Registers – Coded record sensors – Particular sensor structure
Reexamination Certificate
1998-04-10
2001-05-01
Frech, Karl D. (Department: 2876)
Registers
Coded record sensors
Particular sensor structure
C235S462210
Reexamination Certificate
active
06223986
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The field of the present invention relates to optical scanning systems and particularly to an aiming system and method for use with an optical scanning system. The aiming system is especially suitable for use with a laser scanner for reading optically readable codes such as those found on consumer and industrial products, most frequently bar code and other symbols.
Bar code scanners, as any optical system, require outgoing scan beam to be properly drawn over the intended target such as the bar code. Handheld laser scanners normally form a single scan line which must be aimed to traverse the entire bar code. Over longer distances, which for long range scanner may be several feet, scan lines become diffuse such that they are not readily visible on a target, making it difficult for the operator to properly aim the scanner at the target or effectively manipulate the target to be read. In response to this problem, laser scanners such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,603,262 and 5,296,689 have been developed employing a pointer beam or aiming light which is visible over a greater distance to aid the user in aiming the handheld scanner.
In fixed scanners, the scan patterns tend to be multidirectional, generating a complex scan pattern forming a scan volume. Items to be scanned are passed through the scan volume and the bar code on the item is read. Such a scanner is the PSC Inc. Magellan T scanner (formerly sold under the Spectra-Physics Scanning Systems, Inc. label) which is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,475,207. Aiming beams are not required for fixed scanners primarily because the scan volume through which the item is being passed is typically more intuitive, the checkout clerk learning to orient the item with the bar code facing a window.
Nonetheless, the present inventors have recognized the potential to facilitate scanning in the fixed scanner environment.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to data reading systems and particularly to a visual enhancement system for use with a data reading system. The invention is particularly suitable in scanning systems where the user passes an item bearing a symbol through a scan volume in which a fixed scanner generates a scan pattern. In one preferred embodiment, the visual enhancement comprises an aiming aid system for an overhead bar code scanner. The aiming aid system creates a highly visible target or image in the scan volume at a preferred location for placement of the article to be scanned thereby guiding the user toward proper placement of the article. In a preferred application, an overhead bar code scanner employs a rotating polygon mirror which scans one or more laser beams off pattern mirrors creating a complex pattern of scan lines down into the scan volume. An aiming aid is created by directing a laser beam onto a scanning mirror positioned on top of the polygon mirror generally along the rotational axis of the polygon mirror and then directing that beam out into the scan volume in the desired pattern, such as a circular aiming aid. The user may then take the object to be scanned, such as an overnight letter or parcel, and place it in the scan volume with the location of the circular aiming aid directing the user to the proper location for the parcel. The circle size and/or focus may also direct the user to the proper focal distance from the scanner.
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Brochure: Plastic Diffractive Optics, Mems Optical, Inc., Huntsville, Alabama (Feb. 5, 1997).
Bobba Mohan L.
Hofer John A.
Rudeen Robert W.
Frech Karl D.
Lyon & Lyon LLP
PSC Scanning Inc.
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