Patents by Inventor Kai Fluegge
Kai Fluegge has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 11574137Abstract: This provides an ID reader, typically configured for handheld operation, which integrates three types of illumination into a compact package that generates robust performance and resistance to harsh environmental conditions, such as dust and moisture. These illumination types include, direct (diffuse) light, low-angle light and polarized light. The ID reader includes a sealed reader module assembly having the illuminators in combination with an imager assembly (optics and image sensor) at its relative center. Additionally, also an on-axis aimer and a variable focus system with liquid lens have been integrated in this module and is placed on axis using a mirror assembly that includes a dichroic filter. As the optimal distance to read a code with low-angle light is typically shorter than the optimal distance to use the polarized illumination a variable (e.g. liquid) lens can adjust the focus of the reader to the optimal distance for the selected illumination.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2021Date of Patent: February 7, 2023Assignee: Cognex CorporationInventors: Jose Fernandez Dorado, Laurens Nunnink, Saul Sanz Rodriguez, Kai Fluegge, Yasin Salih Ciftci
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Patent number: 11416696Abstract: A base station or handheld device can be equipped with a latch system or a multi-hinge arrangement for electrical contacts. The latch system can be adjustable between different latching configurations in which the base station and handheld device are retained together by different degrees. The multi-hinge arrangement can provide rotation about multiple axes to provide rolling contact between electrical contacts of the base station and the handheld device.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2020Date of Patent: August 16, 2022Assignee: COGNEX CORPORATIONInventors: Zoltan Farkas, János Kállay, Saul Sanz Rodriguez, Kai Fluegge
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Patent number: 11356543Abstract: This invention provides a module/base assembly for a handheld device. The module includes an imager with optics and image acquisition/processing processors that provide high speed acquisition and handling of acquired image data. The acquired image data is processed by the device processor using a module application that resides within the device. A removable retaining component mounts within the base. The base houses a battery and charging assembly e.g. an inductive charging unit. The inductive charging unit can be adapted to pass data, in addition to power, between the inductive coils and the charging unit can be interconnected to a data network with attached devices that employ data from the module. The base can charge the device via a connector and/or wireless charging arrangement. Data communication between the base and mobile device can occur using an RF link, e.g. an integrated Bluetooth® functionality.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2019Date of Patent: June 7, 2022Assignee: Cognex CorporationInventors: John Bryan Boatner, Kai Fluegge, Mario Joussen, Laurens Nunnink, Carl W. Gerst, III
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Publication number: 20220012444Abstract: This provides an ID reader, typically configured for handheld operation, which integrates three types of illumination into a compact package that generates robust performance and resistance to harsh environmental conditions, such as dust and moisture. These illumination types include, direct (diffuse) light, low-angle light and polarized light. The ID reader includes a sealed reader module assembly having the illuminators in combination with an imager assembly (optics and image sensor) at its relative center. Additionally, also an on-axis aimer and a variable focus system with liquid lens have been integrated in this module and is placed on axis using a mirror assembly that includes a dichroic filter. As the optimal distance to read a code with low-angle light is typically shorter than the optimal distance to use the polarized illumination a variable (e.g. liquid) lens can adjust the focus of the reader to the optimal distance for the selected illumination.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2021Publication date: January 13, 2022Inventors: Jose Fernandez Dorado, Laurens Nunnink, Saul Sanz Rodriguez, Kai Fluegge, Yasin Salih Ciftci
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Publication number: 20210326551Abstract: A base station or handheld device can be equipped with a latch system or a multi-hinge arrangement for electrical contacts. The latch system can be adjustable between different latching configurations in which the base station and handheld device are retained together by different degrees. The multi-hinge arrangement can provide rotation about multiple axes to provide rolling contact between electrical contacts of the base station and the handheld device.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2020Publication date: October 21, 2021Inventors: Zoltan Farkas, János Kállay, Saul Sanz Rodriguez, Kai Fluegge
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Patent number: 11094486Abstract: A trigger arrangement for a scanning system can include a sealed housing configured to support a scanning device, a trigger, and an actuation device configured to control functionality of the scanning device. A first magnet can be positioned outside of the sealed housing and can be configured to be selectively moved by the trigger. A second magnet configured to be repelled by the first magnet can be positioned inside of the sealed housing. A connecting member that supports the second magnet can be configured to transfer force from the second magnet to the actuation device. Some configurations can provide tactile feedback to a user when the trigger is used.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2018Date of Patent: August 17, 2021Assignee: COGNEX CORPORATIONInventors: Saul Sanz Rodriguez, Kai Fluegge
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Patent number: 11068680Abstract: A base station or handheld device can be equipped with a latch system or a multi-hinge arrangement for electrical contacts. The latch system can be adjustable between different latching configurations in which the base station and handheld device are retained together by different degrees. The multi-hinge arrangement can provide rotation about multiple axes to provide rolling contact between electrical contacts of the base station and the handheld device.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2020Date of Patent: July 20, 2021Assignee: COGNEX CORPORATIONInventors: János Kállay, Saul Sanz Rodriguez, Kai Fluegge
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Patent number: 11003875Abstract: This provides an ID reader, typically configured for handheld operation, which integrates three types of illumination into a compact package that generates robust performance and resistance to harsh environmental conditions, such as dust and moisture. These illumination types include, direct (diffuse) light, low-angle light and polarized light. The ID reader includes a sealed reader module assembly having the illuminators in combination with an imager assembly (optics and image sensor) at its relative center. Additionally, also an on-axis aimer and a variable focus system with liquid lens have been integrated in this module and is placed on axis using a mirror assembly that includes a dichroic filter. As the optimal distance to read a code with low-angle light is typically shorter than the optimal distance to use the polarized illumination a variable (e.g. liquid) lens can adjust the focus of the reader to the optimal distance for the selected illumination.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2018Date of Patent: May 11, 2021Assignee: Cognex CorporationInventors: Jose Fernandez Dorado, Laurens Nunnink, Saul Sanz Rodriguez, Kai Fluegge, Yasin Salih Ciftci
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Publication number: 20200203101Abstract: A trigger arrangement for a scanning system can include a sealed housing configured to support a scanning device, a trigger, and an actuation device configured to control functionality of the scanning device. A first magnet can be positioned outside of the sealed housing and can be configured to be selectively moved by the trigger. A second magnet configured to be repelled by the first magnet can be positioned inside of the sealed housing. A connecting member that supports the second magnet can be configured to transfer force from the second magnet to the actuation device. Some configurations can provide tactile feedback to a user when the trigger is used.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2018Publication date: June 25, 2020Inventors: Saul Sanz Rodriguez, Kai Fluegge
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Publication number: 20200143129Abstract: This provides an ID reader, typically configured for handheld operation, which integrates three types of illumination into a compact package that generates robust performance and resistance to harsh environmental conditions, such as dust and moisture. These illumination types include, direct (diffuse) light, low-angle light and polarized light. The ID reader includes a sealed reader module assembly having the illuminators in combination with an imager assembly (optics and image sensor) at its relative center. Additionally, also an on-axis aimer and a variable focus system with liquid lens have been integrated in this module and is placed on axis using a mirror assembly that includes a dichroic filter. As the optimal distance to read a code with low-angle light is typically shorter than the optimal distance to use the polarized illumination a variable (e.g. liquid) lens can adjust the focus of the reader to the optimal distance for the selected illumination.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2018Publication date: May 7, 2020Inventors: Jose Fernandez Dorado, Laurens Nunnink, Saul Sanz Rodriguez, Kai Fluegge, Yasin Salih Ciftci
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Publication number: 20200076934Abstract: This invention provides a module/base assembly for a handheld device. The module includes an imager with optics and image acquisition/processing processors that provide high speed acquisition and handling of acquired image data. The acquired image data is processed by the device processor using a module application that resides within the device. A removable retaining component mounts within the base. The base houses a battery and charging assembly e.g. an inductive charging unit. The inductive charging unit can be adapted to pass data, in addition to power, between the inductive coils and the charging unit can be interconnected to a data network with attached devices that employ data from the module. The base can charge the device via a connector and/or wireless charging arrangement. Data communication between the base and mobile device can occur using an RF link, e.g. an integrated Bluetooth® functionality.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2019Publication date: March 5, 2020Inventors: Bryan Boatner, Kai Fluegge, Mario Joussen, Laurens Nunnink, Carl W. Gerst, III
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Patent number: 10456070Abstract: An apparatus for obtaining and analyzing a blood sample is presented. The apparatus comprises an integrated drive unit having a common drive source and a drive force transmission gearing that couples a lancet drive, a device for advancing a magazine, and a sample transfer device to the drive source. A tensioning rotor and a drive rotor are mounted so that they are rotatable coaxially to one another. A first cam control converts the rotation of the drive rotor into a radial forward and reverse movement of a drive rod. A second cam control converts the rotational movement of the tensioning rotor into a linear movement of a link slide. A switching link moved by the link slide rotates the magazine an additional step. A third cam control converts the rotational movement of the tensioning rotor into a linear movement of a pressure tappet perpendicular to the piercing axis.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2015Date of Patent: October 29, 2019Assignee: Roche Diabetes Care, Inc.Inventors: Hans List, Kai Fluegge
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Patent number: 10229303Abstract: This invention provides a module for a handheld device. The module includes an imager with optics and image acquisition/processing processors that provide high speed acquisition and handling of acquired image data—such as IDs. The acquired image data is processed by the device processor using a module application that resides within the device. The module includes indicators and/or alarms that can indicate success in reading an ID. A subframe removably mounts within the module's main body/frame and carries the device. The subframe can vary to accommodate different devices within a single main body/frame geometry. The main body/frame includes appropriate structures (ports) to enable optical transmission to, for example, cameras and illuminators so that various native functions of the device can be employed as desired. The main body/frame can also house a battery and charging assembly that supplies power to the device and allows charging through-for example and inductive charging unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2013Date of Patent: March 12, 2019Assignee: Cognex CorporationInventors: Carl W. Gerst, III, Kai Fluegge, Mario Joussen, Laurens Nunnink
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Patent number: 10224726Abstract: This invention provides a base unit for charging a handheld ID reader in which the charging contacts are mounted on a contact holder that is biased rearwardly during insertion of the reader, and thereafter snaps back in place and locks the reader after the reader has been pushed into a fully seated position in a well of the base unit. This lock is maintained between shoulders on the holder and corresponding locking tabs on the bottom face of the reader. The locking tabs are conductive, and provide two additional electrical contacts that engage contact pads on the reader bottom face. Each of the power and ground signals are connected over at least two electrical contacts between reader and base station, increasing reliability, especially when the reader is not in its fully seated position. An indicator LED is integrated in the base station enclosure near the charging contacts.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2013Date of Patent: March 5, 2019Assignee: COGNEX CORPORATIONInventors: Kai Fluegge, Laurens Nunnink, Robert Broeskamp
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Publication number: 20180059758Abstract: This invention provides a module for a handheld device. The module includes an imager with optics and image acquisition/processing processors that provide high speed acquisition and handling of acquired image data. The acquired image data is processed by the device processor using a module application that resides within the device. A removable retaining component mounts within the module's base portion. The retaining component varies to accommodate different devices. The base portion includes appropriate ports enabling optical transmission to, for example, cameras and illuminators so that various native functions of the device can be employed as desired. The base portion also houses a battery and charging assembly e.g. an inductive charging unit. The inductive charging unit can be adapted to pass data, in addition to power, between the inductive coils and the charging unit can be interconnected to a data network with attached devices that employ data from the module.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2017Publication date: March 1, 2018Inventors: Bryan Boatner, Kai Fluegge, Mario Joussen, Laurens Nunnink, Carl W. Gerst, III, Richard Reuter
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Patent number: 9838586Abstract: A portable machine vision component for use in machine vision systems is provided. The component can include a base portion configured to removably connect with a machine vision device, the base portion including an electrical input and an electrical output. The component can also include a control system operatively connected with the base portion, the control system configured to control an operation of the machine vision device and to receive feedback from the machine vision device. The component can further include one or more interface elements associated with the base portion, the one or more interface elements configured to allow a user to access the control system and communicate with the machine vision device.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2013Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: Cognex CorporationInventor: Kai Fluegge
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Patent number: 9746636Abstract: An electronic device includes an electronic circuit board containing a processing element and a vision sensor. A carrier frame is used to support the electronic circuit board. An optical element is positioned over the sensor and supported by the carrier frame. The electronic circuit board is bent to reduce the length, thickness and/or width of the electronic device, without increasing the others of the length, thickness and/or width of the electronic device.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2012Date of Patent: August 29, 2017Assignee: Cognex CorporationInventors: Kai Flügge, Laurens Nunnink, Richard Reuter, David R. King
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Patent number: 9513458Abstract: An electronic device includes a threaded spacer and a biasing element to reduce backlash. The threaded spacer includes a thread end point that is offset from the thread start point of the carrier frame. The offset thread ending and starting points create a gap between the threaded spacer and the carrier frame. The biasing element applies a force to the threaded spacer, thereby reducing the backlash between the lens and the carrier frame, while at the same time allowing the lens to be rotated for focus adjustments.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2013Date of Patent: December 6, 2016Assignee: COGNEX CORPORATIONInventors: Kai Flügge, Laurens Nunnink
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Publication number: 20160089069Abstract: An apparatus for obtaining and analyzing a blood sample is presented. The apparatus comprises an integrated drive unit having a common drive source and a drive force transmission gearing that couples a lancet drive, a device for advancing a magazine, and a sample transfer device to the drive source. A tensioning rotor and a drive rotor are mounted so that they are rotatable coaxially to one another. A first cam control converts the rotation of the drive rotor into a radial forward and reverse movement of a drive rod. A second cam control converts the rotational movement of the tensioning rotor into a linear movement of a link slide. A switching link moved by the link slide rotates the magazine an additional step. A third cam control converts the rotational movement of the tensioning rotor into a linear movement of a pressure tappet perpendicular to the piercing axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2015Publication date: March 31, 2016Applicant: Roche Diabetes Care, Inc.Inventors: Hans List, Kai Fluegge
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Patent number: 9292724Abstract: An imager defines a field of view and an optical axis. An illuminator directs illumination towards a region of interest, the region of interest being an intended position of the object. A tapered translucent diffuser is concentrically aligned with the optical axis, and has a first distal end proximate to the imager, and a second distal end proximate to the region of interest. The tapered translucent diffuser includes a darkened region, the darkened region to absorb a portion of the illumination to substantially reduce reflection of the portion of the illumination toward the object. A light guide can be positioned proximate the first distal end and the imager, such that a second illuminator can generate an aimer beam that passes through the light guide to produce an aimer pattern on the object.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2013Date of Patent: March 22, 2016Assignee: COGNEX CORPORATIONInventors: Kai Flügge, Laurens Nunnink