Abstract: A code reader (10) having an image sensor (20) for the generation of images of a detection zone (12) resolved into pixels is provided having a decoding unit (24) in order to identify code regions (14) in the images and to readout their coded information, as well as having a verification unit (28) for evaluating the code quality in accordance with predefined criteria. In this connection the verification (28) is configured to initially generate a normalized verification image of the code from the code regions (14) by means of image processing for the verification.

Abstract: An automated checkout system and method of operation for reading encoded data on a bottom surface of an item using a data reader. The automated checkout system includes a leading conveyor section and a trailing conveyor section separated by a gap therebetween, where the item is transported across the gap as it moves between the conveyors. A first and second reading device are each positioned beneath the conveyor sections, where each reading device has a field of view projecting through the gap. The first reading device is configured to acquire a first set of scan data and the second reading device is configured to acquire a second set of scan data different from the first. In some embodiments, the first set of scan data may include two-dimensional area views of the encoded data, and the second set of scan data may include linescans of the encoded data.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide time-varying barcodes for information exchange. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for communicating information between electronic devices via a time-varying barcode image sequence. In a typical embodiment, information to be transmitted is divided into packets. A barcode image is generated from each packet. Each barcode image is displayed sequentially with varying display times based on the complexity of the barcode image. A second electronic device reads and decodes the barcode image sequence until the entire information is received.

Abstract: A new technology is provided for a portable bar code verification reader and is designed to create a video image of a bar code label in accordance to strict industry bar code verification standards. The barcode verification reader will effectively capture a bar code label and then send the resulting video image to a computer. The resulting bar code label quality may be displayed on the portable verification reader via one or more LED's, an embedded display monitor, or the like.

Abstract: A method for decoding a two-dimensional optical code formed by a set number of codewords, wherein decoding the code based on a single acquired image has not been successful, includes analysing an acquired image and at least one further acquired image and obtaining a respective set and further set of values of identified codewords. Each codeword can take on either an undefined value or vice versa a numeric value if the codeword is recognised. A combined set of codewords is created and each codeword of the combined set is assigned a value of a codeword of the set and/or of the further set and an algorithm for detecting and self-correction of errors is applied to the combined set to obtain confirmation of successful decoding of the two-dimensional code.

Abstract: A barcode includes a plurality of blocks arranged to define a coordinate system across the barcode. A method determines sizes of at least first and second blocks into which arbitrary information is to be encoded such that the blocks have a pair-wise anharmonic relationship with each other. A first portion of the arbitrary information to be encoded in the first block and a second portion of the arbitrary information to be encoded in the second block are then selected. The method encodes the first portion and the second portion, and provides a decode verification mechanism in each of the first and second blocks. A plurality of the encoded first blocks and a plurality of the encoded second blocks are arranged to form a barcode and to define a coordinate system therein, whereupon the barcode may be stored to a memory device.

Abstract: An image processing apparatus and method determine whether an error detecting rate of original information extracted from a code image in a read image obtained by reading a sheet on which the code image is formed, is not smaller than a predetermined value. When it is not smaller than a predetermined value, a code image is reproduced from the extracted original information and the code image in the read image is replaced therewith. One example of the code image is a barcode.

Abstract: A barcoded quality indicator operative to provide a machine-readable indication of exceedance of at least one product quality threshold by at least one product quality affecting parameter, the barcoded quality indicator including a changeable barcode including at least one material having at least one variable visually-sensible characteristic which gradually changes as a function of changes in the at least one product quality affecting parameter and a background having at least one selectable visually-sensible characteristic which is not variable or not variable in the same way as is the barcode.

Abstract: Utilizing natural variations in marked features on an item as a way of establishing an identifier specific to that item, storing the identifier separately from the item, and subsequently accessing the identifier to validate the identity of the item.

Abstract: A medical delivery device may include at least one electronic sensor and a decoding module. The at least one electronic sensor and the decoding module are configured to (i) identify a coding feature of a drug reservoir inserted in the medical delivery device and (ii) determine information related to the drug reservoir based on the identified coding feature.

Abstract: A card reading machine includes a card reader for reading data on a magnetic card and a device for preventing reading of the data on the magnetic card by illegal card reading devices operatively associated with the card reading machine. The device for preventing may include an oscillator, a driver circuit and a coil for generating electromagnetic signals similar to data on a card. A method for preventing reading of data on a magnetic card by in illegal card reader in operative association with an apparatus having a card reader intended to read the data on the magnetic card includes producing a signal ruining the data collected by the illegal card reader. The apparatus having a card reader may include an insertion slot in which case the method may further include producing the signal near the insertion slot.

Abstract: A system for encoding energy peaks of an identifier comprises an encoder. The encoder is configured to define a readable spectral range of an identifier. The identifier comprises a rugate microtag. The encoder is configured to divide the readable spectral range into a plurality of bins. The encoder is configured to encode in a center of a bin near one end of the readable spectral range a reference peak. The encoder is configured to encode in a center of each of a set of bins a set of peaks of a data pattern within the readable spectral range.

Abstract: A card reader may include a reader-side non-contact communication antenna, a transfer path through which a card is transferred, a transfer mechanism to transfer the card, a controller to control the transfer mechanism, and a regulator to regulate transfer of the card. The reader-side antenna may be provided proximate to the transfer path. The regulator may be positioned such that the reader-side antenna can communicate with a card-side antenna on the card. The controller may control the transfer mechanism to move the card closer to the regulator or away from the regulator after the card has stopped once, so as to enable communication between the reader-side antenna and the card-side antenna.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a biological measuring device with auto coding capabilities. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the biological measuring device with auto coding capabilities includes a test strip having a substrate and at least a first contact pad and a second contact pad provided on the substrate; and a code reader having at least a first metal pin and a second metal pin to couple to the first contact pad and the second contact pad to obtain coding information associated with the test strip, wherein the code reader is capable of reading the coding information based on a movement of the test strip before the test strip is placed still in relation to the code reader for a proper reading of a sample.

Abstract: he method for marking a product includes: a step of forming, on or in the product, a mark robust to copying, with a first resolution, a step of forming, on or in the product, a mark sensitive to copying, with a second resolution higher than the first resolution, a step of capturing an image of the robust mark, the sensitive mark and another part of the product and a step of memorizing an item of information representing the image of the robust mark, the sensitive mark and the other image part. In embodiments, during at least one forming step, the position of the mark formed during this forming step is random in relation to the other image part.

Abstract: A two-dimensional code reader and program generate edge images based on obtained images, extract candidate regions within these edge images, determine whether or not the extracted candidate regions are valid, determine whether or not characteristic patterns are included in each corresponding region in the original image, and then detects two-dimensional code regions within original images. The two-dimensional code reader and program repeatedly implement generation of edge images based on conversion conditions that correspond to the applicable order among a plurality of conversion condition types in a pre-set order, detection of candidate regions among the generated edge images, determination of whether or not the extracted candidate regions are valid, determination of whether or not characteristic patterns are included in the corresponding regions in the original images that correspond to valid candidate regions, and detection of two-dimensional code regions.

Abstract: Disclosed is a terminal device (10) for payment data exchange comprising interfaces for coupling to a point of sale devices (26), to a mobile phone (14), and to a payment center (1). The payment data exchange is performed on two different ways. In a first way from the payment terminal device (10) via the mobile phone (14) and the mobile voice network (5) to the authorization center (1) or, vice versa, from the payment center (1) via the mobile voice network (5) and the mobile phone (14) to the payment terminal device (10), wherein the payment data are transferred between the payment terminal device (10) and the mobile phone (14) on voice information. On the second way the data are transferred directly from the terminal device (10) via e.g. the network (5) to the authorization center (1) and, vice versa, from the payment center (1) via the network (5) to the payment terminal device (10).

Abstract: Tagging apparatus associated with applying and reading a tag adapted to store a number. The tag comprising a plurality of substantially identical two dimensional arrays of dots, each array being indicative of the number for improving tag detection; each arrays comprise a plurality of clusters, each cluster representing a predetermined symbol being indicative of a part of the number. An etching apparatus, for creating a pattern of dots, comprising a plurality of laser sources held in a manifold defining any one or more of a vector grid, or array grid. A tagging reading apparatus comprising a lens element being adapted to control focus, zoom and ingress light; an image capture element for obtaining image data; a processor element adapted to apply one or more digital processing functions to the image; the processor element being adapted to calculate code data indicative of the tag number.

Abstract: A method, system, and apparatus for monitoring an exit window of a scanner using a plurality of imaging devices. The method includes capturing a first image through the exit window using a first imaging device, capturing a second image through the exit window using a second different imaging device, and detecting at least one of a plurality of features in both the first and second images. The method further includes matching the plurality of features detected in both the first and the second images, determining whether the at least one matched feature is present on the plane of the exit window, and monitoring a physical condition of the exit window based on the at least one feature.

Abstract: A method, system and program product, the method comprising: obtaining at or before a first source reception cutoff time, first client account transaction information; obtaining a respective net transfer amount; selecting respective aggregated deposit account in depository institution in a first group based on selection rules, first group having recipient cutoff times in a first time range; generating transfer data; obtaining at or before a second source reception cutoff time, second client account transaction information; selecting an aggregated deposit account in a depository institution in a second group to deposit/transferor withdraw/transfer funds, based on selection rules, the second group having respective cutoff times in a second time range different from the first time range; generating transfer data; allocating funds from multiple of the client accounts to the transfers; and updating databases.

Abstract: A method, system and program product, the method comprising: accessing databases, comprising (i) aggregated account information for a plurality of government-backed insured interest-bearing aggregated deposit accounts held in a plurality of recipient depository institutions, and (ii) client account information; obtaining client account transaction information of client accounts of a first financial institution; obtaining a first amount of funds for the first financial institution; allocating the first amount of funds to other of the recipient depository institutions; allocating a second amount of funds sourced from other of the financial institutions to the first financial institution, based on criteria; netting the first amount and the second amount to obtain a net amount; if the net amount is different from zero, allocating a positive or a negative third amount, to make the second amount equal to the first amount, so no transfer is necessary.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a printer and a control method thereof. The control method of the printer comprises: detecting the state of the printer; and when the printer is in error state, saving printing data and error information of the printer. The disclosure is hereby able to provide a basis for judging whether the printing is normal when printing fails due to a printing error during the printing process. The printer comprises a printing mechanism, a controller, a detection mechanism, a first memory and a second memory, wherein the detection mechanism is configured to detect the state of the printer and to obtain error information when the printer is in error state; the first memory is configured to temporarily store the printing data of the printer; and the second memory is configured to store the error information and the printing data when the printer is in error state.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and system for decoding and recognizing barcode information by using a general camera such as one in a mobile device is disclosed. The invention uses a set of compact point spread functions (PSF) with a squared-shape distribution to restore blurred barcode image for quick and efficient decoding and recognition. Image pre-processing methods are applied to reduce noise and normalize pixel grayscale. On each normalized image, the invention checks if the image contains barcode lines. If there is a barcode, the invention tries to identify the beginning and ending positions of the barcode. The invention selectively decodes multiple scan lines across the barcode and match against predefined barcode models. The best matched barcodes are saved in the history buffer.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a code reading apparatus includes an image capturing unit, a determining unit, and a notifying unit. The image capturing unit captures an image picked up by an image pickup unit. The determining unit determines whether the image captured by the image capturing unit satisfies a condition for extracting code data from a code symbol. The notifying unit notifies, if the determining unit determines that the image does not satisfy the condition, a cause that prevents satisfaction of the condition or a method of improving the image pickup.

Abstract: There is provided an image forming device that includes a conveyor section, an image forming section, an accessing section and a control unit. The conveyor section conveys recording media in a conveying path, the recording media including a recording medium having a data storage unit attached thereto and a recording medium with no data storage unit attached thereto, the data storage unit storing data or being capable of storing data. The image forming section forms an image on the recording medium. The accessing section is disposed at an access position along the conveying path and accesses the data storage unit to execute an access operation to write data into or read data from the data storage unit.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide time-varying barcodes for information exchange. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for communicating information between electronic devices via a time-varying barcode image sequence. In a typical embodiment, information to be transmitted is divided into packets. A barcode image is generated from each packet. Each barcode image is displayed sequentially with varying display times based on the complexity of the barcode image. A second electronic device reads and decodes the barcode image sequence until the entire information is received.

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: The disclosure relates to a system and a method for light beam interrogation of an optical biosensor and for monitoring a biological event on the biosensor for use, for example, in microplate image analysis. The system and method correct pointing-errors that can be encountered, for example, in scanning label-independent-detection biosensor applications.

Abstract: A decodable indicia reading terminal can comprise a multiple pixel image sensor, an imaging lens configured to focus an image of decodable indicia on the image sensor, an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter configured to convert an analog signal read out of the image sensor into a digital signal, a communication interface, and a microprocessor configured to output decoded message data corresponding to the decodable indicia by processing the digital signal. The decodable indicia reading terminal can be configured, responsive to a triggering event, to transmit via the communication interface a decoding result and an indicia readability rating. The triggering event can be provided by a failure to detect decodable indicia, the indicia readability rating being less than a pre-defined threshold, exceeding a pre-defined time period to decode decodable indicia, a user interface action, and a command received via said communication interface.

Abstract: A method, system and program product for managing a plurality of individual client deposits for multiple clients, the method comprising: accessing, an electronic database, comprising: aggregated account information for a plurality of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)-insured and interest-bearing aggregated deposit accounts held in a plurality of banking institutions, and client information for each of a plurality of the respective clients, i, comprising (i) a total of a respective client's funds deposited across a plurality of the FDIC-insured interest-bearing aggregated accounts held in a plurality of the banking institutions; and (ii) a maximum deposit percentage of the respective client funds to be held in at least one of the banking institutions; maintaining funds for said individual clients in a plurality of the FDIC-insured, interest-bearing aggregated deposit accounts at a plurality of banking institutions, wherein each of the banking institutions has at least one of the aggregated deposit a

Abstract: A tri-optic scanner for checking out merchandise at stores includes first and second barcode scanners, and a third barcode scanner placed back-to-back to the second barcode scanner to face an opposite direction of the second barcode scanner. The tri-optic scanner is designed to allow the third barcode scanner to conveniently capture barcodes presented by a customer without a cashier touching barcode carriers that belong to the customer.

Abstract: A foreign substance detection device for a card reader includes an emitting module (1), a receiving module (2) and a control processing module (3). The emitting module (1) is embedded on a wall surface of a card reader insertion opening (101) for emitting detection waves to a detection area (103) in front of the card reader insertion opening (101). The receiving module (2) is embedded on the wall surface of the card reader insertion opening (101) for receiving the detection waves emitted by the emitted the emitting module (1). The control processing module (3) identifies whether the receiving module (2) receives the detection wave reflected by the foreign substance in the detection area (103), and determines whether the foreign substance exists in the detection area (103) according to the determination result. A card reader socket which includes a case (100) and the foreign substance detection device is also provided.

Abstract: A light guiding device used for a reader/writer device for a noncontact communication medium is provided with a light guide plate having a transparent main body part which can transmit light inputted from an LED and a protruding part protruding from a part of an end surface of the transparent main body part. A diffusely reflecting part is provided on a lower surface side of the transparent main body part, and a first light emitting part is provided on an upper surface side of the transparent main body part. Reflecting parts are provided on an upper surface side and a lower surface side of the protruding part, and second light emitting part is provided at a leading end. of the protruding part. When the first light emitting part is covered by the noncontact communication medium, the second light emitting part can check a light emitting state.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a code reading apparatus includes an image capturing section configured to capture an image picked up by an image pickup section; a code reading section configured to detect a code symbol included in the captured image and read code information corresponding to the code symbol; an image comparing section configured to compare, if the code information read this time and code information read before this time and most recently are the same, images related to the reading of the pieces of code information; and an output section configured to output the read code information and, if the images are similar as a result of the comparison of the images, regard the code information read this time as code information read twice and suppress output of the code information.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide time-varying barcodes for information exchange. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for communicating information between electronic devices via a time-varying barcode image sequence. In a typical embodiment, information to be transmitted is divided into packets. A barcode image is generated from each packet. Each barcode image is displayed sequentially with varying display times based on the complexity of the barcode image. A second electronic device reads and decodes the barcode image sequence until the entire information is received.

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: A checking system includes a checking unit that reads a print product printed by a printing unit and checks the print product, and an adding unit that adds a predetermined sheet indicating that the print product is not normal between the print products generated by the printing unit. The checking unit is provided between the printing unit and the adding unit, and the adding unit is configured, according to a result of the check of the print product generated by the printing unit performed by using the checking unit, to add the predetermined sheet indicating that the print product is not normal between the print products generated by the printing unit.

Abstract: A read head system has a housing and a read positioned in the housing with a slot for swiping a magnetic stripe of a financial transaction card with the slot utilized to enable a financial transaction between a buyer and seller. The read head reads data on the magnetic stripe and produces a signal indicative of data stored on the magnetic stripe. The read head includes an output jack configured to be coupled to at least one of a audio jack or microphone port of a mobile device. The read head provides the signal to the mobile device.

Abstract: An image processing apparatus of the present disclosure includes: (a) a two-dimensional matrix barcode detecting unit configured to detect a two-dimensional matrix barcode if an image of image data includes the two-dimensional matrix barcode; and (b) a broken matrix barcode detecting unit configured to determine whether a broken two-dimensional matrix barcode exists in the image or not when the two-dimensional matrix barcode detecting unit does not detect the two-dimensional matrix barcode but detects at least one position detection pattern. The broken matrix barcode detecting unit determines whether the broken two-dimensional matrix barcode exists in the image or not on the basis of a pattern in a predetermined position adjacent to the detected position detection pattern.

Abstract: A card medium processing device is controlled by means of the control method including: a first judgment step for judging whether or not a card medium having been inserted is detected by a first detection means for detecting the card medium having been inserted; a second judgment step for judging whether or not the card medium having been inserted is detected by a second detection means for detecting the card medium having been inserted, the second detection means being placed at a position behind the first detection means further away toward a rear side in an inserting direction for the card medium; and a processing step for carrying out a predetermined process, supposing that the first detection means has an error, under a situation where the first judgment step does not detect the card medium having been inserted while the second judgment step detects the card medium having been inserted.

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 indicia reader system including: an indicia reader to read information bearing indicia (IBI); an actuator for activating the indicia reader; a first device for wirelessly sending audio data; a headphone for wear by the operator, the headphone having a second device for accepting the audio data and at least one audio feedback device provided therein for utilizing the audio data to provide audio feedback to the operator.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and an article of manufacture for printing a new postal authority code on a mail piece prepared by and received from an inserter or wrapper. A barcode post-processing system receives a mail piece from an inserter and communicates with the image capture equipment. The barcode post-processing system during performs various functions. The functions can include receiving legacy address block information from the mail piece from the image capture equipment, processing the captured legacy address block information to determine one or more missing parameters of the new postal authority code to create processed data, and supplementing the captured legacy address block information data with the one or more missing parameters of the new postal authority code received from one or more data source.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide time-varying barcodes for information exchange. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for communicating information between electronic devices via a time-varying barcode image sequence. In a typical embodiment, information to be transmitted is divided into packets. A barcode image is generated from each packet. Each barcode image is displayed sequentially with varying display times based on the complexity of the barcode image. A second electronic device reads and decodes the barcode image sequence until the entire information is received.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for mobile code decoding fault recovery are provided. The method includes scanning a mobile code, decoding the mobile code, when the mobile code is not decoded successfully, storing a decoded portion of the mobile code as a partially decoded mobile code, and decoding the mobile code based on a sequence alignment algorithm and a predetermined number of partially decoded mobile codes, and providing the decoded mobile code to the mobile device.

Abstract: A barcode includes a plurality of blocks arranged to define a coordinate system across the barcode. A method determines sizes of at least first and second blocks into which arbitrary information is to be encoded such that the blocks have a pair-wise anharmonic relationship with each other. A first portion of the arbitrary information to be encoded in the first block and a second portion of the arbitrary information to be encoded in the second block are then selected. The method encodes the first portion and the second portion, and provides a decode verification mechanism in each of the first and second blocks. A plurality of the encoded first blocks and a plurality of the encoded second blocks are arranged to form a barcode and to define a coordinate system therein, whereupon the barcode may be stored to a memory device.

Abstract: A card reader has a read head positioned in the housing. The read head is configured to be coupled to a mobile device. The read head has a slot for swiping a magnetic stripe of a card. The read head reads data on the magnetic stripe and produces a raw magnetic signal indicative of data stored on the magnetic stripe. Device electronics are provided that include a microcontroller. The device electronics receives a raw magnetic head signal and converts it into a processed digital signal that the microcontroller can interpret. The microcontroller produces a synchronous Manchester encoded stream that makes a greater number of 0 crossings. An output jack is adapted to be inserted in a port of the mobile device and deliver a Manchester encoded stream output jack signal to the mobile device.

Abstract: A card reader has a housing, read head and device electronics that receive a raw signal from the read head and converts it into a processed digital signal that the microcontroller can interpret. A microcontroller with associated logic resources and code receives a digital signal from the device electronics and creates an encrypted and signed message based on the contents of the signal. An output jack is provided.

Abstract: A method of transmitting encrypted information to a mobile device and a payment service uses a card reader. The card reader has device electronics that include a microcontroller with logic resources with code and an output jack. A raw magnetic head signal is received from a reading of the card in the slot. The raw magnetic head signal is converted into a processed digital signal that the microcontroller can interpret. The logic resources and the code create both an encryption and signed signal. An encrypted and signed output jack message is delivered to the mobile device through the output jack based on the contents of the signal, with at least a portion of the output jack signal being encrypted.

Abstract: A method is provided of transmitting information with a communication protocol to a mobile device. A card reader is provided with a read head that has a slot for swiping a magnetic stripe of a card, an output jack and device electronics that includes a microcontroller. The read head is used to read data on a magnetic stripe of a card. A raw magnetic signal is produced indicative of data stored on the magnetic stripe. The raw magnetic head signal is converted into a processed digital signal that the microcontroller can interpret. A synchronous Manchester encoded stream is produced that makes a greater number of 0 crossings. A Manchester encoded stream output jack signal is delivered to the mobile device through the output jack.