Abstract: In an optical code reader, at least a selected one of AGC processing and automatic focus control is performed in parallel with optical code decoding. Preferably, the selected process is initiated ahead of any signal which initiates decoding. Preferably, the selected process is performed periodically and independently of any signal which initiates decoding. In an embodiment, decoding and the selected processes are performed by different first and second processors, respectively, which operate in parallel, and the second processor performs the selected process without the first processor exercising any control over the performance of the selected process.

Abstract: A method of operating a barcode reader. The method includes (1) detecting a first pulling of the trigger while the barcode reader is at the waiting mode; (2) detecting a first release of the trigger within a first predetermined time period after the first pulling of the trigger is detected, for operating the barcode reader in the aiming mode if the first release of the trigger is detected within the first predetermined time period,; and (3) detecting a second pulling of the trigger while the barcode reader is at the aiming mode within a second predetermined time period after the first release of the trigger is detected, for operating the barcode reader in the decoding mode if the second pulling of the trigger is detected within the second predetermined time period.

Abstract: A bi-optical code symbol reading system including a system housing having a vertical housing section with a vertical window and a horizontal housing section with a horizontal window adjacent the vertical scanning window; and a digital video display subsystem, disposed within the vertical section of the system housing, and supporting the display of digital images in substantially the same plane as the vertical window during system operation. The digital images displayed by digital video display subsystem can be video images captured by an integrated digital imaging code symbol reading subsystem, to assist the operator in aligning code symbols during scanning operations. The digital images can also be product and price information captured during product scanning operations.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for using in a barcode reader. The apparatus includes an aiming lens assembly including an irregular-shape lens, an aiming light source positioned behind the aiming lens assembly, and an aperture with the desired aiming pattern shape placed in close proximity to the aiming source for generating a visible aiming light pattern towards the target object. The irregular-shape lens includes at least a recess for accommodating the imaging lens when the irregular-shaped lens is assembled into the apparatus with other components.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for selectively reading and accepting optical codes within a scan volume of the data reader. A method of processing an optical code within the scan volume comprises acquiring, via the data reader, scan data including an image or scan of an optical code located within the scan volume of the data reader, processing the scan data for decodable data corresponding to the optical code, and determining whether to accept or reject the optical code based on a position within the scan volume of the optical code relative to a configurable exclusion zone. The determination of whether to accept or reject the optical code may be based on other conditions of the optical code, such as a position of the optical code within the depth of field of the data reader, a symbology type of the optical code, and data encoded in the optical code.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide time-varying barcodes in an active display for information exchange. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for communicating information between electronic devices via a barcode image sequence. In a typical embodiment, a barcode image sequence is displayed on the display screen of a first electronic device. A second electronic device reads and decodes the barcode image sequence. The second electronic device displays an acknowledgement on the display screen of the second electronic device. The acknowledgement is read by the first electronic device.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for focusing an image of a target object. The apparatus comprises imaging circuitry for analyzing an image reflected from a target object that is projected onto an imaging sensor coupled to the imaging circuitry. A fixed imaging lens having an optical axis in alignment with the imaging sensor focuses the reflected image onto the imaging sensor. One of a plurality of apertures located within a selectable aperture of varying sizes is selected for optically enhancing the fixed imaging lens. An actuator is coupled to the selectable aperture for selectively selecting the one of the plurality of apertures in a direction transverse to optical axis for optically enhancing the fixed imaging lens.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for use with a camera that includes a field of view (FOV), the method for selecting a portion of the field of view for analysis and comprising the steps of placing at least a portion of a first object within the field of view of the camera, providing a light source separate from the camera, directing the light source toward the first object within the field of view of the camera so that the light forms an aiming pattern that is one of on and proximate a first location of interest on the first object, obtaining an image of the portion of the first object within the field of view including the aiming pattern, identifying the location of the aiming pattern in the obtained image and using the aiming pattern in the obtained image to perform a processing function.

Abstract: A dual-mode RFID reader is capable of automatically switching from a far-field interrogation mode to a near-field interrogation mode upon the detection of certain operating or handling conditions. The RFID reader includes an RFID radio module configured to support a far-field interrogation mode and a near-field interrogation mode, an antenna arrangement coupled to the RFID radio module, and a mode-switch sensor architecture coupled to the RFID radio module. The mode-switch sensor architecture is configured to detect conditions indicative of near-field interrogation, and the RFID radio module automatically configures itself for operation in the near-field interrogation mode upon detection of such conditions.

Abstract: An apparatus which includes an image sensor, the image sensor can include a two dimensional image sensor. A lens assembly is included in combination with the image sensor. In one aspect, the apparatus can attempt to decode a decodable symbol representation. In one aspect, the apparatus can output a frame image data.

Abstract: An arrangement for recognizing bar-coded information on a carrier object, with registration means designed to register bar-coded information in a registration zone, the arrangement exhibiting adaptation means designed to change the registration zone, an arrangement for recognizing bar-coded information on a spray can, a process for recognizing information on a spray can, a medical maintenance appliance, and a process for maintaining medical appliances.

Abstract: Methods for efficiently retrieving information from an image of a symbol are described. Symbols are described that contain detection patterns that facilitate the determination of location, alignment, size and orientation of the symbol in an image. Detection patterns are described that possess geometric shapes susceptible to efficient decoding using probabilistic detection algorithms. Detection patterns are described that are provided in colors, shapes and sizes different from the color, shape and sizes of modules carrying information in the symbol. Methods are described for identifying the location and size of detection patterns in images of the symbol and for locating modules in the symbol to facilitate extraction of information carried by the modules.

Abstract: An aiming device for an image acquisition apparatus includes light emitting means and a light guide arranged for receiving a luminous radiation generated by the light emitting means and for providing reference image means in an aiming zone, the light guide including consecutive portions of light guide defining preferential directions of passage for the luminous radiation, each portion of light guide being inclined with respect to an adjacent portion of light guide.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for indicating an in-focus or an out-of-focus condition for an imaging device (1, 2) in an optical reading and decoding apparatus (20) for receiving a coded image from a target area (29) on an article or package. In the method of the invention, two beams of light (27, 28) are generated to provide two illuminated aiming marks (32, 33) on the target. An in-focus condition is indicated when the two aiming marks are in a pre-defined spatial relationship relative to each other on the target. The in-focus condition or an out-of-focus condition can be signaled by controlling attributes of aiming marks (32, 33) or by controlling attributes of status indicator LEDs (12) on the apparatus (20) or by controlling an audible sound.

Abstract: A small handheld device may perform multiple functions, including those of a camera, a display, a processor, and a radio. In various embodiments, the camera may be used to read a bar code, and the processor may be used to decode the bar code. Additionally, the device may contain a focusing aid to enable the device to properly focus on an up-close bar code image.

Abstract: A digital-imaging based system for and method of reading graphical indicia, including code symbols, on objects such as, but not limited to, code symbol menus by the user simply pointing his or her finger at the particular code symbol on the code symbol menu to be read, while digital images of the code symbol menu and the pointing finger are automatically captured, buffered and processed.

Abstract: A hand held device containing at least one camera can perform various functions. In some embodiments, digitized images taken with two or more camera lenses having different fixed focal lengths may be combined to emulate a high-resolution optical zoom, and may also permit the device to perform 3D applications. In other embodiments, a device containing a camera may perform as a bar code reader, and may wirelessly transmit and/or visually present a bar code to other devices. Movable optics may permit the same camera to focus on either distant objects or on a close-up bar code.

Abstract: Visibility of a scan laser light pattern or an aiming laser light pattern on a symbol to be read by a hand-held, electro-optical reader is enhanced by directing laser light having a laser wavelength in the laser light pattern to the symbol, configuring an optical element to be transmissive to the laser light of the same laser wavelength, supporting the optical element by the reader, moving the optical element from a stored position to a deployed position, and viewing the laser light pattern on the symbol through the optical element in the deployed position.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An apparatus having an image sensor is provided. An image sensor of the apparatus can include a two dimensional image sensor. A lens assembly can be provided in combination with an image sensor. In one aspect, an apparatus can attempt to decode a decodable symbol representation. In one aspect an apparatus can output a frame of image data.

Abstract: A device for processing image data relating to bar codes is described. In one embodiment a bar code verification device is provided having an ergonomic form factor characterized by a domed hand held trigger and a viewing window. The verification device may be disposed in a network that includes a host processor system and other bar code reading devices which may include other bar code verification devices. Processing circuitry for processing image signals corresponding to printed bar codes may be partially disposed within the hand held verification device and partially disposed within a host processor system spaced apart from and associated with the hand held verification device. The hand held verification device may be in wireless communication with the host processor system to which it is associated.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for aiming and reading a target object. The apparatus includes a barcode reader for reading the target object. The apparatus also includes an aiming sight coupled to the barcode reader. The aiming sight is used for aiming the target object and thereby directing the barcode reader to read the target object. The aiming sight can either be used independently or can be used along with an aiming pattern generator present in the barcode reader, in order to read the target object.

Abstract: A digital image capture and processing system including a housing having an imaging window; and an image formation and detection subsystem with an area-type image detection array having a periodic snap shot mode of the operation supporting the periodic occurrence of snap-shot type image acquisition cycles at a high-repetition rate, during object illumination and imaging operations. The system also includes an illumination subsystem, with a LED illumination array, for producing a field of illumination within the FOV, and illuminating the object detected in the FOV.

Abstract: A barcode scanner capable of switching the reading resolution of scanning can be used for scanning a barcode with high resolution or low resolution, including a shell body, a scan module and a switchable magnifying module. The shell body has an opening. The scan module arranged in the shell body has a lighting unit emitting an illuminating light onto the barcode through the opening and a sensing unit sensing a barcode image formed from a reflection of the barcode illuminated by the illuminating light passing through the opening. The switchable magnifying module has a magnifier for magnifying the barcode image and a switch unit for switching the position of the magnifier relative to the sensing unit. The switch unit can move the magnifier between an off-axial position, which is not between the sensing unit and the barcode, and an on-axial position, which is between the sensing unit and the barcode.

Abstract: Various apparatus and methods relating to the use of alignment assist images and non-alignment assist images for capturing images of one or more targets are disclosed.

Abstract: An imaging system for, and a method of, electro-optically reading targets, utilize an energizable illuminator for illuminating an illuminated target with illumination light, a solid-state, energizable imager having an array of image sensors for capturing return light from the illuminated target over a field of view, and for generating electrical signals indicative of the captured return light, and a controller for energizing the illuminator and the imager to process the electrical signals into data indicative of the illuminated target. A power reducer is operatively connected to the controller, for adaptively reducing electrical power consumption of the illuminator and/or the controller based on system usage.

Abstract: A laser pointer includes a human-machine interface disposed above the housing for users to control components inside the housing to decide patterns and size of the projecting image. The components consist of a frequency/phase control module, a driving energy control module, a laser beam generating module and a light scanning device. The frequency/phase control module controls the driving energy control module while the driving energy control module controls driving energy of the light scanning device. The size of the image is controlled by change of the amplitude of the light scanning device while the amplitude is changed along with the driving energy. The amplitude may also change along with the driving frequency. When the driving energy is fixed and the driving frequency is close to the resonant frequency, the amplitude increases. On the contrary, the amplitude decreases.

Abstract: An automatic data collection device is provided for reading barcodes, matrix codes, stacked codes, or other machine-readable symbol. The data collection device generates an aiming beam that serves a dual purpose of target locating and data acquisition, such as data acquisition using imaging methods. The aiming beam defines the field of view of the data collection device for imaging. The illumination pattern provided by the aiming beam for imaging can have its shape, size, and/or intensity adaptively changed depending on conditions.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for aiming and reading a target object. The apparatus includes a barcode reader for reading the target object. The apparatus also includes an aiming sight coupled to the barcode reader. The aiming sight is used for aiming the target object and thereby directing the barcode reader to read the target object. The aiming sight can either be used independently or can be used along with an aiming pattern generator present in the barcode reader, in order to read the target object.

Abstract: An operator is guided to move an imaging reader to an optimum reading position in which to read a symbol by image capture. Optimum image capture occurs substantially at an imaging plane of an imaging assembly, and the operator is visually guided so that the symbol is located substantially at the imaging plane in a working range of distances.

Abstract: An apparatus having an image sensor is provided. An image sensor of the apparatus can include a two dimensional image sensor. A lens assembly can be provided in combination with an image sensor. In one aspect, an apparatus can attempt to decode a decodable symbol representation. In one aspect an apparatus can output a frame of image data.

Abstract: An optical barcode and/or RFID reader having at least two sets of illuminating LEDs that are directed toward a target object to reflect whether the barcode and/or RFID reading was successful or unsuccessful. The reader is provided with a set of red LEDs and a set of green LEDs for illuminating targets, such as barcodes or RFID tags. In addition to using these LEDs to illuminate the target, the reader will illuminate the target with a particular color of light to signify a successful read, such green light, or an unsuccessful read, such as red light. A third color may be provided to indicate a successful RFID interrogation, such as blue light. The reader thus uses the built-in illumination LEDs to cast differently colored light on the target, rather than having to provide additional LEDs in a user interface positioned on the housing of the reader.

Abstract: When a two-dimensional code including a number of location symbols is detected from an image. First, a plurality of location symbols are detected from the image. Then, candidate location symbols are determined among the detected location symbols on the basis of sizes of the detected location symbols and distances between the detected location symbols. After that, a combination of location symbols constituting the two-dimensional code is detected among the candidate location symbols.

Abstract: A rotary one-dimensional barcode reading device includes a motor and a one-dimensional barcode reader attached to the motor shaft so as to allow the reader to rotate with the motor shaft, by which linearity of the light source and the receiver of the barcode reader are converted into circularity to realize direction-diversified linear light sources and receives in various directions. Input and output of power source and signals are performed through electrical brushes. With this arrangement, a one-dimensional barcode in any direction can be properly read and the electronic signal generated by the one-dimensional barcode so read is transmitted through the electrical brushes or in a wireless manner to a computer, a point-of-sale (POS), a personal digital assistant (PDA), and the likes.

Abstract: An optical reader can include an image sensor. In one embodiment an optical reader can be configured to have different operating modes, the different operating modes optimizing the reader for reading different indicia. In another embodiment an optical reader can comprise a multiple color emitting light source. In another embodiment an optical reader can be provided in a specialized form factor including an enlarged head portion and an elongated body portion extending from the head portion.

Abstract: An optical reader comprises: a first illumination source for projecting a first illumination field on a target; a second illumination source for projecting a second illumination field on a target; an image sensor array for converting light from a target into output signals representative thereof; and, a processor for decoding information from information bearing indicia within the target derived from the output signals; and, wherein the illuminance of the first illumination field on the target at a distance D from the first illumination source is greater than the illuminance of the second illumination field on the target at the distance D from the second illumination source.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for defining the illumination field of view of a barcode reader. The method includes (1) generating an illumination with an illumination source; (2) directing the illumination with an illumination lens to pass through an aperture to generate an illumination pattern directed toward a target object and to define an illumination field of view with the aperture; and (3) focusing light reflected from the target object onto a photosensor array with an imaging lens in an imaging system.

Abstract: An imaging module is supported by a housing of a reader for electro-optically reading indicia. The imaging module includes a solid-state imager having an array of image sensors for capturing return light from the indicia during reading. A laser scanning module is also supported by the housing and includes a scanner for scanning at least one of a laser beam from a laser and a field of view of a light detector in a scan pattern across the indicia during reading. A controller is operatively connected to the modules, and is operative for preventing reading interference between the modules during reading.

Abstract: A hand-supportable digital image capture and processing system including a hand-supportable housing having an imaging window. A printed circuit (PC) board is mounted in the hand-supportable housing, and has front and rear surfaces and a light transmission aperture formed centrally therethrough. An image formation and detection subsystem has image formation optics for projecting a field of view (FOV) through the imaging window and upon an object within the FOV, and an area-type image detection array for forming and detecting 2D digital images of the object during object illumination and imaging operations. A first FOV folding mirror is supported above the rear surface of the PC board over the light transmission aperture, and a second FOV folding mirror is supported above the rear surface of the PC board and over the area-type image detection array. These mirrors fold and project the FOV through the light transmission aperture and the imaging window.

Abstract: Provided is a planar light source device (300) having a planar light source with uniform luminance distribution by using a laser light source for outputting a beam-like luminous flux. The planar light source device (300) applies a laser beam from the side surface of a light guide plate (310) through a scanning mirror (330) and periodically scans the entire light guide plate. At that time, a light output (P(t)) of the laser light source (320) is modulated in synchronization with the scanning cycle so that the output is proportional to the temporal differentiation dS/dt of a scanning area (S(t)) from a search start within a scanning period. Thus, changes of the scanning speed and scanning length with time are eliminated and planar lighting with uniform luminance can be performed.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to interactive systems and methods for dimensioning with a mobile device. The mobile device can include an accelerometer, imager, and a corresponding algorithm configured to compute dimensions based on a plurality of inputs from the accelerometer, imager, etc. Specifically, the accelerometer allows the mobile device to measure acceleration and time, and the algorithm is configured to convert these measurements into distances. Additionally, with a three-axis accelerometer, the user can move the device off an axis being measured and still receive an accurate measurement, i.e. the algorithm can compensate for off-axis movement. Further, the present invention can incorporate an imager on the mobile device to provide additional compensation supplementing the algorithm and allowing the user additional freedom to be positioned away from the starting and end-point of a measurement.

Abstract: A variable focus imaging lens assembly for an imaging-based bar code reader for imaging a target bar code within a field of view of the imaging system, the imaging lens assembly comprising a simplified zoom lens assembly or system that provides for both focusing and adjustment of focal length of the imaging lens assembly with movement of a single group of movable lenses using one motor. The zoom lens assembly includes a stationary lens group comprising a plurality of stationary lenses and a movable lens group comprising a plurality of movable lenses movable with respect to a sensor array of the imaging system. The movable lens group is driven by a motor along a path of travel parallel to an optic axis of the imaging lens assembly, at least one lens of the plurality of stationary lenses being intermediate a pair of lenses of the plurality of movable lenses.

Abstract: An automated storage system for storing large quantities of samples in trays includes a storage compartment, a tray shuttle compartment abutting the storage compartment on one side and a plurality of independent modules on the other side. The modules perform processing of samples that are retrieved from the storage compartment by a tray shuttle, including extraction of selected samples from retrieved source trays and transfer of the selected samples into a separate, destination tray that can be further processed or removed from the system for use. The independent operation of the modules permits handling and processing to be performed simultaneously by different modules while the tray shuttle accesses additional samples within the storage compartment. In one embodiment, a vertical carousel is used to vertically align a desired tray with the tray shuttle, while the tray shuttle operates within a horizontal plane.

Abstract: A portable electronic device that includes an antenna and at least one of a transmitter or a receiver connected to the antenna for transferring information between the portable electronic device and a corresponding device via the antenna. The corresponding device includes a visual indicator indicative of a location of an antenna of the corresponding device. The portable electronic device further includes an imaging device for obtaining an image of the visual indicator, an image analyzer for determining a location of the portable electronic device antenna relative to that of the corresponding device based on the image, a direction analyzer for determining a movement direction of the portable electronic device that would reduce an alignment offset between the antennas, and a directional indicator for indicating the movement direction to a user of the portable electronic device.

Abstract: A multicamera imaging-based bar code reader for imaging a target bar code on a target object features: a housing supporting a plurality of transparent windows and defining an interior region, a target object being presented to the plurality of windows for imaging a target bar code; an imaging system including a plurality of camera assemblies coupled to an image processing system, each camera assembly of the plurality of camera assemblies being positioned within the housing interior position. Each camera assembly includes a sensor array and an imaging lens assembly for focusing a field of view of the camera assembly onto the sensor array. One or more processors prioritize an order of image capture or interpretation based upon user tendencies.

Abstract: An apparatus having an image sensor is provided. An image sensor of the apparatus can include a two dimensional image sensor. A lens assembly can be provided in combination with an image sensor. In one aspect, an apparatus can attempt to decode a decodable symbol representation. In one aspect an apparatus can output a frame of image data.

Abstract: In an optical information reading apparatus, a pickup unit has a predetermined reading position, and is configured to optically pickup information of a target when the information is located at the reading position. A marker beam irradiating unit includes a light beam source configured to emit a light beam. The marker beam irradiating unit includes a beam pattern forming lens arranged to allow the emitted light beam to enter thereinto. The pattern forming lens is configured to irradiate a marker beam based on the emitted light beam. The marker beam has a predetermined beam pattern composed of at least one linear beamlet to indicate the reading position of the pickup unit.

Abstract: The disclosed bar code reader includes an auto-focusing component for rapidly producing in focus images. An imaging system makes use of an aiming pattern that impinges upon the coded indicia of a target. The imaging system includes a light monitoring pixel array and a focusing lens that is fixed with respect to the pixel array for transmitting an image of the target object onto the pixel array. The imaging system also includes a movable mirror mounted for movement along a path of travel to reflect light passing through the focusing lens onto the pixel array. A drive motor moves the mirror relative the lens to adjust a focus of an image of the object formed at the pixel array. An automatic focusing component of the imaging system analyzes the aiming pattern reflected from the target object and projected onto the pixel array by the lens.

Abstract: There is provided in one embodiment an indicia reading terminal that can execute a spatial measurement mode of operation in which the indicia reading terminal can determine a dimension of an article in a field of view of the indicia reading terminal and/or determine other spatial information. In determining a dimension of an article, an indicia reading terminal can utilize setup data determined in a setup mode of operation and/or data determined utilizing the setup data.

Abstract: 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 COD 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 from frame to frame.