JP3698788B2 - Optical system and optical pointer module - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a portable optical scanner for reading marks having various light reflectivities, and more particularly to a scanner that can be worn by a human. Furthermore, the invention relates to an optical scanning device in which an optical module for generating and emitting a light beam is physically separated from the detection module. The present invention also relates to a laser pointer that can be worn on an operator's finger.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, various optical readers and optical scanning systems have been developed for reading marks such as bar code symbols on labels and articles. The symbol itself is, for example, a coded pattern of marks composed of bars of various sizes and spaced apart from each other and spaces between them. The bar and the space have different light reflection characteristics. The reader in the scanning system transfers the opto-electrical graphical mark into an electrical signal that is decoded into alphanumeric characters that may represent the description of the article and its characteristics. Such characteristics are generally expressed in digital form, and are used for input to a data processing system for POS applications, logistics management, and the like. This general type of scanning system is described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,896,026. As disclosed in some of the above patents, one embodiment of such a scanning system includes an operator capable of aiming a scanning head of the device, particularly a light beam, on a symbol that is a target to be read. In particular, a portable scanning device that can be gripped by the hand of the user is included.
[0003]
Such prior art handheld devices typically contain a light receiving module that receives light reflected from the bar code symbol and determines the continuity of the bars and spaces in the symbol from the reflected pattern. The unit may also include a decoding circuit for decoding received information and recovering unclear data (eg, alphanumeric data) represented by a bar code symbol.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
The light generation and emission module may be inconvenient in some circumstances to house the light receiving module and the decoding circuit in the same unit. First, placing all modules in the main housing means that at least most or more of the reflected light returning to the unit along the same optical path as the emitted light is placed on the barcode to be read. It must be. The operator does not always prefer an arrangement for reading such a bar code and / or a bar code along the same optical path as the light reflected back path. Second, placing all modules in the same unit means that the unit must be physically larger and relatively heavy. The operator should be aware that it is not easy to operate such a device for a long time.
[0005]
For the purpose of giving instructions at conferences, seminars, etc., it is common to provide a small handheld unit on the laser pointer that can be used by the operator. In lectures, it is also possible to use the method of showing the part to be emphasized to the audience with a visible spot of the laser beam on the screen in combination with a conventionally used pointer. However, although modern laser pointers are relatively small and portable, it goes without saying that they need to be held in the hands of the instructor. Therefore, the hand that the instructor grabbed it usually lowered the laser pointer whenever the instructor wanted to do something else (for example, to turn a notebook page or perform an OHP operation). Subject to restrictions such as
[0006]
The general object of the present invention is to solve the problems in the prior art, at least some of them.
Another object is to improve the ergonomics of the portable optical scanning system so that the operator can operate it easily for a long time.
Yet another object is to reduce the weight of a portable optical scanning system that can be grasped by an operator's hand or attached to the operator's body.
[0007]
Yet another object is to provide a laser pointer that allows the instructor to use the instructor's hand more freely without having to put down or pick up the laser pointer.
Another object is to provide a laser pointer that can be used conveniently.
Yet another object is to provide a laser pointer that can optically use certain parts of a portable scanning system.
[0008]
Additional objects, advantages, and novel features of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from practice of the invention and this disclosure, including the following detailed description. In the following, the present invention is described with reference to preferred embodiments, but it should be understood that the present invention is not limited thereby. Those skilled in the art who have access to the teachings herein will be within the scope of the invention disclosed and claimed herein for other applications, modifications, and variations in other fields in which the invention may be very useful. Embodiments will be recognized.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
According to a first aspect of the present invention, in an optical system for reading marks having different light reflectivities, an optical module having a light emitter for generating and emitting a light beam for illuminating the mark to be read. And a first peripheral module that is separately housed separately from the optical module and has a light detection device for generating an electrical signal corresponding to the detected reflected light.
[0010]
The optical system may be a scanning system that scans a mark to be read by a light beam. It does not necessarily have to be. Also, the light beam may simply be illuminated. However, in this case, it is preferable that the light detection device is a CCD detection device.
In a preferred embodiment, the optical module incorporates or forms a ring on the operator's index finger that is desired to fit in the appropriate direction. In some embodiments, an automatic scanning mechanism may be installed in the module so that even if the module is fixed, the emitted beam can be moved over the mark or automatically scanned (two-dimensional or one-dimensional scanning). It may be built in. However, in other embodiments, no automatic scanning mechanism is provided. Thus, the emitted light beam appears in a fixed direction from the module. In these embodiments, the operator typically moves the module by hand to scan over the marks from which the beam can be read by moving the arm back and forth or twisting the wrist.
[0011]
Switching means for operating the optical module may be provided. Preferably, these are switches or buttons attached to or formed on a ring or a housing that connects to the ring so that the operator can operate the device by simply pressing the button with a thumb. It may be configured. This is particularly convenient when the module is arranged to be worn on the index finger. Further, a pull cord connected to the second ring may be provided, and may be arranged to be attached to the index finger of the same hand as the finger on which the optical module of the operator is attached. With the appropriate movement of the finger, the cord is pulled out, for example by bending the second finger, so that the device is scanned.
[0012]
The first peripheral module may contain radio frequency communication means that allow communication between the module and a fixed base unit or a second peripheral module (there are several embodiments). In some devices, the second peripheral module is preferably attached to the other arm of the operator. The second peripheral module also allows communication between the second module and the first module and between the second module and the fixed base unit (preferably at different frequencies). Radio frequency communication means may be incorporated.
[0013]
The optical module, the first peripheral module, and the second peripheral module are all successfully operated by the portable battery. Desirably, the associated portable battery can be placed in a corresponding housing.
Further, in the embodiment, the optical module may be adapted to be held by an operator's hand, and may be a handgun type or a pen type. The optical module may also be mounted on a tabletop.
[0014]
According to a second aspect of the present invention, in an optical system for reading a mark having portions of different light reflectivity, a light beam that illuminates the mark is generated, and a variable intensity reflected from the mark. A light emitter for creating reflected light; and a light detector for detecting the reflected light and generating an electrical signal representing the intensity of the reflected light, wherein the light emitter has a light beam of the operator. A housing adapted to be mounted on the finger at a position oriented in a naturally pointing direction of one finger, the light detector being operated at different positions spaced from the light emitter; An optical system is provided having a housing adapted to be worn by a person.
[0015]
A stand or container may be provided to receive the first peripheral module and / or the second peripheral module when the first and second peripheral modules are not in use. In a preferred form, this may constitute a box (similar to a jewelry box) having a first peripheral unit in the shape of a watch and a recess for receiving a second peripheral unit in the form of a ring. . The stand / container may include electrical contacts. The electrical contacts are disposed in contact with corresponding contacts of the first peripheral module and / or the second peripheral module. As a result, one or both of the modules can be recharged when the system is not in use. To ensure safety, the box may have a lid or a key.
[0016]
When the first peripheral module includes a data storage device, a contact for reading data may be provided on the stand. As a result, data can be downloaded to a computer automatically or when requested.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, a ring adapted to be worn on one finger of an operator, a housing attached to said ring, and arranged to generate and emit a light beam Having a light emitter in a housing and pointing with said finger
Thus, the operator provides an optical pointer module that directs the light beam. The laser pointer preferably incorporates a trigger mechanism such as the button mechanism or code mechanism described above.
[0017]
In order to enhance the visible effect of the light beam, the light emitting means preferably comprises a visible laser diode (VLD). The output passes through the parallel optical system. Electronic control means for maintaining the laser output at a predetermined level may be provided.
A battery is preferably provided in the housing.
[0018]
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an optical pointer module that selectively scans the light beam, a portable housing, a light emitter in the housing arranged to generate a light beam, and the light beam. And a second position at which the scanning element is actuated so that the module emits a scanning beam, and is operable by an operator. An optical pointer module including a switch is provided.
[0019]
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in an optical system adapted to be worn on an operator's body, an optical module having a light emitter for generating and emitting a light beam; and An optical system is provided that is connected and adapted to be worn around a part of the operator's body, and includes a band containing a battery for powering the module.
[0020]
The present invention may be implemented in various ways. And some special embodiments will now be described with reference figures through examples.
[0021]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 shows a portable optical scanning system corresponding to the first embodiment of the present invention. The optical scanning module 1 is detachably attached to one finger of the operator 3 using a ring-shaped fixture. The removable attachment device may be any conventional model suitably adapted to be easily used for the desired application. For example, light bulbs, flexible socket fixtures, and slide fixtures can be used. Other fixtures may also be used with the movement limiting member.
[0022]
In addition to the optical scanning module 1, the operator 3 wears the first peripheral module 7 on his arm and the second peripheral module 9 on another arm. As can be seen from the figure, the scanning module 1 emits a scanning laser beam 10 directed towards a bar code symbol 13 which is read by the operator. The bar code symbol 13 is printed or otherwise affixed to the article 11 that the operator 3 desires to obtain for logistics or sales purposes, for example. Scanning beam 10 is reflected from bar code symbol 13. Then, the reflected light 12 is detected by the first peripheral module 7.
[0023]
FIG. 2 shows a variation of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with respect to the reflected light 12 returning from the bar code symbol 13 detected by the peripheral module 7 ′ connected to the operator's clothing. In the variant, a peripheral module is shown which includes a detection device fastened to the chest pocket or shirt of the operator's shirt. Of course, other methods (not shown) in which the peripheral module 7 'is connected or formed to other parts of the clothing are also envisaged.
[0024]
FIG. 3 shows an outline of the internal functions of the scanning module 1 and the first peripheral module 7. The module 1 contains a device for generating and scanning the light beam 10. A visible laser diode (VLD) 1a having a VLD driver 1b is also preferably incorporated. Scanning of the beam 10 is accomplished by a scanning element 1c and a scanning element driver 1d. Electric power is supplied by a small battery 1e.
[0025]
The first peripheral module 7 includes a photodetector 7e and a receiving circuit 7d arranged together for detecting the returning light beam 12. The output from the receiving circuit passes through a decoder 7a that decodes alphanumeric information represented by the bar code symbol 13. The first peripheral module may also include a display 7c along with a keyboard and / or other possible functions 7g such as, for example, a time display. As a result, the module 7 is also used as a normal watch when it is not used as part of an optical scanning system. A radio frequency (RF) or other wireless transmitter 7b forms a unit with a battery pack 7f or other power source.
[0026]
In use, the decoded information emanating from the decoder 7a is passed by a wireless link from the decoder 7b to the second peripheral module 9 located on the other arm or wrist of the operator. Further, the radio transmitter 7b can be a transmitter capable of receiving a signal from the second peripheral module 9 or the separation base station 15.
[0027]
The second peripheral module 9 incorporates a radio receiver 9a and a radio transmitter 9b for communication of the first module 7 and / or the base unit 15. In general, the corresponding transmission frequencies are distinguished. The second peripheral module 9 further includes a digital processing circuit 9c that converts the transmitted analog signal into a digital signal and decodes the signal by a conventional method. If the decoding is successful, the light indicator, acoustic warning device or acoustic transducer 9d sends a signal to the operator. In addition, such a warning can be provided by information displayed on the display unit 9e. The memory storage device 9h is preferably included for temporary storage of the decoded data. A keyboard 9f and / or a touch screen may be used for data entry into the system. A battery 9j is provided to supply power to the second peripheral module. Alternatively or additionally, it can also be supplied via an extension cord 17 from a separate power source 19 connected to the operator's body, for example as shown on the belt 21.
[0028]
Depending on the preference of the operator, the second peripheral module is mounted on the wrist, like the right hand or a clock (actually, it can also function as a clock), and the optical scanning module 1 and the first peripheral module are mounted on the left hand. You can also. As in other embodiments (not shown), the second peripheral module 9 is not built in the first peripheral module 7, but all the functions of the unit can be used. Of course, a larger first peripheral module may be made than shown in the figure.
[0029]
In the apparatus shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, there is no cable or other physical connection between the optical scanning module 1 and either the first peripheral module or the second peripheral module. It is noted that there is. This improves the wearability of the system and reduces resistance to the operator. Also, the inside of the wire is probably more secure because the operator is less likely to get caught when moving around trying different jobs with the device shown.
[0030]
In a variation of the embodiment described above, the scanning element 1c and the scanning driver 1d may be removed from the optical scanning module 1 so that the beam 10 is a substantially fixed beam. By wearing such a device, the operator physically moves the hands and arms. As a result, the beam 10 is manually scanned over the bar code symbol 13. Such an apparatus has the advantage that the size and weight of the module 1 can be reduced. In addition to not having to scan mechanically or electrically, there is a possibility that the size of the battery 1e can be actually reduced. A suitable module for use is shown in FIG. 5, along with this variant, the details of which are described below.
[0031]
FIG. 4 shows an outline of the second embodiment of the second invention. In this embodiment, the light 12 reflected from the bar code symbol 13 is detected by a fixed bank of separation detection units 70 of the light detection device 72 looking down on the surface of the article 11 so as to detect the reflected light. The detector unit can be attached to a stand 74 located adjacent to the conveyor 76 along the passage of the item 11. Alternatively, the detector unit 70 can be attached to or connected to a cash register or attached to the ceiling. Moreover, you may suspend from a ceiling with a cable similarly to suspending a lamp. Furthermore, it can also be mounted in a tunnel around the periphery, at least partially around the conveyor.
[0032]
In this embodiment, the optical scanning module 1 is preferably the same as the scanning module shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 with or without the scanning element 1c and the scanning element driver 1d. If they are not provided in the module, the operator must manually scan the bar code symbol on which the beam 10 is read. Alternatively, a handheld pointer or handheld scanner (not shown) can be used. However, in each case, the detection device is fixedly attached to the scanning plane.
[0033]
In these cases, the optical scanning module 1 does not incorporate a beam scanning mechanism. The module 1 effectively becomes a laser pointer attached in a ring shape. As previously mentioned, such pointers may be used for scanning applications with simple beam manual scanning over the mark to be read and also operate a separate detection device that detects the reflected beam It may be provided by being fixedly attached to a person's body or connected. However, this type of laser pointer is not limited by scanning applications as can be seen from FIG. The laser pointer may be used for all public presentations such as lectures, seminars, and conferences.
[0034]
FIG. 6 shows a reference example showing a preferable function of the laser pointer. The embodiment shown in FIG. 6 is equally applicable to both FIG. 5 and the applications of FIGS.
The laser pointer 1 includes a ring or shank portion 102 adapted to be worn on an operator's finger connected to the housing upper portion 100. Within the housing is a visible laser diode (VLD) or battery 103 that supplies power to another power source 108. The VLD is attached to a metal holder / heat sink 106. The light generated from the VLD passes through the optical system 110 having a plurality of lenses, and is output through the exit window 112. The optical system preferably provides a collimated beam, at least a collimated beam. An electronic circuit 113 is provided which maintains the laser output at a predetermined level and operates as a trigger mechanism.
[0035]
On one side of the ring 102, a trigger button 104 that can be operated with the thumb of the operator is provided. In this way, the operator can easily switch the laser beam switch.
Alternate and / or additional switching mechanisms may be provided by another ring 116 attached to the operator's middle finger and ring 102 by cord 114. As shown in FIG. 6B, the operator may operate the apparatus by pulling the cord by bending the middle finger. This can be done by bending the middle finger with the index finger or extending the middle finger separately from the index finger.
[0036]
This type of device can be used easily in lectures and is convenient. And an operator can always move a hand freely. If possible, it is preferable to improve the pointing accuracy by attaching the ring to the index finger or ring finger.
Alternative and / or additional switching mechanisms may be provided by limited use of proximity sensors located on the front or side of the ring 102. US Pat. No. 5,280,162 describes a reference as “object detection” or proximity detection technology in a barcode reader. By appropriately setting the identification signal in the circuit of such a system, the sensor in the “self-triggered” mode embodiment in which the thumb or its details are shown in connection with FIGS. May be triggered. In another embodiment, very small proximity sensors are used. As a result, the unit cannot trigger distant targets other than the operator's thumb. In that embodiment, in embodiments where a limited proximity area is provided, the proximity area is very limited.
[0037]
FIG. 7 shows an overview of a handheld laser pointer 200 that can provide a fixed or scanned laser beam for instructional purposes. Based on the fact that a fixed laser beam produces points or dots that are collimated on the screen, the scanning beam produces lines or circles. This is especially useful if the operator wants to underline or circle a sentence or figure that he is trying to point out.
[0038]
The pointer shown in FIG. 7 incorporates a handheld body 202 having a multi-position switch 204 that can be actuated by hand. Inside the body 202 is a short wavelength VLD (visible laser diode) 206 that directs the beam onto a small mirror 208, which is a micromachine. This reflects the beam out of the window 210 in the housing, thus providing an indication beam 212. A scanning element 214 is provided to selectively collimate the mirror 208 so that the beam 212 is scanned.
[0039]
In the first position of switch 204, laser diode 206 is switched off and no beam is generated. In the second position, the laser diode is switched on and reflected from the table mirror 208, thereby providing a fixed indicator beam 212. In the third position of the switch, the scanning element 214 is activated and the beam 212 is scanned, resulting in a visible line on the indicated surface. In a preferred embodiment, the scanning is done in one dimension so that the lines generated on the screen are straight. However, in other embodiments, the scanning element 214 can scan the beam 212 two-dimensionally. As a result, any Lissajous figure such as a circle can be formed on the screen. More complex scanning devices are also envisaged. As a result, for example, a rectangle or any other figure can be projected as an image on the screen.
[0040]
If trigger 204 is a multi-position trigger, the device can project a straight line at one position of the trigger and a circle at another position. Also, at different positions of the trigger, lines of different lengths and / or circles of different sizes or other images can be projected.
Of course, the image obtained by scanning the beam 212 is not as good as the appearance of the dots generated by the fixed beam. Instead, the output power of the laser is increased according to the position of the trigger 204.
[0041]
Instead of handheld, FIG. 7 shows a device that can be built in a ring, in particular in any of the aforementioned rings. In such a case, naturally the trigger 204 is replaced with a suitable trigger or switch on the ring. For example, if the device in FIG. 7 is built in a ring as shown in FIG. 6, the trigger 204 is triggered by the trigger button 104 (FIG. 6A) or the code 114 (FIG. 6B). Easy to replace. Of course, it is preferred that the buttons and / or cords are multi-positioned. In addition, several switches are conceivable, for example for generating a fixed beam and for generating a scanning beam. (Not described) Batteries for wearable devices in the previously mentioned models generally occupy a significant part of the capacity of the device and further contribute to its weight. For example, when power is actually required, such as the devices shown in FIGS. 1-4, the isolated battery pack 19 is often the most convenient way to provide the necessary power. However, in a variation of the previously described embodiment, power is provided instead or alternatively by a thin flexible battery formed in the band portion that wraps around the operator's arm, wrist or finger. . In particular, in FIG. 1, the wristband 306 can be such a battery, similar to the armbands 302,304. In FIG. 6, the ring 102 can be a battery.
[0042]
The battery is preferably a lithium polymer, rechargeable type, and simply cut into a suitable shape. Such a battery may supply enough power for the operation of a device by itself. In another case, the battery may be used as an auxiliary battery. As a result, the size of additional batteries that may be required is reduced.
[0043]
FIG. 8 shows a concept related to the outer shape. The flexible battery piece 404, which is preferably a lithium polymer battery, is formed in a ring shape or attached to the scanner and / or pointer 402. Depending on the size of the device, the band 404 may be worn around the operator's finger, wrist or arm.
[0044]
In FIG. 9, a practical embodiment is shown in more detail. The flexible battery piece 408 is attached to two circular snap springs 418 and 420. The snap spring 418 is attached to the positive battery terminal, and the snap spring 420 is attached to the negative battery terminal. There is a contact portion 410 at one end of the spring 418 and a similar contact portion 412 at the opposite end of another spring 420. These are fitted corresponding to the grooves 414, 416 at the bottom of the surface of the scanner and / or laser pointer 406. As a result, the necessary electrical power is provided.
[0045]
The exact shape and arrangement of the battery and the contact are, of course, not critical. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the springs 418 and 420 may be thin spring wires. Alternatively, the shape can be a flat leaf spring extending outward from the diagram plane. In the first case, a scanner and / or laser pointer 406 is provided with sockets 414 and 416 forming a blind plug that receives the contacts 410 and 412. Alternatively, if the spring is in the form of a leaf spring, the contacts 410, 412 may simply be slid into the appropriate grooves 414, 416 in the vertical direction of the drawing. In either case, the snap springs 418, 412 are preferably incorporated within the plastic protective jacket of the battery during the manufacturing process.
[0046]
Another embodiment (not shown) is provided at one end of the battery leading to the scanner and / or the underside of the laser pointer to make it easier to turn on and off the device. The other end is connected to a clasp that can be easily removed. To attach or remove the device, the operator simply removes the clasp or connects the scanner and / or a battery remote from the underside of the laser pointer.
[0047]
In FIG. 10, a storage box 500 is shown that is suitable for use with the system shown in FIG. The box includes a bottom portion 502 and a lid portion 504 connected with a lock. Within the bottom 502 there is a first recess 506 for storing the watch 7 (described in FIG. 1) and a second recess 508 for storing the ring 1 (described in FIG. 1). In addition to providing benefits and safe storage, the box 500 incorporates a battery charger (not shown) that recharges any battery contained in the watch 7 and / or ring 1. Eventually, when the watch is placed in the recess 506, its rear surface comes into contact with the electrode 510. Similarly, when the band is pushed into the slot 512 and the ring is placed in the recess 508, it comes into contact with the other electrode. Power is provided to these electrodes via a main power source plugged into a socket 514 outside the box. When the lid 504 is closed by closing the microswitch 520, the electrode can be reused by being recharged (eg, overnight).
[0048]
In some embodiments, the clock 7 of FIG. 1 may be used to store data and may have a corresponding memory chip inside. When the watch is placed in the recess 506, the electrical contact portion of the rear surface contacts the corresponding contact portion 522 at the bottom of the recess. The data in the clock may be automatically downloaded to the external computer (not shown) via the data socket 516 or requested to be downloaded.
[0049]
Self-trigger mode
Another important characteristic of the present invention is that it does not require a manual trigger switch in the operating mode. In other words, in order to best practice the start of scanning and the start of bar code reading operations from an ergonomic point of view, an adaptive “self-trigger” or “object detection” can It can be implemented in various ways such as a fixed mounting type, a handheld type (including a hand support type), a ring type, a finger mounting type, a body mounting type, etc. For a scanning system that enables operation in "sleep" mode, including object detection, and "scanning" mode after detecting an object in the scan area, the background information is in the assignee's patent Patent No. 5,280,162 is described as a reference.
[0050]
As another prior art, there is a configuration using an infrared LED that blinks at a high frequency. The photodetector is connected to an analog circuit corresponding to the signal at the frequency at which the LED blinks. When an object with a barcode is placed in front of the scanner, certain wavelengths of infrared light are reflected back to the detector. The circuit responds to this by detecting a “trigger” signal to the detection device that initiates the scan.
[0051]
Such prior art systems have several disadvantages. Assembling the circuit of the signal detection device increases the cost and makes the scanner complicated. LEDs also consume power. This is a disadvantage in battery power applications. The detection area varies depending on the size and color of the detected object. This causes the trigger to be applied incorrectly, resulting in reading errors and wasted power consumption.
[0052]
In another prior art, there is an automatic trigger configuration in which the laser is activated for three scans, and the operation is terminated after one scan. While the activated laser scans something, if something similar to a bar code is detected somewhere in the scan area, the laser will either decode the symbol or the predetermined time has elapsed. Do not move until you do. After that, the scanner starts blanking again.
[0053]
This is superior to other prior art in that it does not require additional circuitry in the scanner. In addition, since a true bar code, at least similar to a bar code, is detected, it is started, so that the number of triggers is reduced. The range then matches with respect to the size and color of the scanned item.
However, for some operators, laser blinking is visually painful. Further, since the scanning is performed three times to detect the object, the detection is also delayed. (When the laser is not emitted, the symbol cannot be detected.) Also, since the symbol is detected along a long scanning line, a reading error may occur. In addition, when the laser is activated, the laser and the detection device that performs the control and monitoring functions must continue to operate to control blinking and detection, and thus the power consumption by them is also high.
[0054]
Further, in other prior art, there is a configuration in which the laser is operated all the time. Usually, such a configuration is unsuitable for commercial use because it immediately ends the lifetime of the laser. In addition, the laser and the periphery of the scanner housing are heated to further shorten the life of the laser. Furthermore, power consumption is actually large. Except for the decoder, the laser consumes more power than any other part of the handheld scanning system.
[0055]
The blank laser mode is practical only when used with a motor with a very long life because it requires continuous operation of the motor. These motors have a long life, low power consumption, and do not heat the periphery of the scanner.
If the laser is blanked in one of the four scans, the temperature can be kept low, the heat generated by other circuits is appropriately suppressed, and the generation of heat is considered to be minimized, so that the lifetime is sufficiently long. This is known from experimental measurements.
[0056]
In the present invention, a method is provided having a laser that requires only 25% of the operating time of the laser to operate each time it is scanned. However, the time during which the laser is operating is also 25%. In a typical scanner that scans 36 times per second, each scan takes 27.7 milliseconds. Thus, if the laser operates for only 6.9 milliseconds in each scan, that time is 25% of a typical scanner. The laser has the same lifetime as the scanner in which the laser operates in one of the four scans. For example, in our study, a number of 25% has been selected, which may be a suitable number for the particular application considered.
[0057]
Returning to the drawings, FIGS. 11A and 11B show an outline of mapping of a laser beam scanning pattern known as the prior art. FIG. 11B is similar to that in US Pat. No. 4,933,538. Here, t2 is a time later than t1. 12 (A), 12 (B), and 12 (C) show an outline of the mapping of the laser beam pulse pattern according to the present invention. In the preferred embodiment, FIG. 12A, the laser is laser so that the scanner operator can see the short scan lines that occur every scan, instead of the long scan lines that occur every fourth scan. This should be done in the middle of the scan time. Since 36 scans per second are above the flickering frequency of light that can be identified by the human eye, blinks do not appear on short scan lines. With the presence of a bar code reader that blinks only 9 times per second, the flicker is fully visible.
[0058]
In both scan directions, some method must be taken to identify the laser operating in the middle of the scan. If the blink is controlled by a microprocessor, the same is preferably used for decoding. This is easily accomplished as follows.
If a motor operating at its natural frequency is used as described in US Pat. Nos. 5,212,627 and 5,367,151, the blink should be synchronized to the motor. This is because the motor frequency varies slightly depending on the individual. Here, these patents are embodied by reference showing the configuration of a preferred scanning motor for use with the present invention. This can be done by using a scan start signal (S.O.S.) provided by the motor drive circuit. S. O. S. The signal is always synchronized to the motor. S. O. S. The signal is high when driving the motor in one direction and low when driving in the other direction. As the motor changes direction at the end of each scan, it is transmitted from high to low and from low to high. The operation of the laser can be controlled as shown in the timing charts of FIGS. 13A, 13B, and 13C. FIG. 13A is a timing chart in the embodiment of the laser beam pulse pattern corresponding to FIG. Then, FIG. 13B and FIG.
) Is a timing chart of another embodiment of a laser beam pulse pattern. S. O. S. When the signal is used to synchronize the laser blink with the motor, there are two types of timing errors caused by the scan start signal that should be considered. At the start of the scan, it is not always synchronized. For example, at times, the motor may take 27 milliseconds to scan from left to right and 28 milliseconds to scan from right to left. In addition, S.M. O. S. The signal is generally transmitted without accurately corresponding to the time at which the motor reverses direction. S. O. S. The transmission of the signal depends on the detection circuit and is generally delayed by about 1 or 2 milliseconds.
[0059]
These changes can be corrected by the microprocessor controlling the blink as follows. First, when power is supplied to the scanner, the software in the decoding apparatus measures the scanning time in each direction using a scanning start signal. Next, for each direction, the decoding device calculates a value equal to 3/8 of the measured scanning time. Next, the software program subtracts the delay time (milliseconds) of the scanning start signal caused by actually slowing down the motor from this value. (1 and 2 milliseconds are common.) The signal delay time must be determined from the configuration of the motor of the specific model used and the drive circuit. The signal delay time is almost the same for all units of a given configuration.
[0060]
When a change occurs at the start of the scan, the decoding device waits for the time calculated above for the particular scan direction in which the delay occurred. Next, the laser is operated at 25% of the measured scanning time. This process is repeated each time a scan start signal is transmitted to indicate the start of a new scan. If necessary, the response time of the laser control circuit can be additionally corrected.
[0061]
Thus, when everything is properly implemented, a scan line that is shorter than the complete scan line and centered with respect to the complete scan line is visible. This short line is illuminated between scans from left to right and from right to left. The laser only operates for 25% of the scan time, but the scan lines that can be seen are 25% longer than the sum of the scan lines as the beam moves faster in the middle of the scan area. In a typical scanning system with a synchronous motor, in experiments, a short scan line is shown to be a full scan line even though the laser is only operating for 25% of the time compared to a full scan line. It is shown to be about 33% wider than.
[0062]
As mentioned above, the present invention includes a scanning means for generating a laser beam directed toward a target and generating a relatively short line image pulsed on the target plane during a first period. An almost continuous wide-angle laser beam that sweeps the entire symbol during a second period for reading the symbol, and such a symbol to generate an electrical signal corresponding to the data represented by such symbol An optical scanner is provided for reading a bar code symbol on the target remote from the unit including detection means for receiving reflected light from the unit. The first and second periods are repeated during use of standard operations.
[0063]
This system is used to detect the following symbols: When power is supplied to the scanner, the laser starts blinking as described above. The operator aims at a short visible scan line in the symbol being read. Otherwise, if the scanner is fixed and mounted, the symbol is placed below the short visible scan line.
[0064]
When the scan line crosses a symbol or a portion of a symbol, the scanner can begin decoding the symbol. If that fails, the laser is activated for all scan times, after a few seconds, or until the short scan line returns until decoding begins. Multiple decoding from the same symbol is possible by programming the decoding device so that the same symbol is not decoded again until the time it disappears (usually 0.5 to 1 second).
[0065]
This self-trigger means has the following advantages. Since blinking is performed at a frequency higher than that for identifying flicker, flicker does not appear. Only when the object is in the center of the scanning area and only the object such as a barcode is detected, the possibility of a trigger error is reduced. It is not necessary to add a complicated circuit and can be aimed more easily than an invisible infrared sensor. Handheld, fixed mounting and wearable scanners can be used. Since the detection of the symbol for each scan is possible, the response is faster than the laser that blinks once in the fourth scan and every fourth scan.
[0066]
With further adaptation, the power consumption can be further reduced. If necessary, the laser can be operated with only one laser scan, or two, three and four laser scans, reducing the laser scan time to 25%. Using this method, you may see flickering, but you can use it in applications that use battery power. In addition, the laser can modulate high frequencies during the detection time. This can reduce its power consumption by half in the time it is operating.
[0067]
According to these measurements, the scanner (excluding the decoding device) can scan at an average current of 10 mA or less in the detection mode. This assumes that one of the commercially available visible laser diodes operating at about 30 mA is used. If it blinks at 25% of the fourth scan, the average current flows at 1.875 mA. If during that operating time it is modulated with a predetermined cycle of 50%, the average is 1.875 mA. The synchronous motor we make today operates at 0.5 mA. Assume an analog circuit that includes an amplifier, digitizer, motor controller, and laser regulator manufactured to be used at a total of 9.43 mA and less than 8 mA. (Here 3-5 volts current is used)
Sometimes it is desirable to have a triggerless scanner with a decoding device that is not on board. It is ideally compatible with current decoding devices made for handheld scanners. If this is to be done, current decoding devices need to have software that controls the blinking of the laser. It is impossible to connect without providing a trigger and without using an Intel standard decoding device. If an inexpensive microprocessor is used to control laser blinking and symbol detection in a scanner without a decoding device, it is possible to avoid this problem.
[0068]
There are small microprocessors available that can perform blink control as described above. The same microprocessor that blinks the laser can monitor the output of the digitizer while the laser blink is performed. If it detects a digitized sufficient number of elements to indicate the possibility of the presence of a symbol, it will display the symbol far if someone just triggers A simulated trigger can be generated that extracts the signal to be transmitted to the decoder. When the symbol is moved again, its “trigger” is automatically released.
[0069]
For a suitable blink cycle number, for example, 25% is used. If a laser with a long lifetime is used or if the lifetime does not have to be very long, of course, a relatively high number of cycles is used. Also, in a thermal environment, a scanner that is never operated is operated at a relatively high cycle. If the scanner is operated in a thermal environment, a relatively low frequency is used to reduce power consumption.
[0070]
The number of cycles can be made selectable by the operator by programming the reader or otherwise scanning a special bar code. This allows the scanner to be easily adapted to the environment.
The present invention has been described in response to reading a two-dimensional bar code with a bar code that includes stacked bar codes, or a semiotics similar to code 49, PDF417, etc., but is also found in the present invention. As an application to be used, the present invention is used in various machine vision devices or optical character recognition devices in which information is extracted from other types of marks such as characters or from surface properties of scanned articles It is also possible to do this
[0071]
In all of the various embodiments, the elements of the scanner may be assembled as a single printed circuit board or integrated module in a very compact package that incorporates the entire scanner. Such modules are used interchangeably as laser scanning elements for a variety of different data capture devices. For example, modules can replace ring-type, hand-held or body-mounted scanners, flexible arms, tabletop scanners that extend from the table surface or the bottom of the table, or sub-parts of advanced data acquisition systems. Installed and used. Controllers and data lines that connect to such components are attached to the edges and external surfaces of the module so that the module is electrically connected to matching connectors that connect to other elements of the data acquisition system. May be connected to an electrical connection device.
[0072]
An individual module may have specific scanning or decoding characteristics associated with it, such as operation at a certain working distance or specific symbolism, operation at print density. The characteristic may also be defined through software or by manual setting of a control switch coupled to the module. The operator may also employ a data capture system to scan different types of articles. Furthermore, the system may be employed for different applications by exchanging modules of the data acquisition device through simple electrical connectors.
[0073]
Also, the scanning module described above is implemented in a data acquisition system that includes itself, including one or two parts, such as a keyboard, display, printer, data storage device, application software, and database. Good. Such systems also include data acquisition systems and other components in the local area network or telephone line network, whether they are modems or ISDN interfaces, and from portable terminals to portable or desktop receivers, base stations. And a communication interface that enables communication by radio broadcasting with low power.
[0074]
It will be appreciated that each or two or more functions described above may be useful in other types of applications different from the types shown above.
While the invention has been illustrated and described in the embodiments, it does not mean that the scope of the invention is limited to the specific details shown. Even if they are variously modified or structurally changed, they do not escape the scope of the present invention as long as they are in accordance with the spirit of the present invention.
[0075]
The above description sufficiently shows the gist of the present invention, so that even if the analysis is not further advanced, a third party can easily apply it by applying the current knowledge from the viewpoint of selection technology. As a special or professional characteristic, it is possible to adapt all the functions that can be constructed sufficiently and essentially to various applications. Therefore, such an adaptation example intends the same content as the following claim text, and is included in the range.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 shows a portable optical scanning system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 shows a portable optical scanning system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
3 shows an overview of the ring unit and the wrist unit shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.
FIG. 4 shows a portable optical scanning system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 shows a laser pointer according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
6A and 6B show trigger mechanisms that may be used with the laser pointer of FIG. 5 and with the portable optical scanning system of either FIG. 1 or FIG.
FIG. 7 shows a handheld laser pointer / laser scanner according to another embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of a band for connecting to a pointer or scanner for attaching a flexible battery to the operator's body.
FIG. 9 represents an embodiment of the apparatus shown in FIG.
10 shows a storage box for use with the portable optical scanning device of FIG.
FIGS. 11A and 11B show an outline of a laser beam scanning pattern known as a prior art. FIGS.
12A, 12B, and 12C show an outline of a laser beam pulse pattern according to the present invention.
13A is a timing chart of one embodiment of a laser beam pulse pattern corresponding to FIG. 12A, and FIGS. 13B and 13C are timing charts of another embodiment of a laser beam pulse pattern. Show.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Optical scanning module (for example, laser pointer)
1a VLD
1b VLD drive circuit
1c scanning element
1d scanning element drive circuit
1e battery
3 Operator
7 First peripheral module
7a decoder
7b wireless transmitter
7c display
7d receiver circuit
7e photodetector
7f battery pack
7g Other functions
9 Second peripheral module
9a Radio receiver
9b radio transmitter
9c Digital processing circuit
9d sound warning device / acoustic transducer
9e Display unit
9f keyboard
9h storage device
9j battery
10 Scanning laser beam
11 Goods
13 Bar code symbol
15 Base unit
17 Extension cord
21 belt
74 stands
102 rings
104 Trigger button
116 rings
114 code
206 Laser diode
418 Snap ring
420 Snap ring

Claims (10)

In an optical system for reading marks with different light reflectance,
A housing, a battery within the housing, and a light emitter within the housing that is powered by the battery to generate and emit a light beam to scan a mark to be read. A cordless optical module adapted to be attached to a finger having a housing, the housing having a ring-shaped portion for attaching the optical module to a user's finger during reading;
A peripheral module having a housing physically separated from the optical module, wherein the peripheral module is responsive to detection of light reflected from the mark and detection of the reflected light by the photodetector; And a processor for generating an electrical signal representative of the mark, wherein the peripheral module is supported by the user in a position isolated from the finger-mounted optical module, The optical system is characterized in that the peripheral module is not connected to the finger-mounted optical module and can operate freely with respect to the finger-mounted optical module.   The optical system according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral module is attached to clothing or a body of the user.   The optical system according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral module includes a wireless transmitter configured to transmit an electrical signal to an auxiliary module separated from the peripheral module and stored at a distance.   The optical system according to claim 3, wherein the auxiliary module is attached to clothing or a body of the user.   4. The optical of claim 3, wherein the auxiliary module includes a wireless radio frequency transmitter for transmitting the electrical signal to a spaced apart base station separated from the peripheral module. system.   4. The optical system of claim 3, wherein the auxiliary module includes a keypad or a touch screen for inputting data to the system.   The optical system according to claim 3, wherein the peripheral module is supplied with power by a battery.   2. The optical system according to claim 1, wherein the optical module includes scanning means for automatically scanning the emitted light beam.   The optical module is supported by one finger, and emits the light beam in a certain direction along a direction that the finger naturally points. Optical system.   The optical system according to claim 1, wherein the battery is mounted in the ring-shaped portion.

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