U.S. patent application number 10/303667 was filed with the patent office on 2003-07-31 for housing for hand held scanner.
This patent application is currently assigned to Symbol Technologies, Inc.. Invention is credited to Bhatia, Sudhir, Hamilton, Alistair, Jwo, Chinh-Hung, Swift, Philip.
Application Number | 20030141370 10/303667 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27617958 |
Filed Date | 2003-07-31 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030141370 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hamilton, Alistair ; et
al. |
July 31, 2003 |
Housing for hand held scanner
Abstract
A housing for a hand-held scanner has an upper surface having a
front portion and a rear portion, a lower surface having a front
portion and a rear portion, side surfaces between the upper and
lower surfaces and a first groove in the lower surface between the
front portion and rear portion for receiving a finger of a hand
holding the housing during use. The side surfaces have second
grooves therein extending from the first groove towards the rear
portion of the upper and lower surfaces a sufficient distance to
receive the tips of at least two fingers of a hand holding the
housing during use.
Inventors: |
Hamilton, Alistair; (Stony
Brook, NY) ; Bhatia, Sudhir; (Brooklyn, NY) ;
Swift, Philip; (Winchester, MA) ; Jwo,
Chinh-Hung; (Mount Sinai, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CLIFFORD CHANCE US LLP
200 PARK AVENUE
NEW YORK
NY
10166
US
|
Assignee: |
Symbol Technologies, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
27617958 |
Appl. No.: |
10/303667 |
Filed: |
November 25, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10303667 |
Nov 25, 2002 |
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09538812 |
Mar 30, 2000 |
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6543695 |
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09538812 |
Mar 30, 2000 |
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08691263 |
Aug 2, 1996 |
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09538812 |
Mar 30, 2000 |
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29116604 |
Jan 6, 2000 |
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D431562 |
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09538812 |
Mar 30, 2000 |
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29116597 |
Jan 6, 2000 |
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D430159 |
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09538812 |
Mar 30, 2000 |
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29116589 |
Jan 6, 2000 |
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D430158 |
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09538812 |
Mar 30, 2000 |
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29116606 |
Jan 6, 2000 |
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D436104 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
235/462.45 ;
707/E17.009; 707/E17.113 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 1/181 20130101;
G06F 3/03545 20130101; G06F 16/9554 20190101; G06F 1/1626 20130101;
G06F 1/1616 20130101; H04L 61/00 20130101; G06F 16/434 20190101;
H04W 88/02 20130101; G06F 1/1656 20130101; G06F 1/1632
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
235/462.45 |
International
Class: |
G06K 007/10; G06K
009/22 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A housing for a hand-held scanner, comprising: an upper surface
having a front portion and a rear portion; a lower surface having a
front portion and a rear portion; side surfaces between the upper
and lower surfaces; a first groove in the lower surface between the
front portion and rear portion for receiving a finger of a hand
holding the housing during use; and wherein the side surfaces have
second grooves therein extending from the first groove towards the
rear portion of the upper and lower surfaces a sufficient distance
to receive the tips of at least two fingers of a hand holding the
housing during use.
2. The housing according to claim 1, wherein the second grooves
extend substantially to the rear portion of the upper and lower
surfaces.
3. The housing according to claim 1, wherein the size of the upper
surface is greater than the size of the lower surface and the side
surfaces taper gradually from the upper surface to the lower
surface.
4. The housing according to claim 1, wherein the upper surface has
a thumb activated switch disposed substantially opposite the first
groove in the lower surface.
5. The housing according to claim 1, wherein the upper surface has
a keyboard at the rear portion thereof and a flange extending
upwardly from the rear surface and at least partially surrounding
the keyboard.
6. The housing according to claim 1, wherein the lower surface has
a first fastener thereon for a strap disposed at the rear portion
thereof and second fasteners for the strap at the side surfaces
adjacent the front portion of the lower surface, whereby a strap
fastened between the first fastener and one of the second fasteners
is at a diagonal and extends over fingers of a hand holding the
housing between the knuckles and the first joints thereof.
7. The housing according to claim 1, wherein the front portion of
the lower surface is rounded and has a rest extending therefrom to
maintain the housing in a stable position when placed on a planar
surface.
8. The housing according to claim 1, further comprising a scanner
for one-dimensional scanning.
9. The housing according to claim 1, further comprising a scanner
for two-dimensional scanning.
10. The housing according to claim 1, wherein a rear surface
between the upper and lower surfaces has an infrared outlet and
wherein the housing is configured to form a direct line of sight
from the infrared outlet to a belt pack worn by a user holding the
housing in one hand.
11. The housing according to claim 1, wherein the lower surface has
a battery chamber for receiving a battery pack and including
contacts for connecting to contacts on the battery pack and a
sensor in the battery chamber sensing the removal of the battery
pack from the battery chamber before the contacts of the battery
pack disconnect from the contacts in the battery chamber.
12. The housing according to claim 11, wherein the battery sensor
is sealed.
13. The housing according to claim 1, wherein the lower surface has
a battery chamber for receiving a battery pack and an integrated
circuit socket in the bottom of the chamber and covered by a
removable door for receiving an integrated circuit.
14. A housing for a hand-held scanner, comprising: an upper surface
having a front portion and a rear portion; a lower surface having a
front portion and a rear portion; side surfaces between the upper
and lower surfaces; a first groove in the lower surface between the
front portion and rear portion for receiving a finger of a hand
holding the housing; and wherein the upper surface has a thumb
activated switch disposed substantially opposite the first groove
in the lower surface.
15. A housing for a hand-held scanner, comprising: an upper surface
having a front portion and a rear portion; a lower surface having a
front portion and a rear portion; side surfaces between the upper
and lower surfaces; a first groove in the lower surface between the
front portion and rear portion for receiving a finger of a hand
holding the housing; and wherein the lower surface has a first
fastener thereon for a strap disposed at the rear portion thereof
and second fasteners for the strap at the side surfaces adjacent
the front portion of the lower surface, whereby a strap fastened
between the first fastener and one of the second fasteners is at a
diagonal and extends over fingers of a hand holding the housing
between the knuckles and the first joints thereof.
16. The device according to claim 15, wherein the first and second
fasteners are recessed.
17. A housing for a hand-held scanner, comprising: an upper surface
having a front portion and a rear portion; a lower surface having a
front portion and a rear portion; side surfaces between the upper
and lower surfaces; a first groove in the lower surface between the
front portion and rear portion for receiving a finger of a hand
holding the housing; and wherein the front portion of the lower
surface is rounded and has a rest extending therefrom to maintain
the housing in a stable position when placed on a planar
surface.
18. A housing for a hand-held scanner, comprising: an upper surface
having a front portion and a rear portion; a lower surface having a
front portion and a rear portion; side surfaces between the upper
and lower surfaces; a first groove in the lower surface between the
front portion and rear portion for receiving a finger of a hand
holding the housing; and wherein a rear surface between the upper
and lower surfaces has an infrared outlet and wherein the housing
is configured to form a direct line of sight from the infrared
outlet to a belt pack worn by a user holding the housing in one
hand.
19. A housing for a hand-held scanner, comprising: an upper surface
having a front portion and a rear portion; a lower surface having a
front portion and a rear portion; side surfaces between the upper
and lower surfaces; and wherein the lower surface has a battery
chamber for receiving a battery pack and including contacts for
connecting to contacts on the battery pack and a sensor in the
battery chamber sensing the removal of the battery pack from the
battery chamber before the contacts of the battery pack disconnect
form the contacts in the battery chamber.
20. The housing according to claim 11, wherein the battery sensor
is sealed.
21. A housing for a hand-held scanner, comprising: an upper surface
having a front portion and a rear portion; a lower surface having a
front portion and a rear portion; side surfaces between the upper
and lower surfaces; and wherein the lower surface has a battery
chamber for receiving a battery pack and an integrated circuit
socket in the bottom of the chamber and covered by a removable door
for receiving an integrated circuit.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part application of
applications Ser. Nos. 08/691,263 filed Aug. 2, 1996, now pending,
and 29/116,604, 29/116,597, 29/116,589 and 29/116,606 all filed
Jan. 6, 2000 and all pending.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The invention relates to hand-held optical readers or
scanners for reading an indicia such as a bar code symbol, in
particular hand-held optical readers or scanners having an
ergonomic design.
[0004] Another aspect of the invention relates to a housing for an
optical scanner or reader having an ergonomic design.
[0005] In another aspect the invention relates to a portable
computer device and to a housing for a portable computer
device.
[0006] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0007] Various readers and optical scanning systems have been
developed for reading printed indicia such as bar code symbols
appearing on a label or the surface of an article and providing
information concerning the article such as the price or nature of
the article. The bar code symbol itself is a coded pattern of
indicia comprised of, for example, a series of bars of various
widths spaced apart from one another to form spaces of various
widths, the bars and spaces having different light reflecting
characteristics. The readers electro-optically transform the
graphic indicia into electrical signals which are decoded into
alpha-numeric characters that are intended to be descriptive of the
article or a characteristic thereof. Such characters typically are
represented in digital form, and utilized as an input to a data
processing system for applications in point of sale processing,
inventory control and the like.
[0008] Known scanning systems comprise a light source for
generating a light beam incident on a bar code symbol and a light
receiver for receiving the reflected light and decoding the
information contained in the bar code symbol accordingly. The
readers may comprise a flying spot scanning system wherein the
light beam is scanned rapidly across a bar code symbol to be read
or a fixed field of view reading system wherein the bar code symbol
to be read is illuminated as a whole and a CCD (Charge Coupled
Device) array is provided for detecting the light reflected from
the bar code symbol.
[0009] Known hand-held optical readers are often in the shape of a
gun having a handle portion and a barrel portion. The reading
window through which the light beam passes is generally located at
the end face of the barrel portion, and the reader is aimed at the
indicia to be read by the operator holding the handle portion. A
trigger is situated in the region of the junction between the
handle portion and the barrel portion for operation by the user to
actuate the optical reader.
[0010] It is desired to further improve the known system by
introducing an ergonomically designed hand-held reader. Such a
reader could be aimed yet more accurately at the indicia to be
read, as a result of which the indicia to be read could be located
more quickly and read by the reading arrangement correspondingly
quickly resulting in a reduction of the time and possibly an
extension of the battery life of the reader. In addition, a reader
having such an improved shape will be easier to hold by the
operator and will, over a long period of time, reduce the
operator's discomfort, enabling the operator to use the reader for
longer periods of time. As will be seen, therefore, the improved
ergonomic design would allow increased efficiency,
cost-effectiveness and user-friendliness.
[0011] In addition, there are known portable hand-held computers
for collecting data and down-loading the data to a central or
peripheral device. The down-loaded data may be raw data or data
that has been processed within the handheld computer. Data
collection can be carried out by entering information to the
hand-held computer via a keypad, or by incorporating in the
computer an optical reader for example for reading bar code
symbols, or incorporating a reader for reading a magnetic card
strip.
[0012] For example, when information about various products is
required during inventorying, those products may bear bar code
symbols or magnetic strips, or have associated magnetic strip cards
which are read by the hand-held computer. The data collected can be
transferred from the hand-held computer to a central or peripheral
device by known means such as radio frequency radio links, wired
connections, infra-red communications or other known transmission
arrangements.
[0013] Often, more than one data capture system is required for a
given application. The manufacture of a customized system for a
specific application is expensive and difficult to modify if it is
subsequently desired to incorporate further data capture options
than those originally provided in the customized device.
[0014] In another aspect high density or two-dimensional bar code
labels have traditionally been used to store a portable data
record. A high density system replaces the one-dimensional keyed
lookup transaction required by one-dimensional barcode systems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Objects of the Invention
[0015] It is an object of the present invention to provide an
arrangement comprising a further improvement over the prior art. It
is a further object to provide a hand-held reader of improved
ergonomic design.
[0016] It is a further object of the invention to provide a
hand-held optical reader capable of being used quickly and
efficiently and with minimum discomfort to the user.
[0017] It is a further object of the invention to provide a
portable computer device easily modifiable for different
multi-media applications.
[0018] It is a further object of the: invention to provide a bar
code scanner control system having a wide range of applications and
capable of communicating with a bar code scanner over a wireless
link.
Features of the Present Invention
[0019] According to the invention there is provided a hand-held
optical reader for reading printed indicia comprising a housing and
a reading arrangement, the reading arrangement being provided in
the housing, wherein the housing is of a generally flattened
elongate bar-shape having generally opposing upper and lower broad
faces, shallow side faces and front and rear ends, wherein the
housing is shaped generally downwardly concave when viewed from a
side and includes a bulbous portion projecting from the lower face
at the rear, wherein the rear end of the upper and lower faces is
rounded when viewed from above, wherein the reading arrangement
includes a trigger and a reading window, the trigger being located
on the upper face of the housing, and the window being located on
the front end face of the housing, and wherein the housing is
configured to be held and operated by the user comfortably and
efficiently. In particular, the rounded rear end and bulbous
portion of the housing are shaped to fit comfortably into the
operator's hand and the trigger is conveniently located for
operation by the user's finger or thumb. As a result of the
ergonomic design, the user can hold and operate the reader for
longer periods of time without discomfort. In addition, the window
being placed at the front of the bar-shaped housing allows more
accuracy in locating and aiming at a bar code symbol to be read
allowing an increase in the number of scans made in a given period
and a reduction in battery drain. The bulbous portion stay extend
from a rear edge of the upper face to substantially the
longitudinal mid-point of the lower face and the trigger may be
arranged substantially aligned with the point at which the bulbous
portion meets the lower face. A concave groove may be provided at
the forward face of the bulbous portion and extending around either
side of the bulbous portion. The reader is thus yet more easily
gripped and operated.
[0020] One or more finger grips may be provided on the housing to
improve the user's grip. The grips may be provided on the bulbous
portion and/or on the upper face of the housing.
[0021] An information display may be situated on the upper face of
the housing.
[0022] A keypad may be provided on the upper face of the housing,
allowing information concerning the operator's identity, mode of
operation and so forth to be entered. An acoustic modem may be
provided for up-loading and/or down-loading information read by the
reader, and/or an interface connector may be provided for
connecting the reader to a central computer for up-loading or
down-loading information, and/or a radio transmitter may be
provided for transmitting information to a remote receiver, and/or
a radio receiver may be provided for receiving information frost a
remote transmitter. In any case, information may be transferred to
a central storage device allowing space reduction on the reader
itself.
[0023] A battery housing may be situated within the bulbous
portion. The battery housing may be arranged to receive batteries
along a surface substantially matching the external surface of the
bulbous portion, as a result of which the housing may be kept
compact, maximum use of the bulbous portion being made.
[0024] The reader may be configured symmetrically for use by
left-handed or right-handed operators or configured either for
right-hand users or for left-hand users. The reading arrangement
may be a "flying spot" optical scanner or an imager.
[0025] According to the invention, there is further provided a
hand-held optical scanner for reading a printed indicia comprising
a housing and a scanning arrangement including a light source for
scanning a beam across an indicia and a light detector for
receiving light reflected by the indicia, the scanning arrangement
being provided in the housing, wherein the housing is of a
generally flattened elongate bar-shape having generally opposing
upper and lower broad faces, shallow side faces and front and rear
ends, wherein the housing is shaped generally downwardly concave
when viewed from a side and includes a bulbous portion projecting
from the lower face at the rear, wherein the rear end of the upper
and lower faces is rounded when viewed from above, wherein the
scanning arrangement includes a trigger and a scanning window, the
trigger being located on the upper face of the housing, and the
window being located on the front end face of the housing, and
wherein the housing is so configured to be held and operated by the
user comfortably and efficiently.
[0026] According to the invention, there is further provided a
hand-held field of view optical reader for reading printed indicia
comprising a light source for illuminating an indicia and a
detector for receiving light reflected from the indicia, the
reading arrangement being provided in the housing, wherein the
housing is of a generally flattened elongate bar-shape having
generally opposing upper and lower broad faces, shallow side faces
and front and rear ends, wherein the housing is shaped generally
downwardly concave when viewed from a side and includes a bulbous
portion projecting from the lower face at the rear, wherein the
rear end of the upper and lower faces is, rounded when viewed from
above, wherein the reading arrangement includes a trigger and a
reading window, the trigger being located on the upper face of the
housing, and the window being located on the front end face of the
housing, and wherein the housing is so configured to be held and
operated by the user comfortably and efficiently.
[0027] According to the invention, there is further provided a
portable computer device comprising a main body and at least one
data collection/communications module connectable to the main body,
the main body including an interface for connection with the
module, a processor for processing information received from the
module and a communication link for exchanging information with a
host. Because of the modular arrangement the device may be easily
adapted to different applications without the requirement to
manufacture costly customized systems or to modify such systems
which would prove expensive and complex.
[0028] The main body may include a visual display, for example an
LCD display. The main body may also comprise a keypad. The modules
may comprise an image capture module, a laser scanner module and/or
a multi-media module. The modules preferably include digital signal
processing sub-systems which may be of a single design and
programmable as appropriate. The modules may comprise
pre-processors or preprocessing information prior to transfer to
the main body to reduce the burden on the processor in the main
body. The module may be movably mounted on or relative to the main
body, and in particular to the display on the main body for example
it may be hinged pivotally or rotatably mounted.
[0029] According to the invention, a housing for a hand held
scanner has an upper surface having a front portion and a rear
portion, a lower surface having a front portion and a rear portion,
side surfaces between the upper and lower surfaces and a first
groove in the lower surface between the front portion and rear
portion for receiving a finger of a hand holding the housing during
use. The side surfaces have second grooves therein extending from
the first groove towards the rear portion of the upper and lower
surfaces a sufficient distance to receive the tips of at least two
fingers of a hand holding the housing during use. The second
grooves preferably extend substantially to the rear portion of the
upper and lower surfaces.
[0030] The size of the upper surface is preferably greater than the
size of the lower surface and the side surfaces taper gradually
from the upper surface to the lower surface.
[0031] The upper surface of the housing preferably has a thumb
activated switch disposed opposite the first groove in the lower
surface. When a keypad is included on the upper surface, the upper
surface preferably has a flange at the rear portion thereof and
extending upwardly from the rear surface and at least partially
surrounding the keyboard.
[0032] The invention also includes a housing having a lower surface
having a first fastener thereon for a strap disposed at the rear
portion thereof and second fasteners for the strap at the side
surfaces adjacent the front portion of the lower surface. A strap
is fastened between the first fastener and one of the second
fasteners is at a diagonal and extends over fingers of a hand
holding the housing between the knuckles and the first joints
thereof.
[0033] The housing preferably also has a rounded front portion of
the lower surface and a rest extending therefrom. The lower surface
has a battery holder compartment with a resting surface. The front
and rear resting surfaces maintain the housing in a stable position
when placed on a planar surface.
[0034] Further in accordance with the invention, the housing has a
rear surface between the upper and lower surfaces having an
infrared outlet and wherein the housing is configured to form a
direct line of sight from the infrared outlet to a belt pack worn
by a user holding the housing in one hand during use.
[0035] Still further in accordance with the invention, the lower
surface of the housing has a battery chamber for receiving a
battery pack and including contacts for connecting to contacts on
the battery pack and a sensor in the battery chamber sensing the
removal of the battery pack from the battery chamber before the
contacts of the battery pack disconnect form the contacts in the
battery chamber. The battery sensor is preferably sealed.
[0036] Moreover, the lower surface has a battery chamber for
receiving a battery pack and a integrated circuit socket in the
bottom of the chamber and covered by a removable door for receiving
an integrated circuit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0037] The foregoing objects and advantages of the present
invention may be more readily understood by one skilled in the art
with reference being had to the following detailed description of
several preferred embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with
the accompanying drawings identical and in which:
[0038] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an optical reader according
to the present invention from above and the rear;
[0039] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the of FIG. 1 from above and
the front;
[0040] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the from the front and
tilted upwardly;
[0041] FIG. 4 is a view of the optical reader from the front;
[0042] FIG. 5 is a view of the optical reader from below;
[0043] FIG. 6 is a view of the optical reader from above showing
hidden detail;
[0044] FIG. 7 is a side view of the optical reader showing hidden
detail;
[0045] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the optical reader along the
line A-A shown in FIG. 7;
[0046] FIG. 9 shows a portable computer device according to another
aspect of the invention;
[0047] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an image capture module for
the device of FIG. 9;
[0048] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a multi-media module for the
device of FIG. 9;
[0049] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a variation of the device
of FIG. 9;
[0050] FIG. 13 is a front view of a housing for a hand held scanner
or optical reader for reading indicia, such as barcode symbol;
[0051] FIG. 14 is the rear view of the housing of FIG. 13;
[0052] FIG. 15 is a side view of the housing of FIGS. 13 and
14;
[0053] FIG. 16 is a front end view of the housing of FIGS.
13-15;
[0054] FIG. 17 is a rear end view of the housing of FIGS.
13-16;
[0055] FIG. 18 is a bottom view of a variant of the housing of FIG.
13;
[0056] FIG. 19 is a side view of the housing of FIG. 18;
[0057] FIG. 20 is a front end view of the housing of FIGS.
18-19;
[0058] FIG. 21 is a rear end view of the housing of FIGS.
18-20;
[0059] FIG. 22 is a bottom view of an alternative of the housing of
FIG. 13;
[0060] FIG. 23 is a side view of the housing of FIG. 22;
[0061] FIG. 24 is a front end view of the housing of FIGS.
22-23;
[0062] FIG. 25 is a rear end of the housing of FIGS. 22-24;
[0063] FIG. 26 is a sectional view of a portion of the housing of
FIGS. 13-25;
[0064] FIG. 27 is a schematic representation of a user holding the
housing of FIGS. 13-25 during use and wearing a belt pack; and
[0065] FIG. 28 is a side view of another embodiment of the housing
according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0066] Referring now to FIGS. 1 to 4, the optical reader has a rear
end 4 and a generally planar front end 5, an upper face 2a and
opposed to that a lower face 2b.
[0067] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4 in more detail, the optical reader
includes a generally bar-shaped elongate housing indicated
generally by the reference numeral 1, having two generally opposed
long broad upper and lower faces 2a, 2b (see also FIG. 7), two
generally opposed long, shallow side faces 3, a rear end 4 and a
front end 5 (see also FIG. 6).
[0068] As can be seen from FIGS. 5 and 6, the upper and lower faces
2a, 2b of the reader comprise side edges having substantially
straight front portions tapering inwardly towards the front end 5
which is of a convex shape having a large radius of curvature. The
rear portions of the side edges curve inwardly and meet so that the
rear end 4 of the housing is generally elliptical in shape when
viewed from above. The rear end is interrupted by a recessed
connector 6 which is described in more detail below. The housing is
configured to be held by a user with the rear end mounted in the
palm of the user and it will be seen, therefore, that the curved
end of the 10 housing when viewed from above will facilitate
holding by the user.
[0069] Referring to FIG. 7 the side faces 3 of the housing comprise
substantially parallel downwardly curved long edges and a
substantially straight front edge 5a. A bulbous 15 convex rear
portion 7 extends from the rear end of the upper edge 3a to
approximately the center of the lower edge. A concave groove 8 is
provided in the frontward part of the bulbous portion 7 extending
around both sides of the bulbous portion 7 to approximately the mid
point of the bulbous portion 7 on either side. As a result the
reader is yet more suitable to be gripped towards the rearward end
by the operator, the bulbous portion 7 fitting into the palm of the
operator and the concave groove providing improved grip and fit
with the operator's hand.
[0070] A reading arrangement is mounted within the housing. The
reading arrangement may be any known conventional arrangement, for
example a "flying spot" optical scanner or an imager. Generally the
arrangement will include a light generating source such as a laser
diode, a beam focusing or directing arrangement and a light
receiving device. Where the reading arrangement is an optical
scanner a rapidly oscillatable scan component, such as a mirror is
provided to scan the light beam across an indicia to be read.
Alternatively, the laser diode itself can be oscillated. Where the
reader is a field of view optical reader, a charge coupled device
(CCD) array or a photodetector arrangement is provided to detect
the reflected light beam.
[0071] In order to actuate the reading arrangement a scan trigger 9
is provided on the upper surface 2a of the housing 1. In the
arrangement shown the trigger 9 comprises a cut-out strip extending
transverse to the longitudinal axis of the housing 1 and across the
whole of the upper face and part of each of the side faces 3 and ii
situated approximately half way along the upper face 2a. The
trigger 9 is activated by depression and is positioned along the
housing 1 such that it is easily actuable by the operator when the
reader is held in the operator's hand. The trigger mechanism itself
may be of any known arrangement; for example the trigger may be
spring-loaded and have contacts which form a circuit with contacts
within the housing when the trigger is depressed to actuate the
reading arrangement. Power may therefore be conserved as the reader
will only be activated when the trigger is depressed enabling the
operator to leave the reader idle when no indicia are to be read.
Once again, as the trigger is positioned with ergonomic
considerations in mind, the reader can be simply and quickly
operated by the user with minimum discomfort.
[0072] A scanning window 10 is positioned on the front face 5 of
the reader. Light generated by the reading arrangement passes
through the window 10 and is reflected and scattered back through
the window 10 by a bar code symbol. Accordingly, the reader can be
easily and accurately aimed at the bar code symbol 11 to be read
(as shown illustratively in FIG. 2). As a result the bar code
symbol 11 can be rapidly located by the user and read by the reader
with a minimum amount of time wasted attempting to locate the bar
code symbol 11. Accordingly, both operator time and usage time can
be reduced which is of particular relevance in battery-powered
hand-held readers.
[0073] As shown in FIGS. 6, 7 and 8, the batteries 12 for the
hand-held reader are stored in the bulbous portion 7 towards the
rear and aligned with the longitudinal axis of the reader. The
batteries 12 are disposed along a curved surface matching the
curvature of the bulbous portion. As a result, maximum use is made
of the ergonomically design bulbous portion 7 of the reader and
minimum space is occupied by the batteries 12.
[0074] A strap 13 can be attached to the reader, for example
towards the rear of the bulbous portion 7 for placing around the
operator's wrist such that, in the event of the reader being
inadvertently released from the grip of the user, it is still held
to the user by the strap 13.
[0075] Also provided on the upper face of the reader are a keypad
14 and a display 15. (The keypad 14 is not shown in FIG. 6 for the
purpose of clarity). The keypad 14 may be used to initialize the
reading arrangement such that identification information concerning
the user is entered into the system. Alternatively, the keypad 14
may be used to enter predetermined codes or information concerning
modes of operation of the reader or to carry out cancellation or
manipulation operations on information provided by the reader. The
display 15 may display information relating to the mode of
operation of the reader, or display check information relating to
the item carrying the bar code symbol being read together with
background information such as the time, date, and confirmation of
the operator's identity. Preferably the display 15 is a liquid
crystal display (LCD).
[0076] The reading arrangement can process information derived from
the bar code symbols directly or can send raw data to an external
processing device which can then process the information
accordingly. In addition, information derived by the reader from
bar code symbols can be transferred to a memory device in order
that a database of information can be built up. For example where
the reader is used at a point of sale, buying patterns can be
stored and analyzed. Alternatively, if the reader is being used for
inventorying purposes then the inventory information can be stored.
The optical reader can transmit information in a variety of
manners. In the embodiments shown various different transmitting
devices are provided; in practice only one or more of the devices
need be provided depending on the particular use to which the
reader is to be put. For example, the information may be
transmitted by an acoustic modem 16. In that case, information can
be stored in a buffer memory within the reader and then downloaded
by the acoustic modem 16 at predetermined intervals. The display 15
could indicate when information is to be downloaded. Alternatively
an interface connector, for example, an RS41 connector is
designated by reference numeral 6 and provided at the rear of the
reader. Suitable cabling can be inserted into the connector 6 to
download information or alternatively to load data into the reader
for example relating to the mode of operation. Once again, the
display 15 could provide an indication of the functioning of the
connector. The cable could be permanently connected to the reader
as the connector 6 is provided at the rear of the reader and hence
would not be obscured by the user's hand. Alternatively, the
connector 6 could be connected to a cable for loading or
downloading of information when required and, for example, when
indicated, by display 15. In addition, a radio 17 or other
transmitting device can be provided within the housing 1 to allow
real time data communication. An advantage of that arrangement is
that the operator may use the reader in a "cordless" or "wireless"
configuration allowing increased mobility. Once again the radio 17
could comprise a transmitter and a receiver in order that
information can be sent to and from a remote processor. The radio
link could be replaced by an infra-red communication link or other
wireless link of known type. Because the reader is of ergonomic
design, the transfer of information is easily carried out while the
reader is actually in use, if required.
[0077] In order to improve the operator's grip on the reader, one
or more finger grips may be provided at locations where, in use,
the operator's fingers or other parts of the operator's hand would
contact the reader. The finger grip would comprise a molded rubber
portion having raised elements to achieve traction on the finger or
palm. Such finger grips could be provided, for example, on the
bulbous portion 7 (as shown schematically in FIG. 5 by reference
numeral 18) or the concave groove 8 therein, on or in the vicinity
of the trigger portion or in areas of the upper surface 2a where
the operator's thumb might rest.
[0078] Accordingly, it will be seen that the hand-held optical
reader described herein is ergonomically shaped for maximum user
ease and comfort, allowing increased efficiency and
user-friendliness. Features such as the trigger 9 and finger grips
18 are positioned for optimum user operability. It will be
appreciated that such features may be presented symmetrically in
order to allow the terminal to be used by either left or
right-handed users, or alternatively the handset may be produced in
both left and right-handed versions. The reading window 10 is
positioned for improved accuracy and ease of use, and features such
as the key pad 14 and display 15 are positioned for ease of access
and reference by the user. The device may be either wireless or
connected to a central processor by a cord leading from the
connector 6 provided at a convenient position on the terminal. The
device can be powered by batteries 12 located conveniently along
the curve of the bulbous grip portion 7 or could in the alternative
be powered by a removable, rechargeable battery pack or via a cord
into the above-mentioned inter-connector or another connector.
[0079] According to another aspect there is shown in FIG. 9 a data
collection device comprising an improvement over known
arrangements. The device comprises a portable hand-held computer
for collecting data and downloading the raw processed data to a
central or peripheral device. The device, designated generally as
20 comprises a main body 21 and interchangeable data collection
modules 22a, 22b, 22c.
[0080] The main body 21 is provided internally with data processing
means (not shown) and also comprises a display screen 23, for
example an LCD display screen capable of displaying video images, a
data collection module interface 24, an optional input information
keypad 25 and a communication link 26 which may comprise radio
frequency or infra-red transmitting means or an interface for
downloading information to a central or peripheral device via a
physical cable. It will be appreciated that the LCD display 23 and
input keypad 25 are optional features. Advantageously, however,
they allow the user to configure operation of the device as a whole
quickly and simply and monitor the operation. The main body is
shown schematically in FIG. 9; in practice it could assume an
ergonomic shape such as that shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, suitable
interfaces, etc. being positioned as appropriate, for example at
respective ends of the module.
[0081] It will be appreciated that the device may transfer
information to a host via any electronic data transfer scheme for
example the system could also use cellular-based telephone
channels.
[0082] Alternatively, the device could be configured for connection
to a telecommunications network or computer network, for example
the "Internet".
[0083] The data collection modules are inter-changeable with one
another and may be, for example, CCD (Charge Coupled Device) based
image, video and bar code symbol data capture modules, audio
transducers for collecting and receiving sound information, laser
scanners or combined multi-media data collection modules.
[0084] An image capture module using a CCD could be used for
capturing images of objects for storage or use by a processor
application carried out by the main body or by a host, much images
including for example people, landscapes, homes and vehicles for
reference applications. In addition, the imager could be used for
one dimensional or two dimensional bar code symbols for decoding
data capture. A laser optical reader scanning module and decoder
would be used generally for bar code data capture and decoding.
Other data acquisition uses are possible.
[0085] A multi-media module 22 is shown in FIG. 11 and discussed in
more detail with reference to that figure below. Such a module
could contain a circuitry for image/video capture, audio capture
and playback and a cellular telephony sub-system. Such a module
would be of particular use in teleconferencing and live video
communications over cellular networks from the portable unit.
[0086] The desired data collection module 22a, b, c is connected to
the main body 21 by the interface 24 on the main body which mates
with an interface 27 on the module. Any suitable known interface
components can be used but the components should be strong,
relatively inflexible, durable and suitable for frequent
disconnection and reconnection.
[0087] The modules are powered by a power supply within the main
body of the portable computing device and may be partially or
totally controlled by software drivers within the main body. In
order to reduce the burden on the central processing unit of the
main body, dedicated signal processing electronics within the
modules can be arranged to perform up-front data processing as a
result of which a common bus architecture to the main body is
shared by all of the modules. As a result their interchangeability
is enhanced.
[0088] A suitable architecture for an optical media capture module
28 (for example containing a CCD imager or laser scanner) is shown
in FIG. 10. Each module may contain only the media capture
electronics without any preprocessing capability or, as discussed
above, preferably contains dedicated or programmable analog
components 32 and digital signal processing (DSP) components 33 to
ease the processing load placed on the central processing unit of
the main body 21. The signal processing subsystem 32, 33 in the
module may be of a single electronic design common to different
modules, and which is either programmed in the factory or
customized on purchase or programmable by the user to perform the
functions in processors if required by the particular media module.
This function programmability is expected to be mainly through
software, since the module processing electronics is flexible, and
these software components may be one time or dynamically loaded to
the module via the main body central processing unit. Accordingly,
the range of components that require manufacture is decreased,
appropriate dedicated parts of the components being selectable for
a desired use, or a portion of the mode of operation being borne by
software.
[0089] In operation, the module 28 collects information via the CCD
imager or laser scanner in analog form which is transferred either
serially or by conversion into a parallel format. The analog signal
is then processed by the signal processing sub-system 32, 33 and
forwarded to an interface bus 34 from which the information is
transferred to the main body of the portable computing device. As
mentioned above, the signal processing electronics preferably
perform up-front data processing such that a common bus
architecture to the portable computing device 21 can be
achieved.
[0090] Referring now to FIG. 11, the multi-media module 22 includes
circuitry for image/video capture, audio capture and playback and a
cellular telephony sub-system.
[0091] The module is arranged to receive and transmit video
information independently of the main body of the portable
computing device (although the video information may also be
accessed by the main body of the portable computing device in order
to monitor or review the information). Accordingly, a radio
frequency antenna 41 is provided in the module for reception and
transmission of radio frequency and information. A radio frequency
front end processor 42 and codec 43 cooperate to perform digital to
radio frequency and radio frequency to digital format conversions.
Video information received via radio frequency is decompressed by
an optional digital signal processing subsystem 44 for
presentation, where appropriate, to the CPU of the main body 21 of
the portable computing device. A further digital signal processing
sub-system 45 is provided for other purposes (discussed in more
detail below) and preferably performs partial video processing, the
CPU of the personal computing device completing the process for
displaying the results. The second digital signal processing
sub-system 44 may also be required for the interface to the radio
frequency codec 43 of the cellular sub-system; this depends on the
amount of processing required for each function. Video information
transferred to the main body 21 of the portable computing device is
displayed on the LCD display 23. The radio frequency receiving,
transmitting and processing apparatus 41, 42, 43, 44 discussed
above can optionally reside in a separate component such as a
PCMCIA or other type plug-in card for example of the type
manufactured by Symbol Technologies, Inc. Preferably, however, the
circuit forms an integral part of the multi-media module to provide
a full wireless multi-media solution for the hand-held computing
system. As will be appreciated, the wireless link may conform to
any desired cellular standard (for example CDMA, GSM, AMPS) that is
preferably selected to allow the widest application of the
invention.
[0092] The multi-media module 22 further includes a
microphone/speaker component 50 which receives and transfers input
analog information to an analog to digital converter 51 comprising
an up-front voice-band converter 51 which transfers information
either serially or in parallel to the digital signal processing
sub-system 45. Similarly, information may be transmitted in the
other direction, for example digital information from the main body
of the portable computer device is converted to an analog audio
signal at converter 51 and converted to sound by the speaker
component 50. Base-band digital audio data is processed by the
digital signal processing sub-system 45 which can be reprogrammed
as appropriate to perform appropriate audio codec processing.
Voice-band (VB) signals are converted by the converter 51 as
discussed above.
[0093] Video data is captured by a CCD imager 52 compressed by a
digital signal processing sub-system 53 and forwarded to the radio
frequency codec 43. Once again the main body of the portable
computing device need not be involved in this data transfer unless
the user decides to monitor the transfer. In that case, a software
controlled process may be initiated whereby the video data is sent
to the CPU of the main body 23 of the portable computing device for
display before compression as well as to the radio frequency codec
43 for transmission allowing the captured image to be viewed while
or before transmitting.
[0094] The multi-media module 22 is preferably mounted so as to be
rotatable through at least 180.degree. when connected with the main
body of the portable computing device. This may be achieved by
hinging or pivoting or otherwise arranging a portion of the main
body or by similarly arranging a portion of the module. This
positioning allows capture of the user's image while the user can
simultaneously view the LCD screen display for received video data
or images. The rotation of the image capture portion of the module
permits capture of images of objects in front of the user while the
user is looking at the screen.
[0095] The microphone and speaker combination may be arranged to
face the user in a preferred, standard configuration of the device
as a whole. The microphone may further be configured to swing or
swivel away from the main body of the portable computer device and
from the user holding the device if the desired audio data to be
captured emanates from another direction.
[0096] An appropriate arrangement including a pivotable module head
22 and a swingable microphone boom 30 is shown in FIG. 12. In the
embodiment shown, an upper portion 21a of the main body 21 is
hinged to the remainder of the main body and rotatable around an
axis A as shown by arrow A'. The multi-media module 22 is connected
to the upper portion and the upper portion has been swiveled such
that a CCD image capture device 29 faces the user. The pivotable
microphone boom 30 also extends from the multi-media module 22. It
will be appreciated that a number of pivoting orientating
arrangements can be provided, for example a hinge or pivot could be
provided within the structure of the module 22, and the module
could also be arranged to rotate through 180.degree. about an axis
transverse to axis A. Similarly, the microphone boom 30 can be
pivotally mounted to the module 22 in any known manner.
[0097] Accordingly, it will be seen that the invention can be used
to provide modular programmable multi-media facilities in the
hand-held form factor by portable computing devices such as
hand-held terminals or "portable digital assistants". The invention
can be used for CCD based bar code decoding (in one or two
dimensions at least) by industrial and commercial users, for
example for point of sale processing or inventorying; portable,
cellular video conferences by traveling business users; and digital
photography/image capture for insurance assessors, sales
professionals among many other applications that will be apparent
to those skilled in the art. It will be appreciated that the
portable modules discussed above may be used in cordless scanning
implementations for example in point of sale applications. Problems
arise where such portable devices are not tethered in some manner
as it is possible that they will be lost, removed from the store,
or otherwise misappropriated.
[0098] To overcome this, it is possible to put surveillance tags of
a known type into the scanner such that if the scanner is
accidentally taken by a customer an alarm will sound at the front
of the store as it would if any other product carrying such a
surveillance tag was carried out of the store.
[0099] Alternatively, the scanner can have some form of internal
alarm which sounds if the scanner is taken more than a
predetermined distance from the base. Where the scanner
communicates with the base by wireless communications such as radio
communication, the software protocol managing the radio session
could control the range finder and alarm.
[0100] In order to locate portable scanners that have been
misplaced, an alarm or "beeper" can be placed in the scanner and
triggered by a signal from the base controlled by, for example, a
button on the base pressed by the user. Accordingly, when the user
pressed a button the scanner could be located by following the
source of the sound.
[0101] FIGS. 13-27 illustrate alternative embodiments of a housing
for use with the scanners and scanner terminals of FIGS. 1-12.
[0102] Referring now to FIGS. 13-17, the hand-held optical reader
includes the housing 100 for a scanner and terminal, including a
keyboard 102 on an upper surface 101 and having an LCD display 106
at the front portion 101A of the upper surface. The keyboard is at
the rear portion 101B of the upper surface.
[0103] The terminal housing also includes LED's 107 and 108 and a
thumb operated switch 104 having a rest area 103 therearound. The
switch 104 is used, for example, to initiate scanning.
[0104] FIG. 28 shows an alternative configuration of the terminal
and the use of the rest area. As shown therein, there is a scan
trigger 104' and a finger rest 103' between the trigger and the
display 106'. The finger rest is a concave dip with a slight ridge
251 to prevent the finger from inadvertently activating the scan
trigger. The scan trigger and rest are substantially opposite
groove 252 in the bottom surface which receives a fore finger of a
hand holding the terminal during use.
[0105] The upper surface 101 also includes a flange 105 extending
upwardly from the rear portion of the upper surface and at least
partially surrounding the keyboard 102. This flange 105 acts as
protection against the inadvertent actuation of the keys of the
keyboard 102 when the device is laid on a flat surface or when a
plan a object is placed on the keyboard.
[0106] The bottom surface of the housing 111 includes a front
portion 111A and a rear portion 111B. Intermediate of the front and
rear portions is a groove 112 for receiving a fore finger F of a
hand H holding the housing during use.
[0107] The housing also includes second grooves 113, 114 which
extend rearwardly from the first groove and continuously therefrom
and are in the side surfaces 121A and 121B of the housing. The
recesses 113, 114 allow the bottom portion of the housing to be
more easily gripped than the upper surface of the housing and allow
the tips T of the fingers of a hand H holding the housing during
use to be received therein. If the user is right handed, then the
fingertips will be on the opposite side in groove 114.
[0108] The grooves 113, 114 extend, in this embodiment,
substantially to the rear portion of the upper and lower surfaces,
although, it can be to a lesser extent, as shown in FIG. 18, or to
a greater extent, as shown in FIG. 23.
[0109] The side surfaces of the housing taper gradually inwardly
from the top surface to the bottom surface to enable the unit to be
held comfortably even by someone having a small hand.
[0110] The aforementioned thumb activated switch 104 is disposed
opposite the groove 112 so that the thumb opposes the finger F
during actuation.
[0111] The bottom surface also includes a mechanism for connecting
straps 163 or 164 to secure the terminal in the user's hand during
use.
[0112] The mechanism for the straps that is provided includes
recessed fasteners 161 and 162 disposed on the side surfaces at the
front end of the housing and the recessed fastener 160 at the rear
end of the lower surface. The fasteners are recessed to below the
surface of the unit and enable the straps to be connected for
either use by a left handed person or a right handed person and so
that the straps are disposed at a diagonal and cover the portion of
the user's fingers between the knuckles K and the first joint J to
provide a secure support.
[0113] The bottom surface also includes a rest 115 extending
downwardly therefrom which together with the surface 115A on
battery compartment door 117 provide a stable positioning of the
housing when it is placed on a planar surface.
[0114] The front ends of the housing includes the scanning output
window 116 from which a scanning beam for a one dimensional or a
two dimensional scanner and light reflected from indicia can be
input and output to the scanner positioned in the housing.
[0115] The bottom surface further includes a removable battery door
117 and a mechanism 118 for releasing the door. The release is a
manually actuated button which operates in a conventional
manner.
[0116] Within the housing and beneath the door 117 is a chamber 200
in which a battery pack 201 is inserted. Referring to FIG. 26, the
battery pack includes contacts 202 which make contact with contacts
203 within the chamber 200 to supply power to the scanner. In
accordance with the present invention, a movable sensor 204 is
situated at the bottom of the chamber and is surrounded by a
flexible sealing member 205. When the battery pack 201 is inserted
in the chamber 200 and contacts 202 are in contact with contacts
203, the sensor 204 is depressed and the circuitry in the scanner
is signaled that the battery pack is in place. This sensor provides
the ability to prevent the inadvertent destruction of data if the
battery pack were to be removed while the terminal or scanner is
still on. In accordance with the invention, if one attempts to
remove the battery pack while the power is on to the unit, the
sensor will detect the removal of the battery pack before contacts
202 and 203 are disconnected from each other. This enables the
circuitry within the unit to save the data and power down before
the data is destroyed.
[0117] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the bottom
of the battery chamber 200 has a removable door 210 which reveals a
second chamber 211 in which a SIMM socket 212 is located. The SIMM
socket receives an integrated circuit 213 therein for programming
the unit to operate in a particular manner. The door 210 is
preferably sealingly received so as to avoid the entry of any
substances that might be detrimental to the operation of the SIMM
device 213.
[0118] Referring back to FIGS. 13-17, the upper surface 101 of the
housing includes a front portion 110 which slopes gently downwardly
from the front surface. This configuration enables the unit to be
grasped from the front surface between the thumb and the fore
finger. When the unit is held in this manner, one may be able to
write on the LED display 106 which is preferably a touch sensitive
screen which is able to capture a signature or the like.
[0119] The terminal described above is also advantageously used to
transmit and receive data using wireless communications.
Accordingly, the terminal has communication circuitry therein and
optionally an antenna 250 as shown in FIG. 13.
[0120] The communication circuitry implements WAN and/or LAN
connectivity using protocols such as GSM, Datatac, CDPD, CDPD/Amps
and Mobitex.
[0121] FIG. 18 shows an alternative embodiment of the terminal of
FIG. 13, having the same top surface shown in FIG. 13 but having
different bottom, sides, front ends and rear end surfaces, as shown
in FIGS. 18-21. The bottom surface includes groove 132 and second
grooves 134 and 137 extending therefrom and a relatively flat front
portion of the bottom surface 131. The top surface 101' has the
same gentle slope at the front end thereof. The front of the
scanner has the window 136 for outputting light and for receiving
light at the front end 141. The rear end 142 is rounded as
shown.
[0122] The front of the bottom surface 143 shown in FIG. 20 is
configured so that the device will sit in a stable position on a
planar surface when rested thereon.
[0123] FIGS. 22-25 illustrate another embodiment of the housing
according to the present invention wherein the top surface 101" is
the same as that shown in FIG. 13, but it has an alternative
bottom, side, rear and front surfaces.
[0124] In this embodiment, there is a groove 152 and second grooves
153 and 154 in bottom surface 151. The housing also includes the
window 156 for the scanner, as well as a window 160 for an infrared
outlet beam. The housing is configured so that when the unit of
FIG. 22 is held in a user's hand as shown in FIG. 27, as a scanner,
the IR port 160 is in a direct line of sight with an IR receiver in
a belt pack worn by the user. The rear end of the device also
includes an RS 232 port 165 for outputting data and a rest 166 so
that the device can sit in a stable position on a planar
surface.
* * * * *