Abstract: An automatically-activated laser scanning 2-D bar code symbol reading system for use in a work environment, wherein a hand-supportable 2-D bar code symbol reader is arranged in two-way communication with a base station operably connected to a host system. The 2-D bar code symbol reader includes (i) a bar code symbol data detector for automatically detecting each line of said 2-D bar code symbol, and producing a line of scan data for buffering in a buffer memory, (ii) an audible data capture buffering indicator for automatically generating audible sounds as each line of bar code symbol data is captured and buffered in said buffer memory, and (iii) a decode processor for automatically decode processing an entire set of scan data collected in said buffer memory and corresponding to a scanned 2-D bar code symbol, and generating a symbol character data string representative of said read 2-D bar code symbol.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to easily set a camera attachment distance of an image pick-up optical system, a combination of close-up rings and the like. When a user designates a specification of a desirable two-dimensional code such as a code type, a data type, a data volume, a printable space, or printing precision, a cell size and a symbol size of the two-dimensional code and the like are calculated in accordance therewith. Furthermore, an attachment condition of an image pick-up section such as an attachment distance limitation of the image pick-up section or a shift tolerance of a two-dimensional code label is specified. By inputting and calculating the condition for setting the image pick-up optical system of a two-dimensional code reader, thus, an appropriate camera attachment distance, a type of a close-up ring and a standard of a scale of a focusing ring are calculated automatically.

Abstract: A method of reading information which makes it possible to suppress the size of hardware and a price thereof and to improve an S/N ratio of a reading signal and reading resolution, wherein even if depth of field for reading is enlarged or a concave/convex portion or a blurred portion is left on the reading face, reading precision can be improved. The method includes steps of acquiring from a medium 1, a signal containing binary digit information having a predetermined information length and a one-dimensional arrangement, extracting information concerning an elemental unit length of the information length of the binary digit information from the acquired signal, and reading a ratio of the binary digit information to the information length based on the extracted elemental unit length information.

Abstract: Methods of and systems for illuminating objects using planar laser illumination beams having substantially-planar spatial distribution characteristics that extend through the field of view (FOV) of image formation and detection modules employed in such systems. Each planar laser illumination beam is produced from a planar laser illumination beam array (PLIA) comprising an plurality of planar laser illumination modules (PLIMs). Each PLIM comprises a visible laser diode (VLD, a focusing lens, and a cylindrical optical element arranged therewith. The individual planar laser illumination beam components produced from each PLIM are optically combined to produce a composite substantially planar laser illumination beam having substantially uniform power density characteristics over the entire spatial extend thereof and thus the working range of the system.

Abstract: Briefly stated, the operating depth of field for a bar code scanner, preferably a laser scanner, is increased by placing a cubic phase mask (CPM) in the scanning beam. The masked beam is then scanned and reflected off a bar code and received by a photodetector. The received signal is then processed to recover the original unperturbed representation of the bar code pattern. The processed signal has an increased depth of field over an unmasked scanner signal.

Abstract: An optical code reader for reading optical codes in any orientation with a preferred depth of field (DOF), the optical code reader including imaging sensor arrays arranged at angles to one another and tilted in accordance with the Scheimpflug principle to allow for omni-directional reading and a preferred DOF. In addition, an optical code reader may also include an optical device to rotate an image as it is projected upon a stationary tilted image sensor array. Still further, an optical code reader may include a rotating imaging sensor array tilted in accordance with the Scheimpflug principle to allow for omni-directional reading with a preferred DOF.

Abstract: An alignment indication is provided in an optical scanner for reading a two-dimensional optical code by varying the scanning beam to provide a region of apparent greater brightness. In the case of a PDF417 bar code symbol, an elongated brighter region may be oriented so that it is parallel with rows of the PDF417 symbol. The apparent greater brightness may result because of the persistence of the scanning pattern in the user's vision. The region of apparent greater brightness may be achieved by providing a greater density of scan lines in the region. Because of the persistence in the user's vision, multiple scan lines appear simultaneously, and thus a region with a greater density of scan lines appears as a brighter region. The region of apparent greater brightness may also be achieved by providing a differently shaped scanning spot in the region (e.g., a larger, or more elongated spot).

Abstract: An imaging arrangement for, and method of, imaging a target at one of a plurality of focal planes, includes a two-dimensional sensor having an array of pixels for converting incident light into electrical signals to be processed into an image of the target, and an optical assembly including a stationary optical element transmissive to the incident light en route to the sensor. The element is fixed relative to the sensor and has a plurality of optical portions respectively arranged in a plurality of patterns relative to a plurality of groups of the pixels. The assembly is operative for focusing the respective groups of the pixels in the respective patterns at respective focal planes spaced apart from one another away from the sensor.

Abstract: A bioptics bar code reader has first and second windows disposed at an angle to each other, a first imager for the first window and a second imager for the second window and first and second optics for directing light from a bar code in a reading area between the windows to the first and second imagers. The two imagers each obtain an image of the bar code in the reading area.

Abstract: A planar laser illumination and imaging (PLIIM) based system having a linear image formation and detection module disposed in a system housing, and having image formation optics with a field of view projectable through an aperture in the housing and onto an object moving relative thereto during object illumination and imaging operations. A pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) are disposed on the system housing. Each planar laser array (PLIA) includes a plurality of laser diodes arranged together in a linear manner. The planar laser illumination arrays are arranged in relation to the linear image formation and detection module, and produce a pair of planar laser illumination beams (PLIBs). The pair of stationary planar laser illumination beams are projected through light transmission apertures in the system housing and oriented such that the plane of the planar laser illumination beams is coplanar with the field of view of the linear image formation and detection module.

Abstract: An image of a target in a far-field range of working distances relative to an image capture system is focused at a first group of sensors in a common, two-dimensional, array of sensors, and an image of an optical code in a near-field range of working distances relative to the system is focused at a second group of sensors in the array. The same array is shared in a portable apparatus capable of capturing target images and optical code images without moving any optical components.

Abstract: A focusing lens is manually moved to extend a range of working distances in which a bar code symbol can be electro-optically read. The lens movement enables reading of close-in and far-out symbols. The lens movement can also be used to change operation between a reading mode and a pointing mode in which a visual display is created on a target.

Abstract: A variable focal length imaging device. The device has an image-sensing component and a variable focal length lens in visual cooperation with the image-sensing component. The variable focal length lens has a focal length that varies across its surface such that a different portion of the lens focuses, onto different regions of the sensing component, objects at different distances from the lens. In this fashion, the device is able to read symbols at varying distances from the device.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for reading indicia, such as a bar code, from a remote location. The apparatus includes a light source for illuminating the indicia, preferably with infrared illumination. The indicia is incorporated in a reflective medium, disposed remotely from the light source, which reflects the illumination provided by the light source. The apparatus includes a light sensing device also disposed remotely from the reflective medium. The light sensing device receives the reflected image of the indicia and generates an indicia image signal based thereon. An indicia processing system receives and operates on the indicia image signal to extract indicia information therefrom. The light source and the light sensing device may be located up to 75 feet or more away from the reflective medium, and the reflective medium may be moving at speeds of up to 85 miles per hour or more relative to the light source and the light sensing device.

Abstract: Methods of and systems for illuminating objects using planar laser illumination beams having substantially-planar spatial distribution characteristics that extend through the field of view (FOV) of image formation and detection modules employed in such systems. Each planar laser illumination beam is produced from a planar laser illumination beam array (PLIA) comprising an plurality of planar laser illumination modules (PLIMs). Each PLIM comprises a visible laser diode (VLD, a focusing lens, and a cylindrical optical element arranged therewith. The individual planar laser illumination beam components produced from each PLIM are optically combined to produce a composite substantially planar laser illumination beam having substantially uniform power density characteristics over the entire spatial extend thereof and thus the working range of the system.

Abstract: A scanner for the detection of one-dimensional and/or two-dimensional codes has a light receiver arranged in a housing and an optical receiving system associated therewith and also accommodated in the housing. At least one light source is additionally provided in the housing to illuminate the region to be scanned arranged in a scanning plane. At least one of the light source and the optical receiving system is movable in order to allow a reading distance between the housing and the object plane to be varied.

Abstract: A light source mechanism of a barcode scanner includes a laser diode as the point type light source, a collimating lens and a standing cylindrical lens in front of the laser diode. A mirror or a thin-film coating prism can be installed in front of the collimating lens to have the light beam from the collimating lens be reflected at least once to go out in horizontal direction. The reflected light beam from barcode passes through a condensing lens and is received by a linear receiver (CCD or CMOS sensor, for example) and is converted into electrical signals, and decoded by a circuit to get the data.

Abstract: A scanning system utilizes a randomly addressable image sensor which is selectively positioned at the Scheimpflug angle in the image plane in order to detect focused light reflected from an object. Light reflected from the object is focused onto the sensor through an objective lens. Since the sensor is mounted at the Scheimpflug angle, each strip within the depth of field of the object plane has corresponding pixels on the sensor which are in focus.

Abstract: A planar laser illumination and imaging (PLIIM) based system employing wavefront control methods for reducing the power of speckle-pattern noise within digital images acquired by the system. The system comprises a housing having a first light transmission aperture, a second light transmission aperture, and a third light transmission aperture, wherein the first and second light transmission apertures are optically isolated from said third light transmission aperture spatially aligned on opposite sides thereof. A pair of planar laser illumination arrays (PLIAs) are mounted within the housing, for producing and projecting a first and second planar laser illumination beams (PLIBS) through the first and second light transmission apertures respectively, thereby producing a composite planar laser illumination beam (PLIB) outside of the housing, and illuminating an object therewith as the object is transported past the first, second and third light transmission apertures.

Abstract: Methods of and systems for illuminating objects using planar laser illumination beams having substantially-planar spatial distribution characteristics that extend through the field of view (FOV) of image formation and detection modules employed in such systems. Each planar laser illumination beam is produced from a planar laser illumination beam array (PLIA) comprising an plurality of planar laser illumination modules (PLIMs). Each PLIM comprises a visible laser diode (VLD, a focusing lens, and a cylindrical optical element arranged therewith. The individual planar laser illumination beam components produced from each PLIM are optically combined to produce a composite substantially planar laser illumination beam having substantially uniform power density characteristics over the entire spatial extend thereof and thus the working range of the system.

Abstract: An imaging optical code reader is adapted for use in producing video displays. A rotating plate carrier is capable of placing several different optical elements into the optical paths of the system including at least one plane parallel plate to change the system focal distance.

Abstract: A laser beam having a Mathieu-Gaussian intensity profile is provided, which may be used for various optical scanning applications at various scanning distances. The Mathieu-Gaussian beam exhibits a zone of illumination characterized by a central spot and side lobes centered on an axis of elongation of the zone of illumination. The zone of illumination may be used with scanners that either generate a single scan line, or another omni- or multi-directional raster pattern, to scan symbols over large variations of distance.

Abstract: An apparatus is described for counting the number of people crossing from one side of a given threshold to the other. The apparatus comprises a plurality of sensing means (10) for mounting above the threshold, each capable of detecting an item passing beneath it. Processing means compare the detection signals of each pair of adjacent sensing means to prevent the same person from being counted separately by the adjacent sensing means.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for reading a coded pattern, symbol or indict such as a barcode. The apparatus and method improves captured resolution with a marker or fiducial input closed loop system. In the present invention, a pre-scan of the pattern, such as a barcode, is performed and fiducials of the barcode are identified. Calculations from these fiducial locations are used to determine the minimum field of view that will substantially capture the fiducials. In an embodiment of the invention, a variable magnification system of the apparatus can be actuated to this minimum field of view and a full resolution final image of the pattern is then captured.

Abstract: Briefly stated, the operating depth of field for a bar code scanner, preferably a laser scanner, is increased by placing a cubic phase mask (CPM) in the scanning beam. The masked beam is then scanned and reflected off a bar code and received by a photodetector. The received signal is then processed to recover the original unperturbed representation of the bar code pattern. The processed signal has an increased depth of field over an unmasked scanner signal.

Abstract: These and other objects of the present invention are attained by apparatus for adjusting the position of a line of light in barcode space that includes a support frame having a rear housing containing a solid state imager and a pair of support arms extending forwardly from the front of the housing. An imaging lens is mounted between the arms for focusing an image of a target in barcode space upon the solid state imager along the optical axis of the imaging lens. Illuminating LEDs are mounted on either side of the imaging lens for illuminating the target. The illumination is passed through a pair of cylindrical lenses that are adjustably mounted upon the distal ends of the arm so that the light can be selectively positioned in barcode space.

Abstract: An imaging apparatus and method in which the focus of the imaging apparatus can be adjusted.

Abstract: An optical reader including an image sensor, imaging optics, a short range aiming assembly, and a long range aiming assembly. The short range aiming assembly may comprise a plurality of LEDs. The long range aiming assembly may comprise a laser diode assembly which projects an aiming pattern that is readily visible at reading distances of several feet. The optical reader can be configured so that long range aiming assembly is enabled or disabled depending upon a present operating condition.

Abstract: An improved optical system for scanning optical codes is disclosed. A laser beam produced thereby is a diverging, nearly diffraction free beam and may be used to produce an elongated scanning spot. A laser assembly which may be used to produce such beams and spots, combines various optical functions in structures which are relatively insensitive to temperature change.

Abstract: An apparatus for capturing images and barcodes. The apparatus has an image-sensing device and a lens having a variable-focal-length region and a substantially fixed-focal-length region. The variable-focal-length region focuses light onto a first region of the image-sensing device and the substantially fixed-focal-length region focuses light onto a second region of the image-sensing device. The variable-focal-length region varies such that different portions of that region of the lens focus objects at different distances from the lens in different areas of the first region of the image-sensing device. Thus, the device is able to focus, in the first region of the image-sensing device, objects at varying distances from the apparatus.

Abstract: A variable focal length imaging device. The device has an image-sensing component and a variable focal length lens in visual cooperation with the image-sensing component. The variable focal length lens has a focal length that varies across its surface such that a different portion of the lens focuses, onto different regions of the sensing component, objects at different distances from the lens. In this fashion, the device is able to read symbols at varying distances from the device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus use light sources, such as LEDs, to illuminate target areas. At least one embodiment of the invention provides a system for illuminating target areas using multiple light sources, wherein the system comprises a first light source configured to illuminate a first target area. The system further comprises a second light source configured to illuminate a second target area, wherein the second target area is located more distant from the second light source compared to the distance from the second light source to the first target area. According to at least one embodiment, the illumination from the first light source and the illumination from the second light source overlaps on the first target area, and the intensities of the first and second light source are adjusted to provide a relatively balanced illumination of the first target area.

Abstract: A dataform reader module is provided utilizing a piezoelectric reflector with a reflecting angle that is adjustable to provide for an optimal focus of an image projected onto a photosensor array. A distance measurement device can provide a distance measurement utilized in adjusting the piezoelectric reflector, such that an optimal focus can be made without the use of multiple lenses and/or reflectors. Alternatively, various dataform readings can be performed to find the optimal focus without employing a distance measurement device. Additionally, distance measurements and readings can be performed on segments of the dataform and the dataform reconstructed after all of the readings have been performed.

Abstract: A beam generator, or beam shaping system, for example for use in an optical scanner, creates a non-Gaussian beam which provides improved indicia-reading characteristics. In one embodiment, diffractive optical elements are used to create a Bessel-Gaussian scanning beam, which comprises a coherent combination of a Gaussian beam and a Bessel beam.

Abstract: Methods of and systems for illuminating objects using planar laser illumination beams having substantially-planar spatial distribution characteristics that extend through the field of view (FOV) of image formation and detection modules employed in such systems. Each planar laser illumination beam is produced from a planar laser illumination beam array (PLIA) comprising an plurality of planar laser illumination modules (PLIMs). Each PLIM comprises a visible laser diode (VLD, a focusing lens, and a cylindrical optical element arranged therewith. The individual planar laser illumination beam components produced from each PLIM are optically combined to produce a composite substantially planar laser illumination beam having substantially uniform power density characteristics over the entire spatial extend thereof and thus the working range of the system.

Abstract: Methods of and systems for illuminating objects using planar laser illumination beams having substantially-planar spatial distribution characteristics that extend through the field of view (FOV) of image formation and detection modules employed in such systems. Each planar laser illumination beam is produced from a planar laser illumination beam array (PLIA) comprising an plurality of planar laser illumination modules (PLIMs). Each PLIM comprises a visible laser diode (VLD, a focusing lens, and a cylindrical optical element arranged therewith. The individual planar laser illumination beam components produced from each PLIM are optically combined to produce a composite substantially planar laser illumination beam having substantially uniform power density characteristics over the entire spatial extend thereof and thus the working range of the system.

Abstract: A method of the invention reads a bar code based on bar-code data obtained by scanning the bar code with light. The method includes the steps of a) obtaining bar-code data, b) obtaining a sum of bar-data widths with respect to a predetermined number of bar data provided in at least one of a preceding portion and a following portion of the bar-code data, c) repeating the steps a) and b) once to obtain another sum, and d) making a comparison of the sum with another sum. The methods further includes a step of accepting the bar-code data as valid data when a result of the comparison satisfies a predetermined condition.

Abstract: An analog scan data signal processor is disclosed, in which a time-domain non-linear substrate noise filter is provided before a first derivative signal generation stage so as to produce, as output, a substantially fixed zero-reference signal level whenever a signal level indicative of a bar code substrate is detected, and the signal level analog scan data signal, whenever a signal level indicative of a bar code element is detected. By virtue of the present invention, it is now possible to reduce the level of substrate noise signals within input analog scan data signals, prior to deriving first derivative signals for subsequent signal processing. Consequently, the accuracy of binary signal level detection within such analog scan data signal processors can be significantly improved, thereby improving the performance of bar code symbol reading systems within which such analog scan data signal processors are employed.

Abstract: A non-retroreflective axial scan module has a light source for producing a light beam directed, a scan element disposed receptive of the light beam to provide a scanning light beam, a photodetector for receiving light from the scanning beam reflected by a dataform for producing a signal corresponding thereto and optics for restricting the field of view of the photodetector to the vicinity of a scan line formed by the scanning light beam on the dataform all supported in a housing having a volume of less than about one cubic inch.

Abstract: A dataform reading module includes at least one photosensor providing a plurality of different zones for image capture. The reader module further includes a plurality of optics for focusing a respective image representing a portion of a dataform taken along a target line onto a respective one of the plurality of different zones. At least two of the plurality of optics are configured to focus an image of adjacent and partially overlapping portions of the dataform taken along the target line. An illuminating device included as part of the reading module is used for illuminating the dataform.

Abstract: A hand-held imager which is capable of reading both linear and two dimensional symbologies, which can perform focusing and illuminating steps quickly and accurately so as to eliminate variation in the position of the imager relative to the code becoming a negative factor. The imager includes an imaging system having a focusing system, an illumination system, and a two-dimensional photodetector which forms an image of the coded symbology. After achieving targeting of the coded symbology, the scanning system adjusts the focus and illumination between multiple different focuses, and utilizes a portion of the two-dimensional photodetector to determine the optimum focus and illumination. Upon the determination of optimum focus and illumination, and an image is created using the entire two-dimensional photodetector. Predefined multiple sets of illuminating parameters intensity, exposure and gain can be used to determine the proper focus and illumination.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed comprising a base capable of receiving a camera including a lens, and a projector coupled to the base and adapted to project a plurality of beams of light onto a plane positioned at a focus distance from the base, wherein the projections of the beams of light on the plane are geometric shapes, and wherein an intersection of the geometric shapes is at the center of the field of view of the lens when the lens is installed on the base. In addition, an apparatus is disclosed comprising a base capable of receiving a camera including a lens, an image processor capable of being coupled to the camera for processing an image of a target captured by the camera, and a confirmation projector coupled to the image processor, wherein the projector projects a confirmation beam onto the plane of the target when the image processor signals the confirmation projector that it has processed the image.

Abstract: The zone laser scanning systems by processing analog scan data signals with a scan data signal processor having a plurality of pass-band filters and amplifiers that are automatically selected for passing only the spectral components of an analog scan data signal produced when a bar code symbol is scanned at a particular focal zone in the laser scanning system. Two or more different pass band filter structures can be provided for use in the scan data signal processor, wherein each pass-band filter structure is: tuned to the spectral band associated with a particular focal zone in the laser scanning system. When a bar code, symbol is scanned by a laser beam focused within the first focal zone or scanning range of the system, the pass-band filter structure associated with this focal zone or scanning range is automatically switched into operation using a control signal produced by determining the spot speed of the laser scanning beam producing the analog scan data signal being processed.

Abstract: A multi-focal zone laser scanning system for scanning bar code symbols having a minimum bar element width (MBW). The multi-focal zone laser scanning system comprises a laser beam producing device for producing a laser beam, and a laser beam scanning mechanism for scanning the laser beam so as to generate a laser scanning pattern having a plurality of different focal zones. In the system, the scanned laser beam has a minimum beam dimension (MBD) with each focal zone, and the ratio of the minimum beam dimension (MDB) within each focal zone to the minimum bar element width (MBW) of a scanned bar code symbol therewithin (i.e. MDB/MBW) is greater than or equal to 2.0. Consequently, less modulation of the laser scanning beam is required during scanning operations, and therefore, bar code symbols having narrower minimum bar element widths can be resolved.

Abstract: An optical scanning module and a scanner incorporating the scanning module for reading bar codes and other optical indicia that consists of a printed circuit board, an elongated elliptical aperture in the scanning module that is spaced from the circuit board, a light source mounted on the printed circuit board for projecting at least one beam of light through the aperture and onto a dataform to be read, and a detector mounted on the printed circuit board for sensing light reflected from the dataform and through the aperture. Light baffle is preferably used to isolate light source from the detector in the optical scanning module of the present invention.

Abstract: An automatic bar code symbol reading system provides a hand-supportable laser bar code reading device which can be used in either an automatic hands-on mode of operation, or in an automatic hands-free mode of operation. The system includes a scanner support frame for supporting the hand-supportable device in a user-selected mounting position, and permits complete gripping of its handle portion for use in the hands-on mode of operation. In general, the hand-supportable bar code reading device has long-range and short-range modes of object detection, bar code presence detection and bar code symbol reading. Pursuant to one illustrative embodiment, the long-range mode is automatically selected when the hand-supportable bar code reading device is placed within the scanner support stand during the automatic hands-free mode of operation.

Abstract: Before assembling a scanning module, the type of the scanning module is predetermined. When the scanning module is predetermined, the shape of MTF-DF curve is therefore fixed. The scanning module includes a glass plate, lens and an image generating means. During the assembly, the image generating means and the glass plate are mounted. A correction document is placed on the glass plate. The position of the lens is adjusted in order to reflect a point at the lowest point of the tolerant range of the depth of scanning field in the MTF-DF curve. The position of the lens is then fixed. An increased depth of scanning field in a scanning device is thusly obtained.

Abstract: A fully automated package identification and measuring system, in which an omni-directional holographic scanning tunnel is used to read bar codes on packages entering the tunnel, while a package dimensioning subsystem is used to capture information about the package prior to entry into the tunnel. Mathematical models are created on a real-time basis for the geometry of the package and the position of the laser scanning beam used to read the bar code symbol thereon. The mathematical models are analyzed to determine if collected and queued package identification data is spatially and/or temporally correlated with package measurement data using vector-based ray-tracing methods, homogeneous transformations, and object-oriented decision logic so as to enable simultaneous tracking of multiple packages being transported through the scanning tunnel.

Abstract: The operating depth of field for a bar code scanner, preferably a laser scanner, is increased by placing a cubic phase mask (CPM) in the scanning beam. The masked beam is then scanned and reflected off a bar code and received by a photodetector. The received signal is then processed to recover the original unperturbed representation of the bar code pattern. The processed signal has an increased depth of field over an unmasked scanner signal.

Abstract: An improved optical system for scanning optical codes is disclosed. A laser beam produced thereby is a diverging, nearly diffraction free beam and may be used to produce an elongated scanning spot. An aperture may be employed such that variation in size of the aperture in one orthogonal dimension varies the size of the scanning spot in another orthogonal dimension.