• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
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    • 专利摘要:
    A convertible slot scanner assembly for capturing at least one object appearing in a field of view (FOV) is provided comprising an imaging assembly, a controller, an image decoder, a chassis, a first window and a housing. The chassis is configured to receive the imaging assembly and includes an optical cavity, an opening, and a flange portion at least partially surrounding the opening. The first window is arranged to at least partially cover the opening of the chassis. The housing includes a housing cavity sized to at least partially receive the chassis. The housing is positionable in a first, horizontal configuration and a second, vertical configuration. In the horizontal configuration, the first window is in a generally horizontal orientation. In the vertical configuration, the first window is in a generally upright orientation.
    公开号:BE1027792B1
    申请号:E20205907
    申请日:2020-12-10
    公开日:2022-02-23
    发明作者:Mark Drzymala；Darran Michael Handshaw；Edward Barkan
    申请人:Zebra Tech；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    INDUSTRIAL DIGITAL BARCODE READER
    BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Barcode and other scanning devices generally capture images within a given field of view (FOV). Barcode readers can be provided to be used in various orientations depending on environments. For example, some barcode readers may be implemented in a generally vertical orientation for use in worksheets, kiosks, and other vertical scanning environments, and may also be used in a generally horizontal orientation for use in table or slab environments. Typically, horizontal and vertical barcode readers have different design requirements due to different fields of view. More specifically, in vertical orientations, the FOV is typically parallel to the table top (i.e., perpendicular to the front face of the barcode reader). In contrast, in the horizontal orientation, the FOV is tilted to scan barcodes on packages in different orientations. Thus, there is a need for improved accessories with improved functionalities.
    SUMMARY According to one aspect of the invention there is provided a convertible slot scanner assembly for capturing at least one image of an object appearing in a field of view, the convertible slot scanner assembly comprising an image assembly configured to fix an image frame. that appears in the FOV, as well as a controller in communication with the image assembly to control its operation, an image decoder in communication with the image assembly and the controller,
    wherein the image decoder is configured to receive the image frame and decode a barcode 1s captured in image data 1s captured by the image assembly, a chassis configured to receive the image assembly, the chassis includes an optical cavity and an opening, and a flange portion at least partially surrounding the opening, a first window configured to at least partially cover the opening of the chassis, and a housing comprising a housing cavity sized to at least partially receive the chassis, the housing being positionable in a first, horizontal configuration wherein the first window is in a generally horizontal orientation and a second, vertical configuration wherein the first window is in a generally upright orientation.
    Optionally, the convertible slot scanner assembly may further include a first adapter adapted to be coupled to the chassis when the housing is positioned in the horizontal configuration. The first adapter may further comprise a plate including a plate opening and a second window arranged to at least partially cover the plate opening. Advantageously, the first adapter may further comprise a tray adapted to engage at least one of the housing or the flange portion of the chassis, wherein the plate may be configured to engage at least one of the tray or the flange portion of the chassis. to grasp.
    Alternatively or optionally, the convertible slot scanner assembly may further include a second adapter adapted to mate with the chassis when the housing is positioned in the vertical or upright configuration. Further, the second adapter may include an outer rim adapted to engage at least one of the housing or the flange portion of the chassis.
    Advantageously, the outer edge may bulge outwardly from the first window to form a recessed area.
    Alternatively or optionally, the convertible slot scanner assembly may further comprise at least one interface element.
    Further, the at least one interface element may comprise at least one of at least one button, a lighting element, or a sound generating device. Preferably, the at least one interface element can be at least one of physically engaging, visible, or audible from an outwardly facing side of the housing. Further, the at least one interface element may comprise the sound generating device, wherein the flange portion of the chassis may further comprise at least one sound port. In addition, the at least one interface element may include the at least one button, the at least one button being engageable through the flange portion of the chassis. The at least one interface element may optionally include the lighting element, wherein the lighting element may be visible through the first window.
    Alternatively or optionally, the first window may sealingly engage the optical cavity. Furthermore, the flange portion of the chassis may comprise at least one attachment mechanism. The chassis may further comprise a mirror support element. Alternatively or optionally, the mirror support element may include a plurality of support surfaces to receive a mirror in a plurality of positions. The chassis may further include an illumination cavity spaced from the optical cavity and/or the FOV may be arranged non-perpendicular to the first window.
    In one aspect, a convertible slot scanner assembly for capturing at least one object appearing in a field of view (FOV) is provided that includes an imaging assembly, a controller, an image decoder, a chassis, a first window, and a housing. The chassis is configured to receive the imaging assembly and includes an optical cavity, an opening, and a flange portion at least partially surrounding the opening. The first window is arranged to at least partially cover the opening of the chassis. The housing includes a housing cavity that is sized to at least partially receive the chassis. The housing is positionable in a first, horizontal configuration and a second, vertical or upright configuration. In the horizontal configuration, the first window is in a generally horizontal orientation. In the vertical configuration, the first window is in a generally upright orientation.
    In some examples, the convertible slot scanner may further include a first adapter adapted to mate with the chassis when the housing is positioned in the horizontal configuration. The first adapter may be in the form of a plate comprising a plate opening and a second window arranged to at least partially cover the plate opening. In some of these examples, the first adapter may additionally include a tray. The tray is adapted to engage at least one of the housing or the flange portion of the chassis. The plate is adapted to engage at least one of the tray or the flange portion of the chassis.
    In some examples, the convertible slot scanner assembly may include a second adapter. The second adapter can be coupled to the chassis when the housing is positioned in the vertical configuration. The second adapter may include an outer rim adapted to engage at least one of the housing or the flange portion of the chassis. The outer edge may bulge outwardly from the first window to form a recessed area.
    In some forms, the convertible slot scanner assembly includes at least one interface element. The at least one interface element may comprise at least one of at least one button,
    a lighting element, or a sound generating device. The at least one interface may be at least one of physically engaging, visible, or audible from an outwardly facing side of the housing. In examples where the at least one interface element is in the form of a sound generating device, the flange portion of the chassis may further comprise at least one sound port. In examples where the interface element is in the form of at least one knob, the knob is engageable through the flange portion of the chassis. In examples where the interface element is in the form of the lighting element, the lighting element is visible through the first window.
    In some examples, the first window sealingly engages the optical cavity. In some examples, the flange portion of the chassis may include at least one mounting mechanism. Further, in some examples, the chassis may include a mirror support element. The mirror support element may include a plurality of support surfaces to receive a mirror in a plurality of positions.
    In some examples, the chassis may further include an illumination cavity positioned at a distance from the optical cavity. In some examples, the FOV may be arranged non-perpendicular to the first window.
    According to another embodiment, a convertible slot scanner assembly for capturing at least one object appearing in a field of view (FOV) is provided comprising an image assembly, a controller, an image decoder, a chassis, a first window, a housing, a first adapter, and a second adapter. The chassis is configured to receive the imaging assembly and includes an optical cavity, an opening, and a flange portion at least partially surrounding the opening. The first window is arranged to at least partially cover the opening of the chassis. The housing includes a housing cavity that is sized to at least partially receive the chassis. The housing is positionable in a first, horizontal configuration and a second, vertical configuration. In the horizontal configuration, the first window is in a generally horizontal orientation. In the vertical configuration, the first window is in a generally upright orientation. The first adapter is adapted to be coupled to the chassis when the housing is positioned in the horizontal configuration. The second adapter 1s adapted to be coupled to the chassis when the housing is positioned in the upright position.
    In these examples, the first adapter may be in the form of a plate comprising a plate opening and a second window arranged to at least partially cover the plate opening. In some of these examples, the first adapter may additionally include a tray. The tray is adapted to engage at least one of the housing or the flange portion of the chassis. The plate is adapted to engage at least one of the tray or the flange portion of the chassis. Furthermore, the second adapter can be coupled to the chassis when the housing is positioned in the vertical configuration. The second adapter may include an outer rim adapted to engage at least one of the housing or the flange portion of the chassis. The outer edge may bulge outwardly from the first window to form a recessed area.
    In some forms, the convertible slot scanner assembly includes at least one interface element. The at least one interface element may comprise at least one of at least one button, a lighting element, or a sound generating device. The at least one interface may be at least one of physically engaging, visible, or audible from an outwardly facing side of the housing. In examples where the at least one interface element is in the form of a sound generating device, the flange portion of the chassis may further comprise at least one sound port. In examples where the interface element is in the form of at least one knob, the knob is engageable through the flange portion of the chassis. In examples where the interface element is in the form of the lighting element, the lighting element is visible through the first window.
    In some examples, the first window sealingly engages the optical cavity. In some examples, the flange portion of the chassis may include at least one mounting mechanism. Further, in some examples, the chassis may include a mirror support element. The mirror support element may include a plurality of support surfaces to receive a mirror in a plurality of positions.
    In some examples, the chassis may further include an illumination cavity positioned at a distance from the optical cavity. In some examples, the FOV may be arranged non-perpendicular to the first window. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS
    OF THE DRAWINGS The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer throughout the individual views to identical or functionally similar elements, together with the detailed description below, are included in and form part of the specification, and are intended to further illustrate embodiments of concepts encompassing the claimed invention, and explain various principles and advantages of those embodiments.
    FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an industrial digital barcode reader assembly according to this disclosure.
    FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the industrial digital barcode reader assembly of FIG. 1 according to this revelation.
    FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the industrial digital barcode reader assembly of FIG. 1 and 2 coupled to a housing according to this disclosure.
    FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the industrial digital barcode reader assembly of FIG. 1-3 coupled with a first adapter according to this disclosure.
    FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side view of the industrial digital barcode reader assembly of FIG. 1-4 coupled to the first adapter according to this disclosure.
    FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional side view of the industrial digital barcode reader assembly of FIG. 1-5 illustrating the FOV according to this disclosure.
    FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the industrial digital barcode reader assembly of FIG. 1-3 coupled with a second adapter according to this disclosure.
    FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side view of the industrial digital barcode reader assembly of FIG. 7 according to this revelation.
    FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of the industrial digital barcode reader assembly of FIG. 7 and 8 illustrating the FOV according to this disclosure.
    FIG. 10 is a front view of part of the industrial digital barcode reader assembly of FIG. 1-9 according to this revelation.
    FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional side view of the industrial digital barcode reader assembly of FIG. 1-10 with an offset lighting system according to this disclosure.
    FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side view of an alternative industrial digital barcode reader assembly in a vertical orientation according to this disclosure.
    FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional side view of the alternative industrial digital barcode reader assembly of FIG. 12 in a horizontal orientation according to this disclosure.
    FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional side view of the alternative industrial digital barcode reader assembly of FIG. 12 and 13 according to this revelation.
    FIG. 15 is a detail perspective view of a portion of the chassis of the industrial digital barcode reader assemblies of FIG. 1-14 according to this revelation.
    Those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of elements of the present invention.
    The apparatus and method components are represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details which will become readily apparent. are to those skilled in the art with the benefit of the disclosure herein.
    DETAILED DESCRIPTION Referring to the figures, reference numeral 10 generally identifies a convertible slot scanner assembly for capturing at least one image of an object appearing in a field of view (FOV). The convertible slot scanner assembly 10 includes a printed circuit board 11, an image assembly 12, a controller 16, an image decoder 20, a chassis 30, a first window 50, and a housing 60.
    The chassis 30 is configured to receive all optomechanics such as the imaging assembly 12, the controller 16, and the image decoder 20, and includes an optical cavity 32, an opening 34, a flange 36 that at least partially surrounds the opening 34, and a mirror support surface 40. The flange 36 may act as a seal to seal the entire periphery of the housing 60 . The system 10 may include a sealing element such as a gasket (not illustrated) to further seal the housing 60 and to create a dust seal and/or an electrostatic discharge seal. The chassis 30 may be constructed from any number of suitable materials such as, for example, metals and/or polymers. In particular, by using the chassis 30 to mount the optomechanics separately from the housing 60, the assembly 10 can be used in kiosk applications where the assembly 10 does not require the additional housing, thereby reducing costs.
    In the illustrated example, the opening 34 further defines a support ledge or recess 35. Further, the flange 36 may include any number of mounting features 37 (e.g., holes) to accommodate mounting of the chassis 30 as in further detail below. will be described.
    The optical cavity 32 is a generally concave region that allows light to pass through the imaging assembly 12 . The chassis 30 includes a mounting portion 38 (e.g., a generally flat surface) that receives the printed circuit board 11 by securing the printed circuit board 11 thereto by any number of suitable approaches. The image assembly 12, the controller 16, and the image decoder 20 can each be operatively coupled to the printed circuit board 11 through any number of suitable approaches. The image assembly 12 is configured to capture an image frame that appears in a FOV and may include any number of image sensors 14 . The image sensor 14 has a plurality of light-sensitive elements. The decoder 20 is operatively coupled to the imaging assembly 12 and is configured to decode a barcode captured by the imaging assembly 12 in an image. In some examples, only the image assembly 12 is operatively coupled to the decoder 20 and is used to process the images for feature decoding.
    With reference to FIG. 12-14, the FOV is arranged in a downward tilted orientation. Such an orientation allows the horizontal scanner to capture vertical barcodes passed along it from the feed side of the scanner. Slightly tilting the FOV allows a FOV that is high enough for the vertical scanner to still read barcodes located high on items being passed. In these examples, an FOV size of approximately 57°x36° using a 1920x200 (2MP) sensor, and an internal path length of approximately 3.92” should provide the desired resolution. This FOV results in an approximate 2.7” high x 4” wide at the front of the scanner.
    A FOV tilt of approximately 14° downward is sufficient to read as little as approximately 9 mils at approximately 3" for a perpendicular barcode, approximately 6.9 mils at approximately 3" when the code is slightly (eg. 10°) is tilted toward the scanner, approximately 6.7 mils approximately 1” for a perpendicular barcode and approximately 5 mils approximately 1” when the barcode is slightly tilted toward the scanner (e.g., approximately 10° ). This ensures that the horizontal slot scanner can adequately read approximately 40% UPC barcodes that are nearly vertical from approximately 0-1” and still have a high enough FOV for the vertical slot scanner (approximately 4.3” from the work surface). 5” from the scanner face) so it can compete well with the competition and even outperform on perpendicular codes.
    In these examples, the off-axis illumination system 94 also has full coverage at the plane of the scanner up to approximately 5" from the plane, with a baffle 94a in between the two systems to suppress internal reflections. The central axis of the lighting system 94 is canted forward by approximately 38° and can provide approximately 62° of vertical coverage to achieve full FOV coverage between the nose and approximately 5". In other approaches, the same FOV and folded mirror path can be used for both vertical and horizontal configurations. For example, the image sensor 14 can generate a 48°x36° FOV format using a 1280x960 sensor, and an internal path length of approximately 3.85" can be used to achieve resolution requirements. This FOV can result in an area 2.5” high x 3.5” wide near the front of the scanner assembly 10.
    The window 50 is generally supported by the chassis 30 and is arranged to allow light to pass between a product scanning area and the cavity 32 of the chassis 30. More specifically, in the illustrated example, the window 50 is arranged to rest on the ledge. or recess 35 of the chassis 30 to be positioned. In other examples, the window 50 may simply be configured to at least partially cover the opening 34 of the chassis 30 by any number of suitable approaches. In the illustrated examples, the window 50 is arranged to be generally flush with the flange 36 when placed within (or covering) the opening 34 of the chassis. Accordingly, the assembly 10 can be used in kiosk applications that do not include a recessed window that can accumulate material.
    With reference to FIG. 3, the housing 60 may include a housing cavity sized to at least partially receive the chassis 30. The housing may be approximately 5.4” high by approximately 6.0” wide. The housing 60 further includes an outer surface 64 which, in some examples, may have a generally tapered profile when viewed from the first end 64a to the second end 64b thereof. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the first end 64a of the housing includes a lip 66 which may be generally flush with the flange 36 and window 50 when the chassis 30 is positioned therein.
    The housing 60 is positionable in a first, horizontal configuration (FIG. 4-6) where the first window 50 is in a generally horizontal orientation and a second, vertical or upright configuration (FIG. 7-9) where the first window 50 is in a generally vertical orientation. More specifically, the housing 60 may be operably coupled to first and second adapters 70, 84, respectively, for selectively positioning the lock scanner assembly 10 in horizontal and vertical configurations. In horizontal configurations, the lock scanner assembly 10 may be located within a worktop where the scanner assembly 10 may be part of a conveyor or like checkout environment. In vertical configurations, the lock scanner assembly 10 can be used in kiosks, or desktop environments.
    With reference to FIG. 4-6, the first adapter 70 is used to position the lock scanner assembly 10 in the horizontal configuration, and includes a plate 72 including a plate opening 74 and a second window 52. In some examples, the first adapter 70 may additionally include a tray 78 . As with the chassis 30, the plate opening 74 further defines a support ledge or recess 75. The plate 72 may be supported by the housing 60 (e.g., the lip 66), the flange 36 of the chassis 30, and/or the tray 78. In some examples, plate 72 may simply rest on top of housing 60, and in other examples, plate 72 may be operatively coupled thereto. In either of these examples, the plate 72 may be removable from the assembly 10 for cleaning and/or inspection purposes while the housing 60 may be held in the horizontal position. In some examples, the plate 72 may be keyed so that it detects engagement with the assembly.
    The second window 52 is generally supported by the plate 72 and is arranged to allow light to pass through the product scanning area, the second window 52, the first window 50, and the cavity 32 of the chassis 30 into. The second window 52 may be constructed of a harder material than the first window 50 such as, for example, sapphire and/or a glass with a diamond-like carbon coating capable of resisting scratch or abrasion damage when articles (e.g., products) are slid therealong. during the article scanning process. In some examples, the second window 52 may have a smaller area than the first window 50. More specifically, the first window 50 may have a larger area to support a larger field of view for the vertical and kiosk embodiments, while the second window 52 has a smaller area. may have to trim or reduce the size of the FOV because the harder materials such as sapphire may be more expensive, and such a reduced surface area may lower costs.
    In the illustrated example, the second window 52 is arranged to be positioned on the ledge or recess 75 of the plate 72 . In other examples, the second window 52 may be arranged to at least partially cover the opening 74 of the plate 72 by any number of suitable approaches. In the illustrated examples, the second window 52 is arranged to be generally flush with the plate 72 when placed within (or covering) the opening 74 of the location 72 . Accordingly, articles one wishes to scan can slide over these surfaces without being bumped or otherwise jostled. The plate 72 may further include a direction indicator 73 to provide a user with a visual indication of the scanning direction.
    In some examples, the tray 78 has a tray cavity sized to at least partially receive the housing 60. In the illustrated example, the tray 78 includes a flange 80 which rests on the tray 8. Accordingly, the tray 8 is configured to support the weight of the tray 78 as well as any components placed therein. The tray 78 may further include any number of centering arms 82 extending into the tray cavity. Bin 78 can be sized to fit standard 6”x6” horizontal mini slot scanner worktop openings. The centering arms 82 can be used to center the housing 60 within the bin cavity due to the smaller size of the housing (e.g., approximately 5.4"x6"). Accordingly, the centering arms 82 can be used to hold smaller scanning assemblies. In some examples, the centering arms 82 may be constructed of a resilient and/or flexible material to allow different housings to be placed within the tray cavity. Other examples are possible. In other examples, the tray 78 may be arranged to engage and couple the flange 36 of the chassis 30 thereto.
    With reference to FIG. 7-9, the second adapter 84 is used to position the lock scanner assembly 10 in the vertical configuration, and includes an outer rim 86 or ring member. The outer edge 86 is adapted to engage at least one of the housing 60 or the flange 36 of the chassis 30 . In some examples, the outer edge 86 may include projections (not illustrated) insertable into the mounting features 37 formed on the flange 36 of the chassis 30 . As a result, the outer edge 86 can, in the illustrated example, be snapped onto the chassis 30 and hold the first window 50, and bulge outwardly from the first window 50 to form a recessed area 87 .
    As noted previously, the scan assembly 10 may also be used in kiosk environments. By removing the outer rim 86 and/or the housing 60, the attachment features 37 can be used to secure to a kiosk housing (not illustrated). In these examples, the first window 50 may be generally parallel to the kiosk housing to provide a wide FOV. By removing these components, the assembly 10 is less expensive and will take up less space within the kiosk.
    Thus configured, the scanner assembly 10 can be easily convertible for use in horizontal or vertical environments. With reference to FIG. 6 and 9, the same FOV and folded mirror path can be used for both vertical and horizontal configurations. For example, the image sensor 14 can generate an FOV format of approximately 48°x36° using a 1280x960 sensor, and an internal path length of approximately 3.85" can be used to achieve resolution requirements. This FOV can result in an area approximately 2.5" high x 3.5" wide at the front of the scanner assembly 10.
    The scanner assembly 10 may include any number of additional components to assist in its operation. For example, the scanner assembly 10 may include any number of interface elements 90 with which a user may interact. The interface element 90 may be in the form of a button or buttons 92, a lighting element or elements 94, a sound generating device 96 (e.g., a speaker or beeper), and the like. Other examples are possible. In a general sense, the interface elements 90 may be positioned at or near the flange 36 and/or a portion of the housing 60 .
    More specifically, with reference to FIG. 4, 7 and 15, the interface elements 90 may be engageable, visible, or audible from an outwardly facing side of the housing.
    For example, the button or buttons 92 may be positioned along the flange 36 of the chassis 30 and may be physically engaged through the first adapter 70 and the second adapter 84. The buttons 92 may be in the form of physical buttons or capacitive buttons.
    In cases where physical buttons are used, the first and second adapters 70, 84, and more specifically the plate 72 and the outer rim 86, may include openings 72a, 86a through which the button or buttons 92 may protrude to be engaged by a user.
    In examples where capacitive buttons are used, the first and second adapters 70, 84 may include an indicator (not illustrated) for where the user must press to engage the button 92 .
    In some horizontal implementations, it may be desirable to position the buttons 92 below the plate 72 to prevent a user from inadvertently pressing the button 92.
    Accordingly, the plate 72 may include a hollow cavity to receive any such knob 92 .
    The lighting element 94 may be in the form of an indicator light pipe.
    The indicator light pipe 94 may be positioned near and operatively coupled to the printed circuit board 11 and may be illuminated through the opening 34 of the chassis 30. In these examples, the indicator light pipe 94 may be visible through the first window 50 and the second window 52 when the scanning assembly 10 is used in the horizontal configuration.
    The sound generating device 96 may be positioned adjacent to and operatively coupled to the printed circuit board 11 and may be mounted to the flange 36 of the chassis 30 .
    As illustrated in FIG. 15, the flange 36 may include any number of speaker ports 36a to allow sound to travel through the flange 36 .
    Likewise, the plate 72 and the outer edge 86 may include openings 72b, 86b that allow the sound emitted from the sound generating device 96 to pass therethrough.
    With reference to FIG. 10, in some examples it may be desirable to have different FOVs for the display systems for horizontal and vertical units. In such examples, the chassis 30 may be constructed to accept different mirror angles. For example, in horizontal environments it may be desirable to have a FOV that is tilted further to better scan perpendicular codes passed along the plate 72 . In such examples, the chassis 30 may include an additional mounting surface 40a recessed into the mirror support surface 40 at the other angle. In these examples, the mirror may be attached to the additional mounting surface 40a by any number of suitable approaches such as, for example, a pad using double sided tape to avoid collision with the mounting surface 40 . In other examples, the chassis 30 may support a mirror holder (not illustrated) on a rotatable member (not illustrated). The mirror holder may be movable to a desired position by the user by engaging a switch or knob for adjustment. In other examples, a separate chassis (not illustrated) can be used that includes a different FOV angle. With reference to FIG. 11, the lighting element 94 may also be offset and may include a separate lighting compartment 95 from the chassis 30 which is used to provide separation between the lighting element and the display assembly 12. The offset lighting compartment 95 may advantageously allow the use of a parallel window 50 is flush or nearly flush with the first end 64a of the outer surface 64 of the housing 60, allowing the scanning assembly 10 to be used in horizontal and kiosk configurations.
    In some examples, a 10.6° FOV tilt down from a vertical axis may be enough to read as little as 11.7 mils at 3” for a perpendicular barcode, 8 mils at 3” when the barcode is facing the scanner is tilted (e.g. approximately 15°), and 8.7 mils by 1” for a perpendicular barcode. This ensures that the horizontal slot scanner can read 60% UPC and lower densities and still have a high enough FOV for the vertical slot scanner.
    In these and other examples, illumination can be achieved in a number of ways: by using a lens in front of the LED to spread the light evenly, or by tilting an individual lighting PCB at the above angle. In some examples, the LED may have an intensity of 70% over the required 60°.
    Thus configured, the scanning assembly 10 can be less expensive due to the use of shared parts and can be easily functionally adaptable as needed. By using a single scanner assembly for multiple orientations, an overall number of product configurations can be reduced. The scanning assembly can be easily implemented in kiosks and self-scan checkouts, and can be easily reused in stores even if they wish to change the type of scanner they use. Furthermore, by using a split window for both configurations, the scanner assembly is more easily convertible and will maintain the seal to the optical cavity even if the configuration is swapped. The split window is the only window for vertical orientations, and is held by the leading edge (which may be clicked). The split window becomes the inner window when the scanner assembly is used in the horizontal configuration.
    Still further, the user interface elements are usable in any configuration. Placing the indicator light pipe behind the first window ensures visibility regardless of the scanner assembly configuration. By making all interface elements accessible from the front face of the convertible unit, they can be accessed in any orientation thereof. In addition, stores stocking spare electronic equipment to replace decommissioned units will no longer have to keep as many spare parts available if they use more than one type of lock scanner in their retail environment.
    In the context of this specification, it is noted that the wording vertical, substantially vertical, and upright are interchangeable and are equivalent to each other. Specific embodiments have been described in the foregoing specification. However, those skilled in the art understand that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be considered in a more illustrative than restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of present teachings. In addition, the described embodiments/examples/implements are not to be interpreted as mutually exclusive, and are instead to be understood as potentially combinable if such combinations are permissible in any way. In other words, any feature disclosed in any of the aforementioned embodiments/examples/implements may be included in any of the other aforementioned embodiments/examples/implements.
    The benefits, benefits, solutions to problems, and any element(s) that can make any benefit, benefit, or solution happen or become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical. , requirement, or essential features or elements of any or all of the claims. The invention is defined only by the appended claims including any modifications made while this application is pending and all equivalents of those claims as granted. For the sake of clarity and concise description, features are described herein as part of the same or separate embodiments, however, it will be understood that the scope of the invention may include embodiments having combinations of all or some of the features described. It will be understood that the embodiments shown have the same or similar components, except where they are described as being different.
    In addition, relational terms such as first and second, above and below, and the like may be used throughout this document only to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring any actual such relationship or sequence between such entities or actions or to imply. The terms “includes”, “comprising”, “has, “with”, “contains”, “contains”, “holds”, “holding” or any other variation thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article or device that includes, has, contains, holds, includes not only those elements but may include other elements not expressly stated or inherent in such process, method, article or device . An element prefixed with "comprises ...a", "has a", "contains ...a", "holds ...a" does not exclude, without further limitation, the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article or device that the element includes, has, contains, keeps. The term “one” is defined as one or more unless expressly stated otherwise herein. The terms "substantially", "substantially", "approximately", "approximately" or any other version thereof are defined as being approximately as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting embodiment the term is defined as being within 10%, in another embodiment within 5%, in another embodiment within 1% and in another embodiment within 0.5%. The term "linked" as used herein is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly and not necessarily mechanically. A device or structure that is "arranged" or "configured" in some way is arranged or configured in at least that way, but may also be arranged or configured in ways not mentioned.
    It should be understood that some embodiments may include one or more generic or specialized processors (or "processing devices") such as microprocessors, digital signal processors, custom processors, and field programmable gate arrays (FPGASs) and unique stored program instructions (including both software as firmware) controlling the one or more processors to implement, in conjunction with certain non-processor circuitry, some, most, or all of the functions of the method and/or apparatus described herein. Alternatively, some or all of the functions could be implemented by a state machine that has no stored program instructions, or in one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICS), in which each function or some combinations of certain of the functions are implemented as custom logic . Of course, a combination of the two approaches could be used.
    In addition, an embodiment may be implemented as a computer readable storage medium having stored thereon computer readable code for programming a computer (e.g., comprising a processor) to perform a method as described and claimed herein. Examples of such computer readable storage media include, but are not limited to, a hard disk, a CD-ROM, an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory), an EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and a Flash memory. It is further expected that, despite potentially significant effort and many design choices motivated by, for example, time available, current technology, and economic considerations, when guided by the concepts and principles disclosed herein, it is anticipated that such software instructions will and generate programs and ICs with minimal experimentation.
    The Excerpt of the Revelation is provided to enable the reader to quickly determine the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it shall not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, it can be seen from the foregoing Detailed Description that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than those expressly stated in each claim. On the contrary, as the following claims reflect, inventive matter resides in less than all the features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing alone as a separately claimed subject matter. The mere fact that certain measures are mentioned in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Many variants will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All variants are considered to be included within the scope of the invention which is defined in the following claims.
    权利要求:
    Claims (19)
    [1]
    A convertible slot scanner assembly for capturing at least one image of an object appearing in a field of view (FOV), the convertible slot scanner assembly comprising: an image assembly configured to capture an image frame appearing in the FOV; a controller in communication with the imaging assembly to control its operation; an image decoder in communication with the image assembly and the controller, the image decoder adapted to receive the image frame and decode a barcode captured in image data captured by the image assembly; a chassis configured to receive the imaging assembly, the chassis including an optical cavity, an opening, and a flange portion at least partially surrounding the opening; a first window adapted to at least partially cover the opening of the chassis; and a housing comprising a housing cavity sized to at least partially receive the chassis; wherein the housing is positionable in a first horizontal configuration whereby the first window is in a generally horizontal orientation and a second vertical configuration whereby the first window is in a generally upright orientation.
    [2]
    The convertible slot scanner assembly of claim 1, further comprising a first adapter adapted to be coupled to the chassis when the housing is positioned in the horizontal configuration.
    [3]
    The convertible slot scanner assembly of claim 2, wherein the first adapter comprises: a plate including a plate opening; and a second window configured to at least partially cover the plate opening.
    [4]
    The convertible slot scanner assembly according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first adapter further comprises a tray adapted to engage at least one of the housing or the flange portion of the chassis, the plate being adapted to engage at least one of the bucket or the flange portion of the chassis.
    [5]
    The convertible slot scanner assembly of any preceding claim, further comprising a second adapter adapted to be coupled to the chassis when the housing is positioned in the vertical configuration.
    [6]
    The convertible slot scanner assembly of claim 5, wherein the second adapter includes an outer edge adapted to engage at least one of the housing or the flange portion of the chassis.
    [7]
    The convertible slot scanner assembly of claim 6, wherein the outer edge bulges outwardly from the first window to form a recessed area.
    [8]
    The convertible slot scanner assembly of any preceding claim, further comprising at least one interface element.
    [9]
    The convertible lock scanner assembly of claim 8, wherein the at least one interface element comprises at least one of at least one button, a lighting element, or a sound generating device.
    [10]
    The convertible lock scanner assembly of claim 8 or 9, wherein the at least one interface element is at least one of physically engaging, visible, or audible from an outwardly facing side of the housing.
    [11]
    The convertible slot scanner assembly of claim 8, 9 or 10, wherein the at least one interface element comprises the sound generating device, the flange portion of the chassis further comprising at least one sound port.
    [12]
    The convertible lock scanner assembly of any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the at least one interface element comprises the at least one button, the at least one button being engageable through the flange portion of the chassis.
    [13]
    The convertible lock scanner assembly of any of claims 8 to 12, wherein the at least one interface element comprises the illumination element, the illumination element being visible through the first window.
    [14]
    The convertible slot scanner assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the first window sealingly engages the optical cavity.
    [15]
    The convertible lock scanner assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the flange portion of the chassis includes at least one mounting mechanism.
    [16]
    The convertible slot scanner assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the chassis further comprises a mirror support member.
    [17]
    The convertible lock scanner assembly of claim 16, wherein the mirror support member comprises a plurality of support surfaces to receive a mirror in a plurality of positions.
    [18]
    The convertible slot scanner assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the chassis further comprises an illumination cavity positioned at a distance from the optical cavity.
    [19]
    The convertible slot scanner assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the FOV is arranged non-perpendicular to the first window.
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    GB2592108A|2021-08-18|
    BE1027792A1|2021-06-17|
    US20210182514A1|2021-06-17|
    GB202019442D0|2021-01-27|
    DE102020132899A1|2021-06-17|
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    法律状态:
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US16/713,252|US20210182514A1|2019-12-13|2019-12-13|Industrial digital barcode reader|
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