Abstract: A method for intelligently controlling the illumination and imaging of objects while being moved through a 3D imaging volume. As an object is being moved within the 3D imaging volume of a digital image capturing and processing system projecting a plurality of field of views (FOVs) through the 3D imaging volume, and prior to illumination and imaging. A projected trajectory is determined for the object through the 3D imaging volume. The FOVs which intersect with the projected trajectory of the object, passing through said 3D imaging volume, are determined. Only the determined FOVs are selectively illuminated as the object is moved along its projected trajectory through the FOVs, while digital linear images of the object are formed and detected, for storage and subsequent processing of information graphically represented in the digital linear images.

Abstract: A method of selectively generating one or more scan lines from a multi-scan line scanner involves measuring the pulse widths of the pulses in a signal output of a motor driving the polygon mirror of the scanner wherein the signal relates to the position of the polygon's mirror facets. By measuring and distinguishing each of the pulses in the signal, the illumination of the scan beam can be synchronized with the rotation of the polygon mirror to only generate a desired number of scan line patterns that is less than the full complement of the scan line patterns capable of being generated by the multi-scan line scanner.

Abstract: A system for enabling user interaction with computer software which includes a computer system which transfers print data to a printer. The printer is responsive to the print data to print a form by printing information indicative of a text field coincident with coded data indicative of the text field, so that when a sensing device is moved relative to the text field the sensing device can sense the coded data and generate the indicating data indicative of its movement. The computer system uses the indicating data to determine the relative movement and then perform an action associated with the text field based on the movement. The computer system further determines the information, an identity indicative of the text field, and a layout defining an arrangement for coded data indicative of the identity and information, and generates the print data to be indicative of the identity, layout and information.

Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems used to reduce the time needed to process images of a bar code or optical code captured by a image bar code scanner. Inage bar code scanners read bar codes or optical codes by capturing digital images of the codes using an image capture device and then processing the captured images to decode the optical code or bar code. The processing time is reduced by rotating the images to align the axis of the codes contained in the captured images with the rows of photo detectors in the image capture device.

Abstract: Methods of operation of a data reader and security tag deactivation system whereby a data reader such as a barcode scanner is equipped with EAS deactivation coils or modules disposed in the vicinity of the read volume or generally proximate thereto and the system is operable to permit reading of the ID tag (such as the barcode label) on an item, and upon a successful read, the deactivation unit is operable to (1) sense the presence of an EAS tag; (2) if presence of an EAS tag is sensed, energize the deactivation coil/module to deactivate the EAS tag; and (3) sense if the EAS tag is deactivated. If the EAS tag is sensed to have been deactivated, the system signals as such and a next item may be scanned. If the EAS tag is sensed to have not been deactivated, the system proceeds to alternate operational steps to handle the exception.

Abstract: A tag reader and the tag are disclosed. The tag comprises a barcode pattern layer and horizontal line segments, which are connected to form an RF antenna. The antenna is further electrically connected to an RF chip, wherein an RF chip data is recorded in the RF chip. The tag reader comprises an RF signal transmitter for transmitting an RF transmitting signal to detect a tag. When an RF reflecting signal has been received, a light source module is enabled to shoot a scanning light source for scanning the tag; therefore, a tag comparing signal can be obtained. Thus, the advantages of the barcode and RFID tag can be integrated, the application field of the tag will be broadened, and the reliability of tag data reading is enhanced due to the double check mechanism.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided comprising a dual window scanner (10, 200, 400) for imaging a target bar code (30) on a target object (32). The dual window scanner comprises a housing (20) supporting two transparent windows (V, H) and defining an interior region (18). The dual window scanner further comprises an imaging system including a plurality of cameras (C1-C6) wherein each camera is positioned within the housing interior region (18) and defines a field-of-view which is different than a field-of-view of each other camera of the plurality of cameras, each camera includes a sensor array (40). Each camera in the plurality of cameras located within the housing for directing the respective field-of-views such that the field-of-views substantially fill the surface of the two transparent windows.

Abstract: The invention discloses a method and a device for the authentication of a document, a valued good or a packaging, carrying a marking (M) exhibiting a viewing-angle dependent light reflection spectrum. The authentication method is based on a measurement of the intensity of light reflected by the marking at least at two different viewing angles in response to a sequential wide-angle illumination with light of different spectral characteristics, and the comparison of the measured intensity values with corresponding reference values. The authentication device (1) has at least two light sources (4) of different spectral characteristics, a wide-angle illumination optics (3), and at least two photodetectors (5) collecting light reflected by said markings at least at two different viewing angles.

Abstract: Barcode scanner including a multitasking pattern mirror which allows the size of a scanner to be reduced without decreasing performance. The bar code scanner includes a laser for producing a laser beam, a mirrored spinner for reflecting the laser beam, and a plurality of pattern mirrors for directing the laser beam from the mirrored spinner to produce a scan pattern and for directing light reflected from an item to the mirrored spinner. One of the pattern mirrors is located between the laser and the mirrored spinner and includes an aperture for allowing the laser beam to pass through. The one pattern mirror may also serve to direct the reflected light from the mirrored spinner to the collector.

Abstract: A bar code scanning device, system and method that utilizes one or more vertical cavity surface emitting laser diodes for producing at least one laser beam, where the vertical cavity surface emitting laser diodes are disposed on a substrate, and wherein the produced laser beam is substantially an essential single spatial mode laser beam. The bar code scanning device, system and method of present invention also comprise a photodiode attached to the substrate and arranged to receive at least a portion of the beam of light reflected off the scanned bar code or symbol.

Abstract: A laser scanning device adapted to scan an interface surface provided on a product item, the interface surface having disposed thereon or therein coded data which includes, at a plurality of locations on the interface surface, a corresponding plurality of coded data portions, each coded data portion being indicative of an identity of the product item, the product item being provided in a sensing region, the scanning device including: a laser for emitting at least one scanning beam, the scanning beam being directed in first and second orthogonal directions to thereby generate a raster scan pattern over a scanning patch, the scanning patch being provided in the sensing region such that it exposes at least one coded data portion; a sensor for sensing the at least one exposed coded data portion; and a processor for determining, using at least some of the sensed coded data, product identity data indicative of the identity of the product item.

Abstract: In an optical information reader for optically reading a target based on a light reflected from the target, a translucent optical member is located on an optical axis of an imaging lens and is rotatable around a rotation axis. The rotation axis is substantially orthogonal to the optical axis. The translucent optical member is fixable at least first and second predetermined positions. When the translucent optical member is fixed at the first predetermined position, the translucent optical member has a first thickness through which the optical axis is penetrated, and when the translucent optical member is temporally fixed at the second predetermined position, the translucent optical member has a second thickness through which the optical axis is penetrated. The first thickness and second thickness are different from each other.

Abstract: A scanning device adapted to scan an interface surface provided on a product item, the interface surface having disposed thereon coded data indicative of an identity of the product item, the product item being provided in a sensing region, the scanning device including: a beam generator for emitting at least one beam; first and second acousto-optic deflectors for deflecting the beam in first and second orthogonal directions to thereby generate a raster scan pattern over a scanning patch; a sensor for sensing at least some of the coded data on the interface surface of the product item as the product item passes through the sensing region; and a processor for determining, using at least some of the sensed coded data, product identity data indicative of the identity of the product item.

Abstract: Briefly, in accordance with one or more embodiments, a MEMS device for a scanner system may be driven in a non-resonant mode of operation. The drive signal provided to the MEMS device may be tailored to prevent the MEMS device from exhibiting resonance characteristics and to cause the MEMS device to operate non-resonantly. In one or more embodiments, a filter may be used to tailor the frequency components of the drive signal, for example to sufficiently attenuate frequency components at or near the resonant frequency of the drive signal. A direct current signal may be provided to the MEMS device to provide an offset to scanned light beam for example to provide beam steering, and the sweep range and/or sweep frequency may be adjusted for example to steer the scanning field of view off axis from the user pointing axis.

Abstract: A barcode scanner includes a scanning platform coupled to a fixed platform by flexible members. The scanning platform, fixed platform, and flexible members are made of a polymer such as is commonly used for printed circuit boards. The scanning platform has a laser light source, focusing lens, photodetector, and light collection optic mounted thereto. The polymer qualities and the moment of inertia of the scanning platform can be controlled to achieve a desired mechanical resonance.

Abstract: An improved oscillation scan mirror assembly comprises a shaft, a holder having a bearing with a bearing surface supporting the holder on the shaft, a scan mirror secured to the holder. The holder and therefore the mirror are oscillatable around the shaft under an oscillating driving force, and bearing and the shaft is prevented from being tilt from each other. Preferably, a lateral retaining force is provided to constantly keep the bearing and the shaft in an aligned contact with each other. Since the relative tilting between bearing and the shaft is prevented, the vertical wobble or vibration of bearing, and therefore of the holder and the mirror, relative to the shaft is therefore suppressed.

Abstract: A system for enabling user interaction with computer software. The system includes a computer system that determines information and an identity, which are at least partially indicative of an interactive element. The computer system then determines a layout defining an arrangement for coded data indicative of the identity and information, and transfers print data to a printer to thereby cause the printer to print a form by printing the coded data and the information. The coded data is printed to be substantially coincident with the information such that when a sensing device is placed in an operative position relative to the information, the sensing device can sense the coded data and generate indicating data at least partially indicative of the interactive element.

Abstract: A method of equalizing the illumination produced by a planar laser illumination array within a planar laser illumination and (electronic) imaging system, comprising the steps of: providing an image formation and detection module having imaging optics with a field of view (FOV) focused upon an image detecting array; providing a planar laser illumination array having a plurality of planar laser illumination modules, each planar laser illumination module producing a planar laser beam component during image formation and detection operations, which are combined to produce a composite planar laser illumination beam extending through a working range of said FOV, wherein said working range includes both near and far fields, if the near field illumination is brighter then the far field illumination: displacing a first portion of the planar illumination modules in a first direction perpendicular to said FOV and a second portion of the planar illumination modules in a second direction opposite to said first direction,

Abstract: A holographic laser scanner of ultra-compact design capable of reading bar and other types of graphical indicia within a large scanning volume using holographic optical elements and visible laser diodes. The holographic optical elements are arranged on the scanning disc in such a manner so that none of the laser scanning planes generated within the 3-D scanning volume of the system are spatially and temporally coincident with any other laser scanning plane within the 3-D scanning volume. This novel feature of the present invention ensures that there is substantially zero cross-talk at the plurality of photodetectors provided within the system, significantly improving the performance of the system.

Abstract: An optical scanning module of a barcode scanner includes an optical sensor; a lens drum, having an axle disposed longitudinally at the center of the lens drum, and several light reflecting surfaces around external sides of the lens drum; a mirror, having a reflecting plane disposed on a side of the lens drum, such that the reflecting plane faces one of light reflecting surfaces, and the mirror has a penetrating hole for passing the reflecting plane; and a light generator, for transmitting a light beam through the penetrating hole and projecting the light beam onto one of the light reflecting surfaces to refract the light beam to the barcode. The scanned light beam is returned to one of the light reflecting surface of the lens drum and refracted to the reflecting plane of the mirror. The reflecting plane reflects the returned light beam to be received by the optical sensor.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system is provided that includes: a laser source is provided that producing a laser beam that diverges in a first direction and in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction; a lens positioned to receive the laser beam from the laser source and provide a magnified laser beam; and an opaque screen having an elongated aperture having a longitudinal axis aligned substantially parallel to the first direction, the aperture being positioned to intercept the magnified laser beam such that a projected laser beam from the aperture is focused into an elongated illumination spot, the elongated illumination spot having a longitudinal axis aligned substantially parallel to the second direction.

Abstract: A barcode sensor package has an optical emitter circuit and an optical detector circuit which are formed as one or more integrated optical circuits disposed in a housing which has a reading surface and one or more apertures located between the optical emitter and detector circuits. The optical emitter circuit has an emitter die, such as a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL), for emitting a light beam and a diffraction optical element disposed on the emitter die for focusing the light beam to a bar code. The optical detector circuit has a photodetector die, such as a phototransistor, for detecting reflective light and another diffraction optical element disposed on the photodetector die for guiding light reflected from the bar code to the detector. The diffraction optical elements are fabricated by patterning optical layers, deposited on respective emitter and detector dies, using photolithograph or a direct write process.

Abstract: An arrangement for determining light beam position in an electro-optical reader, image projector and like devices includes a drive for moving a scanning light beam at a scan frequency across a target as a scan line, and an electro-optical feedback assembly operatively connected to the drive, for optically detecting scan line position during beam movement, and for generating a feedback signal at the scan frequency, the feedback signal being indicative of the scan line position. A feedback coil in the drive is eliminated to avoid electromagnetic coupling between multiple coils in the drive.

Abstract: A computer system is capable of operating with various types of fans from the same manufacturer or from different manufacturers and is capable identifying the type of fan which is presently installed in the system. The system includes a fan of the type which includes an integral optical sensor and detectable indicia such as, by way of example, a bar code label or imprint. Fan identification has a variety of uses including, for instance, adjusting system parameters to properly execute the computer system's cooling functions based on the type of fan presently installed, and reporting fan type and/or serial number to an administrator or central inventory server for quality control purposes. Particular embodiments include the derivation of tachometric information from the detectable indicia. The computer system may include an inventory program which maintains fan ID data for a plurality of fans.

Abstract: A method for reading symbols having data identifying characteristics is provided. The method includes the steps of: providing a nose portion that forms part of a symbol capture device. The nose portion has a plurality of spaced apart light sources that are adapted to put images on a surface. The images can be used to ascertain proper positioning and focal plane of the device.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for prevention of double scans of bar codes by identifying the possibility of ambiguities in position information estimated upon detection of a bar code. A bar code scanner estimates position information for a bar code upon detection of the bar code. Timing information for each detection and the accompanying position estimate is maintained, and lapses of time between detections and accompanying position estimates are noted. When successive scans of identical bar code information occur, the lapses of time are evaluated in light of predetermined criteria to determine whether or not an ambiguity exists that prevents reliable identification the scans as a double scan of the same bar code or successive scans of separate but identical bar codes.

Abstract: A light-transmissive window on a housing of an electro-optical reader is curved to reflect reflections of an outgoing scanning light beam incident on the curved window away from a photodetector in the housing. The curved window minimizes the space between itself and a light assembly in the housing.

Abstract: Apparatus for reading codes for capturing one- and/or two-dimensional codes located at varying distances. A light receiver is arranged in a housing that also includes a projection optics and a deflecting mirror located on the optical axis between the projection optics and the light receiver. The deflecting mirror is mounted on a pivot arm that is pivotable relative to the housing about a pivot axis for changing the projected image of the object by pivoting the pivot arm to effect positional and angular changes of the light receiver relative to the projecting optics. The light receiver is coupled to the pivot arm so that, upon pivoting of the pivot arm, the light-receiving surface of the light receiver changes its position and angular orientation.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for stitching together partial bar code segments to construct and decode information for a complete bar code. As a scanner operates to generate a scan pattern, information is maintained that can be used to identify a scan line being generated when an event of interest occurs. When a scan signal indicates that a terminal delimiter of a bar code is included in a bar code segment that has been transected by a scan line, information is noted that can identify the scan line. Subsequent transections of the bar code by the same scan line are noted, and information for overlapping bar code segments is stored. When a segment is detected that includes a delimiter opposite the delimiter appearing in the original segment, the stored information is retrieved and used to assemble the complete bar code.

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: In one embodiment, a system is provided that includes: a laser source is provided that producing a laser beam that diverges in a first direction and in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction; a lens positioned to receive the laser beam from the laser source and provide a magnified laser beam; and an opaque screen having an elongated aperture having a longitudinal axis aligned substantially parallel to the first direction, the aperture being positioned to intercept the magnified laser beam such that a projected laser beam from the aperture is focused into an elongated illumination spot, the elongated illumination spot having a longitudinal axis aligned substantially parallel to the second direction.

Abstract: A mirror module, comprising a collection mirror comprising an opening and a first reflective surface lying in a first plane, and a fold mirror coupled to said collection mirror, said fold mirror comprising a second reflective surface lying in a second plane, the second plane not being parallel to the first plane. In addition, said fold mirror may extend behind said collection mirror at an angle, wherein said angle is established so that a laser impinging on said fold mirror is reflected through said opening in said collection mirror.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and systems for scanning an illumination spot over a target area. The present invention removes stored energy from a scanning element to stop the scanning element from vibrating and to substantially return the scanning element to its starting position so as to enable high frame rates.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for selectively reading a barcode, symbol, or other indicia by either scanning the barcode with a flying-spot scanner, or by imaging the barcode, thereby improving reading performance by tailoring the reading method to the particular item that is being read. Both a flying-spot laser scanning front end and an imaging front end are incorporated in a single device. Data obtained by the selected reading method is decoded and output. A common decoder or separate decoders may be used to decode the data from the two front ends. A single image sensor may be shared between the flying-spot front end and the imaging front-end, with a limited readout area utilized for laser scanning. The size of the readout area may be adjusted based on detected target proximity. Selection of the reading mode may be based on criteria including manual input, the range of the target, or previous failed attempts to read the barcode using either reading method.

Abstract: A scanning unit includes a lamp-mounting body having a top surface formed with an elongate opening that is disposed between a pair of parallel first and second grooves. First and second reflective layers are attached respectively over curved groove-defining surfaces of walls defining respectively the first and second grooves. Tubular first and second lamps are mounted respectively in the first and second grooves. An intersecting line of a first plane in which a middle line of the curved groove-defining surface defining the first groove and a first central axis of the first lamp are disposed, and a second plane in which a middle line of the curved groove-defining surface defining the second groove and a second central axis of the second lamp are disposed, is located on a scanning surface, and is disposed directly above the opening.

Abstract: A digital imaging-based bar code symbol reading system comprising: an area image formation and detection subsystem having a CMOS area image sensing array with an image capture mode; a LED-based illumination subsystem for producing narrow-band illumination; and a narrow-band transmission-type optical filter subsystem integrated within the hand-supportable housing of the device. During the image capture mode, and only when substantially all rows of pixels on the CMOS area image sensing array are enabled and simultaneously ready for photo-integration, the LED-based illumination subsystem is activated so as to produce narrow-band illumination into the FOV of the area image formation and detection subsystem while the automatic light exposure measurement and illumination control subsystem automatically measures the light exposure incident upon a central portion of the FOV, and controls the time duration that narrow-band illumination is produced from the LED-based illumination subsystem.

Abstract: A display apparatus includes a scanning assembly that scans about two or more axes, typically in a raster pattern. A plurality of light sources emit light from spaced apart locations toward the scanning assembly such that the scanning assembly simultaneously scans more than one of the beams. The light sources are positioned such that their beams each illuminate discrete regions of the image field that are substantially non-overlapping with respect to the other discrete regions. The image is thus formed from a set of “tiles”. By activating a first light source during a forward sweep of the mirror and activating a second light source during a reverse sweep of the mirror, two halves a common line can be written during a single sweep of the mirror. Shifting the position of the sources such that the two halves are aligned reduces raster pinch. In alternative embodiments, the same approach is used for imaging.

Abstract: A portable electo-optical scanner for reading a target bar code having a plurality of bar code elements. The portable scanner includes: a housing supporting a scanning module and an exit window. The scanning module scans the target bar code with a scanning beam and collecting reflected light returning from the bar code. The scanning module includes: a beam source emitting a scanning beam; photodetector circuitry; and a retro-reflective oscillating mirror including a light collection mirror and an integral scanning or beam directing mirror. The scanning mirror is positioned to intersect the scanning beam and direct the scanning beam through the exit window. Oscillation of the oscillating mirror causes the scanning beam to be repetitively scanned along a scanning direction across the target bar code. The light collection mirror has a field of view that follows the scanning beam.

Abstract: Systems process an input signal, derived from a binary optical code, having a series of multiple successive local peaks of the same given polarity. The circuit comprises a peak detector, a node in the peak detector, and a set-reset flip-flop. The peak detector has an input receiving the input signal and produces an output that approximately tracks the input signal while it is sloping in the direction of the given polarity and that approximately holds near those local peaks having successively larger magnitude. A node in the peak detector has a voltage indicative of whether the peak detector is in a tracking or holding state. The set-reset flip-flop has a set input connected to the node, whereby the output of the flip-flop is high when the peak detector is in a tracking state. The circuit is useful for qualifying optical edges in a bar code.

Abstract: An optical system and method for data reading. A preferred system is directed to a scanner which includes a laser diode and a beam splitter for generating first optical beam and a second optical beam, the first optical beam being directed toward one side of a scanning optical element such as a rotating polygon mirror and to a first mirror array, the second optical beam being simultaneously directed toward a second optical element such as another side of the rotating polygon mirror and then to a second and a third mirror array. The first mirror array is configured to generate a scan pattern through a vertical window and the second and third mirror arrays are configured to generate scan patterns passing through a horizontal window. In combination, the three mirror arrays generate three sets of scan lines so as to scan five sides of a six-sided item (e.g., the bottom and all lateral sides of an object) being passed through the scan volume.

Abstract: A mobile computing device is provided having more than one imaging engine, and preferably, two imagining engines. Switching circuitry is provided for switching between the two imaging engines. Each imaging engine is optimized for use in specific applications and includes different specifications from the other imaging engine. Preferably, one imaging engine is optimized to provide higher resolution images than the other imaging engine, and one imaging engine is optimized to focus an object located 7.50 to 12.50 cm from the mobile computing device (near-to-mid range imaging), while the other imaging engine is optimized to focus an object located from 12.50 cm to infinity from the mobile computing device (mid-to-far range imaging). One imaging engine preferably includes a color image sensor, while the other imaging engine includes a black and white image sensor.

Abstract: Barcode scanner including a multitasking pattern mirror which allows the size of a scanner to be reduced without decreasing performance. The bar code scanner includes a laser for producing a laser beam, a mirrored spinner for reflecting the laser beam, and a plurality of pattern mirrors for directing the laser beam from the mirrored spinner to produce a scan pattern. The multitasking pattern mirror additionally directs the laser beam from the laser to the mirrored spinner.

Abstract: Methods of operation of a data reader and security tag deactivation system whereby a data reader such as a barcode scanner is equipped with EAS deactivation coils or modules disposed in the vicinity of the read volume or generally proximate thereto and the system is operable to permit reading of the ID tag (such as the barcode label) on an item, and upon a successful read, the deactivation unit is operable to (1) sense the presence of an EAS tag; (2) if presence of an EAS tag is sensed, energize the deactivation coil/module to deactivate the EAS tag; and (3) sense if the EAS tag is deactivated. If the EAS tag is sensed to have been deactivated, the system signals as such and a next item may be scanned. If the EAS tag is sensed to have not been deactivated, the system proceeds to alternate operational steps to handle the exception.

Abstract: A scanning unit for a position measuring device for scanning a measuring graduation thereof, includes a scanning structure provided on a carrier and formed such that, by interaction of electromagnetic radiation, with the measuring graduation and the scanning structure, a periodic stripe pattern is generated. A detector arrangement includes detector elements of different phases that generate output signals having a phase shift. The detector elements form a periodic pattern, and each detector element is assigned exactly one region of the scanning structure referred to as a bar. The detector elements are combined to form two detector groups. Detector elements of the same phase belong to the same detector group, and the detector elements within one detector group are interconnected. The bars of each detector group cover an active area of equal size. The area center of gravity of the area covered by the bars of the detector groups coincide.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for permitting a base housing to support a plurality of different product configurations. Some of the configurations include different types of optical indicia readers. The base housing has a reading portal capable of receiving a window frame. The window frame is designed for use with a specific type of optical indicia reading component. The invention permits efficient manufacturing of the housing prior to determining which type of optical indicia reader the housing will house.

Abstract: A holographic laser scanner of ultra-compact design capable of reading bar and other types of graphical indicia within a large scanning volume using holographic optical elements and visible laser diodes. The holographic optical elements are arranged on the scanning disc in such a manner so that none of the laser scanning planes generated within the 3-D scanning volume of the system are spatially and temporally coincident with any other laser scanning plane within the 3-D scanning volume. This novel feature of the present invention ensures that there is substantially zero cross-talk at the plurality of photodetectors provided within the system, significantly improving the performance of the system.

Abstract: A scanner is programmed to extract a machine-readable identifier (e.g., encoded in watermark or barcode form) from an object, and transmit same to a remote computer (e.g., over the Internet). The remote computer responds with supplemental information or e-commerce opportunities relating to the scanned object. This information may be presented on an LCD display built-in to the scanner. In some embodiments, auxiliary CCD sensors are provided in addition to the scanner's usual image sensor. These auxiliary sensors can be employed for various purposes, including identifying surface texture characteristics so that corresponding filtering/processing of scan data can be performed; detecting affine transformations of the object being imaged so appropriate compensations can be applied, etc., etc.

Abstract: Methods of operation of a data reader and security tag deactivation system whereby a data reader such as a barcode scanner is equipped with EAS deactivation coils or modules disposed in the vicinity of the read volume or generally proximate thereto and the system is operable to permit reading of the ID tag (such as the barcode label) on an item, and upon a successful read, the deactivation unit is operable to (1) sense the presence of an EAS tag; (2) if presence of an EAS tag is sensed, energize the deactivation coil/module to deactivate the EAS tag; and (3) sense if the EAS tag is deactivated. If the EAS tag is sensed to have been deactivated, the system signals as such and a next item may be scanned. If the EAS tag is sensed to have not been deactivated, the system proceeds to alternate operational steps to handle the exception.

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 device for optical scanning of markings, such as barcodes, has at least two transmitters (10, 20) that send light beams (12, 22) at different angles toward a rotating polygonal mirror (30), which deflects the light beams onto the markings being scanned. The light reflected by the markings is deflected by the polygonal mirrors (30) to separate receiver systems, so that the device has and simultaneously uses at least two separate transmitter/receiver channels.