Abstract: An imaging unit programmed to reduce specular reflection in a captured image and improve the interpretation of decodable information within the image. The imaging unit is programmed to scan a predetermined region within the image that is susceptible to specular reflection, evaluate the pixel values within the region against a threshold value that is representative of specular reflection, and then replace the pixel value found to represent specular reflection with replacement pixel values that do not corrupt interpretation of the decodable information in the predetermined region. The threshold value and replacement values may be determined on an ad hoc basis and stored in local memory, or calculated for each captured image.

Abstract: A medical device, such as an electrosurgical scalpel, having a base unit and one or more attachable implements for performing medical procedures. The device include a host controllable module for capturing images of the attachable implement, decoding information contained in the image, and reporting the results of the decoding to the medical device. The host controllable module includes a system microcontroller that interconnects an optical imager and/or an RFID transceiver through the single interface to the host medical device. As a result, the module may be easily retrofit into existing medical devices and programmed to perform operations on legacy instruments as well as additional functions not previously available to the medical device.

Abstract: An imaging unit programmed to reduce specular reflection in a captured image and improve the interpretation of decodable information within the image. The imaging unit is programmed to scan a predetermined region within the image that is susceptible to specular reflection, evaluate the pixel values within the region against a threshold value that is representative of specular reflection, and then replace the pixel value found to represent specular reflection with replacement pixel values that do not corrupt interpretation of the decodable information in the predetermined region. The threshold value and replacement values may be determined on an ad hoc basis and stored in local memory, or calculated for each captured image.