Bar code scanner and method with a plurality of operational modes

Abstract

An improved card scanner for imaging and decoding data contained in indicia such as bar codes on a side surface of an inserted card. The device features a double scanning method using an electronic imaging element and processor which turns off unnecessary power when not required and begins processing data as soon as one captured image is determined complete. This is accomplished through the use of a processor and software to determine if a complete image of the bar code on the inserted card has been captured and allowing immediate processing for data and removal of the card. Should the image of the bar code be incomplete, a second scan is conducted of the bar code as it is removed and a complete image formed from the second or combination of the two individual scans. The device can also be used to compare photographs scanned from a card with the digital photograph encoded in a two dimensional bar code and to display both photos for comparison.

Description

The disclosed device relates to bar code scanners which are used to scan card resident bar codes for identification, informational, and other purposes in most industrialized countries. More particularly it relates to an improved method and apparatus for the faster and more accurate reading of linear and two dimensional (2D) bar codes which allows for progressive reading of the card when inserted into the reader, thereby eliminating any aiming by the user as well as providing fast and accurate reading of the card which is read as it is pushed into the reader. The device uses a line by line approach to reading of the card as it moves laterally across the sensor. It also self-aligns the card with the reading device, eliminates the need for the user to aim a reading device at the card, while concurrently alleviating the time delays caused by conventional image type readers as well as lowering power consumption and the size requirements of the card reader itself. The device also incorporates a unique method of examining scanned bar codes which provides for a second scan of the bar code during exit from the device wherein it will either scan the entire bar code or scan the bar code and combine it with the first scan to find missing data from the first scan, only if needed, thereby speeding up both processing of the data contained in the bar code and the scanning of the bar code itself.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Ever prevalent in the lives of people in most industrialized countries is the use of bar codes to identify products and memorialize other information. There are typically two types of bar codes in commercial use, a linear (1D) bar code and a two dimensional (2D) bar code. A conventional 1D bar code (one dimensional UPC bar code) is just a different way of encoding numbers and letters by using a combination of bars and spaces of varying widths which in essence is just another manner of entering data into a computer. A bar code generally does not contain descriptive data. It is a reference number that a computer uses to look up an associated record that contains descriptive data and other important information. For example, a bar code found on a soda can does not contain the product name, type of soda, or price; instead, it contains a 12-digit product number. When this number is scanned by the cashier at the check-out, it is transmitted to the computer which finds the record associated with that item number in the data base. The matching item record contains a description of the product, vendor name, price, quantity-on-hand, etc. The computer instantly does a “price lookup” and displays the price on the cash register. It also subtracts the quantity purchased from the quantity-on-hand. This entire transaction is done instantly. In a nutshell, a bar code typically has ID data encoded in it and that data is used by computer to look up all specific information associated with the data.

Since computers cannot “read” bar codes, for a computer to make use of the information contained in the bar code, the bar code with encoded data must be captured and then decoded into a data format that the computer can process. The device which optically reads or captures the bar code information and sends it to the decoder, is known as the bar code reader, generally called bar code scanner. A typical bar code reader kit consists of a scanner, decoder, and cable which interfaces the scanner and/or decoder to the computer. The scanner scans the bar code symbol and captures the bars and spaces of the bar code and sends the captured complete image to the decoder. The decoder translates the captured bars and spaces of the bar bode into data with corresponding electrical output and transmits that data to the computer in a traditional data format. A bar code scanner can either have the decoder built into it or have an interface between the scanner and the computer which can act as the decoder.

The 2D bar code, unlike linear codes, can store the data within the linear 2d code, therefore eliminating the need for access to a database for getting the information. Large amounts of text and data can be stored securely and inexpensively. Some 2D bar codes are like a set of linear bar codes literally stacked on top of each other. Conventionally, the PDF417 is the best example of a stacked-bar symbol and is the most common of all 2D bar codes currently in use today. 2D bar codes also use an advanced error correction instead of a check digits system. This error correction allows the symbol to withstand some physical damage without causing loss of data. This high level of error correction is far more advanced than conventional 1D linear bar codes with check digits.

Currently, four of the different types of bar code readers available include the pen type readers (bar code wands), laser bar code scanners, CCD (Charge Couple Devices) bar code readers and camera-based barcode readers used for most two dimensional (2D) bar codes which contain much more information than standard vertical line bar codes. Each of these types uses a slightly different technology for reading and decoding a bar code.

Pen type bar code readers have a light source and a photo diode placed next to each other in the tip of a pen or wand. To read a bar code, a user drags the tip of the pen across all the bars, in a steady even motion. The photo diode measures the intensity of the light reflected back from the light source and generates a waveform corresponding to the widths of the bars and spaces in the bar code. The bar code reader sends the waveform to the decoder, which decodes the waveform and sends it to the computer in a traditional data format.

Laser bar code scanners work the same way as pen type bar code readers. The only main difference is that laser bar code scanners use a laser beam as their light source, and typically employ either a reciprocating mirror or a rotating prism to scan the laser beam back and forth across the bar code. As with the pen type bar code reader, a photo diode is used to measure the intensity of the light reflected back from the bar code.

CCD bar code scanners use an array of tiny light sensors lined up in a row in the head of the bar code reader. Voltage waveform corresponding to the bars and spaces of the bar code is generated and sent to the decoder, which decodes the data and sends it to the computer. The main difference between a CCD bar code scanner, a pen type bar code scanner, and laser bar code scanner is that the CCD bar code scanner measures emitted ambient light from the bar code whereas pen or laser bar code scanners measure reflected light of a specific frequency originating from the scanner itself.

The camera-based bar code readers used for the majority of 2D bar codes which are becoming more popular due to increased data carrying ability, use a small video camera to capture an image of a bar code. The bar code reader then transmits that information to a computer and uses sophisticated digital image processing techniques to decode the bar code. Unfortunately this type of image processing of the entire 2D bar code is time consuming, requires the aiming of a camera to properly capture the image, consumes large amounts of computer processing and memory as well as requiring substantial electrical power to run the camera.

Linear bar codes are decoded along one axis or direction and generally encode data characters as parallel arrangements of alternating, multiple-width strips of lower reflectivity or “bars” separated by absences of such strips having higher reflectivity or “spaces.” Each unique pattern of bars and spaces within a predetermined width defines a particular data character. A given linear symbol encodes several data characters along its length as several groups of unique bar and space patterns.

Newer data collection symbologies have departed from the typical linear symbologies to create 2D stacked or area symbologies in order to increase the amount of information encoded within a given area. Stacked symbologies or “multi-row symbologies” employ several adjacent rows of multiple-width bars and spaces. “Area symbologies” or 2D matrix symbologies employ arrangements of regular polygonal data cells where the center-to-center distance of adjacent cells is uniform.

Reading stacked symbologies and 2D area technologies with scanning beam-type detectors typically involves a scanning approach where the beam is scanned by hand by a user with the scanner, horizontally across the large object a number of times to capture the image line by line. The user must be very careful as to the distance the card is held from the scanner or it won't work correctly. Also, ambient light and reflections from the card surface itself can interfere with the imaging. For each sweep, the sensor output is converted to a digital signal. The digital signal is then mapped into a two-dimensional character array and processed by the computer as a whole to decode the symbol or symbols. Such line by line scanning is very time consuming and frequently hard to accomplish as the user may shift the reader. Thus the reader will then have an incorrect indication of the relative locations of light and dark regions, thereby impairing decoding. If the card on which the bar code is resident is bent, the problems of the resulting image are increased.

To overcome such problems, two-dimensional readers have been employed that use cameras, or semiconductor or other suitable light receiving elements that image the entire two-dimensional area substantially simultaneously. This is a memory intensive operation for the processor and due to optical limitations inherent in such imaging devices. Further, these readers have a relatively small depth of field within which symbols can be read. To increase the reader's depth of field, some two-dimensional readers employ auto focus systems which are costly and relatively slow. Moreover, even readers with auto focus systems are limited by the depth-of-field of the auto focus system. Also, bent cards with resulting bent code strips can exacerbate the reading problems. Still further, even when reading linear or stacked symbologies, such systems employ relatively complex area-type processing for finding, identifying and decoding. The complexity of such processing makes these readers undesirably slow, and large as a system, for many linear and stacked technology applications.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,193,156 (Han) is a unique card developed for reading with a presented illumination system. Here again this patent does not deal with the mechanics and operation involved with the insertion of a card into a card reader.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,569,902 (Wood) is hand-held device to read 2D code using a transparent guide for aiming employing an area sensor and unique illumination system. However, Wood requires the user to aim the device to work.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,903,815 (Hirschfeld) teaches an automatic vending machine using a barcode scanner. While it mentions a switch to activate the scanner, this is a generic switching method used in any vending machine and is not designed to trigger at the cards leading edge or to help straighten the bent cards.

Finally, U.S. Pat. No. 5,886,334 (D'Entremont) instructs upon a camera-based system to capture a document for read and inspection. Here again this patent does not provide any improvement with the mechanics and operation involved with the insertion of a card into a card reader and it requires a plurality of cameras to function.

As such, there exists a continuing need of improvements and simplification in the art of reading and handling coded cards while greatly increasing the capabilities in this relatively new field. Such a device should allow for the easy and fast reading of data on a 2D bar code. Such a device should require no aiming by the user to extract information from the code. Still further, such a device should aid in straightening out cards which have achieved a curved or bent surface due to long storage in a wallet or pocket. Finally, such a device should be small to allow it to be used at the point of purchase or inspection easily and should consume minimum power.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The device herein disclosed is a compact vertical insertion card scanner is a low power symbology reader, for reading one and two-dimensional bar codes or other indicia printed on a card surface. The device in the current preferred embodiments reads a standard A7 size card like Driver License or Credit Card without using any mechanical driver for card insertion and reading, as is required by conventional line by line scanners. This is accomplished by employing a unique system that self aligns the card with the reader and lets the user insert the card into the device in a vertical or horizontal direction depending on how the bar code is disposed on the card rather than passing through in the conventional horizontal direction, and pushing the card by hand, thus eliminating the need for the conventional and time consuming mechanized drive system required of line by line readers which must maintain registration of each line to form the digital image for the computer to decode in a time-consuming process.

In a favored embodiment the device captures the bar code employing a means of self-aligning and straightening the card for travel past an image capture device while concurrently detecting the entry of the card to turn on the reader with a switch means in the form of a micro switch. By employing a micro switch located adjacent to the entry point of the card and inserting the card on the long side along the shorter axis, the overall height of the unit is kept to a minimum while also acting as a trigger switch to turn on the device and activate the scanner. Consequently, the device only consumes electrical power during the scanning process and may in some cases be operated with a low voltage battery. Of course the device can also be configured for insertion of the card longwise should the need arise, by making slightly taller.

As the card is inserted vertically into the device it is pressed against the scanner head by the means of a spring loaded hinged pressure plate. With the resulting close proximity of the card image to the scanner head, the image can be read faster, more accurately and with a higher resolution not encumbered by any disturbance from outside light. Also by pressing directly over the scanning area as the card is inserted, and employing a biased plate to guide the card through its lateral translation in the device, a card that retains some curvature by being carried in a person's wallet will read the same as a flat card.

As the card reaches the lower limits of its travel having been scanned, the bottom edge of the card comes in contact with a second micro switch that turns off the device, or optionally, will reactivate the scanning device for a secondary scan of the card as it is removed from the compact vertical insertion card scanner.

In the current preferred embodiment, a hinge engagement at the lower edge of the pressure plate allows the curved pressure heads or struts located at the top of the pressure plate, to rotate away from the card as the card is inserted, maintaining accurate alignment and constant pressure on the card. This pressure keeps the card in as close a proximity to the scanning head as possible. However, conventional embossed or raised letters on the card surface cannot affect this unique system as it passes into or out of the device with the curved struts acting as a means to prevent jamming against the surface of the pressure plate caused by the raised portions of the card.

An alternate preferred embodiment of the compact vertical insertion card scanner will incorporate a second sensor module affixed to the pressure plate maintaining the pressure against the card. The addition of a second sensor module allows for reading either one or two-dimensional bar codes on either side of the card or on both sides of the card together at the same time. With the incorporation of the two sensor units, it would not make any difference what way the card was inserted into the device and would give the device the ability to scan two data strips, to check for tampering and/or accuracy, should one of the bar codes become damaged.

Further, the provision of a second sensor module and illumination means would provide a unique ability of the device to read both the data on the bar code, and the actual photograph of the bearer which is provided on many forms of identification and credit cards. Since the bar code can be encoded with a digital photo of the bearer, and the device can acquire the actual photo of the bearer from the card, the device can also allow for either a computer comparison of the two images for a positive match or the projection of both the digital image from the bar code and the actual image on the card, and allow the user to view them personally, to visually ascertain if they are one and the same person. This would provide an excellent means to identify that the person presenting the card for credit or identification is the proper and authorized bearer of the card.

The preferred embodiment of the device will employ a CIS (Contact Image Scanner) type sensor such to read and capture the image or other indicia on the card. This sensor module employs an LED module illuminating a line uniformly as the card passes through the device. Also in the preferred embodiment is an ARM7 RISC processor, CPLD, Flash memory and memory in the form SDRAM or other conventional memory is provided to allow the card reader to process all the data from a complete captured bar code, on board and then interface with the computer or data processor of choice at a remote location. This miniaturizes the device even further.

By employing a Contact Image sensor (CIS) the device has a fixed Field of View (FOV) and maintains excellent Depth of Field (DOF). The CIS provides an advantage when the target bar code is less than the entire available FOV (like driver license) contacting the sensor in close proximity to the image since it can read the target faster, more accurately, and with a high resolution without any disturbance from out side light.

Further, the preferred device, by using a plurality of means for switching to signal the processor that the card has been inserted, and at the termination of insertion, that travel past the sensor module is finished, the device provides a unique method of scanning bar codes and cards which will greatly accelerate capturing the bar code image and reading the data on such cards. The first switching means signals the device that the card has been inserted and is translating across the sensor module. At this point power to the device is turned on thus allowing the device to remain dormant and in a power saving mode until the first switching means is activated. Once the card has fully traveled into the device and past the sensor module, it triggers a second means for switching which when activated signals the device that insertion is completed. This completion signal is sent to the communicating computer or processor and signals it to process the data from the captured complete bar code.

If at this point after the first scan of the bar code the computer determines that image forming the bar code from the various sections of the bar code have been adequately scanned and can be read, the scanning device is finished and will turn off, thus saving time and power and processing the data from the captured bar code commences. If, however, for some reason the computer determines that segments of the bar code are missing or improperly read and the computer software cannot fully read and discern the contained data, the second means for switching when moved to the open position will signal the device to run a second scan of the card during the exit travel of the card from the device and to re-scan the bar code to capture the image containing the data again which can be processed individually if totally captured, or combined with the first scan by the computer and software to build a total image of the bar code and thereby complete the process and read the data contained in the imaged bar code.

This double read rate capability allows the device to conserve power if a total image is captured on the first traverse past the sensor module or to continue for a second scan to capture the total image of the bar code or assemble a total image from both scans. Obviously the optimum method would be the capture of the total image on the first pass and begin processing of data therein contained since both power and time are conserved. However, the provision of the ability to re-scan on the second pass and process the image or to assemble the image electronically using both scans adds utility and long term time savings by insuring an image is captured in one of the three manners.

It is therefore an object of this invention to create a simple device for reading bar codes on cards whereby the card may be inserted vertically or horizontally and automatically read during insertion.

Another object of this invention is to create a device that is activated automatically when the card is inserted and turned off when the card is removed, thereby saving energy and enabling batter power if desired.

An additional object of this invention is to create a device that will read a card through an automated scanning process rather than the conventional cumbersome hand held scanning device.

Another object of this invention is to create a device that will hold the card inserted as close to the sensor as possible by the means of a spring loaded, hinged pressure plate.

A still further object of this invention is the provision of a method of scanning cards inserted into the device which allows for a single scan or, if needed, a second scan to speed up processing of data by the communicating processor.

An additional object of this invention is the provision of a two-sided card scanning device that will scan either a plurality of bar codes on an inserted card or a photograph and a bar code on such a card and provide a comparison of both for identification of the bearer.

Yet another object of this invention is the provision of a bar code reading device that allows for immediate processing of data in an imaged bar code as soon as a complete image has been obtained, thereby increasing the speed of data processing.

These together with other objects and advantages which will become subsequently apparent and reside in the details of the construction and operation as more fully hereinafter described and claimed, reference being had to the accompanying drawings forming a part hereof, wherein like numerals refer to like parts throughout.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

FIG. 1 depicts the device with a card bearing a bar code and ready for insertion.

FIG. 2 depicts an exploded view of the device.

FIG. 3 depicts a top view of the device showing the insertion slot for insertion of the long edge of the card.

FIG. 4 is a side cut away view of the device showing the card at initial insertion.

FIG. 5 is a side cut away view of the device showing the card moving passed the sensor module and activating a first means for switching.

FIG. 6 depicts the card at full insertion and activating a second means for switching to a second position from a first position, prior to removal.

FIG. 7 depicts a side cut away view similar to FIG. 6 showing the card just after full insertion and starting removal wherein the second means for switching moves back to the first position.

FIG. 8 depicts an embodiment of the device with sensor modules located to allow for scanning of both sides of the inserted card.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing the double read rate method of scanning the bar code during insertion and removal of the card from the device.

FIG. 10 depicts a continuation of the flow chart of FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

As shown in the exploded view of FIG. 1, the device 10 features a cover 12 having a slot 14 formed in a top surface 16. The slot in the current favored mode has a pair of sloped shoulders 18 which surround both ends of the slot 14 thereby providing tapered ends to the slot to provide an easy means to guide the card 20 into the slot 14.

In line with the slot 14 in the cover 12, when the device 10 is assembled, a means to maintain the card in a defined path for lateral translation in and out of the device 10 is provided by a pair of grooves 24 formed vertically in the internal casing 26. These grooves 24 are spaced apart in a manner designed to engage the side edges of the card 20 when it is inserted through the slot 14 and into the device 10 and thereby provide the means to maintain the card in a defined path for lateral translation in and out of the device 10 while the card 20 is vertically translating into and out of the device 10 during use. The beginning point of the defined path would be insertion at the slot 14 and the termination point would be the point where the card 20 either bottoms out or trips a switch means such as pictured in FIG. 6 signaling the communicating computer or computer processor that the card 20 has reached a determined termination point. The cover 12, when assembled on the device, also provides a means to shield the barcode 40 on the card 20 from ambient light during scanning which helps prevent errors in scanning and improved accuracy.

As the card 20 is inserted into the device 10 the ends of the card 20 encounter the sloped ends of the slot 14 at the shoulders 18 thereby providing an initial means to help align the card with the slot 14. Once inserted through the slot 14 by the user, the side edges of the card 20 are engaged by the grooves 24 in the casing 26 which are operatively positioned in line with the ends of the slot 14 to receive the card 20 and thereafter substantially prevent lateral translation of the card while it is vertically translated into the device.

During insertion of the card 20 the leading edge encounters a pressure plate 28 which is biased by a spring 30 or other biasing means so that the pressure plate engages and biases the card 20 on a side surface and toward an electronic imaging component 31 which provides a means for capturing of images on the card 20 as it translates thereby. This engagement by the pressure plate 28 thus provides a means to bias a side surface of the card 20 toward the imaging component 31 as it traverses past it. This maintains the side surface of the card in close proximity to, and at a substantially fixed distance from, the imaging component 31, thereby providing a means to maintain the bar code 40 within a narrow range of distance allowing for a narrow depth of field for focus of the imaging component 31 and is important to allow for the imaging component 31 to read the bar code 40 quickly and more accurately and with a higher resolution. Also by employing a biased pressure plate 28 and the grooves 24 in the casing 26, a card 20 that retains some curvature by being carried in a person's wallet will be straightened and thus a means to flatten the card 20 for scanning and correct image capture as it travels past the imaging component 31, is provided. The smooth traverse of the card 20 across the pressure plate 28 during its downward travel into the device 10 is further enhanced by the provision of a plurality of struts 29 which project from the pressure plate 28. These struts 29 have a substantially curved surface such that the leading edge of the card 20 encounters the curved edges of the struts 29 during insertion and should the card 20 which provides a means to prevent binding of the card 20 against the pressure plate 28 during insertion and removal and is especially helpful in preventing such binding, should the card 20 have the conventional embossed or raised lettering frequently used on credit cards and the like. While the device 10 will function well without the struts 29, their addition is preferred to prevent binding and to enhance the straightening of curved or deformed cards using the pressure of the strut 29 placed to frictionally engage across the middle of an inserted card 20.

A first means for electronic switching in the form of micro switch 32 having a first and second position is located adjacent to the entry point of the card 20 and has a first position out of contact with the card 20 and a second position which provides a means to trigger or activate the device 10 and energize the imaging component 31. As such, the device only consumes electrical power during the scanning process and may in some cases be operated with a low voltage battery. Such power can be communicated to the device 10 from a transformer, battery, or other means to provide electrical power and in the current best mode such power is communicated to the power jack 11 from a remote source such as a conventional transformer. From the jack 11, electrical power would be communicated to the various components using cables and circuit boards in the conventional fashion.

In a current preferred embodiment of the device 10 the electronic imaging component 31 functions as a means to capture an electronic image of indicia such as a bar code 40 or a photograph (not shown) on the side surface 19 as it translates past the electronic imaging component 31. There are many such components and more are being developed on a regular basis, consequently those skilled in the art will readily comprehend substitutes and improvements to the electronic imaging component and such is anticipated. Currently, the electronic imaging component 31 an LED module featuring a plurality of Light Emitting Diodes or LED's 38 illuminating a line on the side surface 19 of the card 20 uniformly as the card 20 passes through the device. As shown the LED's 38 are in line is an elongated groove 36 in the imaging component 31 which also has a plurality of image sensors 34 providing the means for capture of an electronic image of indicia such as the bar code 40 on the side surface 19 of the card 20 as it passes by during insertion. Using the illumination from the LED's the images on the card side surface 19 may be thus captured by the image sensors 34 as it slides past. This image capturing is enhanced by the aforementioned provision of a means to prevent ambient light from reaching the card, and by the means to bias a side surface of the card 20 against the front surface of the electronic imaging component 31 during traverse past the grove 36, and the means to maintain a fixed depth of field, thereby maintaining a preferred light level as well as a fixed distance of the side surface 19 and bar code 40 image from the image sensors 34 of the imaging component 31.

As noted, the imaging component 31 in a preferred mode to conserve energy is only energized when triggered by the first micro switch 32 and thus saves energy; however, it is anticipated that should energy conservation not be an issue the imaging component could be left energized. However, the current best mode features the micro switch 32 as a trigger. As the side surface 19 passes by the imaging component 31 a first electronic image is taken of the bar code 40 or other indicia desired for imaging. This image is communicated electronically to either an onboard processor and computer memory (not shown) using conventional wires and cables and/or to a remote computing device using a means for electronic communication of data such as a serial port 41, wireless transmitter, or other conventional means for electronic communication of data between a computer card or remote device and the computer processor and memory. In the current best mode, the device 10 has a RISC processor, onboard memory, and onboard software to allow the device 10 to process all the image and data from the captured image of the 1D or 2D bar code 40 onboard, and then interface and communicate data obtained with a remote computer or data processor of choice at a remote location. However, those skilled in the art will realize that the image captured by the imaging component 31, if complete, could also be transmitted for processing to the remote computer by the means for electronic communication of data such as the serial port 41, with, or without onboard processing, and such is anticipated.

As the card 20 reaches a termination point at the lower limit of its travel down the grooves 24 in the casing 26, the lead edge 21 of the card 20 triggers a second means of electronic switching which in the current best mode is second switch 42, which when triggered from a first position at rest to a second position moved by the card, will signal the device 10 that the first path of travel through the device 10, of the card 20 has terminated. Of course the first switch 32 and second switch 42 might be substituted with other means for electronic switching such as proximity senors or lights and sensor, and the use of other means to determine entry into the defined path and reaching the termination point are anticipated, however the current best mode uses switches. At this point, a means to examine the captured image of the indicia is employed such as software in memory of the computer or processor to which the image from the side surface 19 is transmitted electronically. In this fashion the captured image is examined to ascertain if it is complete and may be therefore accurately processed for data contained therein. Conventionally such bar codes, being either one-dimensional or two-dimensional, are divided into adjoining segments and the software examines the entire image captured to ascertain if all of the image containing all of the individual segments has been sufficiently captured to enable it to be fully read and thereafter be processed for data. After this initial travel past the imaging component 31 using only one pass, if it is determined by the processor the captured image is complete, and can be processed for data, the software can activate a means to signal the user they may remove the card by using an alarm 44 such as a conventional light, LED, or beeper or other audio and/or visible alarm, to signify the card may be immediately removed and the imaging component 31. Since it is possible that the user will remove the card too quickly before the signal to remove the card, such an occurrence would be considered an incomplete image by the processor and a second image would be taken whether needed or not. However, if imaging is determined complete, the imaging component 31 can remain off during removal to save energy and processing time since it is no longer needed. Upon complete image determination the processor may also begin to immediately process the image for contained data as the card is being removed since it is complete also saving time.

If however the processor providing a means to examine the captured image for completeness determines that the image is incomplete and/or not discernable for the processor to extract its encoded data, or does not have time to do so, as the second switch 42 moves to the first position to signal the leading edge 21 of the card is being removed and traveling upward, prior to being removed, the software in the processor will signal the imaging component 31 to activate and provide power to capture a second image of the bar code 40 on the side surface 19 of the card 20 while it is traveling upward during removal. Once the card is removed, which is signaled to the computer and by the movement of the first switch 32 to the first position prior or out of contact with the card, the imaging component 31 is again de-energized and power consumption by the imaging component 31 ceases. The second image of the bar code or other data containing indicia is captured and is examined by the software and processor to determine if it is complete and contains all of the segments and information necessary to discern the data encoded into the image and if so, will signal that reading is over using the aforementioned alarm means. From this second image determined to be complete, the data encoded therein will then be immediately processed and displayed as needed to the user to provide the information necessary to complete the transaction or will simply be communicated to a remote data processing device and used accordingly.

If however the second pass and second image taken of the bar code 40 is determined by the software to lack data segments necessary for the processor to extract the contained data, a third stage is provided in which the computer and software combines the two different electronic images which were captured and takes the first image and the second image and assembles a third image therefrom using the accurate segments of the first image combined with the accurate segments of the second image to form a valid third image from which the data may be read, processed and used for the intended purpose.

This method which uses three progressive stages of processing provides the best combination of power and time conservation and accuracy by insuring that unneeded components of device are turned off and image processing for contained data commences as soon as soon as one complete readable image is ascertained by the onboard components of the device and the communicating computer and software. It also insures that repeat insertions of the card 20 are virtually eliminated by providing a second pass on removal as well as the ability to form a third or virtual complete image from the first and second images should both the first and second pass be unsuccessful.

An alternate preferred embodiment of the device 10 is also shown in FIG. 6. In this embodiment, a second electronic imaging component 31 would be provided which would be able to image the opposite side surface 19 of the card 20 from the other electronic imaging component 31 and would best be affixed to the pressure plate 28 maintaining the pressure against the card 20. The addition of a second sensor module allows for reading either one or two dimensional bar codes 40 on either or both sides of card 20 at the same time. With the incorporation of the two imaging components 31, it would not make any difference what way the card 20 is inserted into the device 10 and would give the device the ability to scan for two bar codes 40 at once, or, to scan other indicia or images on the card concurrently with scanning the bar code 40 on the other side of the card.

Additionally, the provision of a second imaging component 31 opposite the first, would provide a unique ability of the device to read both the data on the bar code and the actual photograph of the bearer which is provided on many forms of identification and credit cards. As noted, two-dimensional bar codes frequently are encoded with digital photos of the authorized bearer. Using this data from the bar code 40 from one side of the card, and using the actual photograph on the other side of the card, the device allows for either a computer comparison of the two images for a positive match or the projection of both the digital image from the bar code and the actual image on the card, and allows the user to view them to ascertain if they are one and the same person. This provides an excellent means to confirm that the picture on the card of the person presenting the card for credit or identification is the proper and authorized bearer of the card according to the hidden digital image in the bar code 40.

As noted, the provision of equipment which will capture the total image on the side of the card on one pass or two, depending upon the completeness of the first image captured, allows for a unique method of reading the information contained in the bar code 40 and either ceasing the imaging process if it is complete, or allowing a second reading for a second image as the card 20 is removed if the first image is incomplete or cannot be processed for its contained data. Of course, processing for contained data in the image can begin as soon as a single image has been determined to be complete. As noted earlier, the user would insert the card 20 into the device 10 which would activate a switching means as shown as first micro switch 32 which would trigger the LED 38 to the on position and the electronic imaging component 31 would image the bar code 40 or other indicia such as a photograph as it passed by when pushed into the device 10.

FIGS. 9 and 10 graphically depict a flow chart of a preferred method of scanning indicia which in the current best mode is bar code 40 on a conventional indicia bearing card 20. Briefly explained the method would start by turning electrical power to the device 10 on and communicating that power in a conventional fashion to all the components of the device. 10. Once so energized the hardware and memory will be initialized and wait until the first trigger switch is activated by the card 20. Once so activated the trigger will cause the LED's 38 of the imaging component 31 to illuminate the card 20 so the image sensors 34 may capture lines of the image of the bar code 40 as it passes by in the defined path from the entry point to the termination point. The lines are captured and stored in onboard memory so long as the card is passed at a sufficient pace to reach the termination point in a determined amount of time. If the pace is too slow, the device 10 may time out.

Once the card 20 reaches the bottom or termination point of travel, the second switch 42 or similar means to determine that the card has reached the end of the defined path communicates termination to the processor which determines if the first image is complete and can then start decoding the captured first image for the data encoded therein. If the first image captured and reviewed and is determined to be a successful complete image capable of decoding by the processor or computer for its data, then the device can emit a signal and concurrently send the complete image to the intended communicating computer or onboard processor to extract the data and display transmit it to other remote device. Electrical power to all but essential components can then be concurrently cut to save energy.

If however the first image is determined to be incomplete and incapable of yielding the data encoded therein on processing, then path “B” of FIG. 10 would be followed which would provide for capturing a second image as the card 20 is removed and either decoding the second image if it is determined to be complete and sufficient to yield encoded data, or if determined to be incomplete, then combining successfully captured segments of the second image with successfully captured segments of the first, to yield the complete image which would then be transmitted to the intended device and decoded for its data.

As best shown in FIGS. 9–10, the device 10 can thus capture one or two images of the indicia intended depending on the outcome of the first image captured. If the first image captured is determined to be complete, then there is no need for the second image and processing of the data from this first image can begin immediately to ascertain the data contained in the image. This processing may begin as the card 19 is being removed to speed up the process and provide the data encoded on the indicia of the captured first image quicker. Or, if the first image is examined and determined to be incomplete, then a second image would be captured as the card 19 is being removed. This second image would be examined to see if it is sufficiently complete to be decoded for its contained data, and if so, processing of the second image can commence immediately to discern the data therein.

However, if the second image is also determined to be incomplete on its own to be decoded for data therein contained, then a third route of processing would be initiated wherein the two images would be combined to yield a single complete virtual image of the indicia that could then be processed for its data. Since processing time of the complete image for its contained data takes longer than the time to actually capture the image, by allowing for the processing the first complete captured image of the indicia for its encoded data, the device 10 speeds up the eventual provision of the data encoded into the image captured. If the first image captured is determined to be complete, the processing of that image can begin immediately. If however the second image must be taken and it alone is determined to be sufficiently complete to yield the encoded data, then processing of the second image for encoded data would begin immediately. Only if the first and second images are both examined and both determined to be incomplete would the device 10 have to wait and combine the images to yield one that is capable of processing for encoded data.

While all of the fundamental characteristics and features of the Improved Bar Code Scanner and Method have been described herein, with reference to particular embodiments thereof, a latitude of modification, various changes and substitutions are intended in the foregoing disclosure and it will be apparent that in some instance, some features of the invention will be employed without a corresponding use of other features without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth. It should be understood that such substitutions, modifications, and variations may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Consequently, all such modifications and variations are included within the scope of the invention as defined herein.

Claims

1. An improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia on a side surface of a card, comprising: means to communicate electrical power to components of said card scanner;means to maintain a card bearing indicia on at least one side surface, in a defined path into and out of said card scanner;said defined path having a beginning point and a termination point;means to capture an electronic image of said indicia as said card travels in said defined path;means to trigger said means to capture electronic images to capture a first image of said indicia, when said card translates in said defined path from said beginning point toward said termination point;means to detect said card reaching said termination point;means to examine said first image when said card reaches said termination point and determine if said first image yields a captured image in a complete state or in an incomplete state;means to communicate said captured image if in said complete state, to a decoder to extract data contained therein;means to trigger said means to capture an electronic image to capture a second image of said indicia, as said card travels in said defined path from said termination point to removal at said beginning point, should said means to examine said electronic image determine said first image is in said incomplete state when said card reaches said termination point, and means to examine said second image if captured and determine if said second image yields a second captured image in a complete state or in an incomplete state; andmeans to communicate said captured image if in said complete state, to a decoder to extract data contained therein.

2. The improved card scanner of claim 1 additionally comprising: means to electronically assemble a third captured image in a complete state from said first image and said second image, should both first image and said second image be in said incomplete state; andmeans to communicate said third captured image if in said complete state, to a decoder to extract data contained therein.

3. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 2 further comprising: means to bias said card toward said means to capture an electronic image while said card is traveling in said defined path.

4. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 2 further comprising: means to flatten said side surface of said card during travel in said defined path.

5. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 2 further comprising: means to prevent binding of said card in said defined path caused by embossed portions located on said card.

6. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 1 further comprising: means to signal the capture of said first image in said complete state.

7. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 6 further comprising: means to bias said card toward said means to capture an electronic image while said card traveling in said defined path.

8. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 6 further comprising: means to flatten said side surface of said card during travel in said defined path.

9. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 6 further comprising: means to prevent binding of said card in said defined path caused by embossed portions located on said card.

10. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 1 further comprising: means to signal one of said first captured image and said second captured image is in said complete state.

11. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 10 further comprising: means to flatten said side surface of said card during travel in said defined path.

12. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 10 further comprising: means to prevent binding of said card in said defined path caused by embossed portions located on said card.

13. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 1 further comprising: means to bias said card toward said means to capture an electronic image while said card is traveling in said defined path.

14. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 13 further comprising: means to flatten said side surface of said card during travel said defined path.

15. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 1 further comprising: means to bias said card toward said means to capture an electronic image while said card is traveling in said defined path.

16. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 15 further comprising: means to flatten said side surface of said card during travel in said defined path.

17. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 1 further comprising: means to flatten said side surface of said card during travel in said defined path.

18. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 1 further comprising: means to flatten said side surface of said card during travel in said defined path.

19. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 1 further comprising: said means to capture an electronic image of said indicia as said card travels in said defined path capable of capturing a first indicia image from one point on said card and a second indicia image from another point of said card.

20. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 19 further comprising: said first indicia image being a two dimensional bar code containing data extractable by said decoder from said captured image a complete state, said data decodeable to a first photograph of the authorized bearer of the card;said second indicia image being a second photograph of the authorized bearer of the card; andmeans to compare said first photograph and said second photograph for a match.

21. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 20 further comprising: said first indicia image and said second indicia images being on opposite sides of said card.

22. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 19 further comprising: said first indicia image and said second indicia images being on opposite sides of said card.

23. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 1 further comprising: said means to capture an electronic image of said indicia as said card travels in said defined path capable of capturing a first indicia image from one point on said card and a second indicia image from another point of said card.

24. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 23 further comprising: said first indicia image and said second indicia images being on opposite sides of said card.

25. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 1 further comprising: means to prevent binding of said card in said defined path caused by embossed portions located on said card.

26. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia of claim 1 further comprising: means to prevent binding of said card in said defined path caused by embossed portions located on said card.

27. A method of scanning a bar code located on a card using an electrically powered card scanner having an electronic imaging component communicating with a processor having memory and software, comprising the steps of: taking a first image of a bar code on a card with an electronic imaging component as said card moves along a defined path in a scanner, from an entry point to a termination point;communicating said first image to a processor capable of determining if said first image of said bar code is a complete image from which data may be extracted or an incomplete image;having said processor determine if said first image is a complete image or incomplete image;if said first image is determined to be said complete image, communicating said first image to a decoder for data extraction therefrom and initiating removal of said card;if said processor determines said first image is said incomplete image, initiating removal of said card along said defined path and taking a second image with said electronic imaging component as said card moves from said termination point toward said entry position during said removal;once said second image is captured, having said processor determine if said second image is a complete image or incomplete image; andif said second image a complete image, communicating said second image to said decoder to extract data therefrom.

28. The method of scanning a bar code located on a card of claim 27 comprising the additional steps of: if both said first image and said second image are determined to be incomplete images, thereafter having said processor electronically assemble said complete image from portions of both said first image and said second image; andcommunicating said complete image to said decoder for immediate data extraction therefrom.

29. The method of scanning a bar code located on a card of claim 27 further comprising the steps of: activating a signal to remove said card when it reaches said termination point.

30. An improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia on side surface of a card, comprising: a body;a cover dimensioned to cover said body and having a top surface with a slot therein, said slot sized to accommodate a card for insertion therethrough;a defined path into said body for said card line with said slot, said defined path starting at said top surface and ending at a termination point;an electronic imaging component, said electronic imaging component mounted adjacent to said defined path;a first switching means for activating said electronic imaging component when said card is inserted into said slot and thereby capture a first image of indicia on said card;a processor communicating with said electronic imaging component, said processor having software therein capable of determining if said first image is a complete image or an incomplete image;a decoder communicating with said processor, said decoder capable of extracting data from any said complete image when communicated thereto; anda second switching means to signal said processor that said card has reached said termination point; andmeans for activating said electronic imaging component when said card is removed along said defined path to capture a second image only if said processor determines said first image is incomplete, whereby said complete image may be achieved and communicated for processing to said decoder from either of said first image, said second image, or combining said first and said second image should said first image or said second image be incomplete.

31. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia on a side surface of a card claim 30 additionally comprising: means to signal the user to remove said card from said slot when said card reaches said termination point.

32. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia on a side surface of a card of claim 31 wherein said indicia is at least one two dimensional bar code.

33. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia on a side surface of a card of claim 30 further comprising: a pressure plate located adjacent to said defined path; andbiasing means, said biasing means biasing said pressure plate to contact said card during travel in said defined path.

34. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia on a side surface of a card of claim 33 wherein said indicia is at least one two dimensional bar code.

35. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia on a side surface of a card of claim 30 further comprising: a plurality of curved shoulders rising from said pressure plate, said shoulders providing a contact surface between said card and said pressure plate.

36. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia on a side surface of a card of claim 30 further comprising: one of said plurality curved shoulders positioned between two others of said plurality of curved shoulders to contact substantially a center portion said card, whereby biased contact of said plurality of curved shoulders with said card provides a means to straighten bent cards during traverse through said defined path.

37. The improved card scanner for imaging and decoding indicia on a side surface of a card of claim 30 wherein said indicia is at least one two dimensional bar code.