Registers – Coded record sensors – Particular sensor structure
Reexamination Certificate
2000-10-30
2001-12-25
Pitts, Harold I. (Department: 2876)
Registers
Coded record sensors
Particular sensor structure
C235S462390
Reexamination Certificate
active
06332577
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The field of the present invention relates to data reading systems. In particular, an optical scanning system and method for converting between multiple and single beam optical scanners are described herein.
U.S. application Ser. No. 09/360,039 to Acosta and Rudeen discloses various multiple beam scanner configurations. In one configuration, multiple laser beams are formed and directed along offset paths onto a scanning mechanism such as a polygon mirror which scans the beams across pattern mirrors to generate simultaneous scan patterns out into a scan volume. Return light from both scan patterns is retrodirectively collected and redirected by a common collection element such as a collection lens. The collection lens focuses return light from the first beam onto a first detector and return light from the second beam onto a second detector. By arranging the outgoing beam paths in an offset condition, the collected light may be focused to different locations.
Though the multiple beam system provides a high density and efficient scan pattern generation as well as a versatile scan system, the present inventors have recognized that increasing scan pattern density and scanner versatility can add to the cost of the scanner, thus, it may be advantageous to have a scanner that can be converted from a multiple beam system to a single beam system, or, alternatively, to have a scanner that can be converted from a single beam system to a multiple beam system.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a system for and a method of optical scanning which provide for converting between a multiple beam and a single beam optical scanner.
In a preferred configuration, the scanner can be adapted to operate as either a single beam scanning system or a multiple beam scanning system. Light sources, mirrors, detectors, collection lenses, and other scanner components are added, removed, and/or replaced, thereby allowing the user to avoid having to purchase a new scanner when the user's performance requirements and/or cost restrictions vary.
If it is determined that a single beam system would be preferred, second beam optics can be removed from the multiple beam scanning system along with removal or replacement of the corresponding components. For example, when the need for cost savings outweighs the need for enhanced performance, the additional components associated with a multiple beam scanner can be removed from the scanning system so that a single beam system is utilized.
Conversely, when it is determined that multiple beam optics are required to meet performance requirements, second beam optics can be added to the single beam scanner along with any corresponding components required to implement the multiple beam system.
REFERENCES:
patent: 4591242 (1986-05-01), Broockman et al.
patent: 4678288 (1987-07-01), Lonsdale et al.
patent: 4694182 (1987-09-01), Howard
patent: 4786798 (1988-11-01), Lonsdale
patent: 5007691 (1991-04-01), Bobba et al.
patent: 5361158 (1994-11-01), Tang
patent: 5457308 (1995-10-01), Spitz et al.
patent: 5475207 (1995-12-01), Bobba et al.
patent: 5491328 (1996-02-01), Rando
patent: 5565668 (1996-10-01), Redderson et al.
patent: 5693930 (1997-12-01), Katoh et al.
patent: 5719385 (1998-02-01), Wike, Jr. et al.
patent: 5841121 (1998-11-01), Koenck
patent: 5869827 (1999-02-01), Rando
patent: 5945670 (1999-08-01), Rudeen
patent: 6189795 (2001-02-01), Ohkawa et al.
patent: 36 09 669 (1986-10-01), None
Acosta Jorge L.
Rudeen Robert W.
Lyon & Lyon LLP
Pitts Harold I.
PSC Scanning Inc.
LandOfFree
System and method for converting multiple beam optical scanner does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.
If you have personal experience with System and method for converting multiple beam optical scanner, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and System and method for converting multiple beam optical scanner will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-2592464