Abstract: The disclosure relates to a data reading system and method for identifying and processing optical code symbols, primarily DotCode symbols. The data reading system includes an imager for obtaining an image of an item containing the DotCode symbol and a processor for analyzing the image for ultimately decoding the data from the DotCode symbol. The processor analyzes the obtained image to determine a starting pattern for the DotCode symbol and to begin building the DotCode grid from the starting pattern. Once the DotCode grid has been completed, the processor generates a label hypothesis based on the identified data dots on the DotCode grid. Thereafter, a decoder unit receives the label hypothesis from the processor and decodes the label hypothesis to obtain the data for the DotCode symbol.

Abstract: A laser light projection apparatus is provided for projecting laser light onto the surface of a target object. The laser light projection apparatus includes a laser light source that generates laser light and a housing with a cavity therein defined by sidewalls, at least a portion of which have one or more reflective surfaces. The cavity extends along a center axis of the laser light and has a first portion at which a distance between opposing sidewalls is less than a distance between opposing sidewalls at a second portion of the cavity at a distance farther from the laser light source than the first portion. At least a portion of the laser light generated by the laser light source is reflected from the reflective surface of the sidewalls to form a two-dimensional pattern spaced apart from the center axis.

Abstract: A generic shape quality verification process that allows the generalization of Association for Automatic Identification and Mobility (AIM) Direct Part Mark (DPM)/International Organization for Standardization (ISO)/International Engineering Consortium (IEC) (ISO/IEC) 29158 quality metrics for a generic shape marked or marked with a generic technique, wherein the AIM-DPM/ISO-IEC 29158 quality metrics, e.g., Cell Contrast, Cell Modulation, Grid Non Uniformity, Axial Non Uniformity, Fixed Pattern Damage, Unused Error Correction, and Print Growth are generalized to permit verification of a generic shape, are generalized to permit verification of a generic shape, where the process in accordance with the invention consists of the following three steps, i.e., (i) configuration, (ii) calibration and iii) work such that based on computed AIM-DPM/ISO-IEC 29158 metrics, it is possible to verify whether quality of the printed layout is acceptable.

Abstract: A multi-function sound chamber for a handheld barcode reader may include the ability to (i) amplify or otherwise efficiently project an audible signal generated by a buzzer of the barcode reader to sound window(s), and (ii) provide stiffening support to a printed circuit board (PCB) on which an electromechanical switch is mounted that a trigger of the handheld barcode reader engages when activated by a user of the reader. The sound chamber may provide other functions, including isolating light between good/bad read signals and battery level status. Another function may include reducing electrostatic discharge (ESD) by providing a high-impedance seal around connecting screws. Another function may include retention of the PCB by providing a pocket with a compliant material to retain a top or other edge of the PCB. By having the sound chamber perform multiple functions, the barcode reader may be produced more efficiently and cost effectively.

Abstract: A code reader and process may include an optoelectronic reading device configured to read a machine-readable indicia. A primary aiming illuminator may be configured to generate a first light beam to illuminate a first aiming pattern (i) onto a surface on which the machine-readable indicia is positioned and (ii) within a field-of-view of the optoelectronic reading device. A secondary aiming illuminator may be configured to generate a second light beam to illuminate a second aiming pattern (i) onto the surface on which the machine-readable indicia is positioned and (ii) outside or in a marginal region of the field-of-view of said optoelectronic reading device.

Abstract: Bladeless dust removal systems incorporate a bladeless fan system to remove dust particles from compact devices when in operation. Tubular elements are configured in the bladeless fan system to direct air flow in a direction. As the air flows, induction and entrainment occur to increase air flow inside the compact device. An exhaust opening can be implemented, which allows air containing dust particles to exit from the compact device when the bladeless fans system is in operation.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method for simplifying the configuration process of setting monitoring zones for a laser scanner. The method includes activating a configuration mode of the laser and sampling a field of view to establish a frame of reference including the target item to be monitored and other static items present in the field of view. To configure the monitoring zone, an operator may enter the area and sends signals to the laser scanner via a remote controller at a variety of vertex points. The signals for each of the vertex points are thereafter analyzed by the laser scanner to determine positional data and establish the boundaries of the monitoring zone for the laser scanner.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing improved accuracy for beacon-based location systems. A location estimation system may include a multi-beacon system which includes two or more beacons positioned proximate each other. The beacons emit correlated beacon frames which are time and data correlated. A mobile device receives the beacon signals and processes them to estimate the distance between the mobile device and the multi-beacon system. The mobile device processes the signals based on a correlation function of the beacons signal strength trends, which indicates homogeneity and reliability of the acquired signals. When the correlation is high, the two or more RSSI signals are stable and may be used for the distance estimation. When the correlation is low, at least one of the signals is irregular. The mobile device compensates for the irregular signal, thus improving distance estimation accuracy.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention are implemented with a mobile camera and safety laser scanner. A mobile computer can be used to show a visible infrared beam on the display of the mobile computer. The mobile computer can function as a safety tool to identify regions or locations where a laser beam might penetrate. The mobile computer can determine if the laser beam has penetrated a safety region or zone. Sensors can be used to determine when a laser beam may become dangerously close to an operator, especially with the use of automated guided vehicle that is moving around and has a scanning laser.

Abstract: Systems and methods for establishing optimal reading conditions for a machine-readable symbol reader. A machine-readable symbol reader may selectively control reading conditions including lighting conditions (e.g., illumination pattern), focus, decoder library parameters (e.g., exposure time, gain), etc. Deep learning and optimization algorithms (e.g., greedy search algorithms) are used to autonomously learn an optimal set of reading parameters to be used for the reader in a particular application. A deep learning network (e.g., a convolutional neural network) may be used to locate machine-readable symbols in images captured by the reader, and greedy search algorithms may be used to determine a reading distance parameter and one or more illumination parameters during an autonomous learning phase of the reader.

Abstract: Systems and methods for preventing the unauthorized removal of mobile processor-based devices from designated areas (e.g., inside of a shopping area). The system may utilize a beacon technology based on a low energy protocol to prevent unauthorized removal of the devices. An anti-theft beacon system which includes an RF beacon transmitter may be positioned proximate an exit of a designated area. Mobile processor-based devices detect beacon signals from the anti-theft beacon system. Responsive to such detection, a device determines that it has been removed from the designated area. The device may then perform one or more anti-theft actions, including operating as a beacon once removed from the designated area. An auxiliary power source may power a beacon of the mobile processor-based device when the mobile processor-based device has been removed from the designated area so that the beacon may still broadcast signals even when a primary power source is disabled.

Abstract: A portable data terminal including a main housing, a landscape-oriented large display screen disposed on a top front portion of the main housing and extending nearly an entire width of the main housing, a keyboard disposed on top of the main housing and rearward to the display screen, and left and right battery housings serving as ergonomic handle grips disposed on an underside of the main housing to accommodate two-handed grasping of the device, the keyboard being constructed and arranged to receive input from a pair of thumbs while corresponding hands are grasping and supporting the main housing. In an embodiment, the main housing includes a central housing portion extending downwardly on the underside of the main housing and having an extended front face for containing a scan engine/data reading mechanism and first and second cameras positioned on opposite lateral sides of the scan engine.

Abstract: One embodiment of a system and method for imaging a scene from a barcode scanner device may include creating a first and second optical paths of the scene, and then causing a switchable mirror disposed along the first and second optical paths to operate in a reflective state and a transparent state. The barcode scanner device may then capture images at different focal distances and with a different field-of-views when the switchable mirror is operating in the reflective state and the transparent state.

Abstract: A system and method for managing a shared resource in a network including a plurality of nodes including, in response to joining the network, broadcasting, by a node, an identification message to the network, and receiving, by the node, a token data structure including computational data including a threshold total resource consumption value of the plurality of nodes, current resource consumption values of respective nodes, and current utility function values of the respective nodes, the computational data being used by the node to adjust consumption of the shared resource by the node.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention are implemented for an entry level, compact and lightweight single package apparatus combining a conventional high-resolution two-dimensional (2D) camera with a low-resolution three-dimensional (3D) depth image camera, capable to learn, through depth information, how to improve the performance of a set of 2D identification and machine vision algorithms in terms of speed-up (e.g. through regions of interests (ROIs)) and raw discriminative power. The cameras simultaneously capture images that are processed by an Intelligent Segmentation Engine in the system to facilitate object recognition.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing an optical module for an optical unit, said method comprising: Arranging a tubular body including a casing manufactured in stainless steel, said casing defining an internal surface, a longitudinal axis (X), and a thickness (T), the cross-section of which is perpendicular to said longitudinal axis; Reducing a first thickness of a first section of said casing in a uniform manner for a segment of length (L) along a longitudinal axis (X) of said casing up to a first predetermined thickness (T1) by means of wire-cut electrical discharge machining; Inserting a support holding an electromagnetic radiation emitter and/or a receiver in said casing.

Abstract: A system and method for retail inventory checkout in which the customer selects items from the item shelves and as an item is taken from the shelf, the customer employs an input device, such as a portable data terminal, a smart phone provided with a store application or other suitable device that communicates with the store network, to identify the item either by scanning the optical code on the item or by other means, and then once scanned, the item is added to the purchase list and then placed in a shopping cart, basket or other container.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a data reading system and method for obtaining target data from an image. The data reading method includes obtaining an image containing the target data, and identifying a starting pixel coordinate on the image. The method further includes determining an initial local threshold value based on the selected starting pixel and analyzing the image to detect one or more high contrast boundaries or contours. After detecting the boundaries, the method includes analyzing the one or more boundaries to identify the target data in the image.

Abstract: A method of scanning an object may include determining that an object is proximately positioned relative to a scanning volume of a presentation scanner in response to receiving at least one object presence signal prior to scanning a code indicia positioned on the object. At least one object sensory indicator device may be activated in response to determining that the object is proximately positioned relative to the scanning volume so as to indicate that the object is proximate to the scanning volume to a user. A second level of detection and location feedback may be provided for code indicia within the scanning volume.