which is operative to transfer image data received by the at least one data interface into memory of the indicia reading terminal. A CPU of the microprocessor integrated circuit is operative for executing a decoding algorithm for processing image data in the memory for attempting to decode at least one symbol represented in the memory. | 07-17-2014 |
20140192159 | CAMERA REGISTRATION AND VIDEO INTEGRATION IN 3D GEOMETRY MODEL - Apparatus, systems, and methods may operate to receive a real image or real images of a coverage area of a surveillance camera. Building Information Model (BIM) data associated with the coverage area may be received. A virtual image may be generated using the BIM data. The virtual image may include at least one three-dimensional (3-D) graphics that substantially corresponds to the real image. The virtual image may be mapped with the real image. Then, the surveillance camera may be registered in a BIM coordination system using an outcome of the mapping. | 07-10-2014 |
20140160329 | INDICIA READING TERMINAL WITH COLOR FRAME PROCESSING - An indicia reading terminal can comprise an image sensor integrated circuit having a two-dimensional image sensor, a hand held housing encapsulating the two-dimensional image sensor, and an imaging lens configured to focus an image of a target decodable indicia onto the two-dimensional image sensor. The two-dimensional image sensor can include a plurality of pixels arranged in repetitive patterns. Each pattern can include at least one pixel sensitive in a first spectrum region, at least one pixel sensitive in a second spectrum region, and at least one pixel sensitive in a third spectrum region. The image sensor integrated circuit can be configured to capture a frame of image data by reading out a plurality of analog signals. Each read out analog signal can be representative of light incident on a group of two or more pixels of the plurality of pixels. | 06-12-2014 |
20140131441 | DECODABLE INDICIA READING TERMINAL WITH INDICIA ANALYSIS FUNCTIONALITY - A decodable indicia reading terminal can comprise a multiple pixel image sensor, an imaging lens configured to focus an image of decodable indicia on the image sensor, an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter configured to convert an analog signal read out of the image sensor into a digital signal, a communication interface, and a microprocessor configured to output decoded message data corresponding to the decodable indicia by processing the digital signal. The decodable indicia reading terminal can be configured, responsive to a triggering event, to transmit via the communication interface a decoding result and an indicia readability rating. The triggering event can be provided by a failure to detect decodable indicia, the indicia readability rating being less than a pre-defined threshold, exceeding a pre-defined time period to decode decodable indicia, a user interface action, and a command received via said communication interface. | 05-15-2014 |
20140131438 | MMS TEXT MESSAGING FOR HAND HELD INDICIA READER - A method of operating a reader system includes: establishment a hand held reader configured to read an information bearing medium at an establishment and accepting text message communications from the establishment; reading the information bearing medium at the establishment with the reader; and, sending at least one text message communication to an operator of the reader at the establishment on the reader GUI from the establishment when the establishment recognizes a need for a specific notice requirement after reading the information bearing medium. | 05-15-2014 |
20140070005 | SCANNER WITH WAKE-UP MODE - An indicia reader system includes an indicia reader provided at a point of transaction; a controller for controlling power to the indicia reader; a detector for detecting a customer, item or shopping cart at the point of transaction and providing an indication signal to the controller of the presence of customer, item or shopping cart at the point of transaction; wherein the controller interrupts power to the indicia reader during a power save mode and resumes power to the indicia reader upon receiving the indication signal. | 03-13-2014 |
20140061305 | SYMBOL READING SYSTEM HAVING PREDICTIVE DIAGNOSTICS - A retail information network includes one or more POS scanning and checkout systems, each including (i) a bar code symbol reading subsystem, and (ii) a cash register computer subsystem interfaced with the bar code symbol reading subsystem and a network infrastructure, and each having access to product and price data maintained in a product/price database. The bar code symbol reading subsystem includes a local predictive error event (PEE) data store for logging and storing predictive error events (PEEs) detected within the bar code symbol reading system, wherein said PEEs are subsequently sent to POS information servers used to create predictive error alerts (PEAs) and corresponding instructions to maintain and/or repair certain aspects of the bar code symbol reading system. | 03-06-2014 |
20140034723 | APPARATUS FOR DISPLAYING BAR CODES FROM LIGHT EMITTING DISPLAY SURFACES - Disclosed is a method of and apparatus for managing and redeeming bar-coded coupons that are displayed from a light emitting display surface of an information storage and display device, such as a cell-phone, a smart-phone, or a data communication device. The linear (1D) bar code symbols, associated with bar-coded store coupons, are displayed on the light emitting display surface using in a pulse code modulation (PCM) format, wherein a substantial portion of the pixels on the light emitting display surface are energized and de-energized to emit red-wavelengths of light energy, at a rate which temporally corresponds to the spatial frequency of the bars and spaces of the linear bar code symbol, so that a laser scanning bar code symbol reading device is capable of reading the PCM formatted bar code symbol displayed from the light emitting display surface. | 02-06-2014 |
20140027518 | HYBRID-TYPE BIOPTICAL LASER SCANNING AND DIGITAL IMAGING SYSTEM SUPPORTING AUTOMATIC OBJECT MOTION DETECTION AT THE EDGES OF A 3D SCANNING VOLUME - A hybrid-type bi-optical bar code symbol reading system has a vertical housing section with a vertical scanning window and a horizontal housing section with a horizontal scanning window from which laser scanning planes are projected and intersect within a 3D scanning volume defined between the vertical and horizontal scanning windows. An automatic object edge-motion detection subsystem is provided for detecting the entry and exit of objects at the edge of the 3D scanning volume and generating control signals in response thereto. A digital imaging subsystem is supported within the system housing and automatically projects a field of view (FOV) within the 3D scanning volume in response to control signals generated by the automatic object edge-motion detection subsystem and timer settings managed by a system controller. | 01-30-2014 |
20140025584 | INDICIA ENCODING SYSTEM WITH INTEGRATED PURCHASE AND PAYMENT INFORMATION - An indicia encoding system is disclosed herein that encodes integrated information on products and/or services selected for purchase and payment information for purchasing the selected products and/or services, in accordance with a variety of embodiments involving various methods, devices and systems. In one illustrative embodiment, a method may include entering purchase order information via one or more input/output components. The purchase order may include an indication for one or more products and/or one or more services. The method may also include entering payment information, including information on a method of payment, via one or more input/output components. The method may also include generating a machine-readable indicia that encodes both the purchase order information and the payment information, with the payment information in an encrypted form; and displaying the machine-readable indicia on a screen. | 01-23-2014 |
20130327834 | LASER SCANNING MODULE WITH ROTATABLY ADJUSTABLE LASER SCANNING ASSEMBLY - A laser scanning module employing a laser scanning assembly mounted within a module housing using a mechanism that allows the laser scanning assembly to be rotated to an angular position within the engine housing so that light collection, beam folding and light collection mirrors in the module housing are optically aligned. A PC board is mounted on a side of the housing and has a configuration of elongated apertures of open-ended and/or closed geometry, arranged in a non-parallel manner. An electromagnetic coil structure, associated with the laser scanning assembly, has a linear array of electrically-conductive pins that project through the configuration of elongated holes, at locations along the elongated holes that are determined by the angular rotation of the laser scanning assembly attained during optical alignment conditions during manufacture. | 12-12-2013 |
20130313325 | LASER SCANNING CODE SYMBOL READING SYSTEM EMPLOYING PROGRAMMABLE DECODE TIME-WINDOW FILTERING - A method and system for reading code symbols using a code symbol reading system having a programmable decode time-window filter mode of operation. During this mode of operation, only decoded code symbols that have been scanned within a selected (e.g. central) portion of the laser scan line field are processed according to a special decode time-window filtering function. In particular, if the decoded bar code symbol is a programming-type bar code symbol, then the system controller applies the function represented by the programming-type bar code symbol; and if the decoded bar code symbol is a non-programming-type bar code symbol, then the system controller either transmits symbol character data associated therewith to the host system or stores the symbol character data within memory aboard the bar code symbol reading system. | 11-28-2013 |
20130306734 | LASER SCANNING CODE SYMBOL READING SYSTEM EMPLOYING MULTI-CHANNEL SCAN DATA SIGNAL PROCESSING WITH SYNCHRONIZED DIGITAL GAIN CONTROL (SDGC) FOR FULL RANGE SCANNING - A laser scanning code symbol reading system includes an analog scan data signal processor for producing digital data signals, wherein during each scanning cycle, a light collection and photo-detection module generates an analog scan data signal corresponding to a laser scanned code symbol, a multi-channel parallel scan data signal processor/digitizer processes the analog scan data signal along multiple cascaded multi-stage signal processing channels, to generate digital data signals corresponding thereto, while a synchronized digital gain control module automatically processes the digital data signals in response to start of scan (SOS) signals generated by a SOS detector. Each signal processing channel supports different stages of amplification and filtering using a different set of band-pass filtering and gain parameters in each channel, to produce multiple digital first derivative data signals, and/or multiple digital scan data intensity data signals, having different signal amplitudes and dynamic range characteristics for use in decode processing. | 11-21-2013 |
20130306730 | Laser Scanning Code Symbol Reading System Providing Improved Control Over the Length and Intensity Characteristics of a Laser Scan Line Projected Therefrom Using Laser Source Blanking Control - Method of and system for reading bar code symbols using a hand-supportable laser scanning bar code symbol reading system supporting an improved level control over the length and intensity characteristics of laser scan lines projected onto scanned objects, at any instant in time, in a manner dependent the detected location, distance or range of the scanned object in the scanning field of the system during system operation. The system includes a laser scanning module that projects the laser scanning beam through a light transmission window, and across a laser scanning field in which an object is located, while the laser scanning beam is blanked out during the laser scanning cycle according to a laser source blanking function that is determined by the estimated distance, or data representative thereof. | 11-21-2013 |
20130292474 | INDICIA READING SYSTEM EMPLOYING DIGITAL GAIN CONTROL - A laser scanning code symbol reading system includes an analog scan data signal processor for producing digitized data signals, wherein during each laser beam scanning cycle, a light collection and photo-detection module generates an analog scan data signal corresponding to a laser scanned code symbol, an analog scan data signal processor/digitizer processes the analog scan data signal to generate digital data signals corresponding thereto, and a synchronized digital gain control module automatically processes the digitized data signals in response to start of scan (SOS) signals generated by a SOS detector. The synchronized digital gain control module generates digital control data which is transmitted to the analog scan data signal processor for use in controlling the gain of at least one signal processing stage in the light collection and photo-detection module and/or analog scan data signal processor, during the corresponding laser beam scanning cycle. | 11-07-2013 |
20130278425 | POINT OF SALE (POS) BASED CHECKOUT SYSTEM SUPPORTING A CUSTOMER-TRANSPARENT TWO-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION PROCESS DURING PRODUCT CHECKOUT OPERATIONS - A checkout system is provided for carrying out a two-factor authentication process where coded products are purchased and theft activity might be pursued. The system typically includes an identification code reader for reading product identification codes (e.g. UPC bar code symbols or EPC-encoded RFID tags) on products that are passed through the point of sale (POS) and a security code detector/reader for automatically detecting/reading a security code (e.g. implemented as an EAS tag or an RFID tag) at the POS. During product checkout operations, the identification code reader reads identification codes, and the security code detector/reader detects or reads security codes applied to products. Collected identification and security data is automatically processed using identification and security data stored in a database to determine whether or not each product being purchased at the POS is in compliance or not in compliance with a two-factor authentication process supported by the checkout system. | 10-24-2013 |
20130270346 | SYMBOL READING SYSTEM - A POS-based bar code symbol reading system reads bar code symbols on objects being passed through the 3D imaging or scanning volume supported by the system, and employs one or more object motion sensors (e.g. imaging based, IR Pulse-Doppler LIDAR-based, ultra-sonic energy based, etc.) to (i) measure or estimate the speed of objects being manually passed through the 3D imaging or scanning volume by the system operator, and (ii) visually and/or audibly display object scanning speed measures or estimates to provide the system operator with feedback for optimizing system throughput. The POS-based bar code symbol reading system has a performance advantage that leads to quicker customer checkout times and productivity gain that cannot be matched by the conventional bar code symbol scanning technology. | 10-17-2013 |
20130256418 | LASER SCANNING SYSTEM USING LASER BEAM SOURCES FOR PRODUCING LONG AND SHORT WAVELENGTHS IN COMBINATION WITH BEAM-WAIST EXTENDING OPTICS TO EXTEND THE DEPTH OF FIELD THEREOF WHILE RESOLVING HIGH RESOLUTION BAR CODE SYMBOLS HAVING MINIMUM CODE ELEMENT WIDTHS - A laser scanning bar code symbol reading system having a scanning window, from which blue/red beam-waist-extended laser scanning planes are projected and intersect within an extended depth of field (DOF) defined adjacent the scanning window. In the illustrative embodiment, the laser scanning bar code symbol reading system includes a laser scanning subsystem having: a dual laser sources for producing a laser beams having blue and red spectral components; a collimating lens for collimating the laser beams; an aperture stop for shaping the cross-sectional dimensions of the collimated the laser beams; and beam-waist extending optics (e.g. axicon-lens) for extending the waist of the laser beam having a red characteristic wavelength. | 10-03-2013 |
20130250806 | WIRELESS NETWORK DEVICE - Various wireless network components offer increased flexibility, ease of use, functionality and performance in many demanding applications in diverse fields of use. In particular, a wireless multi-function network device for use on a wireless communication network can serve multiple functions and dynamically switch and reconfigure from a network router into a network coordinator in the event that the originally designated network coordinator is permanently or temporally disabled. | 09-26-2013 |
20130240626 | PARALLEL DECODING SCHEME FOR AN INDICIA READER - A method for collecting and processing information bearing indicia (IBI) comprising the steps of: converting light reflected off an IBI into IBI signals representative of the IBI; running at least one signal process for processing the IBI signals on a first processor if the IBI is of a first type; and running at least one signal process for processing the IBI signals on a second processor if the IBI is of a second type, wherein the first processor and second processor are configured to run in parallel. | 09-19-2013 |
20130214048 | LASER SCANNING BAR CODE SYMBOL READING SYSTEM HAVING INTELLIGENT SCAN SWEEP ANGLE ADJUSTMENT CAPABILITIES OVER THE WORKING RANGE OF THE SYSTEM FOR OPTIMIZED BAR CODE SYMBOL READING PERFORMANCE - Method of and system for reading bar code symbols a laser scanning bar code symbol reading system having the capacity to intelligently control the scan sweep angle of a laser scanning beam in a user-transparent and intuitive manner. In the event that two or more bar code symbol indications are represented in a buffered line of scan data, then the scan sweep angle of the laser scanning beam is automatically reduced so that the resulting laser scanning beam will be shortened and only a single bar code symbol will be scanned, most likely with the center portion of the laser scanning beam. | 08-22-2013 |
20130213785 | TRIGGER MECHANISM FOR HAND HELD DEVICES - A trigger mechanism includes soft stops and an associated method activates a switch in a device or apparatus. The trigger mechanism includes a trigger receptacle, a trigger disposed in the trigger receptacle and movable between an un-actuated and an actuated position by a user depressing the trigger, and a soft stop comprised of at least one projection positioned to engage a resilient elastomeric insert. Moving the trigger from the un-actuated to actuated position compresses the elastomeric insert with the projection and activates the switch to provide a tactile sensation of the switch activation to the user. The switch may be an electric switch disposed in a hand held device, such as a barcode scanner in some embodiments. | 08-22-2013 |
20130200158 | LASER SCANNING MODULES EMBODYING SILICONE SCAN ELEMENT WITH TORSIONAL HINGES - Laser scanning module employing a scan mirror and magnet rotor subassembly supported by a stationary stator structure. The scan mirror and magnet rotor subassembly includes: a silicone frame having a pair of silicone torsional hinges (i.e. posts) aligned along a scan axis and a supported by a pair of support elements associated with the stator structure, to support the scan mirror and magnet rotor subassembly. When the scan mirror and magnet rotor subassembly is rotated about its scan axis, by forces generated by an electromagnetic coil structure acting on the permanent magnet mounted on silicone frame, the silicone torsional hinges are elastically distorted and generate linear restoring forces which return the rotor subassembly back to its home position about the scan axis. | 08-08-2013 |
20130200156 | Image Capture and Processing System Supporting a Multi-tier Modular Software Architecture - An image capture and processing system supports a multi-tier modular software, and plug-in extendable, architecture. The image capture and processing system can be realized as an image-capturing cell phone, a digital camera, a video camera, mobile computing terminal and portable data terminal (PDT), provided with suitable hardware platform, communication protocols and user interfaces. A third-party customer can write and install a software plug-in into the application layer so as to enhance or modify the behavior of the image capture and processing system without any required knowledge of the hardware platform, communication protocols and/or user interfaces. | 08-08-2013 |
20130194451 | AUTO-EXPOSURE METHOD USING CONTINUOUS VIDEO FRAMES UNDER CONTROLLED ILLUMINATION - A strobe illumination control process for use in a digital image capture and processing system includes illuminating an object in the field of view with different pulses of illumination over a pair of consecutive video image frames, detecting digital images of the illuminated object over these consecutive image frames, and decode processing the digital images. In a first illustrative embodiment, upon failure to read a symbol in one of the first and second images, these digital images are analyzed in real-time, and based on the results of this real-time image analysis, the exposure time is adjusted during subsequent image frames. In a second illustrative embodiment, upon failure to read a symbol in one of the first and second images, these digital images are analyzed in real-time, and based on the results of this real-time image analysis, the energy level of the illumination is adjusted during subsequent image frames. | 08-01-2013 |
20130193212 | METHOD OF AND SYSTEM FOR READING VISIBLE AND/OR INVISIBLE CODE SYMBOLS IN A USER-TRANSPARENT MANNER USING VISIBLE/INVISIBLE ILLUMINATION SOURCE SWITCHING DURING DATA CAPTURE AND PROCESSING OPERATIONS - A digital imaging based symbol reading system has the capacity to automatically read both visible and invisible symbols in the same application environment. Typically, the system reads the symbols in a user-transparent manner. The system may employ visible/invisible illumination switching during operation. The system may include LED illumination sources. A method for reading both visible and invisible symbols using a single device is also disclosed. | 08-01-2013 |
20130153659 | BAR CODE SYMBOL READING SYSTEM EMPLOYING EAS-ENABLING FACEPLATE BEZEL - An apparatus includes the primary components of an EAS system and a hand-supportable and countertop-supportable bar code symbol reading system having a housing with a light transmission window covered by an optically transparent faceplate having outer dimensions closely matched to the light transmission window. About the optically transparent faceplate, a faceplate bezel is mounted embodying a coil of electrically conductive wire having terminals connected to an electrical interface circuit, which is connected to a flexible EAS cable extending from the electrical interface circuit. The flexible EAS cable extends towards electrical drive circuitry associated with the EAS subsystem, for powering the coil during EAS tag deactivation operations controlled by the host computer system. | 06-20-2013 |
20130087618 | DISTINCTIVE NOTICE FOR DIFFERENT SYMBOLOGY INFORMATION - An indicia reader is adapted for hand held operation to read information bearing indicia (IBI) at a point of transaction (POT) and is operated by: configuring the indicia reader in a store to provide at least one store specific indicia read notice; reading an IBI at a POT with the indicia reader and providing the at least one store specific indicia read notice to a customer when each IBI is read. | 04-11-2013 |
20130068840 | METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR MULTIPLYING RASTER SCANNING LINES BY MODULATING A MULTI-CAVITY LASER DIODE - A method of and apparatus for generating a multiple raster-type scanning pattern by modulating a multi-cavity laser diode in such a way that it sequentially generates different laser beams synchronously during different laser scanning cycles, while the output laser beams are directed incident upon a rotating polygonal laser scanning element. The system does not require additional moving parts beyond the rotating polygon scanning element so as to reduce complexity and simplify construction of the laser scanning mechanism. | 03-21-2013 |
20130062413 | INDIVIDUALIZED SCANNER - A method of operating a reader system includes: providing a reader for reading information data carriers; an operator loading a configuration overlay onto the configuration settings of the reader upon successful logging, wherein the configuration overlay is specific to the operator; and reading information data carriers utilizing the configuration overlay. | 03-14-2013 |
20130062409 | SCANNER WITH WAKE-UP MODE - An indicia reader system includes an indicia reader provided at a point of transaction; a controller for controlling power to the indicia reader; a detector for detecting a customer, item or shopping cart at the point of transaction and providing an indication signal to the controller of the presence of customer, item or shopping cart at the point of transaction; wherein the controller interrupts power to the indicia reader during a power save mode and resumes power to the indicia reader upon receiving the indication signal. | 03-14-2013 |
20130056285 | BIOPTICAL POINT OF SALE (POS) CHECKOUT SYSTEM EMPLOYING A RETRACTABLE WEIGH PLATTER SUPPORT SUBSYSTEM - A POS-based checkout/scale system including system housing having a vertical housing section with a vertical scanning window, and a horizontal housing section. An electronic weigh scale subsystem is integrated with the system housing, and has a weigh platter supported above the horizontal housing section by a pair of cantilever-type weigh scale arms operably connected to an electronic load cell module. During a first mode of operation a powered support mechanism allows the cantilever-type weigh scale arms to bear the full weight of the weigh platter and any items supported thereon so that the electronic load cell module can accurately measure the weight of items on the weigh platter, and generate weigh data for transmission to the host computer system. During a second mode of operation, the powered support mechanism automatically prevents the electronic load cell module from experiencing the weight of items placed on the weigh platter. | 03-07-2013 |
20130054390 | ENCODED INFORMATION READING TERMINAL WITH NFC PAYMENT PROCESSING FUNCTIONALITY - An encoded information reading (EIR) terminal can comprise a microprocessor, a communication interface, an NFC reading device, and an EIR device, all communicatively coupled to the system bus. The EIR reading device can be provided by a bar code reading device, an RFID reading device, or a card reading device. The EIR device can be configured to perform outputting raw message data containing an encoded message or outputting decoded message data corresponding to an encoded message. The EIR terminal can be configured, responsive to completing a decoding operation by the EIR device, to initiate a payment operation using the NFC reading device. The EIR terminal can be further configured, responsive to receiving a response from an NFC tag supporting a payment protocol, to transmit a payment operation request to an external computer. | 02-28-2013 |
20130049962 | ENCODED INFORMATION READING TERMINAL WITH ITEM LOCATE FUNCTIONALITY - An encoded information reading terminal can comprise a microprocessor, a memory communicatively coupled to the microprocessor, a communication interface, and an RFID reading device configured to output raw message data comprising an encoded message and/or output decoded message data corresponding to an encoded message. The EIR terminal can be configured, responsive to receiving one or more target item identifiers, to attempt to locate at least one RFID tag transmitting an encoded representation of a binary string, at least part of which is equal to at least part one of the specified one or more target item identifiers. The EIR terminal can be further configured, responsive to successfully locating at least one RFID tag, to notify a user via a visual message and/or an audible message. | 02-28-2013 |
20130048726 | CLUSTER COMPUTING OF BAR CODE DATA - A reading system including: a primary reader for reading an information bearing device (IBD) having encoded IBD data provided therein for packetizing the encoded data and processing a first data packet of the packetized encoded data and transmitting a second data packet of the packetized encoded data; at least one auxiliary reader for receiving and processing the second data packet and the transmitting the processed second data packet; and wherein the processed first and second data packets are combined to produce decoded IBD data. | 02-28-2013 |
20130043312 | CODE SYMBOL READING SYSTEM EMPLOYING DYNAMICALLY-ELONGATED LASER SCANNING BEAMS FOR IMPROVED LEVELS OF PERFORMANCE - A laser scanning bar code symbol reading system for scanning and reading poor quality and damaged bar code symbols in flexible operating conditions. The system includes a housing having a light transmission window; a dynamically-elongated laser beam production module, including a multi-cavity visible laser diode (VLD), for producing a dynamically-elongated laser beam having (i) a direction of propagation extending along a z reference direction, (ii) a height dimension being indicated by the y reference direction, and (iii) a width dimension being indicated by the x reference direction, where x, y and z directions are orthogonal to each other. Each dynamically-elongated laser beam is characterized by an elongation ratio (ER) that is defined as Y/X where, for any point within the working range of the laser scanning bar code symbol reading system, extending along the z direction, (i) Y indicates the beam height of the dynamically-elongated laser beam measured in the Y reference direction, (ii) X indicates the beam width of the dynamically-elongated laser beam measured in the X reference direction, and (iii) the beam height (Y) and the laser beam width (X) are measured at 1/e | 02-21-2013 |
20130008963 | DECODABLE INDICIA READING TERMINAL WITH A PLATTER TO INHIBIT LIGHT REFLECTION - A decodable indicia reading terminal for reading a substrate bearing decodable indicia may include an imager-based scanner and a platter. The imager-based scanner may be disposed within a housing and include a multiple pixel image sensor and an imaging lens configured to focus an image on the decodable indicia on the image sensor. The platter may be on the housing, the platter may surround the image-based scanner, and the platter may have a texturized surface. The texturized surface of the platter may reduce the amount light being perceived when the light is reflected from the texturized surface compared to a platter having a brushed surface aligned in a substrate motion direction. | 01-10-2013 |
20130001312 | DECODABLE INDICIA READING TERMINAL WITH COMBINED ILLUMINATION - A decodable indicia reading terminal can comprise a laser-based scanner, an imager-based scanner, a central processing unit (CPU), and an illumination assembly. The laser-based scanner can include a laser source, a photo-detector, and an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter. The laser source can be configured to emit a laser beam onto a substrate bearing decodable indicia. The photo-detector can be configured to receive a beam of a variable intensity reflected by the decodable indicia, and to output a first analog signal representative of the variable intensity. The A/D converter can be configured to convert the first analog signal into a first digital signal. The imager-based scanner can include a multiple pixel image sensor, an imaging lens, and an A/D converter. The imaging lens can be configured to focus an image of the decodable indicia on the image sensor. The A/D converter can be configured to convert into a second digital signal a second analog signal read out of the image sensor and representative of light incident on the image sensor. The CPU can be configured to output a decoded message data corresponding to the decodable indicia by processing the first digital signal and/or the second digital signal. The illumination assembly can include an indicator light bar and an illumination light bar. The ON/OFF state and color of the indicator light bar can reflect the state of the decodable indicia reading terminal. The illumination light bar can be configured to generate a high intensity illumination for illuminating the substrate bearing the decodable indicia. The wavelength of the light generated by the indicator light bar can be substantially equal to the wavelength of the light generated by the illumination light bar, and the light generated by the illumination light bar can have a very low perceived intensity. | 01-03-2013 |
20120318870 | INDICIA READING TERMINAL WITH COLOR FRAME PROCESSING - An indicia reading terminal can comprise an image sensor integrated circuit having a two-dimensional image sensor, a hand held housing encapsulating the two-dimensional image sensor, and an imaging lens configured to focus an image of a target decodable indicia onto the two-dimensional image sensor. The two-dimensional image sensor can include a plurality of pixels arranged in repetitive patterns. Each pattern can include at least one pixel sensitive in a first spectrum region, at least one pixel sensitive in a second spectrum region, and at least one pixel sensitive in a third spectrum region. The image sensor integrated circuit can be configured to capture a frame of image data by reading out a plurality of analog signals. Each read out analog signal can be representative of light incident on a group of two or more pixels of the plurality of pixels. The image sensor integrated circuit can be further configured to convert the plurality of analog signals to a plurality of digital signals and to store the plurality of digital signals in a memory. The indicia reading terminal can be operative to process the frame of image data for attempting to decode for decodable indicia. | 12-20-2012 |
20120318868 | BAR CODE SYMBOL READING SYSTEM EMPLOYING AN EXTREMELY ELONGATED LASER SCANNING BEAM CAPABLE OF READING POOR AND DAMAGED QUALITY BAR CODE SYMBOLS WITH IMPROVED LEVELS OF PERFORMANCE - A laser scanning bar code symbol reading system for scanning and reading poor quality or damaged bar code symbols. The system includes a housing having a light transmission window; an extremely-elongated laser beam production module for producing an extremely-elongated laser beam having (i) a direction of propagation extending along a z reference direction, (ii) a height dimension being indicated by the y reference direction, and (iii) a width dimension being indicated by the x reference direction, where x, y and z directions are orthogonal to each other. Each extremely-elongated laser beam is characterized by an elongation ratio (ER) that is defined as Y/X>4.5 for any point within the working range of the laser scanning bar code symbol reading system, extending along the z direction; where (i) Y indicates the beam height of the extremely-elongated laser beam measured in the Y reference direction, and X indicates the beam width of the extremely-elongated laser beam measured in the X reference direction, and (iii) the beam height (Y) and the laser beam width (X) are measured at 1/e | 12-20-2012 |
20120284091 | INDICIA READER WITH FEEDBACK OF SCANNING THROUGHPUT - A method of operating an indicia reader including the steps of: consecutively reading a plurality of information bearing indicia (IBI) over a period of time; determining an operator of the indicia reader's performance based on the rate at which the plurality of IBIs are being read over the period of time; and, providing feedback to an operator of the result of the determining step. | 11-08-2012 |
20120199644 | MMS TEXT MESSAGING FOR HAND HELD INDICIA READER - A method of operating a reader system includes: establishment a hand held reader configured to read an information bearing medium at an establishment and accepting text message communications from the establishment; reading the information bearing medium at the establishment with the reader; and, sending at least one text message communication to an operator of the reader at the establishment on the reader GUI from the establishment when the establishment recognizes a need for a specific notice requirement after reading the information bearing medium. | 08-09-2012 |
20120195479 | OPTICAL IMAGER AND METHOD FOR CORRELATING A MEDICATION PACKAGE WITH A PATIENT - A system is provided to correlate a medication package with a prescribed medication for a patient. The medication package accommodates an intended patient medication. The system includes an optical imager adapted to read an encoded symbol character comprising encoded patient information and further adapted to image an attribute of the medication package. The optical imager comprises a two-dimensional image sensor array and an imaging lens for focusing an image on the two-dimensional image sensor array. The two-dimensional image sensor array has a plurality of pixels formed in a plurality of rows and columns of pixels. The optical imager further includes a digital link to transmit a segment of data. The segment of data includes the patient information encoded in the encoded symbol character and the attribute of the medication package. The system further includes a host computer connected to the digital link to receive the segment of data from the optical imager, and a database coupled to the host computer via a digital connection. The database correlates the segment of data to (a) a patient record, and (b) a medication package attribute library. | 08-02-2012 |
20120193426 | METHOD, APPARATUS, AND SYSTEM FOR PROGRAMMING A BARCODE SYMBOL SCANNING TERMINAL WITH TWO-DIMENSIONAL PROGRAMMING CODE - A configuration system for configuring a barcode symbol scanning terminal using a two-dimensional barcode is provided. | 08-02-2012 |
20120193411 | PRE-PAID USAGE SYSTEM FOR ENCODED INFORMATION READING TERMINALS - A fleet management system for managing a fleet of encoded information reading (EIR) terminals can comprise one or more computers, a fleet management software module, and a payment processing software module in communication with the fleet management software module. The fleet management software module can be configured, responsive to receiving a customer initiated request, to generate an unlocking message upon processing a payment by the payment processing software module. The unlocking message can be provided by a bar code to be read by an EIR terminal, or by a bit stream to be transferred to an EIR terminal via network. Each EIR terminal can be configured to perform not more than a pre-defined number of EIR operations responsive to receiving the unlocking message. | 08-02-2012 |
20120145793 | OPEN AIR INDICIA READER STAND - An indicia reading system includes: a base adapted for placement on a surface for providing holding stability for a hand held indicia reading device; a post extending vertically from the base; a cradle arm extending from the post over the base, the cradle arm having a side; a first attachment device disposed in the cradle arm for removably attaching an indicia reader on the cradle arm; a second attachment device disposed on the indicia reader to removably attach the indicia reader to the first attachment device. | 06-14-2012 |
20120139730 | ELECTRONIC ARTICLE SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM - An electronic article surveillance (EAS) system includes: a plurality of conductors arranged into an EAS coil and disposed within a flexible, insulation strip; an adhesive layer for attaching to a mounting side of the insulation strip to a device; and, a transmitter/receiver connected to the plurality of conductors for pairing the EAS coil with an EAS tag. | 06-07-2012 |
20120118974 | BARCODE READER WITH EDGE DETECTION ENHANCEMENT - An optical reader for decoding an encoded symbol character of a symbology includes a scan data signal processor having as an input a scan data signal encoding information representative of the encoded symbol character. The scan data signal processor includes a first time delay stage adapted to provide a primary phase waveform from the scan data signal, a second time delay stage adapted to provide an early phase waveform from the scan data signal, and a third time delay stage adapted to provide a delayed phase waveform from the scan data signal. The early phase waveform has a propagation delay less than the primary phase waveform, and the delayed phase waveform has a propagation delay greater than the primary phase waveform. The scan data signal processor further includes a peak window detection stage for generating a peak window timeframe when an amplitude of the primary phase waveform is greater than, less than, or equal to both an amplitude of the early phase waveform and the delayed phase waveform. The optical reader further includes a digitizer circuit adapted to accept, within the peak window timeframe, the scan data signal processor output. | 05-17-2012 |
20120085825 | LASER SCANNING ASSEMBLY HAVING AN IMPROVED SCAN ANGLE-MULTIPLICATION FACTOR - A laser scanning system for generating a laser scanning pattern in a scanning field, while amplifying the scan-angle multiplication factor of rotating mirrors employed therein. The laser scanning system employs rotatable laser scanning assembly having an axis of rotation and first and second rotating mirrors with normal vectors that are coplanar with each other and said rotational axis, and which form an acute angle substantially less than 90 degrees so as to provide a laser scanning assembly with a scan angle multiplication factor that is greater than 2.0. A cluster of stationary mirrors mounted about the first and second rotating mirrors, for sweeping a laser beam off the cluster of stationary mirrors after a laser beam has been reflected off the first rotating mirror, then reflected off the second rotating mirror, and then directed outwardly towards an array of pattern mirrors, so as to generate a resultant laser scanning pattern within the scanning field. | 04-12-2012 |
20120085818 | EXECUTABLE MACHINE READABLE SYMBOLOGY - A method of operating an indicia reader includes reading at least one indicia, the indicia having an encoded executable software program; storing the encoded executable software program into memory of the indicia reader; and running the encoded executable software program. | 04-12-2012 |
20110241876 | INDICIA READER WITH DIRTY WINDOW INDICATOR - A method of operating an indicia reader comprising the steps of: transmitting light partly through a window toward a target; receiving reflected light from a target and the window onto a photodetector; converting the received light into photodetector output signals representative thereof with the photodetector; storing a baseline photodetector photodetector output signal derived solely from light reflected from the window; decoding indicia information within the target containing information bearing indicia derived from the photodetector output signals; comparing photodetector output signals with the baseline photodetector output signal; and, notifying an operator with an audible or visual signal when the comparison indicates the window is contaminated. | 10-06-2011 |
20110233280 | TERMINAL WITH RADIO TRANSCEIVER HAVING POWER OUTPUT - There is provided for herein a terminal having a radio transceiver, the radio transceiver having a maximum output power and an operating power. The operating power is limitable to a power limit that less than or equal to the maximum output power and is operator selectable from a set of power limit values so as to reduce interference with other devices operating in the 2.4 GHz spectrum of the ISM band. In one embodiment, the set of power limit values includes the maximum output power and a plurality of additional values. In another embodiment, the set of power limit values includes a plurality of values, the plurality of values including at least first and second values less than 16 dB apart in magnitude. | 09-29-2011 |
20110186639 | CONTACT APERTURE FOR IMAGING APPARATUS - Disclosed is an optical imaging apparatus for focusing an image of an encoded symbol character onto an image sensor. The optical imaging apparatus includes a housing having a user input interface and a user output interface. An imaging module disposed within the housing is adapted to receive a cone of bundled light rays reflected from the encoded symbol character. The image sensor has a multiple pixel image sensor array disposed on a printed circuit board. The optical imaging apparatus further includes a focus element disposed within the imaging module, wherein the focus element is adapted to form and project the encoded symbol character upon the image sensor. A lens holding assembly is disposed within the focus element, and includes a barrel housing having a distal end for receiving the cone of bundled light rays and a proximal end for projecting an apertured cone of bundled light rays onto the image sensor. An optical lens element is disposed within an interior bore of the barrel housing. The optical lens element has a first lens surface and an opposing second lens surface; the first lens surface has a clear region and an opaque region. The opaque region is formed by a contact aperture disposed on the first lens surface, wherein the contact aperture is adapted to modify a cone angle of the bundle of light rays projected on the image sensor. | 08-04-2011 |
20110174881 | PARALLEL DECODING SCHEME FOR AN INDICIA READER - A method for collecting and processing information bearing indicia (IBI) comprising the steps of: converting light reflected off an IBI into IBI signals representative of the IBI; running at least one signal process for processing the IBI signals on a first processor if the IBI is of a first type; and running at least one signal process for processing the IBI signals on a second processor if the IBI is of a second type, wherein the first processor and second processor are configured to run in parallel. | 07-21-2011 |
20110163165 | TERMINAL HAVING ILLUMINATION AND FOCUS CONTROL - There is set forth herein an indicia reading terminal having an illumination subsystem for projection of an illumination pattern, the illumination subsystem having at least one light source, the illumination subsystem being switchable between a first state and a second state, wherein the illumination subsystem in the second state projects illumination light at a projection angle that is more narrow than a projection angle of illumination light projected by the illumination subsystem when the illumination subsystem is in the first state. An indicia reading terminal can include an imaging subsystem including an image sensor array and an imaging lens for focusing an image of a target onto the image sensor array, the imaging lens being a variable imaging lens and having a first lens setting at which the lens assembly has a relatively nearer plane of optimum focus and a second lens setting at which the imaging lens has a relatively farther plane of optimum focus setting. | 07-07-2011 |
20110069365 | SCAN ELEMENT FOR USE IN SCANNING LIGHT AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME - A scan element includes a bobbin having a central axis about which is wound an electromagnetic wire coil and having a flange oriented generally transverse to the central axis. At least one elastomeric support has a first end coupled to the flange. A permanent magnet has first and second surfaces, a central axis, and a magnetization direction oriented generally transverse to the central axis of the permanent magnet. The magnet is supported by a second end of the elastomeric support. A mirror has a central axis and is mounted on the second surface of the magnet. The central axes of the mirror and magnet are coaxial with the central axis of the bobbin. The elastomeric support provides a return force when the magnet and the mirror are rotated at an angle from the central axis during energization of the electromagnetic wire coil. | 03-24-2011 |
20110069364 | SCAN ELEMENT FOR USE IN SCANNING LIGHT AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME - A scan element includes a bobbin having a central axis about which is wound an electromagnetic wire coil and having a flange oriented generally transverse to the central axis. At least one elastomeric support has a first end coupled to the flange. A permanent magnet has first and second surfaces, a central axis, and a magnetization direction oriented generally transverse to the central axis of the permanent magnet. The magnet is supported by a second end of the elastomeric support. A mirror has a central axis and is mounted on the second surface of the magnet. The central axes of the mirror and magnet are coaxial with the central axis of the bobbin. The elastomeric support provides a return force when the magnet and the mirror are rotated at an angle from the central axis during energization of the electromagnetic wire coil. | 03-24-2011 |
20110062238 | BAR CODE READER TERMINAL AND METHODS FOR OPERATING THE SAME HAVING MISREAD DETECTION APPARATUS - Misreads in decodable indicia by terminals such as bar code scanners (e.g., laser, image sensors) can occur. Solutions can include increasing redundancy or screening out erroneous data. Embodiments of screening error reduction circuits, terminals, and/or methods for processing decodable indicia data are provided. | 03-17-2011 |
20100258632 | Laser Scanner Output Window - A laser scanner for reading symbology, such as barcodes. The laser scanner includes a housing, a laser source or generator disposed in the housing and operative to generate a laser beam, and an output window supported by housing and being positioned to receive the laser beam incident thereon. The window is operative to transmit the laser beam therethrough at a symbology target. In one embodiment, the window includes a vertical wedge angle between front and rear surfaces of the window that is oriented substantially in alignment with a vertical axis defined by the window. The vertical wedge angle is preferably oriented perpendicular to a horizontally-extending scanning line of the laser beam on the window. In one embodiment, the vertical wedge angle is substantially the same along the entire length or width of the window. | 10-14-2010 |
20100258631 | Trigger Mechanism for Hand Held Devices - A trigger mechanism with soft stops and associated method for activating a switch in a device or apparatus. The trigger mechanism includes a trigger receptacle, a trigger disposed in the trigger receptacle and movable between an un-actuated and an actuated position by a user depressing the trigger, and a soft stop comprised of at least one projection positioned to engage a resilient elastomeric insert. Moving the trigger from the un-actuated to actuated position compresses the elastomeric insert with the projection and activates the switch to provide a tactile sensation of the switch activation to the user. The switch may be an electric switch disposed in a hand held device, such as a barcode scanner in some embodiments. | 10-14-2010 |
20100127081 | TARGETING SCHEME FOR DATAFORM READERS - In a handheld dataform reader, the usability of the reader is greatly enhanced by monitoring the distance between the dataform reader and the surface bearing a symbol to be read and then changing the dataform reader's targeting image's visual characteristics from one state to another state when the distance between the dataform reader and the surface bearing the symbol is within a predefined optimal focus range of the reader, thus, alerting the user that the dataform reader can be triggered to read the symbol. | 05-27-2010 |
20090101719 | Digital image capturing and processing system for automatically recognizing graphical intelligence graphically represented in digital images of objects - A digital image capturing and processing system including a system housing having an imaging window; illumination and imaging stations for generating and projecting illumination and imaging planes or zones through the imaging window, and into a 3D imaging volume definable relative to the imaging window, for digital imaging an object passing through the 3D imaging volume, and generating digital linear images of the object as the object intersects the illumination and imaging planes or zones during system operation. A digital image processor processes the digital images and automatically recognizes graphical intelligence (e.g. bar code symbols, alphanumeric characters etc) graphically represented in the digital images. | 04-23-2009 |
20090101718 | Digital image capturing and processing system employing automatic object detection and spectral-mixing based illumination techniques - A digital image capturing and processing system for illuminating objects using automatic object detection and spectral-mixing illumination technique. The system comprises an area-type illumination and imaging module for projecting a coextensive area-type illumination and imaging field (i.e. zone) into a 3D imaging volume during object illumination and imaging operations. The area-type illumination and imaging module includes a spectral-mixing based illumination subsystem for producing a first field of visible illumination from an array of visible LEDs, and producing a second field of invisible illumination from an array of infrared (IR) LEDs, wherein the first and second fields of illumination spatially overlap and intermix with each other and produce a composite illumination field that is at least substantially coextensive with the FOV of the image sensing array. An automatic object detection subsystem automatically detects an object moving through the 3D imaging volume, while an illumination control subsystem controls the relative power ratio (VIS/IR) of visible illumination and invisible illumination during system operations so as to achieve sufficient image contrast in captured digital images to ensure satisfactory image processing. | 04-23-2009 |
20090095814 | METHOD OF SELECTIVELY PROJECTING SCAN LINES IN A MULTIPLE-LINE BARCODE SCANNER - A method of selectively generating one or more scan lines from a multi-scan line scanner involves measuring the pulse widths of the pulses in a signal output of a motor driving the polygon mirror of the scanner wherein the signal relates to the position of the polygon's mirror facets. By measuring and distinguishing each of the pulses in the signal, the illumination of the scan beam can be synchronized with the rotation of the polygon mirror to only generate a desired number of scan line patterns that is less than the full complement of the scan line patterns capable of being generated by the multi-scan line scanner. | 04-16-2009 |
20090065584 | Pos-based digital image capturing and processing system employing automatic object motion detection and spectral-mixing based illumination techniques - A POS-based digital image capturing and processing system for illuminating objects using automatic object detection and spectral-mixing illumination technique. The system comprises an area-type illumination and imaging station for projecting a coextensive area-type illumination and imaging field (i.e. zone) into a 3D imaging volume during object illumination and imaging operations. The area-type illumination and imaging station includes an illumination subsystem for producing a first field of visible illumination from an array of visible LEDs, and producing a second field of invisible illumination from an array of infrared (IR) LEDs. wherein the first and second fields of illumination spatially overlap and intermix with each other and are substantially coextensive with the FOV of the image sensing array. An automatic object motion detection subsystem automatically detects the motion of an object moving through the 3D imaging volume, while an illumination control subsystem controls the relative power ratio (VIS/IR) of visible illumination and invisible illumination during system operation so as to minimize the amount of visible illumination energy required to capture sufficiently high-contrast images of said objects and successfully process the same. | 03-12-2009 |
20090052807 | Digital image capture and processing system employing automatic illumination control and a field of view (FOV) folding mirror beneath the light transmission aperture of an illumination board disposed within the housing - A digital image capture and processing system having a housing with a light transmission window, and an illumination subsystem including an illumination board disposed adjacent the light transmission window, configured substantially within a plane, and having a central aperture mounted adjacent the imaging window. The illumination board supports an array of illumination sources mounted around at least portion of the central aperture, for producing and a field of illumination within the FOV of its image formation and detection subsystem during object illumination and imaging operations. A FOV folding mirror is mounted within the housing and beneath the illumination board, and folds the path of the FOV beneath the light transmission aperture and directs and projects the FOV out through the central aperture. Also, an automatic illumination control subsystem is provided for controlling the array of illumination sources during object illumination and imaging operations. | 02-26-2009 |
20080302873 | Digital image capture and processing system supporting automatic communication interface testing/detection and system configuration parameter (SCP) programming - A digital image capture and processing system supporting automatic communication interface testing/detection and system configuration parameter programming. The digital image capture and processing system includes a housing having a port for receiving a standard connector associated with a flexible communication interface cable, and a multi-interface I/O subsystem disposed in the housing, and having an I/O port. The multi-interface I/O subsystem supports a software-controlled automatic communication interface test/detection process carried out over the flexible communication interface cable physically connecting the I/O ports of the digital image capture and processing subsystem and the designated host system. The digital image capture and processing system also supports automatic programming of multiple system configuration parameters (SCPs), associated with a particular communication interface (CI) detected by the multi-interface I/O subsystem, without reading programming-type bar codes. | 12-11-2008 |
20080283608 | Method of illuminating objects on a countertop surface using an automatically-triggered digital image capture and processing system which maintains illumination rays substantially within the field of view (FOV) of said system, above which the field of view (FOV) of human operator and spectating customers are positioned - A method of illuminating objects on a countertop surface using an automatically-triggered digital image capture and processing system having a single array of LEDs disposed near and behind the upper edge portion of its imaging window, which is provided with an illumination-focusing lens structure integrated therein. During object detection, illumination and imaging operations on the countertop surface, typically at a retail point of sale (POS) station, visible illumination generated by the LEDs is focused and projected by the illumination-focusing lens structure so that the system maintains its illumination rays substantially within the field of view (FOV) of said system, and above which the field of view (FOV) of human operator and spectators are positioned, so that the field of illumination extends substantially across the working distance of the FOV of the system, and in a way to illuminate objects located anywhere within the working distance of said system, while minimizing annoyance to the system operator, as well as others in the vicinity thereof during system operation. | 11-20-2008 |
20080283607 | Hand-supportable digital image capture and processing system employing visible targeting illumination beam projected from an array of visible light sources on the rear surface of a printed circuit (PC) board having a light transmission aperture, and reflected off multiple folding mirrors and projected through the light transmission aperture into a central portion of the field of view of said system - A hand-supportable digital image capture and processing system including a hand-supportable housing having an imaging window. A printed circuit (PC) board is mounted in the hand-supportable housing, and has front and rear surfaces and a light transmission aperture formed centrally therethrough. An image formation and detection subsystem has image formation optics for projecting a field of view (FOV) through the imaging window and upon an object within the FOV, and an area-type image detection array for forming and detecting 2D digital images of the object during object illumination and imaging operations. A first FOV folding mirror is supported above the rear surface of the PC board over the light transmission aperture, and a second FOV folding mirror is supported above the rear surface of the PC board and over the area-type image detection array. These mirrors fold and project the FOV through the light transmission aperture and the imaging window. An automatic targeting illumination subsystem is disposed in the hand-supportable housing, and has a plurality of visible light sources mounted on the rear surface of the PC board for generating a targeting illumination beam, which reflects off at least one beam folding mirror, and then off the first FOV mirror and then projects the targeting illumination beam through the light transmission aperture and the imaging window, into a portion of said FOV extending outside of the hand-supportable housing and onto the object therein. | 11-20-2008 |
20080277475 | Digital image capture and processing system supporting a presentation mode of system operation which employs a combination of video and snapshot modes of image detection array operation during a single cycle of system operation - A digital image capture and processing system including a housing having an imaging window; and an image formation and detection subsystem supporting a snap-shot mode of the operation and a video mode of operation. The system includes image formation optics for projecting a field of view (FOV) through said imaging window and upon an object within the FOV, and forming an image of the object on an area-type image detection array having a plurality of rows of image detection elements, and detecting 2D digital images of the object while object illumination and imaging operations. The system also includes an illumination subsystem, with an illumination array, for producing a field of illumination within the FOV, and illuminating the object detected in the FOV, so that the illumination reflects off the object and is transmitted back through the light transmission aperture and onto the image detection array to form the 2D digital image of the object. The digital image capture and processing system supports a presentation mode employing a combination of video and snap-shot modes of image detection array operation during a single cycle of system operation. | 11-13-2008 |
20080198098 | Electronic sign - An electronic sign employs a bi-stable, non-volatile display material activatable by electrodes to convey information. A sensor detects when the electronic sign is inserted in or in the vicinity of an insertion area, and controls the operation of the sign based on the detected location. A backplane in the electronic sign includes different patterns of addressable elements to provide a display that pixel, font region, or icon addressable or have a combination of one or more of the pixel, font region, or icon addressability. A remote device communicates with the electronic sign, and multiple electronic signs may communicate with each other via a communication protocol, such as mesh networking. | 08-21-2008 |