Abstract: A method for presenting a matrix code may include receiving, at a content receiver, a signal carrying identifying data relating to a remotely accessible program, generating, at a content receiver, a matrix code from the identifying data relating to the remotely accessible program, transmitting the matrix code as part of a content presentation to a presentation device for display, and receiving the remotely accessible program in response to a user capture of the matrix code. A method for remotely controlling a set top box and a method for setting a recording time on a set top box are also described. A method of preparing a program guide may include gathering program information, generating matrix codes for each program including program data, and associating the matrix codes with respective programs.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for configuring an imaging system to compensate for fixed pattern noise, variations in pixel values captured from an image sensor that vary according to a fixed pattern. In a method for configuring an imaging system for compensating an additive term component of fixed pattern noise, a pixel array is exposed to a scene of known radiance and an average white value is determined for each pixel of an array. Each average white value is compared to a predetermined reference value to determine a correction value for each pixel. In a method for configuring an imaging system for compensating both an additive and multiplicative component of fixed pattern noise, a pixel array is exposed to a first scene having a first known radiance, and frames of the scene are captured, and then the array is exposed to a second scene having a second known radiance and frames of the second scene are captured.

Abstract: Methods and system for encoded information processing are described. In one embodiment, an encoded pattern may be optically detected from source media. The encoded pattern may be associated with programming content of a content source. The encoded pattern may be decoded to reproduce encoded data. The programming content may be identified based on reproduction of the encoded data. A scheduled start time of the programming content may be obtained. When a current device time is within a notification time qualification of the scheduled start time, a programming content start alert may be generated. An interactive opportunity notification associated with the programming content may be provided based on generation of the programming content start alert. Additional methods and systems are disclosed.

Abstract: A scanner cradle having a receiver formed as a cup shaped container with an interior cavity sized to receive a hand-held scanner device thereinto with the head portion of the scanner device seated therein and a handle portion thereof protruding therefrom, wherein the receiver further includes: an opening communicating with the interior cavity and a slot formed through a sidewall thereof extending partially therealong along, and an aperture communicating through a bottom thereof opposite of the opening; opposing friction members protruding into the slot from opposite walls thereof; and a releasable retention joint between each of the friction members and the walls of the slot.

Abstract: A system for reading code symbols includes an imaging subsystem that includes a focusing module and an image processor. The image processor selects an initial, predicted focal distance for the imaging subsystem's focusing module with respect to a code symbol. The focal distance for each successfully decoded code symbol is stored in memory, and a weighted average of a pre-selected number of memorized focal distances is used to calculate the next initial, predicted focal distance.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to methods and apparatuses for populating documents based on identification of objects in an augmented reality environment. The method includes capturing a video stream using a mobile computing device; determining, using a computing device processor, the object; identifying a document associated with the object; populating at least a portion of the document; and submitting the document. The method may also include presenting indicators associated with the user, the identified document, or a financial transaction associated with the document. The method may also include providing recommendations or suggestions to the user related to alternative offers associated with the document. Systems and computer program products for populating forms using video analysis of identified objects are also provided.

Abstract: A portable hand held optical reader having a specially constructed two-dimensional image sensor array is operational in a bar code decoding mode and in a picture taking mode. The specially constructed image sensor array, in one embodiment, is a hybrid monochrome and color image sensor pixel array, wherein a first subset of the pixels are monochrome pixels devoid of wavelength selective color filter elements and a second subset of the pixels are color sensitive pixels including wavelength selective color filter elements.

Abstract: The Thimble is a wireless electronic device that can be worn on a finger, in order to control electronic devices, computers screens, laptops screen, televisions game console etc. The Thimble can replace either a computer mouse or a remote control. The Thimble uses location technologies in order to calculate its position, movement and orientation. Touch pads allow for accepting user selection, similar to mouse left-clicks or right-clicks, or remote control OK function.

Abstract: A global tracking device includes a hardened case configured to be removably coupled to an object. The hardened case includes a barcode associated with information regarding the object. The data access element is configured to cause an external device to populate an interactive display application containing at least a portion of the information regarding to the object. The global tracking device can communicate with a central facility via a satellite communication.

Abstract: A scanning system and method are disclosed which may include a bar code scanner module incorporated within a housing; and a wireless network transceiver coupled to the bar code scanner module and operable to communicate with at least one other communication device, the bar code scanner and the transceiver forming a scanning device. The transceiver may communicate employing Zigbee network protocol.

Abstract: A cloud computing system for object location, object identification, object picking, object picking by line, object loading onto one or more transport devices, or object delivery that can include using a cloud based server comprising a cloud based processor in communication with a cloud based data storage. The cloud based server can be in communication with at least one mobile processor in communication with a mobile data storage and a display. The method can also include sending instructions to an operator from the cloud based computer to a mobile processor associated with an operator to instruct the operator to perform a logistics operation. The logistic operation can include one or more of object location, object identification, object picking, object picking by line, object loading onto one or more transport devices, and object delivery.

Abstract: A method for scanning and decoding encoded symbols comprises processing low resolution image data from a full field of view and/or high resolution image data from one or more windowed segments of the field of view to provide imaging that is easily adaptable to different types of symbols and varying environmental conditions. The scanning method can be switched between the low resolution mode and the high resolution mode automatically based on whether the low resolution data is sufficiently accurate to decode the symbol.

Abstract: An information processing system includes a reader/writer, a communication terminal, and a wireless IC tag. The communication terminal includes an electric field antenna including a coupling portion that defines a magnetic field antenna, and the antenna portion is housed in a pen-shaped casing. The antenna portion is coupled to an electric field antenna of the reader/writer through an electric field, and the coupling portion is coupled to the wireless IC tag through a magnetic field. The reader/writer communicates with the wireless IC tag as a result of the coupling portion being brought close to the wireless IC tag.

Abstract: Data transmission apparatus and method thereof, and data reception apparatus and method thereof. Input data is encoded into a plurality of visual codes according to a visual code type. The visual code type includes a sequential type requiring sequential transmission and a nonsequential type not requiring sequential transmission. The sequential visual code includes start code, data code, and end code, and is displayed sequentially. The nonsequential visual code is displayed nonsequentially.

Abstract: A protective case for a portable computing device may include a rigid component comprising an upper surface and a cavity therein for receiving a portable computing device. The protective case may also include a cover having a surface area that is larger than the area of the upper surface that is open to the cavity. At least a central area of the cover may be transparent. The cover may be positioned over the cavity, and may also be positioned over part of the upper surface of the rigid component. The protective case may also include a pliable component molded around at least a portion of the rigid component and over a portion of the cover that is in contact with the upper surface of the rigid component, thereby forming a waterproof seal between the cover and the upper surface of the rigid component.

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.

Abstract: An illuminating, indicia-reading device includes a hand-held indicia reader and a charging-and-communication base. The charging-and-communication base's communication button places the hand-held indicia reader in presentation mode when the hand-held indicia reader is seated in the charging-and-communication base, thereby facilitating hands-free scanning and providing work lamp functionality via activation of the hand-held indicia reader's light source. When the hand-held indicia reader is not seated, the communication button pages the hand-held-indicia reader.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for selectively attaching sensor(s) or antenna(s) to a mobile device at a convenient location are provided. The mobile device includes a body and a processing unit housed within the body for running an application, where the body includes a forward end and a rearward end that supports engagement with a charging dock. In addition, the rearward end accepts engagement of a snap-on module that physically assembles to and electronically interfaces with the mobile device. The antennas or sensors are externally mounted to the mobile device at a location proximate to the forward end of the body. Further, these antennas or sensors are interconnected to the snap-on module using media-routing conduit(s) that are configured to carry signals from the antennas or sensors to the snap-on module for distribution as an input to the application running on the processing unit.

Abstract: The invention features an image reader and a corresponding method for capturing a sharp distortion free image of a target, such as a one or two-dimensional bar code. In one embodiment, the image reader comprises a two-dimensional CMOS based image sensor array, a timing module, an illumination module, and a control module. The time during which the target is illuminated is referred to as the illumination period. The capture of the image by the image sensor array is driven by the timing module that, in one embodiment, is able to simultaneously expose substantially all of the pixels in the array. The time during which the pixels are collectively activated to photo-convert incident light into charge defines the exposure period for the sensor array. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the exposure period occurs during the illumination period.

Abstract: An adapter system including an adapter unit is described herein. The adapter unit includes receptacles shaped for removably receiving at least a portion of a portable electronic device therewithin. The adapter unit further includes at least one of an image capture device and a data capture device controllable by operating at least one user interface of the portable electronic device.

Abstract: Disclosed is data collection apparatus for hand use. The apparatus comprises a body and a bar code scanner. The body has: a central portion adapted to be and gripped in the manner of a joystick; a switch positioned on the central portion and positioned in the manner of a pistol trigger, for finger actuation; a first data entry portion to which the central portion extends, the first data entry portion having at least a 10-digit numeric keypad, each key of said keypad being adapted for and actuable in use by the thumb of said hand; and a second data entry portion from which the central portion extends. The scanner is: adapted for actuation by said switch; has a configuration in which the bar code scanner defines a protuberance extending from the first data entry portion; and is detachable from the body for use in tight spaces.

Abstract: This patent specification describes an attachment for a mobile device. The attachment may have an attachment feature designed to be attached to a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet, or smartphone/tablet with a camera. The attachment may also include an optics system and/or an illumination system that cooperates with the camera to facilitate the capture of decodable barcodes. The illumination system may include a targeting illumination system that facilitates proper positioning of the article and/or an exposure illumination system that helps illuminate the article during capture. The optics system may include a lens that modifies the depth of field and/or the size of the field of view of the camera, an aperture that helps define the field of view, a filter that prevents light of undesired wavelengths from reaching the camera, and/or a mirror that redirects the camera's optical pathway.

Abstract: An integrated circuit that communicates with a host device via audio channels includes an interfacing circuit that receives and transmits analog signals on the audio channels. Such audio channels are designed for audio speakers and microphones and the interfacing circuit transmits digital data based on the received analog signals. The integrated circuit includes a processing device that is electrically coupled to the interfacing circuit. The processing device receives the digital data from the interfacing circuit and adjusts at least one parameter of the interfacing circuit based on the received digital data. The interfacing circuit receives the digital data from the processing device and transmits analog signals on at least one of the audio channels based on the at least one adjusted parameter.

Abstract: Input/output (“I/O”) port systems and methods are provided. An I/O port system can include a housing having at least one exterior surface and a cover member. The cover member can obstruct at least a portion of an input/output port on the housing and not extend beyond the exterior surface of the housing when in a first cover position. The cover member can expose the I/O port and extend beyond the exterior surface of the housing, when translated away from the first cover position. The system can further include a support member operably connected to the cover member and the housing. When the cover member is disposed in the first cover position, the support member can be maintained in a first position proximate the housing. When the cover member is translated away from the first cover position, the support member can translate to a second support position extending from the housing.

Abstract: An apparatus may include a microprocessor and a wireless communication interface configured to perform at least one of receiving a first radio signal or transmitting a second radio signal. The microprocessor may be configured to execute at least one of a base-band encoder software program or a base-band decoder software program. The apparatus may be further configured to execute a wireless communication protocol selector software program that may be configured to optimize a value of a user-defined criterion in order to dynamically select at least one of a wireless communication network, a wireless communication protocol, and a parameter of a wireless communication protocol.

Abstract: A barcode and RFID reading apparatus includes: a micro-controller; at least a RFID antenna configured to detect a RFID tag in a first area proximate to the reading apparatus; a RFID reader connected to the at least one antenna and controlled by the micro-controller, the RFID reader being configured to receive a RFID tag data from the at least one antenna and send the RFID tag data to the micro-controller; and a barcode reader controlled by the micro-controller, the barcode reader being configured to detect a barcode in a second area proximate to the reading apparatus and send a barcode data from the barcode to the micro-controller; the micro-controller is configured to check whether the barcode reader or the RFID reader ends a data-reading process; if one reader ends the data-reading process, the micro-controller switches off the one and switches on the other.

Abstract: An indicia reading terminal can comprise an image sensor integrated circuit having a two-dimensional image sensor, a hand held housing encapsulating the two-dimensional image sensor, and an imaging lens configured to focus an image of a target decodable indicia onto the two-dimensional image sensor. The two-dimensional image sensor can include a plurality of pixels arranged in repetitive patterns. Each pattern can include at least one pixel sensitive in a first spectrum region, at least one pixel sensitive in a second spectrum region, and at least one pixel sensitive in a third spectrum region. The image sensor integrated circuit can be configured to capture a frame of image data by reading out a plurality of analog signals. Each read out analog signal can be representative of light incident on a group of two or more pixels of the plurality of pixels.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a mobile service with the use of a code pattern is disclosed In one embodiment, the method comprising: taking a photograph of a code pattern image, decoding the photographed code pattern image so as to obtain code information, extracting uniform resourse locator (URL) information corresponding to the code information, transmitting a content information request message to a service provider server corresponding to the URL information, and receiving content information corresponding to the URL information from the service provider server. According to embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to provide various and convenient mobile services to mobile terminal users using a mobile terminal, having a camera, and a code pattern containing the URL information.

Abstract: A wireless Bluetooth® paired connection is established between a Bluetooth® module in an electro-optical, handheld reader and a Bluetooth® module in a mobile terminal via a human interface device (HID) profile. Data capture from a target is initiated upon one type of manual actuation, e.g., a single pull, of a trigger on the reader. A soft keyboard is caused to appear on a display on the terminal, either immediately, or after a predetermined event, after the establishment of the Bluetooth® paired connection. The soft keyboard is caused to disappear upon manual actuation of the trigger with a different type of manual actuation, e.g., a double pull, of the trigger. Another double pull of the trigger will cause the soft keyboard to reappear.

Abstract: Network and device configuration systems and methods are described. In an embodiment, a first user interface configured to receive from a user configuration information regarding a first network provided. Program code stored in computer accessible memory is configured to generate a barcode that includes information related to the first network configuration information, wherein the barcode can be scanned by a device having a barcode scanner and a network interface to configure the network interface to access the first network.

Abstract: A portable scanning apparatus is disclosed, which may include a bar code scanner module incorporated within a housing; a portable computer memory assembled to the bar code scanner and incorporated within said housing, wherein the computer memory is operable to receive and store data obtained by the bar code scanner, and wherein the assembly of the bar code scanner and the portable computer memory within said housing forms a compact and portable package.

Abstract: Techniques for capturing images of business cards, uploading the images to a designated computing device for processing and recognition are disclosed. In one implementation, a transmission means is provided to transport the images to the designated computing device for centralized management of integrated contact information for a registered user, where the images are recognized and extracted data from the business cards are entered as new records in a contact list of the registered user. Each of the givers of the business cards are notified by a designated device to establish a link with the registered user.

Abstract: An apparatus and method read a target by capturing return light from the target with a solid-state monochrome imager operative for generating an output data stream in a monochrome format having a plurality of slots containing pixel data indicative of an image of the target, and with a color controller for receiving the output data stream in a color format different from the monochrome format. A converter circuit converts the monochrome format into the color format and includes an input formatter for formatting the output data stream to have additional slots, a buffer for receiving auxiliary pixel data related to the image of the target, and an output formatter for inserting the auxiliary pixel data from the buffer into the additional slots and for processing both the pixel data and the auxiliary pixel data to enhance the reading of the target.

Abstract: Multi-dimensional barcodes at a product include service identifiers for the product so that an end user with a portable information handling system captures an image of the multi-dimensional barcode and extracts the service identifiers to obtain service information from a service network location. For example, a service identifier embeds a URL that links to a video demonstrating how to assemble the product. As another example, a service identifier links to a service network location and includes a unique identifier so that an end user retrieves warranty or purchase information for the product.

Abstract: A data decoding system that includes a server-side proxy component and at least two back-end computers, where the server-side proxy component is configured, when it receives a decoding request from a client, to select a back-end computer to forward the decoding request to, based on either a pre-defined rule, load estimates for said at least two computers, estimated network throughputs across network paths to the two computers. In response to receiving this request, the back-end computer that is selected is configured to decode the request, which is an image of decodable indicia, by locating the decodable indicia within the image and decoding it into a decoded message. The decodable indicia was provided by a raw image byte stream, a compressed image byte stream, or a partial compressed image byte stream.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a mobile terminal having an information recognition module. The mobile terminal having an information recognition module of the present invention comprises: a terminal casing with a front casing and a rear casing coupled with each other; an information recognition module coupled to the terminal casing; and an information recognition module drive unit, which has a trigger provided at the terminal casing in such a manner that the trigger is exposed outside of the terminal casing, and an operation switch, which generates an electrical signal for operating the information recognition module by a trigger pull motion. According to the present invention, procedures for operating the information recognition module can be improved in convenience and stability.

Abstract: There is provided an image capture apparatus and method. An image capture device can be used in the decoding of a decodable indicia, e.g., bar code symbols and/or text characters and can further be used in the capture of one or more images that may or may not be subjected to decoding processes. In one embodiment, an image captured with use of an image capture device is an image of an item bearing a decodable indicia. In one embodiment, an image capture device can have a plurality of user selectable modes of operation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a peripheral unit system that provides a universally usable system for adding peripheral functions to off-the-shelf handheld host devices of variable size and configuration. The system and methods according to the invention allow adaptation to variably sized handheld host devices without the need to customize the peripheral unit to the host device. The invention provides added functionality such as increased ruggedness and durability, while providing an integrated system in association with a handheld host device, to provide the convenience of a one-piece form-factor, without sacrificing universality of the solution. The peripheral unit comprises a housing having a portion configured to engage with a handheld host device of various sizes and electrical configurations. An attachment mechanism is associated with the housing, being used to selectively secure the housing to the handheld host device to form a one-piece apparatus suitable for handheld use.

Abstract: A case for an electronic device is provided. The case includes a battery, an interface to receive electrical power from an external power source, a payment device reader, a product information input device, and a computer processor configured to execute computer-readable instructions. The computer processor executes the instructions to conduct communications with the electronic device, limit an amount of current of the received electrical power consumed by the case, allocate the amount of current among the battery and the electronic device based on the communications, read product information from a product using the product information input device, and read a payment device using the payment device reader, where the payment device is used to pay for the product.

Abstract: There is set forth herein a terminal having a mount for supporting a mechanical component. The terminal in one embodiment can be hand held and in one embodiment the mechanical component can comprise a hand strap. In one embodiment a terminal can include a pocket for receiving a mount.

Abstract: A device and method for recording medication to be introduced into a body.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for selectively controlling the illumination, and particularly dark field illumination, applied to a symbol to be decoded, and for determining a suitable or optimized level of lighting for decoding the symbol. A method includes providing a light source comprising a plurality of individually-controllable lighting elements for providing low angle dark field illumination; activating an image sensor for detecting image data reflected from an encoded data symbol when the encoded data symbol is illuminated by the light source; and providing a controller connected to each of the individually-controllable lighting elements, the controller being programmed for: selectively activating the individually-controllable lighting elements to vary the direction of the low angle dark field illumination provided by the light source; and processing the image data detected by the image.

Abstract: The invention features an image reader and a corresponding method for capturing a sharp distortion free image of a target, such as a one or two-dimensional bar code. In one embodiment, the image reader comprises a two-dimensional CMOS based image sensor array, a timing module, an illumination module, and a control module. The time during which the target is illuminated is referred to as the illumination period. The capture of the image by the image sensor array is driven by the timing module that, in one embodiment, is able to simultaneously expose substantially all of the pixels in the array. The time during which the pixels are collectively activated to photo-convert incident light into charge defines the exposure period for the sensor array. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the exposure period occurs during the illumination period.

Abstract: A reading apparatus includes a writing tool body, a reading unit, and a processing unit. The reading unit is included in the writing tool body and reads a code formed on a medium. The processing unit acquires, from the code read by the reading unit, coordinate information regarding coordinates on the medium and processing specifying information which specifies processing to be performed on acquired information. The processing unit also performs predetermined processing specified by the processing specifying information on the acquired information. The acquired information is information acquirable by the reading apparatus and includes the coordinate information. The transfer unit transfers a processing result obtained by the processing unit to a predetermined transfer destination.

Abstract: A portable hand held optical reader having a specially constructed two-dimensional image sensor array is operational in a bar code decoding mode and in a picture taking mode. The specially constructed image sensor array, in one embodiment, is a hybrid monochrome and color image sensor pixel array, wherein a first subset of the pixels are monochrome pixels devoid of wavelength selective color filter elements and a second subset of the pixels are color sensitive pixels including wavelength selective color filter elements.

Abstract: A media asset system and method is provided comprising a handheld reader having a sensor enabled to detect a discrete coded zone within a visual image, with the reader capable of producing an output signal corresponding to the discrete coded zone. An output device responds to the output signal with an audio output presentation corresponding to the discrete coded zone. Output is responsive to the reader's selection of output action, and may also be provided for in a video presentation.

Abstract: A method for decoding a decodable symbol using an optical reader having a 2D image sensor that is configured to operate in a partial frame capture operating mode. In a partial frame operating mode, the reader clocks out and captures at least one partial frame of image data having image data corresponding to less than all of the pixels of an image sensor pixel array. In one embodiment, the reader operating in a partial frame operating mode captures image data corresponding to a linear pattern of pixels of the image sensor, reads the image data, and attempts to decode for a decodable bar code symbol which may be represented in the image data.

Abstract: An accessory for a hand-held electronic device includes a protective case and a battery. The electronic device is insertable into the protective case. The battery may be utilized to provide auxiliary power to the electronic device. The battery may be replaceable without having to remove the electronic device from the protective case.

Abstract: An apparatus and method electro-optically read indicia, such as a direct part marking (DPM) code, that is raised or sunken relative to a target surface on a target. A solid-state, distance imaging sensor captures a target image comprised of a first set of pixels having first distance values that correspond to a first distance of the code from the sensor, and a second set of pixels having second distance values that correspond to a second distance of the target surface from the sensor. A controller reads the indicia by distinguishing between the first set of pixels and the second set of pixels within the image, by determining abrupt changes in the distance values among neighboring pixels.

Abstract: A portable terminal includes a receiver, a barcode former configured to form barcodes and a display. The barcode former forms a barcode from the data received by the receiver and the display displays the formed barcode.