One embodiment of a system and method for imaging objects from a barcode scanner may include generating a first color light source drive signal having a first duty cycle and a second color light source drive signal having a second duty cycle that is greater than the first duty cycle. In response to applying the first and second color light source drive signals to first and second color light sources, respectively, combining light beams generated by the first and second color light sources to produce a white illumination beam. An image sensor may generate image data of an object inclusive of a chine readable indicia captured in an image by the image sensor while illuminated by the white illumination beam. The machine readable indicia of the object in the image data may be read.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
2.
WHITE ILLUMINATION FOR BARCODE SCANNERS WITH IMPROVED POWER EFFICIENCY AND COST
One embodiment of a system and method for imaging objects from a barcode scanner may include generating a first color light source drive signal having a first duty cycle and a second color light source drive signal having a second duty cycle that is greater than the first duty cycle. In response to applying the first and second color light source drive signals to first and second color light sources, respectively, combining light beams generated by the first and second color light sources to produce a white illumination beam. An image sensor may generate image data of an object inclusive of a chine readable indicia captured in an image by the image sensor while illuminated by the white illumination beam. The machine readable indicia of the object in the image data may be read.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
3.
Item image stitching from multiple line-scan images for barcode scanning systems
One embodiment of a system and method for imaging items may include storing at least one lookup table that includes position data of multiple image regions, where the position data provides relative positions of the image regions. An item may be moved to pass through the image regions. Image data of the item may be imaged as the item passes through a plurality of the image regions. The position data may be applied to the captured respective image data from each of the image regions through which the item passed to form a set of stitching image data that is substantially aligned with one another. The set of stitching image data may be stitched to form a composite image of the item.
A system and method for reading a label may include imaging, by a plurality of cameras, a label applied to an item. A 3D position of each segment of the label imaged by any of the cameras may be determined. The segments in the same relative 3D location as the item and other segments may be associated. The label formed from the segments associated with the item may be read.
G06K 19/00 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
5.
System and method for label physical location based stitching and label item correlation for imaging barcode scanners
A system and method for reading a label may include imaging, by a plurality of cameras, a label applied to an item. A 3D position of each segment of the label imaged by any of the cameras may be determined. The segments in the same relative 3D location as the item and other segments may be associated. The label formed from the segments associated with the item may be read.
G06K 19/00 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
6.
Data collection system and method that detect electronic device displays via fresnel patterns
A control subsystem determines based on the characteristics of light from a secondary illumination source reflected off optics of a data collection device whether a display screen of an electronic device (e.g., smartphone, smartwatch, tablet computer) are in a field of view of the data collection device, and switches operational modes accordingly. Thus, the control subsystem can employ a Fresnel pattern for such determination. The data collection device can operate in a diffuse reading mode, characterized by active illumination and/or relatively fast exposure times. The data collection device can operate in a reflective reading mode, characterized by a lack of active illumination and/or relatively slow exposure times. Characteristics can include the number of reflections versus a number of air-substrate interfaces and/or a relative intensity of the reflections produced by successive air-substrate interfaces in a path of the light.
G06F 17/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific functions
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
A first imager has a relatively high resolution and a relatively narrow first field-of-view. Information about objects in an environment is detected or captured, and used to steer the first field-of-view of the first imager. The sensor(s) may take the form of a second imager with a relatively lower resolution and relatively wider second field-of-view. Alternatively, other types of sensors, for instance presence / absence sensors may be employed. The first field-of-view may be directed toward an object that satisfies one or more conditions, for instance matching a particular SKU. The first field-of-view may track a moving object, for instance via a tracking mirror and actuator. This approach may be employed in retail locations, for example in grocery or convenience stores, for instance to reduce various forms of theft or in industrial environments.
G08B 13/196 - Actuation by interference with heat, light, or radiation of shorter wavelengthActuation by intruding sources of heat, light, or radiation of shorter wavelength using passive radiation detection systems using image scanning and comparing systems using television cameras
A machine-readable symbol reader can include a housing, a window, an illumination source, a wedge-shaped optical element, and a sensor array. Illumination can be coupled into the optical element through a base surface of the optical element and out of the optical element through a leg surface of the optical element. Illumination beams coupled out of the optical element through the leg surface can be parallel or substantially parallel to one another, and can exit the machine-readable symbol reader at a grazing angle to illuminate a machine-readable symbol at a grazing angle.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
F21V 8/00 - Use of light guides, e.g. fibre optic devices, in lighting devices or systems
9.
METHOD AND SYSTEM OF USING IMAGE CAPTURING DEVICE FOR COUNTERFEIT ARTICLE DETECTION
A device, system, and method of detecting counterfeit articles are provided. The method includes receiving article identifying information associated with a test article, using the article identifying information to retrieve an authentic article image associated with the test article from an image storage database, scanning the test article to capture one or more images of the test article under different wavelength illuminations, and displaying the one or more test article images and the authentic article image to allow comparison of the test article and the associated authentic article. Additionally, multiple wavelength emitting elements may be located within an image-capturing device, to provide alternate illuminations of the test article, allowing alternating capture of images highlighting different security features for providing a superimposed image. A system of counterfeit article detection is also provided.
G01N 21/00 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of optical means, i.e. using sub-millimetre waves, infrared, visible or ultraviolet light
G01N 21/33 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using ultraviolet light
G01N 21/35 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
G06K 9/74 - Arrangements for recognition using optical reference masks
G07D 7/00 - Testing specially adapted to determine the identity or genuineness of valuable papers or for segregating those which are unacceptable, e.g. banknotes that are alien to a currency
G07D 7/005 - Testing security markings invisible to the naked eye, e.g. verifying thickened lines or unobtrusive markings or alterations
10.
MULTILINE SCANNER AND ELECTRONIC ROLLING SHUTTER AREA IMAGER BASED TUNNEL SCANNER
Scanners, methods, and computer storage media having computer-executable instructions embodied thereon that process variable sized objects with high package pitch on a moving conveyor belt are provided. The scanners include a substrate and a plurality of sensors attached to the substrate. The plurality of sensors forms an array of sensors having at least two or more rows of off-axis sensors. The sensors may include a one or more area array sensors. The arrays of sensors captures moving objects row by row and are optimized reduce object spacing on the conveyor belt. Additionally, the scanner having the array of sensor may process different objects having different heights at the same time. Accordingly, object throughput on the conveyor belt is increased by reducing minimum object gap (e.g., processing of "no gap" or non-singulated objects).
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
H04N 1/03 - Details of scanning heads for picture-information pick-up with photodetectors arranged in a substantially linear array
Depth camera systems and methods of operation use coded structured light to determine depth values. One example method includes projecting a structured light pattern towards a target region. The structured light pattern includes a plurality of parallel bars that encode a plurality of codes. The method includes, for each of a plurality of rows of pixels that are transverse to the plurality of parallel bars: decoding the plurality of parallel bars represented in the row of pixels to identify a location of each of the plurality of codes in the row of pixels; determining a plurality of disparities respectively between the identified locations of the plurality of codes and a plurality of reference locations respectively associated with the plurality of codes; and determining a depth value for each identified location based at least in part on the determined disparity for such location.
H04N 19/17 - Methods or arrangements for coding, decoding, compressing or decompressing digital video signals using adaptive coding characterised by the coding unit, i.e. the structural portion or semantic portion of the video signal being the object or the subject of the adaptive coding the unit being an image region, e.g. an object
H04N 19/44 - Decoders specially adapted therefor, e.g. video decoders which are asymmetric with respect to the encoder
H04N 13/00 - Stereoscopic video systemsMulti-view video systemsDetails thereof
G01B 11/25 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of optical techniques for measuring contours or curvatures by projecting a pattern, e.g. moiré fringes, on the object
A device for illuminating a portion of a hand-held scanner to indicate a status of the scanner provides an even distribution of light emission. The device might include various elements that facilitate an even distribution of the light. For instance, in one aspect the device includes a set of reflective surfaces that are positioned throughout the scanner together with light-emitting devices (e.g., LED) in a manner to evenly transmit light emissions. In another aspect, the device includes a light-diffusing translucent member, which smoothly and evenly presents the light emissions that are reflected off of the reflective surfaces.
F21V 3/04 - GlobesBowlsCover glasses characterised by materials, surface treatments or coatings
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
F21W 111/10 - Use or application of lighting devices or systems for signalling, marking or indicating, not provided for in groups for personal use, e.g. hand-held
F21W 131/40 - Lighting for industrial, commercial, recreational or military use
Systems, methods, and articles to provide robust optical character recognition (OCR) for use in industrial environments. One or more implementations include utilizing Histogram of Oriented Gradients (HOG) features with a sliding window approach as a robust and computationally efficient method of OCR. The implementations are relatively simple to use because there are relatively few parameters to adjust, which allows a non-expert user to setup or modify the system and achieve desirable performance. One reason this is possible is because the implementations described herein do not require character segmentation, which can be difficult to optimize.
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
G06K 9/46 - Extraction of features or characteristics of the image
Systems and methods that provide a machine-readable symbol reader positioned over a “flip-lid” type cash box. The reader may be affixed directly to the lid of the cash box or affixed to a thin cover pivotally attached to a checkout stand that opens with the lid of the cash box. The lid of the cash box or the thin cover may be level with a surrounding surface of the checkout stand. The reader may have a field of view directed away from the operator (e.g., a cashier) so that the operator may scan objects close to his or her body without requiring extended reaching, which provides an ergonomically desirable work environment.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
15.
Object recognition for exception handling in automatic machine-readable symbol reader systems
Systems and methods for exception handling in an automated machine-readable symbol reader system having a machine-readable symbol reader that captures machine-readable symbols within a view volume. One or more image capture devices obtain a plurality of images of an exception object in response to an exception generated in the view volume. A processor receives the images, identities visual object recognition features from each image, and compares the features to determine one or more descriptive measures indicative of a likelihood that an operator (e.g., store employee) will be able to identify the exception object by viewing the image. The processor displays at least one of the images (e.g., the most descriptive image) on a display device according to the descriptive measure so that an operator can rapidly identify the identity of the exception object and take steps to resolve the exception.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
16.
Extended depth of field in imaging machine-readable symbol reader using image side telecentric lens
Systems and methods for providing multiple image fields or regions on a single, two-dimensional imaging sensor array of a data reader. A single sensor array may be divided into two or more imaging regions each of which may be used to render a separate view of an overall read volume. An image-side telecentric optical system may be utilized to divide the sensor array into the two or more imaging regions. A thin, high refractive index focal element (e.g., optical glass) may be positioned over at least one of the two or more imaging regions to provide multiple focus positions using a single telecentric optical system and a single sensor array. The multiple imaging regions may be used to capture images from different regions, and/or may be used produce a longer depth of field by combining overlapping depths of field of the multiple imaging regions.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
16 - Paper, cardboard and goods made from these materials
Goods & Services
Integrated laser systems for cutting, welding, drilling, trimming, scribing and engraving applications and components therefore. Equipment, apparatus and systems, namely, fixed, manual and portable instruments and apparatus for the collection of data and the automatic decoding and reading of coded information recorded on paper, electronic, optical and magnetic media and on body surfaces, namely, bar code readers, two-dimensional code readers, color code readers, optical code readers, bi-optic scanners, and combination equipment in the nature of a scanner and scale; equipment, apparatus and systems, namely, fixed, manual and portable instruments and apparatus for the collection of data and the automatic decoding and reading of coded information recorded on paper, electronic, optical and magnetic media and on body surfaces, namely, magnetic card readers, contact and radio frequency electronic memory readers, radio frequency identification (RFID) readers, RFID writers, RFID interrogators; reading stations comprising of coded data readers and decoders for reading bar codes, cameras, decoders and transmitters all for the detection and identification of objects; reading stations comprised of coded data readers and decoders for reading bar codes, cameras, decoders and transmitters all for the detection and identification and measurement of objects; computer programs for the reading, decoding and processing of coded information recorded on paper, optical, magnetic, or electronic media for use in transportation, logistics, manufacturing, distribution, and retail markets; devices and systems equipment, comprising of coded data readers, decoders, transmitters and multiplexers for the identification, handling, sorting and management of objects provided with coded information, all for use in the fields of automatic identification, data collection and industrial automation; devices and systems equipment comprising of coded data readers, decoders, transmitters and multiplexers for the detection of objects, all for use in the fields of automatic identification, data collection and industrial automation; devices and systems equipment comprising of coded data readers, decoders, transmitters and multiplexers for the measurement and detection of objects, all for use in the fields of automatic identification, data collection and industrial automation; bar code pens and guns, with or without a display, for the reading and decoding of coded information; portable computer display terminals with or without readers of coded information; portable data collection terminals with or without voice communication option; computer programs for the system/user interface, namely, computer programs for configuring and programming and controlling coded information readers, scanning systems, reading stations, vision systems; computer programs for multimedia information kiosks for communicating and displaying and printing promotional messages, service communications, advertisements; computer programs for home selling and buying; computer programs for decoding, reading and processing of coded information recorded on paper, electronic, optical and magnetic media; computer programs for processing data from data collection apparatus; computer programs for training users and providing feedback on and analyzing operation and efficiency of data collection apparatus; computer programs for shopping list management; computer programs for shopping control through video surveillance management; computer programs for fidelity points management; computer programs for multimedia information points; computer programs for home delivery management; computer programs for web orders and virtual shopping management; electric and electronic background suppression sensors; electric and electronic proximity sensors; electric and electronic linear image sensors; electric and electronic temperature sensors; electric and electronic flame-proof sensors for anti-deflagrating; electric and electronic object position and measurement sensors; electric and electronic color sensors; electric and electronic luminescence detectors for use in tracking items in the transportation, manufacturing, logistics and distribution industries; thermocouples; resistance temperature detectors; temperature controllers for non-medical purposes; laser beam reflectors and electromagnetic wave reflectors for use in object detection; instruments, equipment and apparatus, namely, light curtains, photo-electric sensors, electric sensors, photo-cells and control units for the formation of photo-electric and laser security gates and parts and accessories therefor, namely, supports, brackets, cradles, cables and connectors, all sold together as a unit; computer programs for controlling photo-electric sensors, heat regulators and security gates recorded on medium, namely, paper, optical, or electronic; photo-electric sensors; fiber optic sensors and relative optic fibers of plastic and glass sold as a component of fiber optical cables; electric or electronic forked sensors for detection of objects on supports; computer software for integrated laser systems; downloadable electronic publications in the nature of brochures, user manuals, instruction manuals, installation manuals and maintenance manuals in the field of automatic identification, data collection and industrial automation. Printed instruction, installation and maintenance manuals and user manuals for computer programs in the field of data collection and industrial automation for the reading, decoding and processing of coded information and automatic identification recorded on any medium, whether optical, magnetic or circuital; instruction, installation and maintenance manuals for equipment, apparatus and systems in the field of automatic identification, data collection, and industrial automation; printed instruction, installation, and maintenance manuals and user manuals for computer programs in the field of photo-electric sensors, heat regulators, and security gates; documentation in the nature of and printed materials, namely, brochures, informational flyers and informational sheets, leaflets used for published promotional advertising and customer information, related to data collection systems, optical code readers, electronic tags readers, decoders, bar code scanners, RFID readers, RFID writers, portable data collection terminals; documentation in the nature of and printed materials, namely, brochures, informational flyers and informational sheets, leaflets used for published promotional advertising and customer information, related to software for data collection systems, optical code readers, magnetic card readers, electronic tag readers, user training software, software for providing feedback on and analyzing operation and efficiency of data collection systems.
A system and method for detecting the presence of known or unknown objects based on visual features is disclosed. In the preferred embodiment, the system is a checkout system for detecting items of merchandise on a shopping cart. The merchandise checkout system preferably includes a feature extractor for extracting visual features from a plurality of images; a motion detector configured to detect one or more groups of the visual features present in at least two of the plurality of images; a classifier to classify each of said groups of the visual features based on one or more classification criteria, wherein each of the one or more parameters is associated with one of said groups of visual features; and an alarm configured to generate an alert if the one or more parameters for any of said groups of the visual features satisfy one or more classification criteria.
A scanning system for data reading, and related methods of use, the scanning system including a portal scanner and a conveyor for transporting items. The scanner includes a generally U-shaped scanner housing and a plurality of data readers arranged within the scanner housing for reading data on various surfaces of an item being transported through the portal scanner. The scanning system may also include a bottom scanner positioned beneath the conveyor, the bottom scanner having a view volume directed through a gap in the conveyor for reading a bottom surface of the item through the gap as the item passes over the gap. In some embodiments, the scanning system may further include one or more light curtains configured for determining a height dimension of the item and/or a position of the item.
G06K 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
A data reading system including one or more imagers and a lower main housing structure with a horizontal surface and a horizontal window, across which items to be read are passed. At least one or more of the imagers in the data reading system is a part of a top-down data reader having a generally downwardly-facing field of view projecting through a scan window and onto the horizontal surface and the horizontal window. The top-down data reader may be freely repositioned at a range of height positions and angular configurations for processing items of various dimensions. The data reading system may further include a calibration system for assisting in adjusting the field of view of the top-down data reader to ensure proper aim and focus of the top-down data reader after adjustment.
G06K 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers
G06K 7/015 - Aligning or centring of the sensing device with respect to the record carrier
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
23.
Systems and methods of optical code reading using a color imager
Systems and methods of optical code reading include production of image data by a color image sensor array and processing of the image data to decode an optical code. In one configuration, the color image sensor array includes first and second sets of sensor pixels sensitive to light having different wavelengths. Reflected light is focused by an optical system to form one or more images of an optical code on the color image sensor array. The optical system includes optics to form first and second images of an object bearing the optical code, where the first image excludes light of the second wavelength and the second image excludes light of the first wavelength, thereby enabling the first set of sensor pixels to sense the first image without substantially sensing the second image and the second set of sensor pixels to sense the second image without substantially sensing the first image.
G06K 7/12 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using a selected wavelength, e.g. to sense red marks and ignore blue marks
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
24.
Tunnel or portal scanner and method of scanning for automated checkout
Systems and methods for data reading, which in one example configuration is directed to an automated optical code data reader in the form of a tunnel or portal scanner having an open architecture configured with front and rear inverted U-shaped arches, a plurality of cameras (some or most of which have multiple fields of view) in each of the arches for reading the top live sides of an item being passed by a conveyor through a read region formed by the arches, and a bottom reader including one or more cameras under the conveyor for reading a bottom side of the item through a gap in the conveyors as the item is passed over the gap. Also disclosed are specific imaging schemes for providing effective views of the items with a minimum number of cameras.
A data reading system for reading encoded data, such as barcode labels or RFID tags, from an item. The data reading system includes a housing, a data reader disposed within the housing, the data reader configured to read the encoded data from the item through a scan window on the housing. A clamp secures the housing to a receiving post on a base mount, and supports rotational movement of the housing about both a first axis and a second axis. In one configuration, the clamp and receiving post each include through holes that together form a passageway to support a communication/power cable from the base mount through the passageway and into an interior portion of the housing to communicate with and/or provide power to the data reader without limiting rotational movement of the housing.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers
A data reading system (10) for reading encoded data, such as barcode labels or RFID tags, from an item. The data reading system (10) includes a housing (20), a data reader disposed within the housing (20), the data reader configured to read the encoded data from the item through a scan window (25) on the housing (20). A clamp (50) secures the housing (20) to a receiving post (55) on a base mount (15), and supports rotational movement of the housing (20) about both a first axis (axis A) and a second axis (axis B). In one configuration, the clamp (50) and receiving post (55) each include through holes (95, 96, 65) that together form a passageway to support a communication/power cable (100) from the base mount (15) through the passageway and into an interior portion of the housing (20) to communicate with and/or provide power to the data reader without limiting rotational movement of the housing (20).
G06K 17/00 - Methods or arrangements for effecting co-operative working between equipments covered by two or more of main groups , e.g. automatic card files incorporating conveying and reading operations
An automated checkout system for reading optical data, such as barcode labels, on a bottom surface of an item using a data reader. The automated checkout system includes a housing supporting a leading conveyor section and a trailing conveyor section separated by a gap. The housing movably supports a transition element positioned across the gap for helping items transition between the conveyor sections. The transition element is movable between a first position and a second position. A sensor is in communication with the transition element and is configured to sense the position of the transition element, where movement of the transition element from the first position to the second position activates the sensor. When activated, the sensor may send a signal to a terminal to display a warning message to a user. Alternatively, the sensor may send a signal to an automatic shut-off mechanism to stop operation of the conveyors.
B65G 43/08 - Control devices operated by article or material being fed, conveyed, or discharged
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
A47F 9/04 - Check-out counters, e.g. for self-service stores
30.
Systems and methods for weigh scale perimeter monitoring for scanner-scales
Systems and methods for reducing erroneous weighing of items such as by detecting items extending beyond a periphery of a weigh platter whereby in one configuration, the system employs a light guide for routing a light beam to a detector operative to detect interruption of the beam due to an item encroaching upon or overhanging an edge of the platter. In another configuration, the scale includes a perimeter gap between the platter outer edge and scanner housing frame or checkout counter, a light beam directed angularly upward through the gap is partially obstructed by the frame and platter whereby light exits the gap forming a light plane, wherein an object placed on the platter extending across the gap intersects the light plane thus scattering light rays, some of which are sensed by a detector. Various indicators for alerting the operator of off-scale detection are also described.
G01G 23/18 - Indicating devices, e.g. for remote indicationRecording devicesScales, e.g. graduated
G01G 19/414 - Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in groups with provisions for indicating, recording, or computing price or other quantities dependent on the weight using electromechanical or electronic computing means using electronic computing means only
G01G 19/52 - Weighing apparatus combined with other objects, e.g. with furniture
G01G 19/00 - Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in groups
31.
Calibration and self-test in automated data reading systems
Calibrating extrinsic parameters of an imaging system in an automated data reading system includes obtaining, from the imaging system, image data representing an imaged portion of a planar calibration target. The target is coupled to a housing of the automated data reading system and superimposed on a surface thereof. For example, the calibration target is placed on a conveyer surface, or it is printed on the housing of the automated data reading system. The imaged portion of the planar calibration target includes spaced-apart optical codes disposed at positions that coincide with predetermined locations of the automated data reading system to define known calibration-control points for the surface. Optical codes represented in the image data are decoded to obtain observed calibration-control points used for calibrating the extrinsic parameters based on differences between the known and observed locations of the calibration-control points.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
Systems and methods are provided for reducing erroneous weighing of items by detecting items extending beyond a peripheral edge of a weigh platter associated with a data reader. For example, in response to a weigh request a scale guard module acquires data indicative of whether an item extends between the weigh platter and another surface, compares the acquired data to reference data, and based on the comparison, determines whether an item extends off the weigh platter and thus on to another surface. The scale guard module may utilize non-electromagnetic compression waves, radio waves, a portion of a data reader's scan field to scan a set of patterns extending along at least one edge of the weigh platter, an imaging based scanner to capture an image of at least one edge of the weigh platter, light beams extending along at least one edge of the weigh platter, or any combination thereof.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G01G 19/414 - Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in groups with provisions for indicating, recording, or computing price or other quantities dependent on the weight using electromechanical or electronic computing means using electronic computing means only
G01G 19/40 - Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in groups with provisions for indicating, recording, or computing price or other quantities dependent on the weight
Calibrating extrinsic parameters of an imaging system (44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 54, 66, 68) in an automated data reading system (12) includes obtaining, from the imaging system, image data representing an imaged portion of a planar calibration target (202, 204, 210). The target is coupled to a housing (40, 42) of the automated data reading system and superimposed on a surface thereof. For example, the calibration target is placed on a conveyer surface (156), or it is printed on the housing of the automated data reading system. The imaged portion of the planar calibration target includes spaced-apart optical codes (212, 264, 286) disposed at positions that coincide with predetermined locations of the automated data reading system to define known calibration-control points for the surface. Optical codes represented in the image data are decoded to obtain observed calibration-control points used for calibrating the extrinsic parameters based on differences between the known and observed locations of the calibration-control points.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
B65G 43/06 - Control devices, e.g. for safety, warning or fault-correcting interrupting the drive in case of driving-element breakageBraking or stopping loose load-carriers
B65G 47/22 - Devices influencing the relative position or the attitude of articles during transit by conveyors
34.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TRANSFERRING ITEMS OVER TRANSITION GAP BETWEEN CONVEYOR SECTIONS OF AUTOMATED CHECKOUT SYSTEM
An automated checkout system (10) for reading optical data, such as barcode labels, on a bottom surface (32) of an item (20) using a data reader (40). The automated checkout system (10) includes a housing (12) supporting a leading conveyor section (14) and a trailing conveyor section (16) separated by a gap (18). The housing (12) movably supports a transition element (48) positioned across the gap (18) for helping items (20) transition between the conveyor sections (14, 16). The transition element (48) is movable between a first position and a second position. A sensor (234) is in communication with the transition element (48) and is configured to sense the position of the transition element (48), where movement of the transition element (48) from the first position to the second position activates the sensor (234). When activated, the sensor (234) may send a signal to a terminal to display a warning message to a user. Alternatively, the sensor (234) may send a signal to an automatic shut-off mechanism (82) to stop operation of the conveyors (14, 16).
G06K 17/00 - Methods or arrangements for effecting co-operative working between equipments covered by two or more of main groups , e.g. automatic card files incorporating conveying and reading operations
G06K 7/01 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers Details
35.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF OBJECT MEASUREMENT IN AN AUTOMATED DATA READER
Systems and methods of determining object dimensions of objects passed through a read zone of an automated data reader are disclosed. A system can include a data reader to read an optical code disposed on the objects, a transport mechanism, an object measurement system to measure dimensions of objects that are transported by the transport mechanism, a light plane generator to project a light plane that produces a light stripe on an object, and a camera to capture image data of objects and a light stripe thereon that can be processed to determine a deviation of a light stripe relative to an optical center within the image data. A deviation from the optical center is used to determine one or more dimensions of the object.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
B65G 47/52 - Devices for transferring articles or materials between conveyors, i.e. discharging or feeding devices
An automated checkout system and method including a conveyor system that automatically transports objects along an item path through a read zone of a data reader (such as a portal data reader, tunnel scanner or other type of automated reader) and to an exit zone, an indicator system disposed in or along the exit zone that provides indication as to whether an item has been identified by the portal data reader. In one example, the indicator system includes lights at an indicator location that are selectively alighted a given color for the duration of the item passing the indicator location depending upon whether the reader successfully read the item (e.g., color green) or unsuccessfully read the item (e.g., color red).
G06K 15/00 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data
G06K 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers
G06K 13/00 - Conveying record carriers from one station to another, e.g. from stack to punching mechanism
G06Q 20/00 - Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
G06K 7/01 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers Details
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distributionInventory or stock management
Disclosed are systems and methods for unassisted (i.e., customer controlled) exception handling in an automated data reader having a read zone. A first imager obtains a first image of an exception item in response to an exception generated in a read zone. An exception handling station receives the exception item, and a second imager located at the exception handling station obtains a second image of the exception item. An image processor receives the images, identities visual object recognition features from each image, and compares the features to determine whether the first and second images represent the same exception item. If so, the exception is cleared, and the item is added to a transaction list.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 15/12 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers by photographic printing
An automated checkout system and method including a conveyor system (30/32) that automatically transports objects (42, 44, 46, 48) from an inlet end (22) along an item path (26) through a read zone (13) of a data reader (12) (such as a portal data reader, tunnel scanner or other type of automated reader) and to an exit zone or outlet end (24), an indicator system disposed in or along the exit zone that provides indication as to whether an object/item has been identified by the portal data reader. In one example, the indicator system includes lights (60, 65, 84, 85, 160, 170, 262-268, 310-314, 360-364) at an indicator location (27) that are selectively alighted a given color for the duration of the item passing the indicator location depending upon whether the reader successfully read the item (e.g., color green) or unsuccessfully read the item (e.g., color red).
B65G 47/49 - Devices for discharging articles or materials from conveyors with distribution, e.g. automatically, to desired points according to bodily destination marks on either articles or load-carriers without bodily contact between article or load-carrier and automatic control device
G09F 19/00 - Advertising or display means not otherwise provided for
G06K 17/00 - Methods or arrangements for effecting co-operative working between equipments covered by two or more of main groups , e.g. automatic card files incorporating conveying and reading operations
B65G 43/00 - Control devices, e.g. for safety, warning or fault-correcting
39.
EXCEPTION HANDLING IN AUTOMATED DATA READING SYSTEMS
Disclosed are systems and methods for unassisted (i.e., customer controlled) exception handling in an automated data reader (5) having a read zone (16). A first imager (180) obtains a first image of an exception item in response to an exception generated in a read zone. An exception handling station (80) receives the exception item, and a second imager (84) located at the exception handling station obtains a second image of the exception item. An image processor (202, 220) receives the images, identities visual object recognition features from each image, and compares the features to determine whether the first and second images represent the same exception item (188). If so, the exception is cleared, and the item is added to a transaction list (210).
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
40.
System and method for preventing cashier and customer fraud at retail checkout
Systems and methods for preventing fraud during retail checkout are described. A system includes: item identifier acquisition devices to acquire identifiers (e.g., barcodes) of items to be transacted; cameras or imagers to acquire images of the items to be transacted; an object recognition component to perform visual recognition of the acquired items through comparison of the acquired images of the items with a database and obtain identifiers of items represented in the database that correspond to an acquired image according to a correspondence criterion; a comparison component to compare a set of identifiers acquired through the item identifier acquisition devices with a set of identifiers obtained through the object recognition component; and an alerting component to provide an alert in case of discrepancies between the two sets.
Data reading systems and methods for operating data readers such as optical code readers and RFID readers. Certain preferred embodiments are directed to data readers having improved operation features for switching between various operation modes such as, for example, switching between handheld/portable mode and fixed mode using an on board inertial sensor such as an accelerometer or gyroscopic device capable of sensing various movements, motions, and/or orientations.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/22 - Image acquisition using hand-held instruments
An data reader is disclosed that includes an imager switch that couples a plurality of imagers to a single imager interface of a processor. The imager switch includes a plurality of imager interfaces to couple to a plurality of imagers, a processor interface to couple to an imager interface of a processing device, switching logic, and detection logic. The switching logic receives input from the plurality of imager interfaces and forwards data received at a presently selected imager interface to the processor interface. The detection logic detects that a desired set of image data (e.g., a complete image frame or a portion of an image frame) is received at the presently selected imager interface and automatically, dynamically, and/or intelligently changes the presently selected imager interface of the image data switching logic from a first imager interface to a second imager interface.
Disclosed is a data reading system that includes a housing and a platter window for concealing a data reader configured to read an optical code borne by an item transported through a read zone. The read zone is defined at least in part by the platter window. The data reading system also has a platter supportable on the housing that encompasses the platter window. The platter includes a first integral feature and a second integral feature bordering opposing peripheral sides of the platter window. The first and second integral features cooperatively delineate a preferred data-reading sweep path through the read zone.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 7/015 - Aligning or centring of the sensing device with respect to the record carrier
A data reading system, such as for reading optical codes being passed through a read zone, including one or more imagers, and at least one illumination module, all disposed in a reader housing, the illumination module in one configuration having a reflector housing comprised of a cone-shaped structure of generally rectangular cross-section, with a top inner surface and a bottom inner surface, wherein area of the cross-section of the cone-shaped structure increasing from a rear end to a front end, and an illumination source (such as a plurality of light emitting diodes) disposed at the rear end of the reflector housing and operative to generate illumination out through the reflector housing along an outgoing illumination path, the top inner surface of the reflector housing being a surface of high reflectivity relative to the bottom inner surface of the reflector housing which has a surface of relatively low reflectivity. Also disclosed are imager configurations for providing multiple fields of views of multiple imagers co-mounted on a common PCB.
G06K 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
45.
Bioptic data reader with split vertical windows and speaker
A data reading system including a lower base section with a generally horizontal surface and a vertical section extending perpendicularly from the lower housing section. The vertical section includes a front face with a first scan window through which a data reader is operable to read encoded data on an item. The data reading system further includes a speaker system having a speaker grille laterally spaced apart from the first scan window on the front face of the vertical section. The speaker system may emit a sound or other message to confirm that the encoded data was (or was not) properly captured by the data reader. The data reading system may further include a second scan window on the front face of the vertical section. In such instances, the speaker grille may be positioned between the scan windows on the front face of the vertical section.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06K 7/01 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers Details
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
46.
Bezel with non-metallic materials for cover or platter for a data reader in a checkout station
A checkout station includes an optional scale for weighing items; a composite cover or weigh platter supported by the scale, wherein the cover has a lower surface with a lower window having a horizontal perimeter, an upper surface including an upper window positioned transversely to the lower surface, a metallic plate surrounding a portion of the horizontal perimeter of the lower window, the metallic plate spaced apart proximal end sections, and a nonmetallic bezel positioned between the lower window and the upper surface and positioned between the spaced apart proximal end sections of the metallic plate; one or more imagers for obtaining views of an item within a viewing volume bounded by the lower and upper surfaces; and a surveillance tag deactivation system for deactivating an electronic surveillance tag in proximity to the viewing volume.
G08B 21/00 - Alarms responsive to a single specified undesired or abnormal condition and not otherwise provided for
G08B 13/24 - Electrical actuation by interference with electromagnetic field distribution
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
A data reading system (100), such as for reading optical codes being passed through a read zone, including one or more imagers (204, 210), and at least one illumination module (254, 256, 264, 266, 294, 296, 350, 350a, 450) all disposed in a reader housing (110/115), the illumination module in one configuration having a reflector housing (351) comprised of a cone-shaped structure of generally rectangular cross-section, with a top inner surface (351a, 454a, 455a) and a bottom inner surface (351b, 456a), wherein area of the cross-section of the cone-shaped structure increasing from a rear end to a front end, and an illumination source, such as a plurality of light emitting diodes (363, 364, 365, 366, 367, 368, 462a, 462b, 462c, 462), disposed at the rear end of the reflector housing and operative to generate illumination out through the reflector housing along an outgoing illumination path, the top inner surface of the reflector housing being a surface of high reflectivity relative to the bottom inner surface of the reflector housing which has a surface of relatively low reflectivity. Also disclosed are imager configurations for providing multiple fields of views of multiple imagers co-mounted on a common PCB (200).
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
48.
BIOPTIC DATA READER WITH SPLIT VERTICAL WINDOWS AND SPEAKER
A data reading system (100) including a lower base section (110) with a generally horizontal surface and a vertical section (115) extending perpendicularly from the lower housing section (110). The vertical section (115) includes a front face (115b) with a first scan window (116) through which a data reader is operable to read encoded data on an item (20). The data reading system (100) further includes a speaker system (119, 119a) having a speaker grille (119) laterally spaced apart from the first scan window (116) on the front face (115b) of the vertical section (115). The speaker system (119, 119a) may emit a sound or other message to confirm that the encoded data was (or was not) properly captured by the data reader. The data reading system (100) may further include a second scan window (118) on the front face (115b) of the vertical section (110). In such instances, the speaker grille (119) may be positioned between the scan windows (116, 118) on the front face (115b) of the vertical section (115).
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
49.
BEZEL FOR A COVER OR PLATTER FOR A DATA READER IN A CHECKOUT STATION
A checkout station (10) includes an optional scale for weighing items (20); a composite cover or weigh platter (50) supported by the scale, wherein the cover (50) has a lower surface (54) with a lower window (68) having a horizontal perimeter (90), an upper surface (56) including an upper window (70) positioned transversely to the lower surface (54), a metallic plate (82) surrounding a portion of the horizontal perimeter (90) of the lower window (68), the metallic plate spaced apart proximal end sections (92,94), and a nonmetallic bezel (80) positioned between the lower window (68) and the upper surface (56) and positioned between the spaced apart proximal end sections (92,94) of the metallic plate (82); one or more imagers (400) for obtaining views of an item (20) within a viewing volume bounded by the lower and upper surfaces (54,56); and a surveillance tag deactivation system for deactivating an electronic surveillance tag in proximity to the viewing volume.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
50.
DATA READER PLATTER WITH INTEGRAL FEATURES DELINEATING A DATA-READING SWEEP REGION
Disclosed is a data reading system (100) that includes a housing (180) and a platter window (164, 165L, 165R) for concealing a data reader (202, 204) configured to read an optical code (121) borne by an item (120) transported through a read zone. The read zone is defined at least in part by the platter window. The data reading system also has a platter (144) supportable on the housing that encompasses the platter window. The platter includes a first integral feature (302, 702, 800, 930) and a second integral feature (304, 932) bordering opposing peripheral sides (314, 316) of the platter window. The first and second integral features cooperatively delineate a preferred data-reading sweep path through the read zone.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
A data reading system (100, 300, 400, 800) including one or more imagers (210, 215), the data reading system having a lower main housing structure (105, 410) with a horizontal surface (130/132, 320, 412), across which items to be read are passed, and an upper reader module, such as pole-mounted top down reader (TDR) (175, 375, 500, 850) including (a) a bottom imager (181/195, 570) configured to provide a top down viewing angle from above the horizontal surface of the item (20) in a read region and/or (b) a top imager (566) configured to provide an upward or sideward viewing angle out from the TDR. In one configuration, a pole-mounted TDR may include a one-piece post housing section (510) mounted to the main housing structure (105, 410) and extending therefrom and containing imaging electronics and optics of the upper reader module.
A data reading system including one or more imagers, the data reading system having a lower main housing structure with a horizontal surface, across which items to be read are passed, and an upper reader module, such as pole-mounted top down reader (TDR) including an imager configured to provide a top down viewing angle from above the horizontal surface of the item in a read region. In one configuration, the pole-mounted upper reader module includes a one-piece post housing section mounted to the main housing structure and extending therefrom and containing imaging electronics and optics of the upper reader.
G06K 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
53.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR READING OPTICAL CODES ON BOTTOM SURFACE OF ITEMS
An automated checkout system (10) and method of operation for reading encoded data on a bottom surface (32) of an item (20) using a data reader (40). The automated checkout system (10) includes a leading conveyor section (14) and a trailing conveyor section (16) separated by a gap (18) therebetween, where the item (20) is transported across the gap (18) as it moves between the conveyors (14, 16). A first and second reading device (42, 44) are each positioned beneath the conveyor sections (14, 16), where each reading device (42, 44) has a field of view projecting through the gap (18). The first reading device (42) is configured to acquire a first set of scan data and the second reading device (44) is configured to acquire a second set of scan data different from the first. In some embodiments, the first set of scan data may include two-dimensional area views (54) of the encoded data, and the second set of scan data may include linescans (55) of the encoded data.
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
Disclosed are embodiments of methods, systems, and apparatus for providing multiple image fields or regions on an imaging array. In certain preferred embodiments, a high density imaging array may be partitioned into two or more regions, each of which may be used to render a separate view of the scan volume. This arrangement may provide an increase in the effective scan volume beyond the volume available with a single imager having a single point of view and may allow for reading of encoded symbols at a variety of orientations that would otherwise preclude accurate imaging with a single imager.
A merchandise checkout system for ringing up merchandise in a grocery or other retail facility is disclosed. The merchandise checkout system includes visual sensors for acquiring images of an object to be rung up at checkout; a database configured to retain a visual model and UPC code of known items; and a processor configured to maintain and update the database with information about new merchandise presented for checkout. The visual model preferably includes at least one image of each item of merchandise in the retail store as well as geometric point features extracted from images of the merchandise. The processor in the exemplary embodiment is configured to: (a) compare the image of the object acquired at checkout to the visual model of the items in the database; (b) recognize the object based on the overall appearance of the packaging; (c) automatically ring up the price of the object at the POS; and (d) automatically add the acquired image to the database if the image of the object is new, i.e., it does not match the visual model of any of the items recorded in the database, thereby enabling the checkout system to dynamically and automatically build up its database of visual models.
G06G 1/14 - Hand-manipulated computing devices in which a straight or curved line has to be drawn from given points on one or more input scales to one or more points on a result scale
G06K 9/00 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints
An object identification system comprises an optical code reader that scans an optical code of an object and decodes a portion of the optical code. Using the decoded portion of the optical code, a database filter unit generates a filtered subset of feature models from a set of feature models of known objects stored in a database. An image capture device captures an image of the object, and a feature detector unit detects visual features in the image. A comparison unit compares the detected visual features to the filtered subset of feature models to identify a match between the object and a known object.
G06K 9/46 - Extraction of features or characteristics of the image
G06K 9/72 - Methods or arrangements for recognition using electronic means using context analysis based on the provisionally recognised identity of a number of successive patterns, e.g. a word
58.
OBJECT IDENTIFICATION USING OPTICAL CODE READING AND OBJECT RECOGNITION
An object identification system (10, 25) comprises an optical code reader (25, 40, 65) that scans an optical code (20, 130) of an object (15) and decodes a portion (135, 140, 145, 150, 155, 160) of the optical code. Using the decoded portion of the optical code, a database filter unit (125) generates (185, 235) a filtered subset of feature models from a set of feature models of known objects stored in a database (115). An image capture device (70, 105) captures (190) an image of the object, and a feature detector unit (110) detects (195) visual features in the image. A comparison unit (120) compares (200) the detected visual features to the filtered subset of feature models to identify a match between the object and a known object.
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/46 - Extraction of features or characteristics of the image
Disclosed systems and methods (400, 2000) generate a sequence of images using a data reader (100, 300, 1500) having an imager (110, 320) exposed to multiple fields of view that are alternately illuminated to coincide with exposure periods forming an image capture rate (510-519, 610-619, 710-719, 810-819, 910-919). In one configuration, a first illumination source (120, 381, 382) illuminates a first field of view (112, 305) of the data reader with a first series of illumination pulses at a first pulse repetition rate (520-534, 620-629, 820-829, 920-929). The imager captures in an alternating manner a first set of images of the first field of view and a second set of images of a second field of view (114, 310). The first pulse repetition rate and the image capture rate are set such that the imager captures the first set of images at approximately the same time as the first illumination source illuminates the first field of view with an illumination pulse.
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
Disclosed systems and methods generate a sequence of images using a data reader having an imager exposed to multiple fields of view that are alternately illuminated to coincide with exposure periods forming an image capture rate. In one configuration, a first illumination source illuminates a first field of view of the data reader with a first series of illumination pulses at a first pulse repetition rate. The imager captures in an alternating manner a first set of images of the first field of view and a second set of images of a second field of view. The first pulse repetition rate and the image capture rate are set such that the imager captures the first set of images at approximately the same time as the first illumination source illuminates the first field of view with an illumination pulse.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
61.
Gesture and motion operation control for multi-mode reading devices
A portable data reader and methods of operation for reading encoded data, such as optical code labels and RFID tags, from an object. The data reader includes a housing adapted for handheld operation and a touch screen display supported on the housing. The data reader further includes one or more reading engines each associated with a set of decoding instructions for configuring the reading engines to read data from the object. The reading engines are each associated with a unique control gesture that may be applied to the touch screen display to configure the data reader with a particular reading engine. The portable data reader includes a processing subsystem communicatively coupled to the touch screen and the reading engines and operable to detect whether a control gesture has been applied to the touch screen display or rocker keys and then to configure the data reader with the selected reading engine.
G06K 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
62.
GESTURE AND MOTION OPERATION CONTROL FOR MULTI-MODE READING DEVICES
A portable data reader and methods of operation for reading encoded data, such as optical code labels and RFID tags, from an object. The data reader includes a housing adapted for handheld operation and a touch screen display supported on the housing. The data reader further includes one or more reading engines each associated with a set of decoding instructions for configuring the reading engines to read data from the object. The reading engines are each associated with a unique control gesture that may be applied to the touch screen display to configure the data reader with a particular reading engine. The portable data reader includes a processing subsystem communicatively coupled to the touch screen and the reading engines and operable to detect whether a control gesture has been applied to the touch screen display or rocker keys and then to configure the data reader with the selected reading engine.
Self checkout and automated checkout systems and methods for multiple lane checkout stations, the automated checkout lane having a conveyor system that automatically transport objects through a portal data reader, wherein an operator (such as a checkout clerk) is provided with a portable/handheld data input and display device that allows the operator to move between multiple checkout stations for handling reading exceptions at the checkout station by employing the portable device.
Methods and systems are disclosed for producing color-image data representative of a color optical code or other color objects, particularly with a monochrome imager. Monochrome image-sensor data is produced by receiving a sequence of colored light emitted by an artificial light source and reflected from the color object. The sequence of colored light may be a red, green, and blue sequence of colored light emitting diode lights according to some embodiments. The monochrome imager produces the monochrome image-sensor data based at least in part on the portion of the reflected sequence of colored light. The monochrome image-sensor data is processed to produce color-image data representing the color optical code.
G06K 7/12 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using a selected wavelength, e.g. to sense red marks and ignore blue marks
66.
Systems and methods for forming a composite image of multiple portions of an object from multiple perspectives
Various improved imager-based optical code readers and associated methods are disclosed herein. According to one embodiment, an imager-based method reads an optical code (which may be, for example, a linear optical code such as a bar code) on an object in a viewing volume. The method comprises dividing an image plane into a plurality of strip-shaped sections, viewing the object in the viewing volume from a plurality of perspectives, forming a plurality of strip-shaped images corresponding to the plurality of perspectives, respectively, thereby creating a composite image containing data from a plurality of perspectives, and processing at least a portion of the composite image so as to ascertain the information encoded in the optical code on the object in the viewing volume. Certain embodiments can mimic the performance of a laser-based scanner without a laser or moving parts but instead utilizing an electronic imaging device such as an imager.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
67.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR READING COLOR OPTICAL CODES
Methods and systems are disclosed for producing color-image data representative of a color optical code or other color objects, particularly with a monochrome imager. Monochrome image-sensor data is produced by receiving a sequence of colored light emitted by an artificial light source and reflected from the color object. The sequence of colored light may be a red, green, and blue sequence of colored light emitting diode lights according to some embodiments. The monochrome imager produces the monochrome image-sensor data based at least in part on the portion of the reflected sequence of colored light. The monochrome image-sensor data is processed to produce color-image data representing the color optical code.
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
68.
Image-based code reader for acquisition of multiple views of an object and methods for employing same
Fold mirrors permit the imagers to be closer to each other and permit an optical code reader, such as a tunnel scanner, to confine them to a smaller housing volume or capacity. A plurality of sets of fold mirrors can also be employed to convey at least a portion of at least two different perspectives or two different depths of field of a composite view volume to different regions of an image field of a common imager. The sets of fold mirrors may also include split mirrors that have mirror components that reflect images from different view volumes to different imagers or different regions of an image field of a single imager.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 15/12 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data using printers by photographic printing
Systems and methods for data reading, which in one example configuration is directed to an automated optical code data reader in the form of a tunnel or portal scanner having an open architecture configured with front and rear inverted U-shaped arches, a plurality of cameras (some or most of which have multiple fields of view) in each of the arches for reading the top five sides of an item being passed by a conveyor through a read region formed by the arches, and a bottom reader including one or more cameras under the conveyor for reading a bottom side of the item through a gap in the conveyors as the item is passed over the gap. Also disclosed are specific imaging schemes for providing effective views of the items with a minimum number of cameras.
An automated system for reading optical codes includes a conveyor system to automatically transport objects and an object measurement system positioned along the conveyor system to measure the transported objects. In one configuration, the object measurement system generates model data representing three-dimensional models of the objects; multiple image capture devices positioned along the conveyor system capture images as the objects are transported to enable an optical code reading system to read optical codes that are captured in the images. An exception identification system associates optical codes with the three-dimensional models to determine whether an exception has occurred.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
Systems and methods are disclosed for using object recognition/verification and weight information to confirm accuracy of an optical code scan, or to provide an affirmative recognition where no scan was made. One example checkout system includes: an optical code scanner configured to generate a product identifier; at least one camera for capturing one or more images of an item; a database of features and images of known objects; an image processor configured to: extract geometric point features from the images; identify matches between extracted geometric point features and features of known objects; generate a geometric transform between extracted geometric point features and features of known objects for a subset of known objects corresponding to matches; and identify one of the known objects based on a best match of the geometric transform; and a transaction processor configured to execute a set of actions if the identified object is different than the product identifier.
A checkstand system including a counter surface within which a plurality of induction charge transmission coils are embedded in or disposed below the counter at selected charge positions about the countertop whereby a cordless peripheral, such as a data reader, is positionable and movable between multiple positions about the counter surface, the peripheral including an induction charge receiving coil operative to receive a charge current from one of the induction charge transmission coils when the peripheral is placed in proximity of a selected one of the charge positions on the checkstand. In one configuration, the system includes a temperature sensing component disposed proximal to an induction charge transmission coil and a controller operative for receiving a temperature signal from the temperature sensing component and adjusting the charge current delivered to the induction charge transmission coil in response to the signal.
H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
H02J 7/02 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries for charging batteries from AC mains by converters
H02J 5/00 - Circuit arrangements for transfer of electric power between ac networks and dc networks
75.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR WEIGH SCALE PERIMETER MONITORING FOR SCANNER-SCALES
Systems and methods for reducing erroneous weighing of items such as by detecting items extending beyond a periphery of a weigh platter (420), particularly one for a scanner-scale (400, 450), whereby in certain configurations, the system employs a light guide (430, 431, 531 ) for routing a light beam (432, 438, 588) to a detector (440, 440a) operative to detect interruption of the beam due to an item encroaching upon or overhanging an edge of the platter (420). The light guide (430, 431, 531 ) may extend the length of the platter (420) or less depending upon the various possible locations for the detector(s) (440, 440a) and the light sources (426, 576).
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
An arrangement for a tunnel scanner includes a chassis with a first data reader structure and a second data reader structure attached thereto. The first and second data reader structures include data readers that are pre-positioned before the first and second data reader structures are attached to the chassis. Indexing features of the first and second data reader structures cooperate with corresponding indexing features of the chassis to properly position the data readers relative to the chassis. In one assembly method, one or more data reader structures having pre-positioned data readers are shipped to an assembly location for a tunnel data reader. A chassis is either provided at or shipped to the assembly location. In one configuration, the data reader structures are indexed and attached to the chassis such that each data reader is placed at a desired location and orientation with respect to the chassis.
G06K 15/00 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
78.
INFORMATION GATHERING AND DECODING USING NEAR FIELD WIRELESS COMMUNICATION
An information gathering apparatus, such as a point-of-sale (POS) system may include a wireless data capture device capable of obtaining customer information from a wireless-enabled customer device. Data obtained by the wireless data capture device may be converted into a format that is compatible with a corresponding POS computer system. The wirelessly obtained data may be transmitted to the POS system along with data gathered using conventional data capture devices, such as optical readers, bar code scanners, radio frequency identifier (RFID) readers, and the like.
An automated checkout system (10) and method of operation for reading encoded data, such as barcode labels, on a bottom surface (32) of an item (20) using a data reader (40). The automated checkout system (10) includes a leading (14) and a trailing conveyor (16) separated by a gap (18), where the leading conveyor (14) may be vertically offset in relation to the trailing conveyor (16) such that the item (20) tilts or drops slightly as it moves between the conveyors (14, 16). A data reader (40) is positioned beneath the conveyors (14, 16) to read the encoded data through the gap (18) as the item (20) transitions from the leading conveyor (14) onto the trailing conveyor (16). The automated checkout system (10) may include a transition element, such as a transfer plate (48) or guide rollers (54, 56), to bridge the gap (18) between the conveyors (14, 16) to provide a smooth transfer between the conveyors (14, 16), prevent items (20) from becoming lodged between the conveyors (14, 16), and prevent debris from falling through and collecting on the data reader (40).
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
80.
EXCEPTION DETECTION AND HANDLING IN AUTOMATED OPTICAL CODE READING SYSTEMS
An automated system for reading optical codes includes a conveyor system to automatically transport objects and an object measurement system positioned along the conveyor system to measure the transported objects. In one configuration, the object measurement system generates model data representing three-dimensional models of the objects; multiple image capture devices positioned along the conveyor system capture images as the objects are transported to enable an optical code reading system to read optical codes that are captured in the images. An exception identification system associates optical codes with the three-dimensional models to determine whether an exception has occurred.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
81.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING FEEDBACK TO A USER OPERATING AN AUTOMATED CHECKSTAND
Systems and methods for providing feedback to a user of an automated checkstand are disclosed. In some embodiments, the automated checkstand has a data reader including a read zone through which items to be read are passed, and a loading zone on which a user places items for conveyor transport through the read zone. The automated checkstand also has a notification system including an illumination source that is configured to selectively illuminate a portion of the automated checkstand in response to positional information associated with items previously placed on a conveyor system.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
82.
MODULAR SCANNER COMPONENT MOUNTING SYSTEM FOR CHECKSTAND
An arrangement for a tunnel scanner (5) includes a chassis (25) with a first data reader structure (10) and a second data reader structure (15) attached thereto. The first and second data reader structures (10, 15) include data readers that are pre-positioned before the first and second data reader structures (10, 15) are attached to the chassis (25). Indexing features of the first and second data reader structures (10, 15) cooperate with corresponding indexing features of the chassis (25) to properly position the data readers relative to the chassis (25). In one assembly method, one or more data reader structures (10, 15) having pre-positioned data readers are shipped to an assembly location for a tunnel data reader (5). A chassis (25) is either provided at or shipped to the assembly location. In one configuration, the data reader structures (10, 15) are indexed and attached to the chassis (25) such that each data reader is placed at a desired location and orientation with respect to the chassis (25).
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
83.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF CAPTURING SECURITY IMAGES IN AN AUTOMATED DATA READER
The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for detecting and handling exception situations in an automated data reading system. In one configuration, an illumination source is triggered to generate light pulses and a security imager is triggered synchronous with light pulses of the illumination source. The security imager captures security images of items that are transported through an automated data reader, e.g. optical code reader. The captured security images are configured to be displayed for a user or operator to use to identify an exception item. A plurality of decode imagers capture image data that can be used to identify and read an optical code disposed on an item transported through the automated data reader. The decode imagers capture images synchronous with light pulses of the illumination source.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
84.
TUNNEL OR PORTAL SCANNER AND METHOD OF SCANNING FOR AUTOMATED CHECKOUT
Systems and methods for data reading, which in one configuration is directed to an automated optical code data reader (5) in the form of a tunnel or portal scanner (100, 500) having an open architecture configured with front and rear inverted U-shaped arches (110, 120), a plurality cameras (some or most of which having multiple fields of view) (150, 160, 170, 180, 192/194, 250, 260, 270, 280, 300, 310, 320, 330) in each of the arches for reading the top five sides of an item (20) being passed by a conveyor (15/16) through a read region formed by the arches, and a bottom reader (130) including one or more cameras (410, 420) under the conveyor for reading a bottom side of the item through a gap (50) in the conveyors as the item is passed over the gap. Also disclosed are specific imaging schemes for providing effective views of the items with a minimum number of cameras.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
85.
Systems and methods of capturing security images in an automated data reader
The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for detecting and handling exception situations in an automated data reading system. In one configuration, an illumination source is triggered to generate light pulses and a security imager is triggered synchronous with light pulses of the illumination source. The security imager captures security images of items that are transported through an automated data reader, e.g. optical code reader. The captured security images are configured to be displayed for a user or operator to use to identify an exception item. A plurality of decode imagers capture image data that can be used to identify and read an optical code disposed on an item transported through the automated data reader. The decode imagers capture images synchronous with light pulses of the illumination source.
Systems and methods for providing feedback to a user of an automated checkstand are disclosed. In some embodiments, the automated checkstand has a data reader including a read zone through which items to be read are passed, and a loading zone on which a user places items for conveyor transport through the read zone. The automated checkstand also has a notification system including an illumination source that is configured to selectively illuminate a portion of the automated checkstand in response to positional information associated with items previously placed on a conveyor system.
Methods and systems of illuminating a scan volume of an optical code reader are disclosed. In an example configuration, an illumination source associated with the optical code reader is set to a first illumination mode based on a user-configurable parameter that at least partially defines a first depth of field of the optical code reader when the illumination source illuminates the scan volume; while the illumination source is in the first illumination mode, the scan volume is monitored for an indication of whether an object is detected in the scan volume; and if an object is detected in the scan volume while the illumination source is in the first illumination mode, the illumination source is set to a second illumination mode.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
88.
Systems and methods for illuminating a scan volume of an optical code reader
Methods and systems of illuminating a scan volume of an optical code reader are disclosed. In an example configuration, an illumination source associated with the optical code reader is set to a first illumination mode based on a user-configurable parameter that at least partially defines a first depth of field of the optical code reader when the illumination source illuminates the scan volume; while the illumination source is in the first illumination mode, the scan volume is monitored for an indication of whether an object is detected in the scan volume; and if an object is detected in the scan volume while the illumination source is in the first illumination mode, the illumination source is set to a second illumination mode.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
Optical reading system and methods having multiple modes of operation, for example: omnidirectional and single-code picking; fixed and handheld reading; 1D and 2D code reading. In one configuration, an image-based system obtains input data via an area sensor (e.g., a 2D CCD array) with only data corresponding to a pattern of virtual scan lines being stored and processed. A user may implement different operating modes such as a first mode reading codes in any location or orientation and a second mode reading only a code oriented along a particular virtual scan line or group thereof. Alternately, the data reader is operable to switch between handheld mode selecting a first pattern of virtual scan lines to process and/or decode and a fixed mode selecting a second pattern of virtual scan lines to process and/or decode. Virtual scan patterns in either mode can change within or between frames.
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
G06K 9/32 - Aligning or centering of the image pick-up or image-field
Systems and methods for data reading are disclosed wherein one or more images of an item bearing an optical code are captured and the captured images are analyzed to determine whether the item has a reflective surface or not. Based on such a determination, operating parameters of the system, such as one or more of: the amount of time dedicated to 1D code decoding and the amount of time dedicated to 2D code decoding, the order in which 1D code and 2D code decoding are performed, termination of a decoding operation, restarting an image capture and decoding operation, and image preprocessing may be automatically adjusted by the system to decode an optical code.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
Systems and methods for data reading are disclosed wherein one or more images of an item bearing an optical code are captured and the captured images are analyzed to determine whether the item has a reflective surface or not. Based on such a determination, operating parameters of the system, such as one or more of: the amount of time dedicated to 1D code decoding and the amount of time dedicated to 2D code decoding, the order in which 1D code and 2D code decoding are performed, termination of a decoding operation, restarting an image capture and decoding operation, and image preprocessing may be automatically adjusted by the system to decode an optical code.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
Light sources (120, 121) are contained in a data reader housing (40) that also contains an imager (90). In one embodiment, one light source (121) includes a number of LEDs (130) placed in a number of hollow reflectors (140) located toward the rear of a data scanner(30), where the hollow reflectors (140) have substantially flat reflective surfaces (160) to project light through a window (50) and into a read volume (95). Other embodiments include additional light sources (127) located proximate sidewalls (75, 80) of the data scanner (30) and also include a number of LEDs (132) placed in hollow reflectors (230) to project light through the window (50) and into the read volume (95). In other embodiments, additional LEDs (295) are included outside the hollow reflectors (300) to project light through the window (270) and into a different portion of the read volume (335) than the LEDs (295) located in the hollow reflectors (300).
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
94.
Data reader with light source arrangement for improved illumination
Light sources are contained in a data reader housing that also contains an imager. In one embodiment, one light source includes a number of LEDs placed in a number of hollow reflectors located toward the rear of a data scanner, where the hollow reflectors have substantially flat reflective surfaces to project light through a window and into a read volume. Other embodiments include additional light sources located proximate sidewalls of the data scanner and also include a number of LEDs placed in hollow reflectors to project light through the window and into the read volume. In other embodiments, additional LEDs are included outside the hollow reflectors to project light through the window and into a different portion of the read volume than the LEDs located in the hollow reflectors.
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
95.
System and method for reading optical codes on reflective surfaces while minimizing flicker perception of pulsed illumination
Methods and systems are disclosed for improved operation of readers of optical codes presented on electronic display screens or other highly reflective surfaces. Certain configurations include controlling image exposure and illumination pulse timing so as to avoid or minimize the perception of flicker of the pulsed illumination by a user or bystander while implementing methods for reading optical codes presented on electronic display screens or other highly reflective surfaces.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
96.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR READING OPTICAL CODES ON REFLECTIVE SURFACES WHILE MINIMIZING FLICKER PERCEPTION OF PULSED ILLUMINATION
Methods and systems are disclosed for improved operation of readers (10) of optical codes (45) presented on electronic display screens (42) or other highly reflective surfaces. Certain configurations include controlling image exposure and illumination pulse timing so as to avoid or minimize the perception of flicker of the pulsed illumination by a user or bystander while implementing methods for reading optical codes presented on electronic display screens or other highly reflective surfaces.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
A data reader (10, 100, 150, 300) including one or more imagers or imager assemblies (50, 126/128, 177/178, 350) that capture two-dimensional images of an object disposed in a view volume (5), the data reader having fold mirrors (60/62, 122/124, 172/174/176, 362/360) and other component arrangement that enable compact and efficient component configuration.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
A data reader including one or more imagers or imager assemblies that capture two-dimensional images of an object disposed in a view volume, the data reader having fold mirrors and other component arrangement that enable compact and efficient component configuration.
G06K 7/04 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by mechanical means, e.g. by pins operating electric contacts
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
Disclosed systems (10) and methods preferably capture one or more images of an item (32) bearing an optical code (31) and analyze such images to determine whether the item (32) has a highly, or relatively highly, reflective surface (30) or not. Based on such a determination, operating parameters of the system (10), such as the gain, exposure time, and amount of illumination, are preferably automatically adjusted by the system (10) to capture a subsequent image of the item (32) where the subsequent image has sufficient contrast to decode the optical code (31). The subsequent image may include a plurality of images, and different operating parameters may be used to capture several, or each, of the plurality of images based on the determination of whether the item (32) has a highly, or relatively highly, reflective surface (30) or not.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
G06K 9/18 - Methods or arrangements for reading or recognising printed or written characters or for recognising patterns, e.g. fingerprints using printed characters having additional code marks or containing code marks, e.g. the character being composed of individual strokes of different shape, each representing a different code value
Disclosed systems and methods preferably capture one or more images of an item bearing an optical code and analyze such images to determine whether the item has a highly, or relatively highly, reflective surface or not. Based on such a determination, operating parameters of the system, such as the gain, exposure time, and amount of illumination, are preferably automatically adjusted by the system to capture a subsequent image of the item where the subsequent image has sufficient contrast to decode the optical code. The subsequent image may include a plurality of images, and different operating parameters may be used to capture several, or each, of the plurality of images based on the determination of whether the item has a highly, or relatively highly, reflective surface or not.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
