JPH08263581A - Optical system and optical pointer module - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To provide the optical system and optical pointer module which is ergonomically improved and increased in operability. CONSTITUTION: An optical scanning system has an optical scanning module 1 which is so adapted that it is fitted to a finger of an operator 3 and reads out a mark having a different light reflection factor. A 1st peripheral module 7 which is preferable to take a style of a wrist watch has a receiver which detects reflected light. A 2nd peripheral module 9 fitted to the other arm of the operator 3 communicates with the 1st module 7 by radio frequency transmission. From another point of view, a photodetector may be fitted in a housing separated from the optical scanning module 1. Further, a laser painter 1 or scanner is fitted to a ring arranged so that it is put on one finger of the operator 3.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a portable optical scanner for reading marks having various light reflectances, and more particularly to a scanner that can be worn by a human. Furthermore, the invention relates to an optical scanning device in which the optical module for generating and emitting the 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]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, various optical reading devices 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 pattern of coded marks made up of bars of varying width and spaced in succession from one another and the spaces between them.
Note that the bar and the space have different light reflection characteristics. A reader in the scanning system transfers the opto-electrical graphical mark into an electrical signal that is decoded into alphanumeric characters that may be descriptive of the article or its characteristics.
Such characteristics are generally represented in digital form and are used as inputs to data processing systems for POS applications, logistics management, and the like. This general type of scanning system is described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,251,798, all assigned to the same assignee as the present application.
No., No. 4,369,361, No. 4,387,297, No. 4,409,47
No. 0, No. 4,760,248 and No. 4,896,026. One embodiment of such a scanning system, as disclosed in some of the above patents, includes:
Included in particular is a portable scanning device that can be held in the hand of an operator, which is capable of aiming the scanning head of the device, in particular a light beam, on the symbol which is the target to be read.

Such prior art handheld devices generally incorporate a light-receiving module that receives light reflected from a bar code symbol and determines the continuity of the bars and spaces within the symbol from the reflection pattern. To do. Also,
The unit may include decoding circuitry for decoding the received information and recovering unclear data (eg, alphanumeric data) represented by the bar code symbol.

[0004]

In some circumstances, it may be inconvenient for the light generating and emitting module to house the light receiving module and the decoding circuit in the same unit. First, placing all the modules in the main housing ensures 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 in the bar code to be read. It must be. Operators do not always prefer such arrangements for reading barcodes and / or barcodes along the same optical path in which light is reflected back. Secondly, placing all modules in the same unit means that the unit must be physically larger and relatively heavy. Operators will find it difficult to operate such devices for extended periods of time.

For the purpose of giving instructions at conferences, seminars, etc., it has become common to provide laser pointers with small handheld units that can be used by the operator. In lectures, it is possible to use the method of showing the portion to be emphasized on the screen in the visible spot of the laser beam to the audience in combination with the traditionally used indicator rod. However, it goes without saying that modern laser pointers, although relatively small and portable, need to be held in the hands of the instructor. Therefore, the instructor's hand holding it (e.g., flipping pages of notebooks, OHP
When you try to operate), you are usually restricted by having to put the laser pointer down.

The general purpose 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 a portable optical scanning system so that the operator can comfortably operate for a long time. Yet another object is to reduce the weight of a portable optical scanning system that is gripped by the operator's hand or attached to the operator's body.

Still another object is to provide a laser pointer in which the teacher does not have to put the laser pointer down or pick it up, and the teacher's hand can be used more freely. Another object is to provide a laser pointer that can be conveniently used. Yet another object is to provide a laser pointer that can optically use some part of the portable scanning system.

Additional objects, advantages, and novel features of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from practice of the invention and this disclosure, including the following detailed description. Although the present invention is described below with reference to preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited thereby. A person of ordinary skill in the art who has the benefit of the teachings herein is within the scope of the invention disclosed and claimed herein and for which other applications, variations and other areas in which the invention may be very useful. An embodiment will be recognized.

[0009]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, in an optical system for reading marks of different light reflectance, a light beam for illuminating the mark to be read is generated and emitted. An optical module having a light emitting device for storing light, and a first peripheral module having a photodetector for generating an electrical signal corresponding to the detected reflected light, which is separately housed separately from the optical module. Optical system is provided.

The optical system may be a scanning system in which a light beam scans the mark to be read. It does not necessarily have to be. Also, the light beam may simply illuminate. However, in this case, the photodetector is preferably a CCD detector. In a preferred embodiment, the optics module incorporates or forms a ring portion, which is preferably fitted in the appropriate direction on the operator's index finger. In some of the embodiments, even if the module is fixed, the automatic scanning mechanism is modular so that the emitted beam is automatically scanned (two-dimensional scanning or one-dimensional scanning) back and forth over the mark. It may be built in. However, in other embodiments, no automatic scanning mechanism is provided. Thus, the emitted light beam emerges in a fixed direction from the module. In these embodiments, the operator typically manually moves the module to move the arm back and forth or to twist the wrist to scan the beam over the mark to be read.

Switching means may be provided for actuating the optical module. Preferably, these are switches or buttons mounted or formed on a ring or a housing that connects to the ring so that the operator can operate the device with the push of a button with his thumb. It may be configured. This is particularly convenient when the module is arranged to be worn on the index finger. Also, a pull cord connected to the second ring may be provided and arranged to be attached to the index finger of the same hand as the finger of the operator's optical module. Appropriate movement of the finger causes the cord to be pulled out, for example by bending the second finger, so that the device is scanned.

The first peripheral module includes a module,
It may include radio frequency communication means to allow communication with a fixed base unit or a second peripheral module (there are some embodiments). In some devices, the second peripheral module is preferably mounted on 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 (preferably at different frequencies) and the fixed base unit. The radio frequency communication means may be built in.

The optics module, the first peripheral module and the second peripheral module are all well powered by a portable battery. Desirably, the associated portable battery can be placed in a corresponding housing. Further, in an embodiment, the optical module comprises
It may be adapted to be grasped by the operator's hand and may be a pistol or pen type. The optics module may also be mounted on a tabletop.

According to a second aspect of the invention, in an optical system for reading a mark having portions of different light reflectance, a light beam illuminating the mark is generated and reflected from the mark. A light emitter for producing a reflected light of variable intensity, and a photodetector for detecting the reflected light and generating an electrical signal representing the intensity of the reflected light are provided, wherein the light emitter is A photodetector having a housing adapted to be mounted on said finger at a position oriented in a naturally pointing direction of one finger of an operator, said photodetector being spaced apart from said light emitter. An optical system is provided having a housing adapted to be worn by an operator at a location.

When the first and second peripheral modules are not used, the first peripheral module and / or
A stand or container may be provided to receive the second peripheral module. In a preferred form, this may constitute a box (similar to a jewelry box) with a first peripheral unit in the form of a watch and a recess for receiving a second peripheral unit in the form of a ring. . stand/
The container may include electrical contacts. The electrical contacts are the first peripheral module and / or the second peripheral module.
It is located in contact with the corresponding contact of the peripheral module. As a result, either or both of the modules' batteries can be recharged when the system is not in use. For security, the box may have a lid or may be locked.

If the first peripheral module includes a data storage device, contacts for reading data may be provided on the stand. As a result, data can be downloaded to the computer either 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 for generating and emitting a light beam. A light emitter inside the housing,
By pointing with the finger, the operator provides an optical pointer module that directs a light beam. The laser pointer preferably incorporates a trigger mechanism such as the button mechanism or code mechanism described above.

In order to enhance the visible effect of the light beam, the light emitting means preferably comprises a visible laser diode (VLD). Note that the output passes through a collimating optical system. Electronic control means may be provided to maintain the power of the laser at a predetermined level. A battery is preferably provided within the housing.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, an optical pointer module comprising a portable housing and a light emitter within the housing arranged to generate a light beam.
A scanning element for selectively scanning the light beam, a first position at which the module emits a stable beam, and a second position at which the scanning element operates so that the module emits a scanning beam. There is provided an optical pointer module including a switch which can be operated by an operator.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, in an optical system adapted to be worn on the body of an operator, an optical module having a light emitter for generating and emitting a light beam, Connected to the optics module,
An optical system adapted to be worn around a portion of an operator's body and comprising a band containing a battery for powering the module.

The present invention may be implemented in various ways. And some special embodiments will now be described with reference to figures, through examples.

[0021]

FIG. 1 shows a portable optical scanning system corresponding to the first embodiment of the present invention. The optical scanning module 1 is removably attached to one finger of the operator 3 using a ring-shaped attachment. The removable mounting device may be of any conventional type suitably adapted to facilitate its use for the desired application. For example, light bulbs, flexible socket mounts, and sliding mounts can be used.
Also, other attachments may be used with the movement restriction member.

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 his other arm. As is apparent from the figure, the scanning module 1 emits a scanning laser beam 10 which is 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 wishes to obtain for logistics or sales purposes, for example. The scanning beam 10 is reflected from the bar code symbol 13.
Then, the reflected light 12 is detected by the first peripheral module 7.

FIG. 2 shows a modification 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. A variant shows a peripheral module containing a detection device fastened to the operator's shirt chest pocket or shirt. Of course, other ways (not shown) are envisioned in which the peripheral module 7'is tethered or formed to other parts of the garment.

FIG. 3 shows the internal functions of the scanning module 1 and
An outline of the first peripheral module 7 is shown. Module 1
Incorporates a device for generating and scanning the light beam 10. Visible laser diode with VLD driver 1b
It is desirable that the (VLD) 1a is also incorporated. Beam 10
Scanning is achieved by the scanning element 1c and the scanning element driver 1d. Electric power is supplied by the small battery 1e.

The first peripheral module 7 comprises a photodetector 7e and a receiving circuit 7d which are arranged together for detecting the returning light beam 12. The output from the receiving circuit passes through a decoder 7a which decodes the alphanumeric information represented by the bar code symbol 13. The first peripheral module may also include a display 7c with a key board and / or other possible functions 7g, such as a time display. As a result, the module 7 also doubles as a regular 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 the battery pack 7f or other power source.

In use, the decoded information emitted by the decoder 7a is transferred from the decoder 7b to a second peripheral module 9 located on the operator's other arm or wrist.
Passed by a wireless link to. The radio transmitter 7b can also be a transmitter capable of receiving a signal from the second peripheral module 9 or the separation base station 15.

The second peripheral module 9 contains a radio receiver 9a and a radio transmitter 9b for the communication of the first module 7 and / or the base unit 15. Corresponding transmission frequencies are generally distinguished. Second
The 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 operator is provided with a light indicator, an audible alarm or an acoustic transducer 9d. In addition, such a warning can be provided by the information displayed on the display unit 9e. Also, memory storage 9h is preferably included for temporary storage of decoded data. A keyboard 9f and / or a touch screen may be used for entering data into the system. A battery 9j is provided to supply power to the second peripheral module.
Alternatively or additionally, a separate power supply 19 connected to the operator's body, for example, as shown on belt 21.
Can also be supplied via the extension cord 17.

Depending on the preference of the operator, the second peripheral module is on the right hand or on the wrist like a watch (actually it can also function as a watch), the optical scanning module 1 and the first peripheral module on the left hand. It can also be attached to. It is also possible to use all the functions of the unit without incorporating the second peripheral module 9 into the first peripheral module 7 as in the other embodiment (not shown). Of course, larger first peripheral modules than shown may be made.

In the apparatus shown in FIGS. 1 and 2,
It is noted that 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. This improves the wearability of the system and reduces the resistance to the operator. Also, the fact that the wire is inward is probably safer, as the operator is less likely to get caught when moving around trying to do different tasks with the device shown.

In a variation of the embodiment described above,
The scanning element 1c and the scanning driver 1d may be omitted from the optical scanning module 1 so that the beam 10 is a substantially fixed beam. With such a device, the operator physically moves the hand or arm. As a result, the beam 10 is manually scanned over the bar code symbol 13. Such a device has the advantage that the size and weight of the module 1 can be reduced. Further, not only mechanical or electrical scanning need not be performed, but also the size of the battery 1e may actually be reduced. A suitable module for use, together with this variant, is shown in FIG. 5, the details of which are described below.

FIG. 4 shows an outline of the second embodiment of the second invention. In this embodiment, the bar code symbol 1
The light 12 reflected from 3 detects the reflected light,
It is detected by a fixed bank of separation detection units 70 of a photodetector 72 looking down on the surface of the article 11. The detector unit is a conveyor 7 along the passage of the item 11.
6 can be attached to a stand 74 disposed adjacent to the 6. Alternatively, the detector unit 70 can be attached to or connected to a cash register, or it can be attached to the ceiling. Also, the cable may be hung from the ceiling in the same manner as the lamp is hung. Furthermore, it can also be installed in a tunnel around, at least partially around the conveyor.

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 these are not provided in the module, the operator can
Must be manually scanned. Further alternatively, a handheld pointer (not shown) or a handheld scanner could be used. However, in each case, the detection device is fixedly mounted on the scanning surface.

In these cases, the optical scanning module 1 does not have a built-in beam scanning mechanism.
The module 1 effectively becomes a ring-mounted laser pointer. As mentioned previously, such pointers may be used for scanning applications by simple beam manual scanning over the mark to be read, and also operate separate detection devices that detect reflected beams. It may be provided by being fixedly attached to or connected to the body of the person. However, this type of laser pointer is not limited to scanning applications, as can be seen in FIG. It should be noted that the laser pointer may be used for any public presentation such as lectures, seminars, conferences, etc.

FIG. 6 shows a reference example showing a preferable function of the laser pointer. The embodiment shown in Figure 6 is equally applicable to both Figure 5 and the applications of Figures 1, 2 and 3. The laser pointer 1 comprises a ring or shank portion 102 adapted to be worn on an operator's finger which is connected to the housing upper part 100.
Within the housing is a battery 103 that powers a visible laser diode (VLD) or other power source 108.
The VLD is attached to a metal holder / heat sink 106. The light emitted from the VLD passes through the optical system 110 including a plurality of lenses, and the light exit window 1
Output through 12 The optical system preferably provides a collimated beam, or at least some collimated beam. Electronic circuitry 113 is provided which maintains the laser output at a predetermined level and also acts as a trigger mechanism.

Provided on one side of the ring 102 is a trigger button 104 which can be actuated by the thumb of the operator. In this way, the operator can easily switch the laser beam switch. Alternative and / or additional switching mechanisms may be provided by another ring 116 attached to the operator's middle finger and the ring 102 by the cord 114.
May be provided by. As shown in FIG. 6B, the operator may operate the device by bending the middle finger and pulling the cord. This can be done by bending the middle finger with the index finger or extending the middle finger separately from the index finger.

This kind of device can be easily used in lectures,
Moreover, it is convenient. The operator can always move his or her hands freely. If possible, it is preferable to improve the pointing accuracy by attaching the ring to the index finger or the ring finger. Alternative and / or additional switching mechanisms may be provided by the limited use of proximity sensors located on the front or side of ring 102. US Patent No.
5,280,162 describes a reference as "object detection" or proximity detection technology in bar code readers. By properly setting the identification signal in the circuitry of such a system, the thumb or device in a "self-triggering" mode embodiment, the details of which are shown in connection with FIGS. May be triggered. In yet another embodiment, a very small proximity sensor is used. As a result, the unit
No one can trigger far targets other than the operator's thumb. In that embodiment, in those embodiments where a limited proximity region is provided, the proximity region is very limited.

FIG. 7 shows a schematic of a handheld laser pointer 200 capable of providing a fixed or scanning laser beam for pointing purposes. The scanning beam produces lines and circles due to the fact that a fixed laser beam produces points and dots that are collimated on the screen. This is especially useful if the operator wants to underline or circle the sentence or diagram he is trying to point out.

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 within the housing, thus providing a pointing beam 212.
A scanning element 214 for selectively collimating the mirror 208.
Are provided so that the beam 212 is scanned.

In the first position of switch 204, laser diode 206 is switched off and no beam is produced. In the second position, the laser diode is switched on and reflected from the tabletop mirror 208, thus providing a fixed pointing beam 212. In the third position of the switch, the scanning element 214 is activated and the beam 212
Are scanned, resulting in visible lines on the surface pointed to. In the 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 in two dimensions. As a result, any Lissajous figure such as a circle can be formed on the screen. More complex scanning devices are also envisioned. As a result, for example, a rectangle or any other graphic can be projected as an image on the screen.

If the trigger 204 is a multi-position trigger, the system will be able to project a straight line at one position of the trigger and a circle at another position. Also, at different positions of the trigger, lines with different lengths, and /
Alternatively, different size circles or other images can be projected. Of course, the image obtained by scanning the beam 212 does not look as good as the appearance of the dots produced by the fixed beam. Instead, the output power of the laser is increased according to the position of the trigger 204.

As an alternative to the handheld type, FIG. 7 shows a device which may be built in a ring, and in particular in any of the rings described above. In such a case, the trigger 204 would naturally be replaced by a suitable trigger or switch on the ring. For example, if the device in FIG. 7 is constructed in a ring as shown in FIG. 6, the trigger 204 may be the trigger button 104 (FIG. 6).
(A)) or code 114 (FIG. 6B),
Easily replaced. Of course, it is preferred that the buttons and / or cords be multi-positioned. Besides, several switches are conceivable, for example for producing a fixed beam and for producing a scanning beam. (Not shown) Batteries for wearable devices in the models already mentioned above generally make up a significant part of the capacity of the device and also contribute to its weight. The separate battery pack 19 is often the most convenient way to provide the required power when the power is actually required, such as the devices shown in FIGS. 1-4. However, in a variation of the previously described embodiment, power is alternatively or alternatively provided by a thin, flexible battery formed in the portion of the band that wraps around the operator's arm, wrist or finger. . In particular, in FIG. 1, like the arm bands 302 and 304,
The wristband 306 can be such a battery. In FIG. 6, the ring 102 can be a battery.

The battery is preferably a lithium polymer, rechargeable type, and can simply be cut into a suitable shape. Such a battery may alone provide sufficient power for the operation of a device. Also, in other cases, the battery may be used as an auxiliary battery. As a result, the size of additional batteries that may be needed may be reduced.

FIG. 8 shows the concept of 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 fitted around the operator's finger, wrist, or arm.

A practical embodiment is shown in more detail in FIG. 2 flexible battery pieces 408
It is attached to two circular snap springs 418 and 420. Snap spring 418 is attached to the positive battery terminal and snap spring 4
20 is attached to the negative battery terminal. There is a contact 410 at one end of spring 418, and a similar contact 412 at the opposite end of another spring 420. These fit into grooves 414, 416 on the bottom of the surface of the scanner and / or laser pointer 406. As a result, the required electric power is provided.

The exact shape and placement of the battery and contacts is, of course, not critical. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the springs 418, 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,
The scanner and / or laser pointer 406
It is provided with sockets 414, 416 that form blind plugs that receive the contacts 410, 412. Alternatively, if the spring is in the shape of a leaf spring, the contact portions 410, 4
12 is simply a suitable groove 414, in the vertical direction of the drawing.
416 may be slid. In either case, during the manufacturing process, snap springs 418, 412 are inserted into the plastic protective jacket of the battery.
However, it is preferable that it is built in.

Another embodiment (not shown) is provided at one end of the battery leading to the underside of the scanner and / or the laser pointer, in order to make it easy to put on and take off the device. ing. The other end connects to an easily removable clasp. To put on and take off the device, the operator simply removes the clasp, the scanner and / or
Connect the battery away from the bottom of the laser pointer.

In FIG. 10, a storage box 500 suitable for use with the system shown in FIG. 1 is shown. The box includes a bottom portion 502 and a lid portion 504 that is locked and connected. Inside the bottom 502, the watch 7 (Fig.
1) and a second recess 508 for housing the ring 1 (shown in FIG. 1). In addition to providing benefits and safe storage, the box 500 contains a battery charger (not shown) that recharges any battery contained in the watch 7 and / or the 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 portion is pushed into the slot 512 and the ring is placed in the recess 508, it comes into contact with other electrodes. Power is provided to these electrodes via a mains power source plugged into a socket 514 outside the box. When the lid 504 is closed by closing the micro switch 520, the electrodes can be reused by being recharged (for example, overnight).

In some embodiments, the clock 7 of FIG. 1 may be used to store data and may have a corresponding memory chip inside it. When the watch is placed in the recess 506, the electrical contact portion of its rear surface abuts the corresponding contact portion 522 at the bottom of the recess. Then, the data in the clock may be automatically downloaded to the external computer (not shown) via the data socket 516, or may be required to be downloaded.

Self-Trigger Mode Another important feature of the present invention is that it does not require a manual trigger switch in the operating mode. That is,
In order to best perform the start of scanning and the start of barcode reading operation from the viewpoint of ergonomics, adaptable “self-trigger” or “object detection” can be applied to the operator's request in various situations. It can be variously implemented 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., which can be considered as an application based on the above. For a scanning system that enables "sleep" and "scan" modes, including object detection, after detecting an object in the scan area, background information is available in the assignee's patent. It is mentioned as a reference in patent 5,280,162.

As another prior art, there is a structure using an infrared LED blinking at a high frequency. The photodetector is L
The ED is connected to an analog circuit corresponding to the signal at the blinking frequency. When a bar coded object is placed in front of the scanner, some wavelength of infrared light is reflected back to the detector. The circuit responds by detecting a "trigger" signal to the detector which initiates the scan.

Such prior art systems include:
It has some disadvantages. Assembling the circuit of the signal detecting device increases the cost and complicates the scanner. Also, LE
D also consumes power. This is a disadvantage in battery power applications. The detection area changes depending on the size and color of the detected object. This causes the trigger to be mistakenly triggered, resulting in read errors and wasted power consumption.

In another prior art, there is an auto-trigger configuration in which the laser is activated for three scans, and after one scan the activation is terminated. While an activated laser scans something, if something similar to a bar code is detected somewhere within the scan area, the laser will either decode the symbol or allow a predetermined amount of time to elapse. Do not move until you do it. The scanner then starts blanking again.

This is superior to other prior art in that no additional circuitry is required in the scanner. Also, it will only trigger when a true bar code, at least something similar to a bar code, is detected, thus reducing false triggering. The range then fits with respect to the size and color of the item being scanned. However, for some operators, blinking a laser is visually distressing. Further, since the scanning is performed three times to detect the object, the detection becomes slow. (No detection of the symbol is possible when the laser is not emitting.) Also, the detection of the symbol along a long scan line can cause misreading. Furthermore, when the laser is activated, the laser and the detection device performing the control and monitoring functions must also continue to operate in order to control the blink and the detection, so that they also consume a large amount of power.

Further, in another prior art, there is a configuration in which the laser is operated all the time. Usually, such a configuration is not suitable for commercial use because it will soon end the lifetime of the laser. It also heats the laser and the area around the scanner housing, further shortening the life of the laser. Moreover, the power consumption is actually high. Except for the decoder, the laser consumes more power than any other component of the handheld scanning system.

The blank laser mode requires practical continuous operation of the motor and is therefore only practical when used with a motor having a very long life. These motors have a long life, consume less power, 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, heat generated by other circuits can be appropriately suppressed, and heat generation is considered to be minimized. It is known from experimental measurement.

The present invention provides a method 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 25%. In a typical scanner that scans 36 times a second, each scan takes 27.7 milliseconds. Thus, if the laser were to operate for only 6.9 milliseconds in each scan, that time would be 25% of a typical scanner. The laser will then have the same lifetime as the scanner in which the laser operates in one of the four scans. For example, a number of 25% has been chosen in our study, but for certain possible applications it may be a suitable number.

Referring back to FIG. 11A and FIG.
(B) shows an outline of mapping of a laser beam scanning pattern known as the prior art. FIG. 11B shows
It is similar to the figure in US Pat. No. 4,933,538. Here, t2 is a time later than t1. 12
12 (A), 12 (B) and 12 (C) show the outline of the mapping of the laser beam pulse pattern according to the present invention.
In the preferred embodiment, FIG. 12A, the laser is
The laser actuation should be done in the middle of the scan time so that the operator of the scanner sees a short scan line that occurs with each scan, instead of a long scan line that occurs with every fourth scan. is there. Blinks do not appear in short scan lines because 36 scans per second are above the frequency of light flicker that the human eye can identify. Flicker is fully visible, with the presence of a bar code reader that blinks only 9 times per second.

In both scan directions, some way must be taken to identify the laser operating in the center 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 US Patent 5,212,627 and
If a motor operating at its natural frequency as described in 5,367,151 is used, the blink should be synchronized to the motor. This is because the frequency of the motor changes slightly depending on the individual.
Here, these patents are embodied by reference showing a preferred scan motor configuration for use with the present invention. This can be done by using the scan start signal (SOS) 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 the motor drives in one direction and low when it drives in another direction.
When the motor changes direction at the end of each scan, it transmits from high to low and low to high. The operation of the laser is
Control can be performed 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. 12A. And FIG. 13 (B) and FIG. 13 (C)
FIG. 8 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. The beginning of the scan 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. O. S. The signal is typically transmitted without exactly corresponding to the time the motor reverses direction. S.
O. S. The transmission of the signal depends on the detection circuit and is typically delayed by about 1-2 milliseconds.

These changes can be corrected by the microprocessor controlling the blink as follows. First, when power is supplied to the scanner, software in the decoding device uses the scan start signal to measure the scan time in each direction. Then, for each direction, the decoding device calculates a value equal to 3/8 of the measured scan time. Next, the software program subtracts the delay time (millisecond) of the scanning start signal, which is caused by the fact that the rotation of the motor is actually slowed, from this value. (Generally, 1 or 2 milliseconds.) 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.

When a change occurs in the start of the scan, the decoding device waits for the particular scan direction in which the delay occurred, for the time calculated above. The laser is then activated for 25% of the measured scan time. This process is repeated each time the scan start signal is transmitted, and the start of a new scan is instructed. If necessary, the response time of the laser control circuit can be additionally corrected for delay.

Above all, when all is done properly, a scan line shorter than the perfect scan line and centered with respect to the perfect scan line is visible. This short line is illuminated from left to right and between right to left scans. The laser only operates for 25% of the scan time, but the visible scanline is 25% longer than the total scanline due to the fast moving beam in the center of the scan area. In a typical scanning system with a synchronous motor, experiments have shown that a short scan line results in a laser operating for only 25% of the time compared to a full scan line.
It is shown to be approximately 33% wider than a complete scan line.

As mentioned above, the present invention is for producing a laser beam directed toward a target to produce a relatively short pulsed line image on the target plane during a first period. A scanning means, an almost continuous wide-angle laser beam sweeping the entire symbol during a second period for reading the symbol, and an electrical signal corresponding to the electrical signal corresponding to the data represented by such symbol. An optical scanner is provided for reading bar code symbols on a target remote from the unit including detection means for receiving reflected light from such symbols. First,
The second period is repeated during the use of standard operation.

This system is used to detect the following symbols: When the scanner is powered up, the laser begins blinking, as described above. The operator aims at the short visible scan line in the symbol being read. Otherwise, if the scanner is fixedly mounted, the symbol is located below the short visible scan line.

When the scan line crosses the symbol or some portion of the symbol, the scanner can begin decoding the symbol. If that fails, the laser will be activated for all scan times, a few seconds later, or the time before the short scan line returns, until decoding begins. Multiple decoding from the same symbol is possible by programming the decoding device so that it does not re-decode the same symbol until it is no longer visible (typically 0.5 to 1 second).

This self-triggering means has the following advantages. Flicker does not appear because it blinks at a frequency higher than the frequency that identifies flicker. Since the object is detected only when it is in the center of the scanning area, and only an object such as a barcode is detected, the possibility of a trigger error is reduced. It does not require complicated circuits and is easier to aim than invisible infrared sensors. Handheld, fixed mount and wearable scanners are available. Since the symbol can be detected in each scan, the response is faster than that of the laser that blinks once in the fourth scan and in every fourth scan.

With further adaptation, power consumption can be further reduced. If desired, the laser can be operated every other scan, or every two, three and four scans to reduce the laser scan time by 25% and operate the laser. Flickering may be visible using this method, but it seems to be possible in battery-powered applications. In addition, the laser can modulate high frequencies during the detection time. This can cut its power consumption by half in the time it is running.

According to these measurements, the scanner (excluding the decoding device) can scan with an average current of 10 mA or less in the detection mode. This is about 30mA
It is envisioned that one of the commercially available visible laser diodes operated at If it blinks at 25% of the 4th scan, its average current will flow at 1.875 mA. If during that operating time,
If it is modulated with 50% of the given cycles, the average will be 1.875 mA. The synchronous motor we make today operates at 0.5 mA. 9.43 in total
Imagine an analog circuit that includes an amplifier, a digitizer, a motor controller, and a laser regulator built for use at 8 mA or less at mA.
(Here, a current of 3-5 volts is used.) Sometimes a triggerless scanner with an onboard decoding device is desired. Ideally, it is compatible with current decoding devices made for handheld scanners. If this should be done, current decoding devices need to have software that controls the blinking of the laser. It is impossible to connect without a trigger and without the Intel standard decoding device. if,
It is possible to avoid this problem if a low cost microprocessor is used to control the blinking of the laser and the detection of symbols in a scanner without a decoding device.

There are small microprocessors available that can perform the control of blinks as described above. The same microprocessor that blinks the laser can monitor the output of the digitizer while the blinking of the laser is performed. If it detects a sufficient number of digitized elements to indicate the possible presence of a symbol, it will display the symbol in the distance if someone just triggered it. Simulated triggers can be generated that extract the signal to send to the decoding device. When the symbol is relocated,
The "trigger" is automatically released.

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 need to be very long, then of course a relatively high cycle number is used. Also, in a thermal environment, a scanner that is never operated also operates at a relatively high cycle. If the scanner is operated in a thermal environment, relatively low frequencies are used to reduce power consumption.

The number of cycles can be selected by the operator by programming the reader or else scanning a special bar code. This allows the scanner to be easily adapted to the environment. Although the present invention has been described for reading barcodes including stacked barcodes, or two-dimensional barcodes in semiotics similar to code49, PDF417, etc., it is also found in the present invention. The present invention may be used in various machine vision or optical character recognition devices where information is extracted from other types of marks, such as characters, or from surface characteristics of the article being scanned as an application. A method of doing it is also possible.

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 a module is used interchangeably as a laser scanning element for a variety of different data acquisition devices. For example, the module replaces a ring-type, hand-held or body-worn scanner, a flexible arm, a table-top scanner that extends and mounts on the table surface or under the table, or as a subcomponent of an advanced data acquisition system. It is installed and used. Controllers and data lines that interface with such components are attached to the edges and exterior of the module so that the module can be electrically connected to matching connectors that interface with other elements of the data acquisition system. May be connected to an electrical connection device.

A separate module may have specific scanning or decoding characteristics associated with it, such as operation at a working distance or operation at a particular semiotics, print density. The properties may also be defined through software or by manual setting of control switches coupled to the module. The operator may also employ a data acquisition system to scan different types of articles. Furthermore, the system may be adapted for different applications by exchanging modules of the data acquisition device through a simple electrical connector.

Also, the scanning module described above
It may be implemented in a data capture system that itself includes one or two components such as a keyboard, display, printer, data storage, application software and database. Such systems also include data capture systems and other components in a local area network or telephone line network through modems or ISDN interfaces, and from portable terminals to portable or desk top receivers, base stations. And a communication interface that allows communication by low power radio broadcasting.

It is to be understood that each of the above, or two or more combined features, may be useful in other types of applications than those shown above. Let's do it. Although the present invention is illustrated and described in the embodiments, it is not meant to limit the scope of the Hong invention to only the presented details of the invention. Even if they can be variously modified or structurally changed, as long as they are in accordance with the spirit of the present invention,
There is no escape from the scope of the invention.

Since the above description sufficiently shows the main points of the present invention, it is easy for a third party to apply the current knowledge to easily find it out from the viewpoint of the selection technique, without further deepening the analysis. As a general or professional characteristic of the invention, it is sufficient for various applications and
Essentially every feature that can be built is adaptable. Thus, such adaptations are intended and are within the scope of the following claims.

[Brief description of 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 the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 shows an overview of the ring unit and wrist unit shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

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 a trigger mechanism 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 illustrates another embodiment of a pointer for attaching a flexible battery to an operator's body or a band for connecting to a scanner.

9 shows an embodiment of the device shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 illustrates a storage box for use with the portable optical scanning device of FIG.

11A and 11B show an outline of a laser beam scanning pattern known as the prior art.

12 (A), (B) and (C) 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 driving circuit 1c scanning element 1d scanning element driving circuit 1e battery 3 operator 7 first peripheral module 7a decoder 7b wireless transmitter 7c display 7d receiving circuit 7e photodetection Device 7f Battery pack 7g Other functions 9 Second peripheral module 9a Radio receiver 9b Radio transmitter 9c Digital processing circuit 9d Sound warning device / sound converter 9e Display unit 9f Keyboard 9h Storage device 9j Battery 10 Scanning laser beam 11 Articles 13 Bar code symbol 15 Base unit 17 Extension cord 21 Belt 74 Stand 102 Ring 104 Trigger button 116 Ring 114 Code 206 Laser diode 418 Snap ring 42 Snap ring

 ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued Front Page (72) Inventor Fredrick Hyman United States California 95030 Los Gatos Wood Acres 16500 (72) Inventor Paul Devaux Kiss United States New York 11790 Stoney Brook Barker Drive 39 (72) Inventor Edward Barkan United States New York 11764 Mirror Place Enchanted Woods Court 3 (72) Inventor Jerome Swarts New York, USA 11733 Oldfield Crane Neckroad 19 (72) Inventor Boris Metritzky, NY 11790 Stony Brook Acorn Lane 23 (72) Inventor Micros Shu Lung USA NY 11367 Flushing Jewell Avenue 138 over 31 (72) inventor Mark Kurishuba USA, New York 11788 Hoppoji Karudon Lane 26

Claims (68)

[Claims] 1. An optical system for reading marks of different light reflectance, an optical module having a light emitter for generating and emitting a light beam for illuminating a mark to be read; A first peripheral module having a photodetector for generating an electric signal corresponding to the detected reflected light, which is separately housed separately. 2. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical module has a ring-shaped portion adapted to be attached to an operator's finger. 3. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical module is adapted to be gripped by an operator's hand. 4. The optical system according to claim 1, wherein the optical module is attached to a fixed support member. 5. The optical system according to claim 1, wherein the first peripheral module is attached as a part of clothes that can be worn by an operator. 6. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the first peripheral module is adapted to be gripped by an operator's hand. 7. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the first peripheral module is attached to a fixed support member. 8. A wireless transmission for the first peripheral module to transmit the detected information to a second peripheral module that is separated from the first peripheral module and is separately housed at a distance. The optical system of claim 1, including a container. 9. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the first peripheral module comprises a keyboard or touch screen for entering data into the system. 10. The optical system of claim 8, wherein the second peripheral module is adapted to be worn by an operator. 11. The optical system of claim 8, wherein the second peripheral module is attached to a fixed support member. 12. The optical system according to claim 8, wherein the second peripheral module is housed in a portable unit including itself. 13. A radio frequency transmitter for transmitting the detected information to a separately housed base station separated from the first peripheral module by the second peripheral module. The optical system according to claim 10, comprising: 14. The optical system of claim 8, wherein the second peripheral module is adapted to be portable by an operator and includes a keyboard or touch screen for entering data into the system. . 15. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical module is powered by a battery. 16. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the first peripheral module is powered by a battery. 17. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the second peripheral module is powered by a battery. 18. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical module includes scanning means for automatically scanning the emitted light beam. 19. The optical module is arranged to radiate the light beam in a fixed direction.
The optical system according to claim 1, wherein an operator scans the light beam on the mark by manually moving the optical module. 20. The optical system according to claim 2, wherein the first peripheral module is arranged so as to be mounted on the same arm as the optical module. 21. The first peripheral module is in the form of a wrist-worn module.
The described optical system. 22. The optical system of claim 21, wherein the wrist-worn module incorporates a wristwatch. 23. The optical system of claim 1, wherein the optical module has a pen type housing. 24. The optical system of claim 8, wherein the first peripheral module is positioned above a conveyor arranged to pass articles having a mark to be read. 25. The optical system of claim 8, wherein the first peripheral module forms part of a cash register unit. 26. An optical system for reading a mark having portions of different light reflectivities for producing a light beam illuminating the mark and producing a variable intensity reflected light reflected from the mark. A light emitter and a light detector for detecting the reflected light and generating an electric signal representing the intensity of the reflected light are provided, and the light emitter has a light beam that is natural to one finger of the operator. A housing adapted to be worn on the finger in a position oriented in a direction indicated by the An optical system having a housing adapted to. 27. The optical system of claim 26, wherein the housing has a ring portion. 28. The optical system of claim 26, wherein the light emitter comprises a scanner for automatically scanning the light beam. 29. The light emitter is arranged to emit the light beam in a certain direction, and an operator manually moves the light emitter to move the light beam on the mark. 27. The optical system according to claim 26, wherein scanning is performed. 30. A ring adapted to be worn on one finger of an operator, a housing attached to the ring, and light within the housing arranged to generate and emit a beam of light. An optical pointer module comprising: a radiator, wherein an operator directs a light beam by pointing with the finger. 31. The optical pointer module of claim 30, wherein the light emitter comprises a laser. 32. The optical pointer module according to claim 31, wherein the laser is a laser diode. 33. The optical pointer module of claim 30, including a collimating optical system through which the light beam passes. 34. The pointer module is powered by a battery.
Optical pointer module described in 0. 35. The optical pointer module according to claim 34, further comprising a battery included in the housing. 36. The optical pointer module according to claim 30, further comprising a manually operated switch for turning on / off the light emitter. 37. The optical pointer module of claim 36, wherein the switch comprises a button on the ring. 38. The optical pointer module according to claim 36, wherein the switch comprises a pull cord. 39. The pull cord of claim 37, wherein the pull cord is attached to another ring arranged to be attached to a finger adjacent to the operator's finger on which the pointer is attached. Optical pointer module. 40. The light according to claim 37, wherein the pointer module is arranged to be mounted on an index finger of an operator and is adjusted for the switch moved by the thumb of the operator. Pointer module. 41. The optical pointer module according to claim 36, wherein the switch is operated by a proximity sensor. 42. The proximity sensor is arranged to detect movement of an operator's thumb at an adjacent position of the module when in use.
Optical pointer module described. 43. An optical pointer module comprising a portable housing, a light emitter within the housing arranged to generate a light beam, and a scanning element for selectively scanning the light beam. A switch operable by an operator at a first position at which the module emits a stable beam and at a second position at which the scanning element operates so that the module emits a scanning beam. Optical pointer module characterized by. 44. The optical pointer module of claim 43, wherein the scanning element is arranged to scan the beam in one dimension. 45. The optical pointer module of claim 43, wherein the scanning element is arranged to scan the beam in two dimensions. 46. The scanning element is arranged to generate a Lissajous figure.
5. The optical pointer module described in 5. 47. The optical pointer module according to claim 46, wherein the Lissajous figure is a circle. 48. The light emitter comprises a second switch.
44. The optical pointer module of claim 43, wherein the optical pointer module is arranged to operate at increased power when in the position. 49. A ring adapted to be worn on one finger of an operator.
3. The optical pointer module described in 3. 50. An optical system adapted to be worn on the body of an operator, the optical module having a light emitter for generating and emitting a beam of light; An optical system adapted to be worn around a part of the body, the band including a battery for supplying power to the module. 51. The band is adapted to be worn around an operator's wrist.
0 optical system. 52. The band is adapted to be worn around an operator's arm.
The described optical system. 53. The band is adapted to be worn around an operator's finger.
The described optical system. 54. The optical system of claim 50, wherein the optical module is a laser pointer. 55. The optical system of claim 50, wherein the optical module is a laser scanner. 56. The optical system of claim 50, wherein the optical module is a bar code reader. 57. The optical system of claim 50, wherein the battery is flexible. 58. The optical system of claim 50, wherein the battery comprises a lithium polymer battery. 59. The optical system of claim 50, wherein the band further comprises a shape retention spring. 60. The optical system of claim 59, wherein the shape retention spring forms a terminal of the battery. 61. The optical system of claim 59, wherein the shape-retaining spring snap fits within the optical module. 62. The optical system of claim 1, including a storage stand for the first peripheral module. 63. The optical system of claim 62, wherein the first peripheral module includes a rechargeable battery, and the storage stand includes a battery charger. 64. The first peripheral module includes a data storage element, and the storage stand incorporates a data read contact through data stored in the data storage element for download. Item 62. An optical system according to Item 62. 65. The optical system of claim 62, wherein the storage stand comprises a storage container. 66. An optical scanner for reading a bar code symbol on a target, a short distance from the unit, wherein a laser beam is directed toward the target and pulsed onto the target surface during a first period. A scanning means for producing a relatively short image line, a nearly continuous wide-angle laser beam sweeping the entire symbol during a second period for reading the symbol, and the data represented by the bar code symbol. A detection means for receiving reflected light from the bar code symbol to generate an electrical signal corresponding to the optical scanner. 67. The optical scanner according to claim 66, wherein the scanning means includes a semiconductor laser light source for generating the laser beam. 68. The scanning means during the first period,
Moving the laser beam only during the portion of the scan period that produces the pulsed narrow-angle beam produces a wide-angle beam when reading the bar code symbol in the second period. 67. The optical scanner of claim 66, wherein the optical scanner operates continuously during a scan cycle.