Using Spotter Beam Patents (Class 235/462.21)
  • Patent number: 11816529
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing out-of-range indications are disclosed. An example imaging reader includes an image sensor and an optical assembly. The imaging reader may include a distance determining module configured to determine a distance to a target. The imaging reader may include an indication determining module configured to determine an out-of-range indication when the distance satisfies a first condition. An indicator may be included and configured to present the out-of-range indication. The image sensor may be configured to capture a representation of an image of the target when the distance satisfies a second condition. The imaging reader may include an indicia decoder configured to decode an indicia in the representation to determine an indicia payload and/or a communication interface to convey the indicia payload to a host system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: Zebra Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher W. Brock, Yuri Astvatsaturov
  • Patent number: 11320858
    Abstract: The disclosed embodiments include wearable devices and methods for performing courier services. In one implementation, the device includes a depth camera for detecting object depths in a field of view, a scanner for decoding visual codes, a speaker for producing audible sounds in response to an electrical signal, memory, and a processor. The processor may execute instructions to detect a scanning event based on a first signal received from the depth camera, determine a scan region associated with the scanning event, provide a second signal to the scanner causing the scanner to decode a visual code located within the scan region, generate scan data based on a third signal received from the scanner, and provide a fourth signal to the speaker causing the speaker to emit a notification sound. The wearable device may also capture signatures, dimension objects, and disable device functions based on time and place restrictions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: Federal Express Corporation
    Inventor: Reuben F. Burch
  • Patent number: 11301660
    Abstract: A device includes: an image sensor to capture images of an object within an FOV, a guide projector and a processor. The processor is to analyze some of the images to detect entry of an encoded data marking carried by the object into the FOV, and in response to detecting such entry into the FOV: operate the guide projector to project a visual guide onto the object to guide movement of the encoded data marking to a first location indicated by the visual guide within the FOV; analyze more of the images to detect such movement to the first location, and then to a second location within the FOV; and in response to the movement to the second location, interpret the movement to the second location as receipt of manual input; and in response to the manual input, transmit data decoded from the encoded data marking to another device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: DATALOGIC USA, INC.
    Inventor: Alexander M. McQueen
  • Patent number: 11093723
    Abstract: An aimer pattern projector assembly (200, 300) includes an LED light source (212, 312), an LED aperture plate (204, 304), and a projector lens (206, 306) disposed in front of and coaxial with the LED aperture plate (204, 304) and the LED light source (212, 312). The LED light source (212, 312), aperture plate (204, 304), and projector lens (206, 306) each have a central opening configured to accommodate and coaxially align with a line of sight of an imaging lens. The LED light source (212, 312) can include two or more LEDs operably coupled to a PCB. A coaxial aimer imager assembly (100) can include an imaging lens-sensor module (102) and the aimer pattern projector assembly. A method for scanning includes generating a combined aimer pattern coaxially aligned with a line of sight of an image of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: Hand Held Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Chen Feng, Jie Ren, Yunxin Ouyang
  • Patent number: 11048888
    Abstract: This invention provides an aimer assembly for a vision system that is coaxial (on-axis) with the camera optical axis, thus providing an aligned aim point at a wide range of working distances. The aimer includes a projecting light element located aside the camera optical axis. The beam and received light from the imaged (illuminated) scene are selectively reflected or transmitted through a dichoric mirror assembly in a manner that permits the beam to be aligned with the optical axis and projected to the scene while only light from the scene is received by the sensor. The aimer beam and illuminator employ differing light wavelengths. In a further embodiment, an internal illuminator includes a plurality of light sources below the camera optical axis. Some of the light sources are covered by a prismatic structure for close distance, and other light sources are collimated, projecting over a longer distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: Cognex Corporation
    Inventors: Laurens Nunnink, Saul Sanz Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 11036951
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a barcode reading system that includes an image decoding system, a communication interface, and an image sensor system package. The image decoding system may include a processor, memory, and a decoder stored in the memory. The image sensor system package may be coupled to the image decoding system via the communication interface. The image sensor system package may include a photo sensor array and pre-processing circuitry. The photo sensor array may be configured to capture image frames at a first speed. The pre-processing circuitry may be configured to perform one or more operations on the image frames captured by the photo sensor array. The pre-processing circuitry may be additionally configured to effect transfer of at least some of the image frames to the image decoding system via the communication interface at a second speed. The first speed may be greater than the second speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: The Code Corporation
    Inventors: Ming Lei, Jason Lee
  • Patent number: 10817689
    Abstract: Systems and methods for a machine-readable symbol reader that includes a scan engine, a finger mount, and a wrist mount. The scan engine couples to and moves with the finger mount, which is sized and dimensioned to accommodate at least a portion of one or more fingers. The wrist mount accommodates at least a portion of a wrist and releasably secures the wrist mount to the wrist. The wrist mount includes an electrical interface to a power source. A flexible substrate extends between the finger mount and the wrist mount, and may carry one or more electrically conductive paths that extend between the wrist mount and at least one of the finger mount and the scan engine to provide power from the power source to the scan engine. The finger mount may include a user input device to trigger the scan engine to scan within the field of view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: Datalogic IP Tech, S.r.l.
    Inventor: Claudio Mazzone
  • Patent number: 10769394
    Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to devices, systems, and methods associated with optical data capture. In some embodiment, the present invention is a chassis for use in an imaging apparatus having an imaging sensor positioned fixedly relative to the chassis and a window. The chassis includes a cavity; a slot extending through a cavity wall, the cavity wall defining at least a portion of the cavity; and a lens assembly having a protrusion, the lens assembly being positioned within the cavity such that the protrusion is positioned within the slot, where the lens assembly is fixedly secured to the chassis only via a hardened adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Mark Drzymala, Carl D. Wittenberg, Edward Barkan
  • Patent number: 10771907
    Abstract: An array of audio transducers includes an optical emitter, for example, and without limitation, a light emitting diode (LED), associated with each transducer. Simultaneous stimulation of all transducers illuminates all LED's. An imager then creates a map of the transducer array. Stimulation of a single transducer, illuminating the associated LED, creates an optical signature that imaging software uses to determine the position of the transducer within the array. The system then verifies the correspondence between each transducer and the associated driver amplifier by sequential stimulation of each transducer within the array. The system may vary the frequency of the stimulation applied to transducers that include filtering networks, known as crossovers, to validate performance. Further, the system may compute the angles between transducer assemblies that may be deployed in non-planar configurations, thus ensuring that the installation is constructed to specifications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: Harman International Industries, Incorporated
    Inventors: Graham Hammell, Gerhard Pfaffinger, Davide Di Censo, Donald Joseph Butts, Jaime Elliot Nahman
  • Patent number: 10719675
    Abstract: An assisted aimer for rapid, accurate, and low-cost imaging of barcodes, includes a hand-held device, such as a smart phone or tablet, having a digital camera with built-in flash, a specialized software application executing on the phone, and an aimer apparatus attached in front of the flash aperture for forming an aimer beam at a predetermined distance. The aimer beam assists a user in accurately pointing the device at a target barcode. The aimer is attachable directly to the smart phone or camera, or is made a part of an enclosure that accepts the smart phone or tablet into a self-aligning receiving space. Aiming beam assistance enables the camera, its auto-focus, and the installed software application image processing to deliver rapid, snappy, barcode imaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: Socket Mobile, Inc.
    Inventor: Micheal L. Gifford
  • Patent number: 10559086
    Abstract: A system for volume dimensioning via two-dimensional (2D)/three-dimensional (3D) sensor fusion, based in a tablet, phablet, or like mobile device, is disclosed. The mobile device includes a 2D imager for capturing an image stream of its field of view (FOV), the FOV including target objects. The mobile device includes a 3D imager for collecting 3D imaging data of the FOV including point clouds of each target object within the FOV. Processors of the mobile device positively identify a particular target object by correlating the 2D and 3D image streams and generating a holographic model of the target object overlaid on the video stream, with adjustable surface, edge, and vertex guides. The processors determine the precise dimensions of the target object by measuring the holographic model, and detect and decode object identifiers (2D or 3D) on the surface of the target object to acquire and supplement object data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Assignee: 4DMobile, LLC
    Inventors: Matthew D. Miller, Steven R. Kunert, Craig McDermott, Josh Berry, Mark Boyer
  • Patent number: 10521635
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a barcode reading system that includes an image decoding system, a communication interface, and an image sensor system package. The image decoding system may include a processor, memory, and a decoder stored in the memory. The image sensor system package may be coupled to the image decoding system via the communication interface. The image sensor system package may include a photo sensor array and pre-processing circuitry. The photo sensor array may be configured to capture image frames at a first speed. The pre-processing circuitry may be configured to perform one or more operations on the image frames captured by the photo sensor array. The pre-processing circuitry may be additionally configured to effect transfer of at least some of the image frames to the image decoding system via the communication interface at a second speed. The first speed may be greater than the second speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: THE CODE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ming Lei, Jason Lee
  • Patent number: 10346645
    Abstract: This invention provides an aimer assembly for a vision system that is coaxial (on-axis) with the camera optical axis, thus providing an aligned aim point at a wide range of working distances. The aimer includes a projecting light element located aside the camera optical axis. The beam and received light from the imaged (illuminated) scene are selectively reflected or transmitted through a dichoric mirror assembly in a manner that permits the beam to be aligned with the optical axis and projected to the scene while only light from the scene is received by the sensor. The aimer beam and illuminator employ differing light wavelengths. In a further embodiment, an internal illuminator includes a plurality of light sources below the camera optical axis. Some of the light sources are covered by a prismatic structure for close distance, and other light sources are collimated, projecting over a longer distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: COGNEX CORPORATION
    Inventors: Laurens Nunnink, Saul Sanz Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 10303258
    Abstract: Indicia-reading systems that interface with a user's nervous system include a device with electrodes capable of detecting electromagnetic signals produced in the brain or skeletal muscles of a user. The systems also include a computer with a processor and memory. The computer is configured to monitor the electromagnetic signals that are detected by the electrodes. The computer is also configured to perform operations in response to certain monitored electromagnetic signals. The computer may be an indicia-reading device configured to acquire indicia information in response to certain detected electromagnetic signals. The computer may also be a vehicle-mounted computer configured to sound an alarm in response to certain detected electromagnetic signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: HAND HELD PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Erik Todeschini
  • Patent number: 10250787
    Abstract: A circuit board assembly includes a circuit board having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, a light sensor arranged on the circuit board and electrically coupled to the circuit board, and a camera module. The camera module includes a connector arranged on the circuit board and electrically coupled to the circuit board. Projections of the light sensor and the connector on a plane parallel to the first side and the second side are fully or partially overlapped with each other. A related terminal is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Assignee: Guangdong Oppo Mobile Telecommunications Corp., Ltd.
    Inventor: Xiangkun Xie
  • Patent number: 10198030
    Abstract: The disclosed embodiments include wearable devices and methods for performing courier services. In one implementation, the device includes a depth camera for detecting object depths in a field of view, a scanner for decoding visual codes, a speaker for producing audible sounds in response to an electrical signal, memory, and a processor. The processor may execute instructions to detect a scanning event based on a first signal received from the depth camera, determine a scan region associated with the scanning event, provide a second signal to the scanner causing the scanner to decode a visual code located within the scan region, generate scan data based on a third signal received from the scanner, and provide a fourth signal to the speaker causing the speaker to emit a notification sound. The wearable device may also capture signatures, dimension objects, and disable device functions based on time and place restrictions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: FEDERAL EXPRESS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Reuben F. Burch
  • Patent number: 10067355
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for capturing an image of at least one object appearing in a field of view (FOV). A housing may be provided having an image sensor at least partially disposed therein. The imaging sensor has a central imaging axis. A first and a second aim line unit are each offset from the image sensor. The first aim line unit is oriented to project a first bounded light pattern that intersects the central imaging axis at an imaging plane. The second aim line unit is oriented to project a second bounded light pattern that intersects the first light pattern and the central imaging axis at the imaging plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Darran Michael Handshaw, Edward Barkan, Christopher P. Klicpera
  • Patent number: 9946908
    Abstract: An imaging sensor of an imaging reader senses return light from a target to be read by image capture along an imaging axis over a field of view that extends along mutually orthogonal, horizontal and vertical axes. Two aiming light assemblies are offset from the sensor and are spaced apart along the horizontal axis at opposite sides of the sensor, and direct two aiming light marks, each having a predetermined brightness, at the target. The aiming marks are collinear along the horizontal axis and have inner end regions that overlap on the target to form a bright aiming mark having a brightness greater than the predetermined brightness to visually indicate a center zone of the field of view, as well as outer end regions that visually indicate approximate end limits of the field of view, over a range of working distances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Mark E. Drzymala, Edward D. Barkan, Darran M. Handshaw
  • Patent number: 9940495
    Abstract: The presented principles relate to an optical reader device, to a tag for use on a disposable or replaceable component, to an optical data validation system and to a method for optical data validation. The optical reader device comprises a sensor unit and a signal processing unit. In particular, the sensor unit comprises a light source and an optical sensor arrangement. The light source comprises at least one light emitting component and is arranged for emitting light. The optical sensor arrangement is arranged for generating a first sensor signal indicative of light emitted from the light source and reflected back from a code marking of a tag to be placed in front of the light source in a determined distance. The optical sensor is further arranged for generating a second sensor signal indicative of light emitted by a photo-responsive taggant of the tag after being excited by the light emitted from the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: AMS AG
    Inventors: Norwood Brown, Kevin Nohovig, Nathan Lester
  • Patent number: 9934416
    Abstract: A data entry and scanning apparatus that includes a commercially available mobile device wherein said commercially available mobile device with a touch screen display, a processor, and a wireless communications network access point, a scanning device, an interface, and a power source that external to the commercially available mobile device and connected to the interface, and a casing that does not cover the touch screen display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventors: Qiurong Ma, Hongzhi Ren, Liuxin Huang, Jun Yin, Wenjie Gu, Yun Li, Xiaoxun Zhu, Huatao Liu
  • Patent number: 9820366
    Abstract: A circuit module includes a board, a boosting circuit, a processing and a plasma tube. The board is for connecting with a circuit board device with opposite thicknesswise sides. The boosting circuit includes at least one conductive path and electronic components electrically connected to the conductive path. The conductive path includes a power input portion electrically connecting with a power output portion of the circuit board device and two power output terminals. The processing unit is includes a frequency changing circuit electrically connected with the power input portion and the boosting circuit and for transferring an input power into an output power for the boosting circuit, and the input and output power has different frequencies. The plasma tube is electrically connected to the two power output terminals. An electronic device includes one said circuit module and a circuit board device electrically connected to the circuit module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: Alson Technology Limited
    Inventors: Chi-Fen Kuo, Han-Hung Cheng
  • Patent number: 9795018
    Abstract: An electronic device and circuit module thereof is provided. The circuit module includes a board, a boosting circuit and a plasma tube. The board has at least one through hole. The board is for being connected with a circuit board device with their thicknesswise sides opposite to each other. The boosting circuit is disposed on the board and includes at least one conductive path and a plurality of electronic components electrically connected to the at least one conductive path. The at least one conductive path includes a power input portion and two power output terminals. The power input portion is for being electrically connecting with a power output portion the circuit board device. At least one said electronic component is disposed within the through hole. Two opposite ends of the plasma tube have two electrodes electrically connected to the two power output terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: Alson Technology Limited
    Inventors: Chi-Fen Kuo, Han-Hung Cheng
  • Patent number: 9773145
    Abstract: An encoded information reading (EIR) terminal can comprise a microprocessor, a memory, an EIR device including a two-dimensional imager, and a micro-projector including a light source and a light manipulation sub-system. The EIR device can be configured to output raw message data containing an encoded message and/or output a decoded message corresponding to an encoded message. The EIR terminal can be configured to acquire an image of a target object in a field of view (FOV) of the two-dimensional imager. The EIR terminal can be further configured, responsive to successfully locating decodable indicia within the image, to produce a decoded message by decoding the decodable indicia. The EIR terminal can be further configured, responsive to successfully decoding the decodable indicia, to generate a projectable image and to project the projectable image onto a surface the target object using the micro-projector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventors: Chen Chang, Dayaker Mupkala, Xia Tian
  • Patent number: 9747484
    Abstract: An imaging sensor of an imaging reader senses return light from a target to be read by image capture along an imaging axis over a field of view that extends along mutually orthogonal, horizontal and vertical axes. Two aiming light assemblies are offset from the sensor and are spaced apart along the horizontal axis at opposite sides of the sensor, and direct two aiming light lines, each having a predetermined brightness, at the target. The aiming lines are collinear along the horizontal axis and have inner linear end regions that overlap on the target to form a bright, linear, aiming mark having a brightness greater than the predetermined brightness to visually indicate a center zone of the field of view, as well as outer linear end regions that visually indicate approximate end limits of the field of view, over a range of working distances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Mark E. Drzymala, Edward D. Barkan, Darran M. Handshaw
  • Patent number: 9680282
    Abstract: Aiming a device at a target within a use environment is described. An intensity level of ambient lighting associated with the use environment is detected and a corresponding signal is generated. An emission of a beam operable for the aiming of the device is controlled. Upon the generated signal corresponding to a first detected ambient lighting intensity level, a first laser is activated to emit the aiming beam at a first power intensity level. Upon the generated signal corresponding to a second detected ambient lighting intensity level, which exceeds the second detected ambient lighting intensity level, a second laser is activated to emit the aiming beam at a second power intensity level. The first power intensity level exceeds the second power intensity level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: Hand Held Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Hidde Arjen Hanenburg
  • Patent number: 9679175
    Abstract: A barcode reader comprising a targeting illumination system, a plurality of illumination systems, and a lens assembly may also comprise feature offset data. The feature offset data may be offsets between locations of a plurality of features projected by the targeting illumination system within a plurality of calibration image frames captured at different calibration distances. The barcode reader may (i) select two features projected by the targeting illumination system that are present in a barcode image captured via the first lens, (ii) determine a feature offset that indicates an offset between the two features, and (iii) estimate a barcode distance based on the feature offset and the feature offset data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: The Code Corporation
    Inventor: Ming Lei
  • Patent number: 9672398
    Abstract: A scanner system is operable for gathering graphic data from a scan target. The scanner system has a single illumination source component operable for generating light, for aiming the scanner system with a filtered beam of the generated light directed at the scan target, and for illuminating the scan target with the directed light. The scanner system also has a detector component operable for sensing a reflection from the scan target, the sensed reflection including a portion of the directed light with which the scan target is illuminated, and for detecting information in the sensed reflection, in which the information detected in sensed reflection corresponds to the graphic data gathered from the scan target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: Intermec IP Corporation
    Inventors: Alain Gillet, Serge Thuries
  • Patent number: 9501677
    Abstract: An improvement is made to a scanning device to increase item throughput at the point of sale (POS). The scanning device implements a mirror that allows a cashier to see hidden or obscured optical codes or bar codes on items. The mirror can reflect an aiming beam from a camera, which also allows the cashier to correctly scan the optical codes or bar codes. The mirror and camera can incorporate different properties to enable both the cashier and a customer to stand on opposite sides of the scanning device and scan items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: Datalogic ADC, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexander M. McQueen
  • Patent number: 9244283
    Abstract: This invention provides a system and method for expanding the field of view of a vision system camera assembly such that the field of view is generally free of loss of normal resolution across the entire expanded field. A field of view expander includes outer mirrors that receive light from different portions of a scene. The outer mirrors direct light to tilted inner mirrors of a beam splitter that directs the light aligned with a camera axis to avoid image distortion. The inner mirrors each direct the light from each outer mirror into a strip on the sensor, and the system searches features. The adjacent fields of view include overlap regions sized and arranged to ensure a centralized feature appears fully in at least one strip. Alternatively, a moving mirror changes position between acquired image frames so that a full width of the scene is imaged in successive frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: COGNEX CORPORATION
    Inventors: Laurens Nunnink, Carl Gerst, William Equitz
  • Patent number: 9213876
    Abstract: In a barcode reader, a sensor controller sets time of one frame of a line image sensor based on output time necessary for data output of one frame from the line image sensor and lighting time of an LED. A light source controller performs first lighting control to turn on the LED only for the lighting time after termination of the data output within the time of one frame, and second lighting control to turn on the LED only for the lighting time so as to include the entire period of the data output within the time of one frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Assignee: Optoelectronics CO., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaki Kurokawa, Depei Ji, Zhihui Duan
  • Patent number: 9158955
    Abstract: A code symbol reading apparatus, that reads a code symbol on an object to be read by scanning the object, repeats trial to read the code symbol until the apparatus succeeds in reading, while changing a transmission frequency of a filter that processes a signal representing a light intensity variation obtained through the scan and in which transmittance depends on a frequency of the signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2015
    Assignee: Optoelectronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuto Kimura, Zhihui Duan
  • Patent number: 9092684
    Abstract: An imaging reader is worn by a user. The reader has an imaging assembly that has a solid-state imager with an array of image sensors and a lens assembly. In a reading mode, the imaging assembly captures and projects light as an image onto the array. A controller detects a user's finger pointing at a symbol proximal to a tip of the finger in the image, and generates a control signal when the finger obstructs the symbol in the image. Upon receipt of the control signal, the controller automatically controls a drive to move the imager and/or a lens of the lens assembly to an adjusted position in which the symbol in the image is unobstructed by the finger. The unobstructed image of the symbol is processed into identifying data, and the data is transmitted away from the housing to a remote host device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Sundaresan Sundaram, Kavya Babu, Suresh Raj, Sajan Wilfred
  • Patent number: 9004363
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a diffusive plate that is substantially perpendicular to the optical axis of an imaging lens arrangement and covers a side face of a solid rectangular defining a volume space within which parts of a scan engine are deposited. The parts of the scan engine including at least the illumination light source, the imaging lens arrangement, an imaging sensor, and a controller for controlling both the illumination light source and the imaging sensor. The diffusive plate includes a first opening to allow light enter the imaging lens arrangement through the first opening. The area enclosed by the boundary of the diffusive plate substantially equal to the area of the side face of the solid rectangular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene B. Joseph, Mark E. Drzymala, Duanfeng He
  • Publication number: 20150097035
    Abstract: A barcode reader, as an optical information reader which reads information indicated with a symbol having a light reflectance different from an ambient light reflectance, is provided with a linear sensor as a light receiving sensor, an image pickup lens to image-form light on the linear sensor, an LED as a light emitting device, a projection lens to project light emitted from the LED, a parting portion to regulate a light projection range of the light emitted from the LED, having a first opening and a second opening to shield light out of a predetermined range, a central position of the predetermined range being shifted from position of an optical axis of the projection lens to a side of an optical axis of the image pickup lens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventors: Zhihui Duan, Wataru Kubo
  • Patent number: 8985462
    Abstract: A method includes the following: (1) detecting light from a target object to capture multiple images of the target object while substantially maintaining the distance between the target object and the imaging lens arrangement that is configured to have a focus position thereof changed with a lens-driving-parameter; (2) processing the at least one of the multiple images to determine a feature-size in an aiming pattern; (3) processing at least two of the multiple images to find an optimal lens-driving-parameter that results in the maximum image sharpness; and (4) storing both the feature-size and the optimal lens-driving-parameter into a memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: David P. Goren
  • Patent number: 8978982
    Abstract: An apparatus includes (1) an imaging lens arrangement having an optical axis, (2) an aiming light source configured to project visible light through the imaging lens arrangement to create an aiming pattern on a target object, (3) an imaging sensor detecting light from the target object through the imaging lens arrangement, and (4) a folding mirror tilted relative to the optical axis of the imaging lens arrangement. The folding mirror is positioned both on the optical path from the imaging lens arrangement to the imaging sensor and on the optical path from the aiming light source to the imaging lens arrangement. Both the imaging arrangement and the aiming arrangement share the same imaging lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Igor Vinogradov, Edward D. Barkan, Mark E. Drzymala, David T. Shi
  • Patent number: 8950676
    Abstract: An arrangement for, and a method of, electro-optically reading a target by image capture, employ an aiming assembly for projecting an aiming light pattern on the target that is located within a range of working distances relative to a housing, an imaging assembly for capturing an image of the target and of the aiming light pattern over a field of view, and for generating an electrical signal indicative of the captured image, and a controller for determining a distance of the target relative to the housing based on a position of the aiming light pattern in the captured image, and for processing the electrical signal into information relating to the target when the target lies in a restricted zone within the range of working distances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Miroslav Trajkovic, Dariusz Madej
  • Publication number: 20150021399
    Abstract: An aiming light assembly generates an aiming light spot with increased brightness and uniformity over a range of working distances in which targets are electro-optically read by image capture. The assembly includes a light emitting diode (LED) for emitting an aiming light beam, a field stop through which the aiming light beam passes, an aiming lens for optically modifying the aiming light beam passing through the field stop to form the aiming light spot over the range of working distances, and a field lens located in the vicinity of the field stop and operative for imaging the LED downstream of the field stop and in the vicinity of a lens aperture of the aiming lens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Vladimir Gurevich, Caihua (Lucy) Chen
  • Patent number: 8936195
    Abstract: A barcode reading apparatus includes a substrate, an image sensing module, an optical lens module, and a plurality of light sources. The image sensing module is disposed on the substrate; the optical lens module includes a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, where the second end is connected to the image sensing module; and the plurality of light sources is disposed around the optical lens module, where a connection line of disposition positions of the light sources is axially or radially symmetric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventor: Sung-Ling Chang
  • Patent number: 8899484
    Abstract: An image capture system for, and a method of, reading an optical code during a reading mode, comprise an aiming assembly including a laser for emitting a laser beam having a variable intensity, and for generating an aiming pattern from the laser beam during an aiming mode prior to the reading mode, and an imager for detecting and capturing an image of the aiming pattern and the code over a field of view by exposure over an exposure time period during the aiming mode, and for detecting and capturing an image of the code over the field of view during the reading mode. A controller is operative for controlling the intensity of the laser beam during the aiming mode by increasing the intensity of the laser beam during the exposure time period to enhance detection and capture of the aiming pattern by the imager, and by decreasing the intensity of the laser beam frame outside the exposure time period for user safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Miroslav Trajkovic, Vladimir Gurevich, Heng Zhang
  • Publication number: 20140346233
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in decoding a bar code symbol may include an image sensor integrated circuit having a plurality of pixels, timing and control circuitry for controlling an image sensor, gain circuitry for controlling gain, and analog to digital conversion circuitry for conversion of an analog signal to a digital signal. The apparatus may also include a printed circuit board for receiving the image sensor integrated circuit. The connection between the image sensor integrated circuit and the printed circuit board characterized by a plurality of conductive adhesive connectors disposed between a plurality of electrode pads and a plurality of contact pads, where the conductive adhesive connectors provide electrical input/output and mechanical connections between the image sensor integrated circuit and the printed circuit board. The apparatus may be operative for processing image signals generated by the image sensor integrated circuit for attempting to decode the bar code symbol.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2011
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Applicant: METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS, INC.
    Inventors: Yong Liu, Xi Tao, Ynjiun Paul Wang
  • Patent number: 8876006
    Abstract: A lightpipe, which is mounted on one chassis part of an imaging module of an imaging reader, optically modifies an aiming beam emitted by an aiming laser, which is mounted on another chassis part of the imaging module, to generate and shape an aiming light pattern on a target. In one embodiment, at least one, or both, of the chassis parts are movable relative to each other to spatially adjust the aiming light pattern relative to an imaging field of view. In another embodiment, the aiming laser and the lightpipe are received in respective pockets of the chassis parts with clearance, and are adjustably fixed in place to spatially adjust the aiming light pattern relative to the imaging field of view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Igor R. Vinogradov, Yuly Mitelman
  • Patent number: 8864036
    Abstract: An apparatus includes an imaging sensor having photosensitive elements for detecting light from the target object through an imaging lens arrangement to create first pixel data during a first time period when the extended aiming pattern is projected on the target object. The apparatus also includes a controller for processing the first pixel data to estimate a feature-size of the extended aiming pattern in an image of the target object when the imaging lens arrangement is at a predetermined focus length, and further processing the feature-size along with the predetermined focus length to determine a distance characterizing the separation between the target object and the imaging lens arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Ramanagouda Patil
  • Patent number: 8840027
    Abstract: Visibility of a scan laser light pattern or an aiming laser light pattern on a symbol to be read by a hand-held, electro-optical reader is enhanced by directing laser light having a laser wavelength in the laser light pattern to the symbol, configuring an optical element to be transmissive to the laser light of the same laser wavelength, supporting the optical element by the reader, moving the optical element from a stored position to a deployed position, and viewing the laser light pattern on the symbol through the optical element in the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Chad Chaumont, Christopher Warren Brock, Ian Jenkins, Jaime Weidler, Sunghun Lim
  • Patent number: 8820644
    Abstract: A hand held device containing at least one camera can perform various functions. In some embodiments, the optical path between the lens and the optical sensor may be redirected at least once to allow it to fit within the body of a narrow device. For example, at least one reflector or beam combiner may be used to redirect the light so that part of the optical path is perpendicular to another part of the optical path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Bran Ferren, H. Keith Nishihara
  • Publication number: 20140231524
    Abstract: A barcode scanner having a laser alignment indication mainly has an alignment light source module and a reading light source module. After the alignment light source module is aligned with a barcode, the reading light source module is started to read barcode information. After irradiating the alignment light source module on a luminance parameter adjusting barcode set, a user can further adjust light source intensity of the alignment light source module, thereby solving a defect that an existing laser indication barcode scanner is incapable of adjusting luminance of the laser indication light. Moreover, the laser light source in the present invention uses Class I lasers meeting safety specifications, so that the present invention meets user requirements and is safe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Inventor: Kenneth Liou
  • Publication number: 20140203086
    Abstract: An image reader can include an image sensor array. An image reader in one embodiment can include an optical system capable of directing light reflected from a target onto the image sensor array. An image reader can be used for reading a dataform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: HAND HELD PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Ynjiun Wang, William H. Havens
  • Publication number: 20140166759
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in decoding a bar code symbol includes a first integrated circuit chip with a wafer level camera, at least one light source, and a plurality of contact pads on a surface of the chip and a second integrated circuit chip with a processor, memory, plurality of contact pads on a surface of the chip, and plurality of contact pads on another surface of the chip. The apparatus includes a PCB having a plurality of contact pads disposed on at least one surface of the PCB and wherein the first and second integrated circuit chips are vertically stacked on the PCB and the plurality of contact pads on the first and second integrated circuit chips interface with the contact pads of the second integrated circuit chip and PCB. The apparatus is operative for processing image signals generated by the WLC for attempting to decode the bar code symbol.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: Honeywell International, Inc. doing business as Honeywell Scanning & Mobility
    Inventors: Yong Liu, Taylor Smith, Ynjiun Paul Wang, Xi Tao
  • Publication number: 20140166758
    Abstract: A method includes the following: (1) detecting light from a target object to capture multiple images of the target object while substantially maintaining the distance between the target object and the imaging lens arrangement that is configured to have a focus position thereof changed with a lens-driving-parameter; (2) processing the at least one of the multiple images to determine a feature-size in an aiming pattern; (3) processing at least two of the multiple images to find an optimal lens-driving-parameter that results in the maximum image sharpness; and (4) storing both the feature-size and the optimal lens-driving-parameter into a memory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: David P. Goren
  • Publication number: 20140158769
    Abstract: This patent specification describes an attachment for a camera device. The attachment comprises at least one of a target generating mechanism, a proximity sensor, illumination that is optimized for bar code reading, optics that provide an alternative optical path to the camera device, and a supplementary lens system that is optimized for bar code reading.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: THE CODE CORPORATION
    Inventors: George Powell, Ryan Hoobler, Ming Lei, Garrett Russell, Mark Ashby