Abstract: An experimental apparatus comprises a centrifuge basket experiment module, a structural deformation device, an image reflector and a geomorphometer; the centrifuge basket experiment module is installed on a cantilever of a drum centrifuge in a hanging manner during an experiment; the structural deformation device is configured for extending and compressing experimental materials; a mirror panel of the image reflector reflects images inside an experiment box through a transparent window; the geomorphometer can simulate rainfall and recover wastewater, and the apparatus can also heat the experimental materials. An image acquisition device is installed on a bulkhead of the experiment module and the cantilever of the centrifuge to acquire top and side images of the experiment box.

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

Abstract: A system includes at least one data collection device connected to a corresponding data terminal via a primary communication channel; and a central connectivity point connected to each data collection device via a wireless secondary communication channel so as to communicate with the at least one data collection device without disrupting communication between the at least data collection device and the corresponding data terminal via the primary communication channel and to permit remote administration of each data collection device.

Abstract: A system includes at least one data collection device connected to a corresponding data terminal via a primary communication channel; and a central connectivity point connected to each data collection device via a wireless secondary communication channel so as to communicate with the at least one data collection device without disrupting communication between the at least data collection device and the corresponding data terminal via the primary communication channel and to permit remote administration of each data collection device.

Abstract: A system includes at least one data collection device, each connected to a corresponding data terminal via a primary communication channel; and a central connectivity point connected to each data collection device via a wireless secondary communication channel so as to communicate with the at least one data collection device without disrupting communication between the at least data collection device and the corresponding data terminal via the primary communication channel and to permit remote administration of each data collection device.

Abstract: A bi-optical, dual window, point-of-transaction workstation images indicia associated with multi-sided products over a full coverage scan zone by splitting each field of view of only two imagers into three subfields that pass through each window and fill the scan zone and minimize dead areas therein. Twisting of the subfields relative to the windows is minimized so that the subfields fit fully with minimal clipping through each window. Splitting of each field of view is remotely performed well away from each imager. The imagers have lens assemblies of substantially the same optical power and are spaced from their respective windows by substantially the same distance.

Abstract: A barcode imaging reader includes a housing, a window in the housing, and an imaging sensor having an array of photosensitive elements for capturing light passing through the window. The barcode imaging reader further includes an illumination arrangement for emitting an illumination light from the housing interior to illuminate a barcode target object spaced from the housing. The illumination arrangement includes (i) an illumination source within the housing operative to generate the illumination light during imaging capture, (ii) a first mirror having a shape of a toroidal surface with predominantly concave surface, and (iii) a second mirror having a shape of a toroidal surface with predominantly convex surface.

Abstract: A hybrid optical code scanner and system are presented for improving an operators scanning performance. The scanning performance is improved by providing a visual indicator to the operator that identifies the optimal location for presenting an optical code to an imaging scanner in the hybrid optical code scanner.

Abstract: The invention relates to an optical delay module for lengthening the propagation path of a light beam comprises a first spherical mirror and a second spherical mirror, the first spherical mirror and the second spherical mirror having equal radii of curvature, the first and the second mirror being arranged on a common axis of symmetry with concave sides of the first and second mirrors being situated opposite one another at a distance from one another which corresponds to the radii of curvature of the first and second mirrors. The module also includes a coupling-in area for coupling the light beam into a space between the first and second mirrors and a coupling-out area for coupling the light beam out of the space between the first and second mirrors.

Abstract: A digital image capture and processing system having single printed circuit (PC) board with light transmission aperture, wherein a first linear array of visible light emitting diodes (LEDs) are mounted on the rear side of the PC board for producing a linear targeting illumination beam, and wherein a second linear array of visible light emitting diodes (LEDs) are mounted on the front side of the PC board for producing a field of visible illumination within the field of view (FOV) of the system. The linear targeting illumination beam is centrally disposed within the field of visible illumination.

Abstract: The present disclosure concerns a bar code reader 10 that can both interpret bar codes and image documents. The bar code reader includes a housing including a vertical and a horizontal transparent window H, V and defining a housing interior region. As a target object is swiped or presented in relation to the transparent windows an image of the target object is captured. Cameras C1-C6 have image capture sensor arrays positioned within the housing interior region for capturing an image of an object within a camera field of view. Two specific cameras can capture the front and back images from a document such as a check 100 placed on the horizontal transparent window.

Abstract: An automated storage system for storing large quantities of samples in trays includes a storage compartment, a tray shuttle compartment abutting the storage compartment on one side and a plurality of independent modules on the other side. The modules perform processing of samples that are retrieved from the storage compartment by a tray shuttle, including extraction of selected samples from retrieved source trays and transfer of the selected samples into a separate, destination tray that can be further processed or removed from the system for use. The independent operation of the modules permits handling and processing to be performed simultaneously by different modules while the tray shuttle accesses additional samples within the storage compartment. In one embodiment, a vertical carousel is used to vertically align a desired tray with the tray shuttle, while the tray shuttle operates within a horizontal plane.

Abstract: A plurality of solid-state imagers is mounted in a reader, such as a bi-optical, dual window, point-of-transaction workstation, for capturing images along different fields of view of diverse targets useful for customer identification, customer payment validation, operator surveillance, and coded indicia. The imagers are commonly mounted on a circuit board for joint installation at, and joint removal from, the reader for ease of serviceability.

Abstract: An optical system and method for data reading. In one system, a scanner includes a laser diode and a beam splitter for generating first optical beam and a second optical beam, the first optical beam being directed toward one side of a scanning optical element such as a rotating polygon mirror and to a first mirror array, the second optical beam being simultaneously directed toward a second optical element such as another side of the rotating polygon mirror and then to a second and a third mirror array. The first mirror array is configured to generate a scan pattern through a vertical window and the second and third mirror arrays are configured to generate scan patterns passing through a horizontal window. In combination, the three mirror arrays generate three sets of scan lines so as to scan five sides of a six-sided item (e.g., the bottom and all lateral sides of an object) being passed through the scan volume.

Abstract: A blocking portion is provided at an end of the mirror to prevent a light beam emitted from an input port from being transmitted to or reflected by first and second output ports. The mirror is inserted to a position where the end of the blocking portion of the mirror reaches a boundary P2? on the insertion side of an area to be blocked to obtain a permissible crosstalk value of the light beam. The mirror is removed to a position where the rear end of the blocking portion of the mirror reaches a boundary P2 on the removal side of the area to be blocked. The mirror is movably driven between the removal position and the insertion position in the optical path of a first light beam by a drive. Thus it is possible to reduce the length of the driving stroke of the mirror.

Abstract: A hand-supportable digital imaging-based bar code symbol reading device comprises: an IR-based object presence and range detection subsystem; a area-type image formation and detection subsystem having an image capture modes of operation; a multi-mode led-based illumination subsystem for providing a narrow-band field of illumination; an automatic light exposure measurement and illumination control subsystem; an image capturing and buffering subsystem; a image-processing bar code symbol reading subsystem; an input/output subsystem; and a system control subsystem integrated with each of the above-described subsystems.

Abstract: A graphical code reading apparatus is disclosed. The graphical code reading apparatus is able to read graphical codes on reflective and curved reflective surfaces. The graphical code reading apparatus includes a graphical code reader having an illumination source such as LEDs and a detector such as an imager. The graphical code reading apparatus also includes a light scattering chamber that is coupled to the graphical code reader. The light scattering chamber may have two openings, namely a first opening for receiving the graphical code reader and a second opening for placement adjacent the graphical code. The light scattering chamber may be tapered from the first opening toward the second opening. An interior surface of the light scattering chamber is capable of scattering light because it may be an irregularly uneven reflective surface. The light impinges the reflective surface at multiple angles of incidence upon exiting the light scattering chamber.

Abstract: A barcode sensor package has an optical emitter circuit and an optical detector circuit which are formed as one or more integrated optical circuits disposed in a housing which has a reading surface and one or more apertures located between the optical emitter and detector circuits. The optical emitter circuit has an emitter die, such as a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL), for emitting a light beam and a diffraction optical element disposed on the emitter die for focusing the light beam to a bar code. The optical detector circuit has a photodetector die, such as a phototransistor, for detecting reflective light and another diffraction optical element disposed on the photodetector die for guiding light reflected from the bar code to the detector. The diffraction optical elements are fabricated by patterning optical layers, deposited on respective emitter and detector dies, using photolithograph or a direct write process.

Abstract: A barcode scanner with configurable video modes which enhances readability of a wide range of barcode types. The barcode scanner includes a video circuit, and a configuration circuit for altering operating characteristics of the video circuit during a scanning operation for reading a plurality of different types of barcodes.

Abstract: A optical scanner control method and a optical scanner capable of positioning a mirror at a high speed independently of a rocking angle, and a laser machining apparatus for irradiating a printed circuit board with a laser beam by use of the optical scanner to thereby perforate the printed circuit board. In order to operate an actuator for rocking the mirror based on a deviation of a current position from an commanded value, a change in gain of the actuator is measured in accordance with each rocking angle in advance, and the manipulated variable of the actuator is corrected to cancel the change in gain. Thus, the influence of the alteration of a torque constant in accordance with the rocking angle can be suppressed so that the response characteristic becomes uniform all over a scanning region, and the positioning speed can be improved.

Abstract: In an apparatus for optically reading a target based on light reflected from the target, an imaging lens with a first optical axis is provided so that the reflected light enters into the imaging lens. A photodetector having an active area and a second optical axis different from the first optical axis is provided. The imaging lens focuses the reflected light on the active area of the photodetector. A fold mechanism is arranged between the imaging lens and the photodetector. The fold mechanism folds an optical path of the reflected light between the imaging lens and the photodetector to adjust a length of the optical path while keeping each of the first and second optical axes constant.

Abstract: In a method and system for the characterization of a magnetic element based on ferromagnetic resonance, the magnetic element presents ferromagnetic resonance and its own characteristic resonance frequency. The system includes: mechanism for application of a low-frequency electromagnetic field in a given area; a mechanism for application of a high-frequency electromagnetic wave the same as the characteristic resonance frequency of the magnetic element in said same Area; and a control unit configured so as to control the simultaneous application of the low-frequency electromagnetic field so that in response to the introduction of the magnetic element in the area the magnetic element absorbs the high-frequency electromagnetic wave with a frequency the same as that of the low-frequency electromagnetic field, so the wave is modulated.

Abstract: Apparatus for deflecting a light beam, comprising: a scanning element having a base portion, a light beam deflecting portion, and a gap region disposed therebetween. The base portion is anchored with respect to an optical bench to permit the light beam deflecting portion to pivot about a fixed pivot point defined between the base portion and the gap region. The light beam deflecting portion has a natural resonant frequency of oscillation about the fixed pivot point and is mechanically-damped at the gap region. A permanent magnet and right beam deflating portion are mounted on the light beam deflecting portion. A magnetic-field producing coil produces a force field that interacts with the permanent magnet and forces the light beam deflecting portion to oscillate about the fixed pivot point at a controlled frequency of oscillation that is substantially different from the natural resonant frequency of oscillation of the light beam deflecting portion.

Abstract: An optical system and method for data reading. A preferred system is directed to a scanner which includes a laser diode and a beam splitter for generating first optical beam and a second optical beam, the first optical beam being directed toward one side of a scanning optical element such as a rotating polygon mirror and to a first mirror array, the second optical beam being simultaneously directed toward a second optical element such as another side of the rotating polygon mirror and then to a second and a third mirror array. The first mirror array is configured to generate a scan pattern through a vertical window and the second and third mirror arrays are configured to generate scan patterns passing through a horizontal window. In combination, the three mirror arrays generate three sets of scan lines so as to scan five sides of a six-sided item (e.g., the bottom and all lateral sides of an object) being passed through the scan volume.

Abstract: A light scanning arrangement includes a frame directly moved by an inertial drive in order to oscillate a scan element supported by a hinge on the frame at high scan rates and with minimal electrical power consumption.

Abstract: An optical code reader having means for focusing an imaging optics assembly on a target image. The optical code reader includes a chassis and an imaging optics assembly pivotally mounted on the chassis. The imaging optics assembly is housed within an opto-mechanical barrel assembly. Pivotal movement of the opto-mechanical barrel assembly adjusts the focus of the imaging optics assembly on a target image. The optical code reader further includes an illumination device and an aiming device.

Abstract: A bioptical laser scanning system employing a plurality of laser scanning stations about a two independently controlled rotating polygonal mirrors. The system has an ultra-compact construction, ideally suited for space-constrained retail scanning environments, and generates a 3-D omnidirectional laser scanning pattern between the bottom and side-scanning windows during system operation. The laser scanning pattern of the present invention comprises a complex of quasi-orthogonal laser scanning planes, including a plurality of substantially-vertical laser scanning planes for reading bar code symbols having bar code elements (i.e. ladder type bar code symbols) that are oriented substantially horizontal with respect to the bottom-scanning window, and a plurality of substantially-horizontal laser scanning planes for reading bar code symbols having bar code elements (i.e. picket-fence type bar code symbols) that are oriented substantially vertical with respect to the bottom-scanning window.

Abstract: A portable instrument incorporates an electro-optical assembly for reading indicia during a reading mode, and for projecting a bit-mapped image during a display mode. A manually operable switch on the instrument is disposed for selecting one of the modes. The image is formed by pulsing a laser at selected times on selected scan lines.

Abstract: A barcode scanner with a dual-surface polygon which increases total scan line length. The polygon includes generally planar walls arranged in a ring having first mirrored facets facing generally towards a center of the ring and second mirrored facets facing generally away from the center of the ring. The first and second mirrored facets direct a laser beam to produce a scan pattern.

Abstract: A raster pattern for reading bar code symbols is created by successively reflecting a light beam off scan mirrors oscillated respectively by a resonant motor drive and by another motor drive driven synchronously with the resonant drive.

Abstract: Actuator systems are provided for automatically focusing an optical image reader. Techniques are also provided which are applicable to the design of imaging engines and imaging lens systems associated with image readers of various types. More specifically, the present invention relates to lens guidance assemblies and actuator systems for automatically focusing an objective lens associated with an imaging system of an optical image reader. The optical image reader is preferably an optical code image reader for imaging optical codes, such as bar codes.

Abstract: A micro-electro-mechanical system component is deformed to control a shape and size and orientation of a laser beam spot that is scanned across a symbol to be read by an electro-optical reader.

Abstract: The present invention provides a barcode reader, which irradiates a scanned laser beam onto a barcode symbol and reads the information written in the symbol, wherein a laser beam scanning unit is made by insertion molding as one body with a movable support member, a support member fixed to the main body, and a metallic elastic member connecting these support members, the support members are molded as one body with a scanning mirror, and a permanent magnet is fixed to the support members. A driving coil is provided in proximity to the permanent magnet, and generates an attractive force or a repulsive force to rotate the magnet at a periodic laser beam scanning angle. Further, a stopper mechanism is provided to soften an external impact to the rotation of the scanning mirror.

Abstract: A barcode scanner includes at least a laser emitter, a collimator, a light condensing lens and a linear light receiver. When the scanning light beams from the laser emitter are projected onto a barcode through the collimator, a barcode signal is produced from the reflected image thereof focused onto the linear light receiver through the light condensing lens. The characteristics thereof are that at least one beam splitter and reflector are disposed at the projecting path of the scanning light beams from the laser emitter and the collimator to barcode, so as to enable the scanner to act as a multiple light sources structure, thereby distributing the scanning light beams more evenly with lower production cost and material.

Abstract: An alignment indication is provided in an optical scanner for reading a two-dimensional optical code by varying the scanning beam to provide a region of apparent greater brightness. In the case of a PDF417 bar code symbol, an elongated brighter region may be oriented so that it is parallel with rows of the PDF417 symbol. The apparent greater brightness may result because of the persistence of the scanning pattern in the user's vision. The region of apparent greater brightness may be achieved by providing a greater density of scan lines in the region. Because of the persistence in the user's vision, multiple scan lines appear simultaneously, and thus a region with a greater density of scan lines appears as a brighter region. The region of apparent greater brightness may also be achieved by providing a differently shaped scanning spot in the region (e.g., a larger, or more elongated spot).

Abstract: A bioptics bar code reader has first and second windows disposed at an angle to each other, a first imager for the first window and a second imager for the second window and first and second optics for directing light from a bar code in a reading area between the windows to the first and second imagers. The two imagers each obtain an image of the bar code in the reading area.

Abstract: The invention relates to a scanning device for reading bar code symbols, wherein the scanning device comprises a housing having a substantially horizontal surface and a substantially vertical surface. A motor rotates a polygon mirror, which reflects a light beam from a light source and redirects it toward a mirror array and out a window in the substantially horizontal window. Another motor rotates another polygon mirror, which reflects a light beam from a second light source and redirects it toward a second mirror array and out a window in the substantially vertical surface. A plurality of sensors detects light reflected back from a bar code and generates a plurality of electrical signals proportional to the intensity of the reflected light.

Abstract: Vibration is minimized in an electro-optical reader for reading indicia by oscillating a counterweight and a scan component to move simultaneously toward each other, and to move simultaneously away from each other. A magnet is mounted for joint movement with the counterweight and the scan component. An electromagnetic coil magnetically interacts with each magnet to cause the counterweight and the scan component to move with oppositely directed moments that counterbalance each other.

Abstract: A bar code scanner and method of operation thereof is disclosed. The bar code scanner comprises a housing including a surface having a transparent scanning window; and optical components including a spinner located within the housing. The optical components are arranged to produce both a first set of scan lines focused outside of the housing and remote from the scanning window; and a second set of scan lines focused outside of the housing and adjacent the scanning window. The method includes the steps of placing a bar code to be read in either a first position where said first set of scan lines are focused or in a second position wherein said second set of scan lines are focused.

Abstract: Actuator systems are provided for automatically focusing an optical image reader. Techniques are also provided which are applicable to the design of imaging engines and imaging lens systems associated with image readers of various types. More specifically, the present invention relates to lens guidance assemblies and actuator systems for automatically focusing an objective lens associated with an imaging system of an optical image reader. The optical image reader is preferably an optical code image reader for imaging optical codes, such as bar codes.

Abstract: A method of and a system for generating a dense pattern of scan lines. In a preferred configuration, a laser beam is directed into an inline beam dithering mechanism which dithers the beam over an angle parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotating facet wheel. The combination of the dithering mechanism and the scanning motion of the rotating facet wheel creates a dense scan pattern. Return light is retrodirectively collected and by a collection element such as a collection lens onto a detector. A beam redirector such as a cone-shaped device having openings on both ends and a reflecting internal surface is disposed between the collection lens and the detector to redirect off-axis spot onto the detector. The system and method is applicable to both single and multiple beam systems and single and multiple window scanners.

Abstract: A hand-held bar code reader including a housing bounding an interior, a window, a generally planar printed circuit board mounted in the interior, and an optical scanning assembly mounted on the board and including a scanner for directing a light beam through the window at an acute angle relative to the board. A scanning element of the reader is manufactured by spacing a first and second support element apart by a gap bounded by edges of the support elements; injection molding a curable, elastomeric material in flowable form over the edges and into the gap; and allowing the curable, elastomeric material to cure and bond to the edges, and form a flexible hinge in the gap for enabling movement of the support elements relative to one another both away from and toward a stable rest initial position.

Abstract: A compact retro-reflective module for use in electro-optical bar code readers includes components arranged to fold outgoing and incoming light along crossed optical paths. The module is convertible between generating one-dimensional and two-dimensional scan patterns to read bar code symbols.

Abstract: A reflection cowl for a bar-code scanner features that the light source wherein is a mono luminous element of light-emitting diode (LED) with a reflection cowl disposed in the rear aspect thereof, the reflection cowl is divided by the center line passed through the light source into a left and a right portions of reflection curved surfaces; respectively, the left and the right portions of the curved surfaces have a plurality of concaved reflection spherical surfaces thereon; all the reflection spherical surfaces have the function of distributing the light so as to make all the light rays reflected back from all the reflection spherical surfaces fall evenly on the convex light stick, thereby adjusting the curvature of the reflection cowl further adjusts the left and the right distribution areas of the reflected light, that means, evenly distributes the brightness at the center and on the side rim thereof.

Abstract: An optical unit for an optical symbol reader comprises an optical scanner for scanning an optical symbol with the laser beam emitted by a light source, by angularly oscillating a reflection face for reflecting the laser beam owing to an electromagnetic force. The optical scanner comprises a loose bearing structure having a shaft and a bearing bore and supporting a rotor having the reflection face to angularly oscillate freely with respect to a base. A certain bearing gap is formed between an outer diameter of the shaft and an inner diameter of the bearing bore. The optical scanner further comprises a coil spring resiliently for urging the rotor in a predetermined direction so that a part of an outer circumferential face of the shaft may be contacted with an inner circumferential face of a bearing bore.

Abstract: The invention relates to a scanning device for reading bar code symbols, wherein the scanning device comprises a housing having a substantially horizontal surface and a substantially vertical surface. A motor rotates a polygon mirror, which reflects a light beam from a light source and redirects it toward a mirror array and out a window in the substantially horizontal window. Another motor rotates another polygon mirror, which reflects a light beam from a second light source and redirects it toward a second mirror array and out a window in the substantially vertical surface. A plurality of sensors detects light reflected back from a bar code and generates a plurality of electrical signals proportional to the intensity of the reflected light.

Abstract: A laser diode control board (9), a scanning deflection member control board (12), and an electric signal processing board (11) composing a bar code scanner are formed of individual boards, the laser diode control board (9) is vertically disposed on the side opposite to a collimate lens (5) with respect to the laser diode (2) such that the board face thereof closely faces the laser diode, the electric signal processing board (11) is disposed below the collimate lens (5) along the irradiation direction of a laser beam in a vertical position, the scanning deflection member control board (12) is disposed at the rear in the irradiation direction of the laser beam with respect to the scanning deflection member (8), and the boards are attached to a holding member (4) with the laser diode (2), the collimate lens (5), a mirror (6), the scanning deflection member (8), and a light receiving element (3).

Abstract: A radiation director is coupled to move under the control of a piezoelectric element. The director directs electromagnetic radiation from a radiation source under the control of the piezoelectric element. In a scanning station embodiment, an electrical signal source is connected to cause the piezoelectric element to vibrate, and a radiation detector is positioned to detect radiation from an object scanned by the radiation. In a radiation scanning method, a piezoelectric element is caused to move in a reciprocating fashion, and the movement of the piezoelectric element is used to direct an electromagnetic radiation beam in a scanning motion.

Abstract: A dual aperture optical scanner which employs a single laser beam to produce horizontal and vertical scan patterns. The optical scanner includes a housing having first and second apertures, a laser beam source, a mirrored spinner having a plurality of facets with different elevation angles for reflecting the laser beam in a plurality of directions, and a plurality of pattern mirrors within the housing for reflecting the laser beam from the spinner through the first and second apertures to an article having a bar code label to be scanned. The optical scanner also includes an optical transceiver for passing the laser beam and for collecting reflected light from the scanned article and a photodetector for generating signals representing the intensity of the light reflected from the article.

Abstract: An optical scanner for reading indicia having areas of different light reflectivity, such as bar code symbols includes a stationary, multi-surface, fold mirror having a first surface of a first aplanar profile and a second surface of a second, different aplanar profile.