Abstract: The invention relates to a device for detecting and/or recognizing markings, in particular for manual handling, comprising a camera for recording a marking and at least one illumination device for illuminating a marking, characterized in that, for detecting and/or recognizing markings (3) on/at/in transparent marking carriers (4), in particular having reflectively polished surfaces, the at least one illumination device (2) is arranged at a distance from the optical axis (A) of the camera (1) in such a way that the light reflection (5) generated by the at least one illumination device (2) at the surface of the transparent marking carrier (4) is arranged at least alongside the marking represented in the camera image, preferably outside the detection region of the camera (1).

Abstract: In a data region of each microdot block on a microdot matrix, a coordinate of each the microdot block on the microdot matrix is encoded into a plurality of microdots included by the data region according to an encoding method based on Reflected Gray codes. With the aid of a unique changed bit between any two consecutive Reflected Gray codes, an estimated coordinate of a frame, which is fetched by scanning the microdot matrix, on the microdot matrix, may still be decoded even if no complete microdot block is fetched within the frame.

Abstract: To improve image capture from a display or a surface, more specifically from a specular reflecting surface, the invention proposes an image capturing apparatus having an image capturing unit and an image fitting surface in which the optical axis of the image capturing unit is disposed at an angle ? to a normal of the image fitting surface.

Abstract: A system and method for reliable content access using a cellular/wireless device with imaging capabilities, to use part of a printed or displayed medium for identifying and using a reference to access information, services, or content related to the reference, including capturing an image of the reference with an imaging device, sending the image via a communications network to a processing center, pre-processing to identify relevant frames within the image and to perform general purpose enhancement operations, detecting the most relevant frame within the image, and frame properties, applying geometric, illumination, and focus correction on the relevant frame, using color, aspect ration, and frame color, to perform a coarse recognition and thereby limit the number of possible identifications of a reference within the relevant frame, and using specific techniques of resealing, histogram equalization, block labeling, edge operation, and normalized cross correlation, to identify the reference within the image.

Abstract: An optical measurement system which manages whether an optical property of a sample falls within a predetermined management range. The optical measurement system has a measuring device for measuring the optical property value of the inspected sample, a reader for reading an attribute identification information of an identification tag attached to the sample, and a storage section for storing optical property management information concerning a plurality of kinds of samples each in a manner corresponding to attribute identification information of each sample. A controller in the optical measurement system reads out from the storage section the optical property management information corresponding to the attribute identification information of the sample read by said reader, and compares the optical property management information with the optical property value of the sample, and then determines whether the optical property value falls within an allowable range in the optical property management information.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for automatic data collection. An automatic data collection system includes an image capture subsystem and a processor subsystem. The automatic data collection system is operable to decode machine-readable symbols in a machine-readable symbol reading mode, and to automatically switch from a machine-readable symbol reading mode to an optical character recognition mode in response to information encoded in a machine-readable symbol. In some embodiments, the automatic data collection system is further operable to perform optical character recognition on human-readable symbols in a human-readable symbol reading mode.

Abstract: A shopping receptacle for receiving a product item. The product item comprises an interface surface a position-coding pattern containing coded data is printed on the interface surface. The coded data identifies a plurality of position coordinates on the interface surface and an identity of the product item. The receptacle comprises: a receptacle body and an opening through which the product item is placed within the receptacle body. A sensing device is positioned for scanning product items as they are placed through the opening. The sensing device emits a scanning beam across the opening of the receptacle body and generates, using sensed coded data, indicating data indicative of a position coordinate on the interface surface and the identity of the product item.

Abstract: This invention provides a system and method for decoding symbology that contains a respective data set using multiple image frames of the symbol, wherein at least some of those frames can have differing image parameters (for example orientation, lens zoom, aperture, etc.) so that combining the frames with an illustrative multiple image application allows the most-readable portions of each frame to be stitched together. And unlike prior systems which may select one “best” image, the illustrative system method allows this stitched image to form a complete, readable image of the underlying symbol. In an illustrative embodiment the system and method includes an imaging assembly that acquires multiple image frames of the symbol in which some of those image frames have discrete, differing image parameters from others of the frames.

Abstract: A portable scanning device for scanning a product item is provided, The product item has visible information relating thereto and a plurality of tags disposed thereon. Each tag encodes data on an identity of the product item and the location of that tag on the product item. The scanning device has a sensor for sensing the data encoded by at least one tag, and a processor for determining, from the sensed data, product identity data indicative of the identity of the product item and location data indicative of a location of said at least one tag on the product item.

Abstract: A secure reader for reading a spatial code and a security feature. The secure reader comprises: (i) a security module, and (ii) a read engine for reading both a spatial code and a security feature carried by an item. The security module is operable to transmit a unique reader identification each time an authentication request is sent to a data management system. The spatial code may be a barcode, such as a two-dimensional barcode. The security module may include tamper responsive sensors for destroying any stored data in the event that the security module is tampered with. The security module may also include a unique identification conveyed to the data management system as part of an authentication request to allow the secure reader to be identified by the data management system.

Abstract: A scanner for scanning items marked with near-infrared tags includes a laser configured to produce a narrowband near-infrared beam matched to a peak wavelength of near-infrared ink used to print the tags. A mirror assembly re-directs the beam. A deflecting arrangement receives the re-directed beam. A steering mirror steers the deflected beam. A scanning mirror directs the beam onto the tag to be scanned and a light collection system collects light reflected by the tags.

Abstract: A scanning device is provided which has a beam emitter for emitting a beam, a deflector for deflecting the beam to generate a raster scan pattern over a scanning patch on a product item, a sensor for receiving a reflected beam from the scanning patch and sensing from the reflected beam data encoded by coded tags printed on an interface surface of the product item, and a processor for determining a description of the interface surface and at least one region of interface surface. The data encoded by each tag includes an identity of the product item, an identity of the interface surface and the position of the respective tag on the interface surface. The processor determines the description from the sensed interface surface identity and determined the region from the determined description and at least one of the position of the sensed tag and a position of the scanning patch relative to the interface surface.

Abstract: An optoelectronic reader for reading machine-readable symbol such as barcode symbols employs a detection sub-system having an RX concentrator. The detection subsystem may include an N-tuple RX concentrator. The RX concentrator may define an optical path for light to illuminate the machine-readable symbol.

Abstract: The invention concerns a system and method for enabling remote conferencing between conference participants. Employing the invention involves the use of one or more forms which support interaction with a computer system or network. Each form is printed on sheet material such as paper and includes coded data which allows it to be used to interact with the computer system via a sensing device operated by a user.

Abstract: An optical scanning device for scanning an optical record carrier. The optical scanning device includes: a radiation source system (661; 761); an optical element (1; 101; 201; 301) comprising a first fluid (A) and a second fluid (B; C) separated from each other by a fluid meniscus (16; 116, 138; 216; 316) having an adjustable configuration; and a control system (20; 120; 220; 320) arranged to adjust the fluid meniscus configuration to introduce a first type of wavefront modification. The first type of wavefront modification causes the radiation beam to be redirected from an input radiation beam path (2; 102; 244; 348) onto one of a plurality of output radiation beam paths (24, 26; 140; 246; 350) which each have a different angular displacement (?, ?, ?, ?, ?) from the input radiation beam path. The control system is further arranged to adjust the fluid meniscus configuration to introduce a second type of wavefront modification.

Abstract: There is provided a multi-channel bio-chip scanner using two or more excitation wavelengths. The bio-chip scanner includes: a glass holder unit mounted with a bio-chip in which a target DNA pre-marked by a fluorescent material is hybridized with a probe DNA; a light source unit irradiating a laser beam onto the bio-chip; a transfer unit transferring the bio-chip from the glass holder unit; and a detection unit detecting and analyzing fluorescent light expressed by the bio-chip with irradiation of the laser beam, wherein the light source unit generates two or more laser beams having different wavelengths.

Abstract: The invention relates to an information carrier, and a system for positioning such an information carrier in an apparatus. This system comprises an optical element (102) for generating a periodic array of light spots (103) intended to be applied to an information carrier (101), said information carrier (101) comprising a first periodic structure (108) intended to interfere with said periodic array of light spots (103) for generating a first Moiré pattern, and a second periodic structure (109) intended to interfere with said periodic array of light spots (103) for generating a second Moiré pattern, analysis means for deriving from said first and second Moiré patterns, the angle value (S) between said periodic array of light spots (103) and said information carrier (101), and actuation means (AC1-AC2-AC3) for adjusting the angular position of said information carrier (101) with respect to said array of light spots (103), from control signals (114) derived based on said angle value (S).

Abstract: The invention relates to an information carrier (101) intended to be read and/or written by a periodic array of light spots, said information carrier (101) comprising a data area (105) defined by a set of elementary data areas, a first periodic structure (108) intended to interfere with said periodic array of light spots for generating a first moiré pattern, a second periodic structure (109) intended to interfere with said periodic array of light spots for generating a second moiré pattern, said second periodic structure (109) being arranged perpendicularly to said first periodic structure (108). The invention also relates to an apparatus for reading and/or writing said information carrier (101).

Abstract: Image enhancement of symbol targets and non-symbol targets is performed based on the distance to the target, and optionally on the type of target being imaged, by an imaging system to improve reader performance. An axicon and other lenses are preferred to capture light from the target.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for automatic data collection. An automatic data collection system includes an image capture subsystem and a processor subsystem. The automatic data collection system is operable to decode machine-readable symbols in a machine-readable symbol reading mode, and to automatically switch from a machine-readable symbol reading mode to an optical character recognition mode in response to information encoded in a machine-readable symbol. In some embodiments, the automatic data collection system is further operable to perform optical character recognition on human-readable symbols in a human-readable symbol reading mode.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for reading a color symbol, which comprises a matrix of color filters arranged in front of a detector. Light received from the filters of some colors is used to locate the color symbol, while light received from all the filters is used to read and decode the located symbol. Preferably, the filters used for locating the symbol are of the colors to which the detector is most sensitive. Preferably, the filters for locating the symbol are dominant in number.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a mobile personal computer (MPC) system with built-in scanner. In one embodiment, the method includes detection of the insertion of an item within a paper feed tail exposed on an exterior surface of the MPC system. In one embodiment, if insertion is detected when the MPC system is in a sleep state, a disabled scanner device is enabled to scan the item to capture an item image. Subsequently, the item image may be processed to identify the item as, for example, a business card. In one embodiment, an item image may be further processed to extract contact information from the item image. In one embodiment, when item insertion is performed during a sleep state, subsequent to completion of extraction of the contact information, components of the system awoken during the sleep state may resume the sleep state. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Abstract: An illuminating light source, and a scanner module and an image scanning apparatus including the same. The illuminating light source includes: a vacuum tube have a cylindrical shape, is filled with a discharging gas, and has a light emitting portion disposed in a lengthwise direction thereof; a discharging electrode disposed upon the vacuum tube, and having a width that increases from a center portion to end portions thereof; and a fluorescent body disposed within the vacuum tube, to absorb first light beams emitted by the discharging gas and to emit second light beams having a longer wavelength than the first light beams, with the second light beams being illuminated through the light emitting portion.

Abstract: A method for initiating and completing a commercial transaction to acquire an article of commerce (2502). The article of commerce (2502) has associated therewith a machine resolvable code (MRC) (2504). The MRC (2504) has encoded therein information relating to the article of commerce (2502). The encoded information in the MRC (2504) is extracted therefrom and unique identification information associated with a user is obtained. The encoded information from the MRC (2504) is stored in a temporary buffer. After the encoded information from the MRC (2504) is stored and the unique identification information associated with a user is obtained, it is transferred to a retail processing system (1612). In response to the retail processing system (1612) receiving the encoded information from the MRC (2504) and the transferred unique identification of the user, ownership of the article of commerce (2502) is transferred to the user.

Abstract: An automatically marking, reading and distinguishing apparatus, which programmingly controls a conveyance of a printed circuit board, includes a table, an information label generator, at least one flipping device, and an image reading and distinguishing device. The table includes a first area and a second area. The information label generator is disposed corresponding to the first area for generating and labeling an information label on the printed circuit board. The image reading and distinguishing device is disposed corresponding to the second area to determine whether the information label is readable. The flipping device is located under the table and has a rotating part and at least one set of jigs for flipping the labeled or readable printed circuit boards.

Abstract: A user detects data from a poster using a handheld appliance. The appliance then contacts a remote computer based on the data obtained from the poster, and can perform any of a variety of functions, such as purchasing tickets to a concert or movie, or downloading music. The data can be obtained from the poster in various ways, such as by optical sensing (e.g., of digital watermarks or bar codes) or by electromagnetic detection.

Abstract: In general terms, the present invention provides a method of automatically scanning an inventory field to allow the selection of a desired item for retrieval. A camera is positioned in the crane trolley located above the field. The camera continuously performs a scan of the field displaying an image to the operator of the items being scanned. This real-time image allows the operator to distinguish between items scanned in the field. The operator can subsequently choose the desired item triggering the camera system to automatically capture desired information from the item which is in turn communicated to an inventory control system. The camera system mitigates the requirement of a second individual to communicate information between the field and the operator.

Abstract: A pulsed light source emits pulsed light at a pulse frequency during an object-sensing mode of a reader for electro-optically reading indicia on objects. A scanner scans the indicia with laser light for reflection therefrom during a scan mode. A light collection system detects the laser light reflected from the indicia and generates an electrical signal indicative of the indicia being read during the scan mode. A controller processes the electrical signal into data corresponding to the indicia being read during the scan mode. The same light collection system detects the pulsed light reflected from the objects and generates a trigger signal indicative of the presence of the objects during the object-sensing mode. The same controller processes the trigger signal to automatically switch from the object-sensing mode to the scan mode.

Abstract: A system for processing presentation instruments that includes a presentation instrument reservoir, a presentation instrument reader, a distribution stock holder, a distribution stock reader, two or more motor systems for advancing distribution stock and presentation instruments, and attaching the presentation instruments to the distribution stock when codes printed on the instruments and stock match each other. In some cases, the motor systems can interface to an interface controller via a serial interface, and the interface controller can be coupled to a process control computer via an Ethernet connection. In some cases, distribution stock is blank and has no readable code, in which case the blank stock is automatically advanced to a reject bin without interrupting the operation of system.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an electronic device including: a reader configured to read information from a noncontact-type communications device storing unique identification information; and a controller configured to determine whether the identification information read by the reader is already registered or not yet registered and, if the identification information is found already registered, get user setting information corresponding to the identification information to execute setting processing on the basis of the user setting information and, if the identification information is found not yet registered, execute processing for registering the identification information.

Abstract: An imaging module, which prevents a board on which an imaging device is mounted from being cracked by an impact, reduces a deviation between an imaging device and an optical axis of a lens system due to a temperature change and has high reliability, is obtained. The board (25) is fixed to a housing (23) in a first position located in neighborhood of the optical axis (C) of the lens system and the imaging device (4) by a first adhesive (16) of a high elastic modulus, and the board (25) is fixed to the housing (23) in the second position located farther away from the optical axis of the lens system than the first position by a second adhesive (17) of a low elastic modulus.

Abstract: Laser power control arrangements interrupt power to a laser used in electro-optical readers upon detection of operating conditions not conforming to preestablished standards, and adjust power to the laser to enhance reader performance without violating prevalent safety standards.

Abstract: A combination barcode imager/decoder and real-time video capture system is provided. The system is configured for being implemented at a POS location for performing the functions of barcode imaging and decoding, and real-time video capture for video surveillance purposes. The system includes an imager or imaging sensor and a switching mechanism for switching and operating the imager between a barcode imaging and decoding mode for imaging and decoding barcodes positioned in proximity to the imager, and a real-time video capture mode for capturing real-time video for video surveillance purposes.

Abstract: An item contents verification system, and associated method, for use in an assembly line of carrier-totes (if used) each containing at least one of a plurality of items having a labeling. Also, a labeling for use with a computerized inspection apparatus for verification of items, and associated method.

Abstract: A system and method for data input into a data processing system. The data processing system includes a host computer and a multi-function terminal that includes a non-planer document-guidance track, only one scanner for retrieving data from a document and sending the data to a host computer for processing, and a one print module, located adjacent to the document-guidance track. The print module also includes at least one print head, where the position of the print head and/or platen may be altered to accommodate documents of different thickness, sizes, and rigidity to facilitate data retrieval of said scanner.

Abstract: A documentation product and methods for using the product to check a shipment and take responsibility for a shipment are included. The documentation product includes a transfer document that corresponds to a shipment. The transfer document includes identification of a carrier, identification of a destination, and identification of an image. The identified image depicts the shipment. The identified image can be compared with a received shipment such that discrepancies can be determined. The transfer document can also be acknowledged as corresponding to the shipment depicted at least in part by the image.

Abstract: A scanning device adapted to scan an interface surface provided on a product item, the interface surface having disposed thereon coded data indicative of an identity of the product item, the product item being provided in a sensing region, the scanning device including: a beam generator for emitting at least one beam; at least one rotating holographic optical element for selectively deflecting the beam in first and second orthogonal directions to thereby generate a raster scan pattern over a scanning patch; a sensor for sensing at least some of the coded data on the interface surface of the product item as the product item passes through the sensing region; and a processor for determining, using at least some of the sensed coded data, product identity data indicative of the identity of the product item.

Abstract: A coded image capture and decoding system includes an image capture unit and a host unit which operate to capture image data, generate a plurality of coded images, and, thereafter, to decode the plurality of coded images with a non-dedicated host processing circuitry. The system comprises an image capture unit and a host unit which may be installed together or separately in one or more physical devices. The image capture unit includes an image processor, an image buffer, an optical unit, an image buffer and an interface module. The host unit includes a host processor, conventional hardware and software functions, and an interface module. During a capture cycle, the image capture unit repeatedly captures images from a coded target. When the capture cycle is complete, the image capture unit attempts to interrupt the host unit. The host unit responds to the interrupt when it is available, receives the plurality of coded images over a communication link, and performs decode processing of the coded images.

Abstract: A packaging inspection and verification system and method are applied to products to be packaged. An identification device reads type barcodes of the products and labels affixed to packing boxes for receiving product accessories. A processing unit obtains from a database barcodes of the accessories according to the type barcodes, and determines consistency between the labels affixed to the packing boxes and the barcodes of the accessories, if not consistent, generating a signal indicating an error occurring in the product accessories. The identification device reads ID codes of the products and labels affixed to cartons for receiving the products. The processing unit obtains from another database barcodes of the products according to the ID codes, and determines consistency between the labels affixed to the cartons and the barcodes of the products, if not consistent, generating a signal indicating an error occurring in the labels affixed to the cartons.

Abstract: Image capture devices attached to a computer processor are located in a retail store. Items of merchandise for sale are tracked from their display position to a shopping container using optical tracking software. The software is capable of identifying the items and containers optically. A list of items in each container is maintained in a database. A customer may request a listing of items in a cart at any time via a query. At checkout time, there is no need to scan the items.

Abstract: Collecting a label in an item delivery system (100) comprises reading a label on a unit load when the unit load is terminated, defacing the label if the quality of the label meets a predefined quality level, depositing the label in a read bin holder if the quality of the label meets a predetermined quality level, and depositing the label in a no-read bin holder if the quality of the label does not meet a predefined quality level. The item delivery system includes a network (160) facilitating communication between an information system (110), a label collection system (120), legacy systems (130), customer systems (140), and delivery systems (150).

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for reading a color symbol, which comprises a matrix of color filters arranged in front of a detector. Light received from the filters of some colors is used to locate the color symbol, while light received from all the filters is used to read and decode the located symbol. Preferably, the filters used for locating the symbol are of the colors to which the detector is most sensitive. Preferably, the filters for locating the symbol are dominant in number.

Abstract: A system and method for obtaining selected image information from a digital image and providing that selected image information for selective handling. In one aspect, the present invention automatically locates and segments an item identifier from an image caught by a digital camera and provides image information related to the item identifier for processing. Alternatively, a user can designate what areas of an image comprise the item identifier of interest for further viewing or processing.

Abstract: Embodiments of a method, apparatus, and article of manufacture for rapidly capturing images in an automated identification system to effectively extend one dimension of a field of view of an image system are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the image system captures and processes multiple images of at least a portion of a surface of a component in the automated identification system in response to a trigger signal communicated from a triggering device configured to sense a location of the component. Various embodiments of the invention include multiple sources for capturing images, and/or multiple user-specified schemes for effectively extending the field of view of the image system along the axis of component travel in the automated identification system.

Abstract: A code reader has a predetermined guide groove and is configured to optically read an optically readable code from a predetermined side of a card type recording medium in which data is recorded as the optically readable code along the side, when the card type recording medium is abutted on the guide groove and is manually moved in a side direction along the guide groove. The code reader comprises an image input section configured to pick up an image of a moving code and process the image, and a data read section configured to read the data from the image which includes the code and is output from the image input section. A moving direction of the card type recording medium has a predetermined relation with characteristics concerning the image input section.

Abstract: An article scannable by a data capture device has an informational surface and a signature section disposed on the informational surface. The signature section has a signature area and at least two alignment bars A first alignment bar is disposed at a first end of the signature section relative to writing direction. A second alignment bar is disposed at the end of the signature section opposite the first end. The first and second alignment bars are within the signature section.

Abstract: A method and system for data input is provided. The method includes inputting data, reading a subset of a set of predefined machine-readable codes from a printed media, the printed media including thereon the set of predefined machine-readable codes and a set of human-readable indicia. Each of the set of human-readable indicia is associated with a respective one of the set of predefined machine-readable codes. Each of the set of human-readable indicia indicates a user-selectable input value. The subset of the plurality of predefined machine-readable codes consists of predefined machine-readable codes that have not been defaced. The method also includes saving as user input values the user-selectable input values indicated by the indicia that are associated with the machine-readable codes in the set of predefined machine-readable codes that have not been read.

Abstract: There is disclosed a hand-held labeler for printing and applying labels and for printing tags. The labeler has a keyboard, a display, a scanner, and a battery-containing handle. The labeler is user-friendly and compact. The labeler can be easily loaded with label and tag webs of different widths. The labeler has a discharge chute for the carrier web which can be slid to a position outside the labeler for easy cleaning.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for electronically capturing and storing paper records for accounting purposes using a mobile handheld device with an integrated digital camera or scanner. This method involves digitalizing a paper receipt with a digital camera or scanner, manually entering accounting data into a form presented on the display of a handheld device and performing a wireless transmission of the digital image of the paper record together with the entered information to a record storing system. The storing system securely stores the digital image of the record for future references and transmits manual entered record data to an accounting application using existing telecommunication or data networks.

Abstract: An optical module apparatus equipped with a latch coupler includes a carrier movable on a guiding rod. The guiding rod is coupled with a turnable check member. When the optical module apparatus is on a flat and using position, the check member may pass through a check trough to enable the carrier to move freely and linearly and reciprocally. When the optical module apparatus is mounted in an inclined manner and moved away from the using position, the check member is subject to the gravity force and turns in parallel with the direction of the gravity force, and is latched on the check trough to restrict the moving range of the carrier. Thus the optical module apparatus may be prevented from moving by external forces during transportation and avoid being damaged.