US5504316A — Laser scanning system and scanning method for rea…

Claim 1

Independent Claim 89 words

A scanning system including a scanning head operable both in portable and fixed modes for reading indicia such as barcode symbols by scanning such indicia according to a predetermined scan pattern, comprising: means for determining whether operation of the scanning head is in a fixed or portable mode; means for determining the information content of indicia being read during a first period using a first scan pattern; means for adapting the first scan pattern to an optimized second pattern based upon said information content for such mode of operation.

Claim 2

Dependent Claim 89 words

A scanning system including a scanning head operable both in portable and fixed modes for reading indicia such as barcode symbols by scanning such indicia according to a predetermined scan pattern, comprising: means for determining whether operation of the scanning head is in a fixed or portable mode; means for determining the information content of indicia being read during a first period using a first scan pattern; means for adapting the first scan pattern to an optimized second pattern based upon said information content for such mode of operation.

Claim 3

Dependent Claim 47 words

The system of claim 1, including means for detecting the mode in which said system is operating, and wherein said adapting means is responsive to said detecting means for controlling a light beam to traverse the indicia with a scan pattern optimized for the mode of operation.

Claim 4

Dependent Claim 27 words

The system of claim 2, wherein said adapting means controls the light beam to traverse the indicia with a scan pattern also optimized for reading the indicia.

Claim 5

Dependent Claim 37 words

The system of claim 3, wherein the adapting means controls said light beam so as to produce a self-aligning raster pattern when the system is operating in the fixed mode and the indicia comprise a 2-D barcode.

Claim 6

Dependent Claim 37 words

The system of claim 3, wherein the adapting means controls said light beam so as to produce a Lissajous raster pattern when the system is operating in the fixed mode and the indicia comprise a 1-D barcode.

Claim 7

Dependent Claim 37 words

The system of claim 3, wherein the adapting means controls said light beam so as to produce a single line pattern when the system is operating in the portable mode and the indicia comprise a 1-D barcode.

Claim 8

Dependent Claim 36 words

The system of claim 3, wherein the adapting means controls said light beam so as to produce an omnidirectional pattern when the system is operating in the portable mode and the indicia comprise a 1-D barcode.

Claim 9

Dependent Claim 37 words

The system of claim 3, wherein the adapting means controls said light beam so as to produce a stationary raster pattern when the system is operating in the portable mode and the indicia comprise a 2-D barcode.

Claim 10

Dependent Claim 21 words

The system of claim 3, wherein the scan pattern is further optimized selectively for presentation and pass through modes of operation.

Claim 11

Independent Claim 181 words

A system for reading coded indicia of different classifications, comprising: an electro-optical reader within a portable housing having a means for enabling a human operator to hold and aim the reader at indicia to be read, the reader including a light source for generating a light beam, a light detector for receiving light reflected from said indicia and in response generating an electrical signal, and means for converting said electrical signal to data representing the information content of said indicia; a stationary fixture having a means for supporting the portable housing of the reader when not held by the operator to enable the light beam to be conveniently positioned with respect to indicia to be read by the reader; and scan control means for controlling the light beam to enable the beam to scan the indicia with a first scan pattern for reading the indicia independently of indicia orientation when the portable housing is mounted in said fixture and with a second scan pattern optimized for reading a prescribed classification of indicia when the portable housing is separated from said fixture.

Claim 12

Independent Claim 181 words

A system for reading coded indicia of different classifications, comprising: an electro-optical reader within a portable housing having a means for enabling a human operator to hold and aim the reader at indicia to be read, the reader including a light source for generating a light beam, a light detector for receiving light reflected from said indicia and in response generating an electrical signal, and means for converting said electrical signal to data representing the information content of said indicia; a stationary fixture having a means for supporting the portable housing of the reader when not held by the operator to enable the light beam to be conveniently positioned with respect to indicia to be read by the reader; and scan control means for controlling the light beam to enable the beam to scan the indicia with a first scan pattern for reading the indicia independently of indicia orientation when the portable housing is mounted in said fixture and with a second scan pattern optimized for reading a prescribed classification of indicia when the portable housing is separated from said fixture.

Claim 13

Dependent Claim 15 words

The system of claim 10, wherein said first scan pattern comprises an omnidirectional scan pattern.

Claim 14

Dependent Claim 14 words

The system of claim 10, wherein said first scan pattern comprises a Lissajous pattern.

Claim 15

Dependent Claim 11 words

The system of claim 12, wherein said Lissajous pattern is rotating.

Claim 16

Dependent Claim 15 words

The system of claim 10, wherein said first scan pattern comprises a rotating scan pattern.

Claim 17

Dependent Claim 15 words

The system of claim 10, wherein said first scan pattern comprises a precessing scan pattern.

Claim 18

Dependent Claim 15 words

The system of claim 10, wherein said second scan pattern is a precessing raster pattern.

Claim 19

Dependent Claim 14 words

The system of claim 10, wherein said second scan pattern comprises a line pattern.

Claim 20

Dependent Claim 14 words

The system of claim 10, wherein said second scan pattern comprises a star pattern.

Claim 21

Dependent Claim 43 words

The system of claim 10, including means for detecting whether said housing is mounted in said fixture, and wherein said scan control means is responsive to said detecting means for controlling the light beam to traverse the indicia with a particular scan pattern.

Claim 22

Dependent Claim 33 words

The system of claim 19, wherein said scan control means is further responsive to information content of said indicia for controlling the light beam to traverse the indicia with a particular scan pattern.

Claim 23

Independent Claim 135 words

A system for reading coded indicia, comprising: an electro-optical reader within a portable housing having a means for enabling a human operator to hold and aim the reader at indicia to be read, the reader including a light source for generating a light beam, a light detector for receiving light reflected from said indicia and responsively generating an electrical signal, and means for converting said electrical signal to data representing information content of said indicia; a stationary fixture having a means for supporting the portable housing of the reader when not held by the operator; and scan control means for controlling the light beam to scan the indicia with different prescribed scan patterns in response to the information content of the indicia and whether the portable housing is separated from or mounted in said fixture.

Claim 24

Independent Claim 135 words

A system for reading coded indicia, comprising: an electro-optical reader within a portable housing having a means for enabling a human operator to hold and aim the reader at indicia to be read, the reader including a light source for generating a light beam, a light detector for receiving light reflected from said indicia and responsively generating an electrical signal, and means for converting said electrical signal to data representing information content of said indicia; a stationary fixture having a means for supporting the portable housing of the reader when not held by the operator; and scan control means for controlling the light beam to scan the indicia with different prescribed scan patterns in response to the information content of the indicia and whether the portable housing is separated from or mounted in said fixture.

Claim 25

Dependent Claim 47 words

The system of claim 21, wherein, when said housing is separated from said fixture, said scan means controls the light beam to scan the indicia with a scan pattern that indexes angularly so as to traverse said indicia along different directions progressively as a function of time.

Claim 26

Dependent Claim 24 words

The system of claim 22, wherein, when said indicia content corresponds to a 1-D barcode pattern, said scan pattern is a rotating Lissajous pattern.

Claim 27

Dependent Claim 24 words

The system of claim 22, wherein, when said indicia content corresponds to a 2-D barcode pattern, said scan pattern is a precessing raster pattern.

Claim 28

Dependent Claim 30 words

The system of claim 21, wherein, when said housing is mounted in said fixture, said scan means controls the light beam to scan the indicia with a linear scan pattern.

Claim 29

Dependent Claim 25 words

The system of claim 25, wherein, when said indicia content corresponds to a 1-D barcode pattern, said scan pattern is a single line scan pattern.

Claim 30

Dependent Claim 23 words

The system of claim 25, wherein, when said indicia content corresponds to a 2-D barcode pattern, said scan pattern is a raster pattern.

Claim 31

Independent Claim 245 words

A device for reading barcode symbols comprising: a light source for generating a light beam and directing the beam toward a symbol to be read; a light detector for receiving light reflected from said symbol and, in response, generating an electrical signal; means for converting said electrical signal to data representing the information content of said barcode symbol; and scan control means for controlling the light beam to scan the symbol with a prescribed scan pattern to develop control information, and thereafter to increase a dimension of the scan pattern at a rate dependent upon said control information, wherein said scan control means includes means for executing (a) an aim mode of operation wherein said light beam is controlled to scan said symbol with a first prescribed scan pattern that is visible to the user and covers only a portion of said symbol, and (b) a decode mode of operation wherein said light beam is controlled to scan a portion of said symbol with a second prescribed scan pattern and thereafter to successively increment the size of said second prescribed scan pattern while decoding said symbol, and wherein said scan control means further includes means responsive to data produced during said aim mode of operation for determining whether the symbol is a one-dimensional or a two-dimensional barcode, and wherein said second prescribed scan pattern is controlled to be a stationary or precessing raster scan pattern if said symbol is determined to be a two-dimensional barcode.

Claim 32

Independent Claim 245 words

A device for reading barcode symbols comprising: a light source for generating a light beam and directing the beam toward a symbol to be read; a light detector for receiving light reflected from said symbol and, in response, generating an electrical signal; means for converting said electrical signal to data representing the information content of said barcode symbol; and scan control means for controlling the light beam to scan the symbol with a prescribed scan pattern to develop control information, and thereafter to increase a dimension of the scan pattern at a rate dependent upon said control information, wherein said scan control means includes means for executing (a) an aim mode of operation wherein said light beam is controlled to scan said symbol with a first prescribed scan pattern that is visible to the user and covers only a portion of said symbol, and (b) a decode mode of operation wherein said light beam is controlled to scan a portion of said symbol with a second prescribed scan pattern and thereafter to successively increment the size of said second prescribed scan pattern while decoding said symbol, and wherein said scan control means further includes means responsive to data produced during said aim mode of operation for determining whether the symbol is a one-dimensional or a two-dimensional barcode, and wherein said second prescribed scan pattern is controlled to be a stationary or precessing raster scan pattern if said symbol is determined to be a two-dimensional barcode.

Claim 33

Dependent Claim 50 words

The device of claim 28, wherein said first prescribed scan pattern is other than a raster, and said scan control means includes circuit means for transitioning from said first prescribed scan pattern to said second prescribed scan pattern, and said second prescribed scan pattern is a stationary or precessing raster.

Claim 34

Independent Claim 212 words

A device for reading barcode symbols, comprising: a light source for generating a light beam and directing the beam toward a symbol to be read; a light detector for receiving a light reflected from said symbol and, in response, generating an electrical signal; means for converting said electrical signal to data representing the information content of said barcode symbol; and scan control means for controlling the light beam to scan the symbol with a prescribed scan pattern to develop control information, and thereafter to increase a dimension of the scan pattern at a rate dependent upon said control information, wherein said scan control means includes means for executing (a) an aim mode of operation wherein said light beam is controlled to scan said symbol with a first prescribed scan pattern that is visible to the user and covers only a portion of said symbol, and (b) a decode mode of operation wherein said light beam is controlled to scan a portion of said symbol with a second prescribed scan pattern and thereafter to successively increment the size of said second prescribed scan pattern while decoding said symbol, and wherein when said symbol is determined to be a one-dimensional barcode, said first and second prescribed patterns are controlled to be a rotating Lissajous.

Claim 35

Independent Claim 212 words

A device for reading barcode symbols, comprising: a light source for generating a light beam and directing the beam toward a symbol to be read; a light detector for receiving a light reflected from said symbol and, in response, generating an electrical signal; means for converting said electrical signal to data representing the information content of said barcode symbol; and scan control means for controlling the light beam to scan the symbol with a prescribed scan pattern to develop control information, and thereafter to increase a dimension of the scan pattern at a rate dependent upon said control information, wherein said scan control means includes means for executing (a) an aim mode of operation wherein said light beam is controlled to scan said symbol with a first prescribed scan pattern that is visible to the user and covers only a portion of said symbol, and (b) a decode mode of operation wherein said light beam is controlled to scan a portion of said symbol with a second prescribed scan pattern and thereafter to successively increment the size of said second prescribed scan pattern while decoding said symbol, and wherein when said symbol is determined to be a one-dimensional barcode, said first and second prescribed patterns are controlled to be a rotating Lissajous.

Claim 36

Independent Claim 215 words

A device for reading barcode symbols, comprising: a light source for generating a light beam and directing the beam toward a symbol to be read; a light detector for receiving light reflected from said symbol and, in response, generating an electrical signal; means for converting said electrical signal to data representing the information content of said barcode symbol; and scan control means for controlling the light beam to scan the symbol with a prescribed scan pattern to develop control information, and thereafter to increase a dimension of the scan pattern at a rate dependent upon said control information, wherein said scan control means includes means for executing (a) an aim mode of operation wherein said light beam is controlled to scan said symbol with a first prescribed scan pattern that is visible to the user and covers only a portion of said symbol, and (b) a decode mode of operation wherein said light beam is controlled to scan a portion of said symbol with a second prescribed scan pattern and thereafter to successively increment the size of said second prescribed scan pattern while decoding said symbol, and wherein when said symbol is determined to be a two-dimensional barcode, said first and second prescribed patterns are controlled to be rotating Lissajous and raster scan patterns, respectively.

Claim 37

Independent Claim 215 words

A device for reading barcode symbols, comprising: a light source for generating a light beam and directing the beam toward a symbol to be read; a light detector for receiving light reflected from said symbol and, in response, generating an electrical signal; means for converting said electrical signal to data representing the information content of said barcode symbol; and scan control means for controlling the light beam to scan the symbol with a prescribed scan pattern to develop control information, and thereafter to increase a dimension of the scan pattern at a rate dependent upon said control information, wherein said scan control means includes means for executing (a) an aim mode of operation wherein said light beam is controlled to scan said symbol with a first prescribed scan pattern that is visible to the user and covers only a portion of said symbol, and (b) a decode mode of operation wherein said light beam is controlled to scan a portion of said symbol with a second prescribed scan pattern and thereafter to successively increment the size of said second prescribed scan pattern while decoding said symbol, and wherein when said symbol is determined to be a two-dimensional barcode, said first and second prescribed patterns are controlled to be rotating Lissajous and raster scan patterns, respectively.

Claim 38

Independent Claim 200 words

A method for reading barcode symbols, comprising the steps of: directing a light beam toward a symbol to be read; controlling said light beam to scan said symbol with a prescribed scan pattern of a first prescribed dimension; receiving light reflecting from said symbol, and in response, generating an electrical signal; producing first data corresponding to said electrical signal; increasing the dimension of said prescribed scan pattern at a rate dependent upon said first data; executing (a) an aim mode of operation by controlling said light beam to scan said symbol with a first prescribed scan pattern that is visible to the user and covers only a portion of said symbol, and (b) a decode mode of operation by controlling said light beam to scan a portion of said symbol with a second prescribed scan pattern and thereafter to successively increment the size of said second prescribed scan pattern while decoding said symbol; and responding to data produced during said aim mode of operation by determining whether the symbol is a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode symbol, and controlling said second prescribed scan pattern to be a stationary or precessing raster if said symbol is determined to be a two-dimensional barcode.

Claim 39

Independent Claim 200 words

A method for reading barcode symbols, comprising the steps of: directing a light beam toward a symbol to be read; controlling said light beam to scan said symbol with a prescribed scan pattern of a first prescribed dimension; receiving light reflecting from said symbol, and in response, generating an electrical signal; producing first data corresponding to said electrical signal; increasing the dimension of said prescribed scan pattern at a rate dependent upon said first data; executing (a) an aim mode of operation by controlling said light beam to scan said symbol with a first prescribed scan pattern that is visible to the user and covers only a portion of said symbol, and (b) a decode mode of operation by controlling said light beam to scan a portion of said symbol with a second prescribed scan pattern and thereafter to successively increment the size of said second prescribed scan pattern while decoding said symbol; and responding to data produced during said aim mode of operation by determining whether the symbol is a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode symbol, and controlling said second prescribed scan pattern to be a stationary or precessing raster if said symbol is determined to be a two-dimensional barcode.

Claim 40

Dependent Claim 46 words

The method of claim 32, wherein when said first prescribed scan pattern is other than a stationary raster or precessing scan pattern, and including the additional step of transitioning said scan pattern from said first prescribed scan pattern to a stationary or precessing raster scan pattern.

Claim 41

Independent Claim 115 words

A method of reading barcode symbols, comprising the steps of: directing a light beam toward a symbol to be read; executing an aim mode of operation by controlling said light beam to scan said symbol with a visible scan pattern that is relatively small compared to the symbol; receiving light reflected from said symbol, and producing first data identifying an attribute of said symbol; and executing a decode mode of operation by producing second data corresponding to the symbol while increasing a dimension of said scan pattern at a rate and to a size dependent upon said first data, wherein said scan patterns in said aim and dcode modes of operation are of different configurations.

Claim 42

Independent Claim 115 words

A method of reading barcode symbols, comprising the steps of: directing a light beam toward a symbol to be read; executing an aim mode of operation by controlling said light beam to scan said symbol with a visible scan pattern that is relatively small compared to the symbol; receiving light reflected from said symbol, and producing first data identifying an attribute of said symbol; and executing a decode mode of operation by producing second data corresponding to the symbol while increasing a dimension of said scan pattern at a rate and to a size dependent upon said first data, wherein said scan patterns in said aim and dcode modes of operation are of different configurations.

Claim 43

Independent Claim 151 words

The method of reading barcode symbols, comprising the steps of: directing a light beam toward a symbol to be read; executing an aim mode of operation by controlling said light beam to scan said symbol with a visible scan pattern that is relatively small compared to the symbol; receiving light reflected from said symbol, and producing first data identifying an attribute of said symbol; executing a decode mode of operation by producing second data corresponding to the symbol while increasing a dimension of said scan pattern at a rate and to a size dependent upon said first data; and responding to data produced during said aim mode of operation by determining whether the symbol is a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode, and controlling said scan pattern to be a stationary or precessing raster scan pattern during said decode mode of operation if said symbol is determined to be a two-dimensional barcode symbol.

Claim 44

Independent Claim 151 words

The method of reading barcode symbols, comprising the steps of: directing a light beam toward a symbol to be read; executing an aim mode of operation by controlling said light beam to scan said symbol with a visible scan pattern that is relatively small compared to the symbol; receiving light reflected from said symbol, and producing first data identifying an attribute of said symbol; executing a decode mode of operation by producing second data corresponding to the symbol while increasing a dimension of said scan pattern at a rate and to a size dependent upon said first data; and responding to data produced during said aim mode of operation by determining whether the symbol is a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode, and controlling said scan pattern to be a stationary or precessing raster scan pattern during said decode mode of operation if said symbol is determined to be a two-dimensional barcode symbol.

Claim 45

Independent Claim 103 words

A device for reading barcode symbols comprising: a light source for generating a light beam and directing the beam toward a symbol to be read; scan control means for controlling the light beam to scan the symbol with a rotating Lissajous scan pattern; a light detector for receiving light reflected from said symbol and, in response, generating an electrical signal; and means for converting said electrical signal into first data corresponding to an attribute of said barcode symbol; said scan control means including further means for converting the rotating Lissajous scan pattern to a raster scan pattern depending upon said barcode symbol attribute.

Claim 46

Independent Claim 103 words

A device for reading barcode symbols comprising: a light source for generating a light beam and directing the beam toward a symbol to be read; scan control means for controlling the light beam to scan the symbol with a rotating Lissajous scan pattern; a light detector for receiving light reflected from said symbol and, in response, generating an electrical signal; and means for converting said electrical signal into first data corresponding to an attribute of said barcode symbol; said scan control means including further means for converting the rotating Lissajous scan pattern to a raster scan pattern depending upon said barcode symbol attribute.

Claim 47

Dependent Claim 44 words

The device of claim 36, wherein said symbol attribute defines whether the symbol is a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode, and said scan control means converts said rotating Lissajous scan pattern to a raster scan pattern only if said symbol is a two-dimensional scan pattern.

Claim 48

Dependent Claim 35 words

The device of claim 37, wherein the attribute defines symbol size or type, and said scan control means further increases the size of said raster scan pattern to a maximum size determined by the attribute.

Claim 49

Dependent Claim 29 words

The device of claim 37, wherein said scan control means includes means for determining rotational orientation of said symbol, and responsively controlling rotational alignment of said raster scan pattern.

Claim 50

Dependent Claim 22 words

The device of claim 39, incorporated in a housing including an approximately square window for enabling said light beam to pass therethrough.

Claim 51

Dependent Claim 25 words

The device of claim 40, wherein said housing is adapted to be hand-held, and means for releasably attaching said housing to a surface mount base.

Claim 52

Dependent Claim 26 words

The device of claim 41, wherein said surface mount base enables said housing to rotate about at lease one of a vertical axis and horizontal axis.

Claim 53

Dependent Claim 20 words

The device of claim 41, wherein said surface mount base includes a vertical extension to increase height of said housing.

Claim 54

Independent Claim 146 words

A method of reading barcode symbols, comprising the steps of: directing a light beam toward a symbol to be read; executing an aim mode of operation by controlling said light beam to scan said symbol with a visible scan pattern in the form of a rotating Lissajous pattern; receiving light reflected from said symbol, and producing first data identifying an attribute of said symbol including whether said symbol represents a one-dimensional barcode symbol or a two-dimensional barcode symbol; and executing a decode mode of operation such that (a) if during said aim mode of operation, said symbol is determined to be a one-dimensional barcode, decoding while scanning using a rotating Lissajous scan pattern to scan said symbol, and (b) if during said aim mode of operation said symbol is determined to be a two-dimensional barcode, decoding while using a raster scan pattern to scan said symbol.

Claim 55

Independent Claim 146 words

A method of reading barcode symbols, comprising the steps of: directing a light beam toward a symbol to be read; executing an aim mode of operation by controlling said light beam to scan said symbol with a visible scan pattern in the form of a rotating Lissajous pattern; receiving light reflected from said symbol, and producing first data identifying an attribute of said symbol including whether said symbol represents a one-dimensional barcode symbol or a two-dimensional barcode symbol; and executing a decode mode of operation such that (a) if during said aim mode of operation, said symbol is determined to be a one-dimensional barcode, decoding while scanning using a rotating Lissajous scan pattern to scan said symbol, and (b) if during said aim mode of operation said symbol is determined to be a two-dimensional barcode, decoding while using a raster scan pattern to scan said symbol.

Claim 56

Dependent Claim 18 words

The method of claim 44, wherein, during (b) the raster scan pattern is increased in size during decoding.

Claim 57

Dependent Claim 22 words

The method of claim 45, wherein said raster scan pattern is increased in size at a rate that depends on symbol attribute.

Claim 58

Dependent Claim 13 words

The method of claim 44, wherein, during (b), the raster scan pattern precesses.

Claim 59

Dependent Claim 34 words

The method of claim 44, further including determining rotational orientation of said symbol during the aim mode of operation, and responsively controlling rotational alignment of said raster scan during the decode mode of operation.

Claim 60

Dependent Claim 98 words

A bar code reader, comprising: a light beam scanner generating a light beam directed toward a symbol to be read and moving said light beam along said symbol in an omnidirectional scanning pattern; a light-detector receiving reflected light from said symbol and generating electrical signals responsive to said reflected light; and means for controlling said scanning pattern in response to said electrical signals, wherein said light beam scanner moves said light beam selectively on a first scan path or on a second scan path different from the first scan path depending on an analysis of said electrical signals.

Claim 61

Dependent Claim 98 words

A bar code reader, comprising: a light beam scanner generating a light beam directed toward a symbol to be read and moving said light beam along said symbol in an omnidirectional scanning pattern; a light-detector receiving reflected light from said symbol and generating electrical signals responsive to said reflected light; and means for controlling said scanning pattern in response to said electrical signals, wherein said light beam scanner moves said light beam selectively on a first scan path or on a second scan path different from the first scan path depending on an analysis of said electrical signals.

Claim 62

Dependent Claim 14 words

The bar code reader of claim 49, wherein said scanning pattern is radially symmetric.

Claim 63

Dependent Claim 16 words

The bar code reader of claim 49, wherein said scanning pattern is a rotating line pattern.

Claim 64

Dependent Claim 15 words

The bar code reader of claim 49, wherein said scanning pattern is a spiral pattern.

Claim 65

Dependent Claim 25 words

The bar code reader of claim 49, wherein said means for controlling varies the trajectory of said light beam in response to said electrical signals.

Claim 66

Dependent Claim 25 words

The bar code reader of claim 49, wherein said means for controlling varies the diameter of said scan pattern in response to said electrical signals.

Claim 67

Dependent Claim 25 words

The bar code reader of claim 49, wherein said first and second scan paths differ from each other by rotation about an axis of rotation.

Claim 68

Dependent Claim 26 words

The bar code reader of claim 49, wherein said second scan path differs from said first scan path by an increase in scan path envelope diameter.

Claim 69

Dependent Claim 37 words

The bar code reader of claim 49, wherein said second scan path differs from said first scan path by rotation of the first scan path about an axis of rotation and increase of scan path envelope diameter.

Claim 70

Dependent Claim 30 words

The bar code reader of claim 49, wherein said second scan path differs from said first scan path by displacement of a center of rotation of said first scan pattern.

Claim 71

Independent Claim 110 words

A system for reading optically encoded symbols, comprising: scanning means for generating a laser beam directed toward a target and producing a first scanning pattern that enables a user to manually aim and direct the beam to the location desired by the user and a relatively larger second scanning pattern in the form of a Lissajous pattern that sweeps an entire symbol to be read, means for changing the scanning pattern produced by said scanning means from said first scanning pattern to said second scanning pattern; and detection means for receiving reflected light from a symbol being read to produce an electrical signal corresponding to data represented by said symbol.

Claim 72

Independent Claim 110 words

A system for reading optically encoded symbols, comprising: scanning means for generating a laser beam directed toward a target and producing a first scanning pattern that enables a user to manually aim and direct the beam to the location desired by the user and a relatively larger second scanning pattern in the form of a Lissajous pattern that sweeps an entire symbol to be read, means for changing the scanning pattern produced by said scanning means from said first scanning pattern to said second scanning pattern; and detection means for receiving reflected light from a symbol being read to produce an electrical signal corresponding to data represented by said symbol.

Claim 73

Dependent Claim 68 words

The system of claim 59, wherein said scanning means includes a semiconductor laser light source to produce said laser beam, and further comprising a housing for manual support having an exit port, wherein said scanning means and said detection means are located in said housing, and said housing includes a handle of a configuration enabling the user to manually aim and direct the laser beam to the target.

Claim 74

Dependent Claim 42 words

The system of claim 60, further comprising manually actuatable trigger means on said housing for initiating said first scanning pattern, and indicator means to inform the user that the housing is positioned in the correct working range for reading bar code symbols.

Claim 75

Dependent Claim 33 words

The system of claim 61, wherein said trigger means includes a multi-purpose trigger operatively connected to said scanning means to select between the first scanning pattern and the relatively larger second scanning pattern.

Claim 76

Independent Claim 95 words

A method for reading optically encoded symbols, comprising the steps of: generating a laser beams directed toward a target and producing a first scanning pattern that enables the user to manually aim and direct the beam to the location desired by the user and a relatively larger second scanning pattern in the form of an omnidirectional pattern that sweeps an entire symbol to be read; changing from said first scanning pattern to said second scanning pattern; and receiving reflected light from said symbol to produce an electrical signal corresponding to data represented by said symbol.

Claim 77

Independent Claim 95 words

A method for reading optically encoded symbols, comprising the steps of: generating a laser beams directed toward a target and producing a first scanning pattern that enables the user to manually aim and direct the beam to the location desired by the user and a relatively larger second scanning pattern in the form of an omnidirectional pattern that sweeps an entire symbol to be read; changing from said first scanning pattern to said second scanning pattern; and receiving reflected light from said symbol to produce an electrical signal corresponding to data represented by said symbol.

Claim 78

Independent Claim 141 words

A method for reading bar code symbols, comprising the steps of: generating a laser beam directed toward a target and producing a first scanning pattern that has a reflectivity on the target that enables a user to manually aim and direct the beam to a desired location on the target; generating a sequence of different subsequent scanning patterns that each are rotationally offset with respect to the preceding scanning pattern, including a scanning pattern that sweeps the entire symbol to be read; and receiving reflected light from the symbol to produce an electrical signal corresponding to data represented by said symbol; wherein said target includes a bar code symbol with at least two rows of bar patterns and one of said subsequent scanning patterns covers the entire symbol with at least two scan lines per row of bar patterns during reading.

Claim 79

Independent Claim 141 words

A method for reading bar code symbols, comprising the steps of: generating a laser beam directed toward a target and producing a first scanning pattern that has a reflectivity on the target that enables a user to manually aim and direct the beam to a desired location on the target; generating a sequence of different subsequent scanning patterns that each are rotationally offset with respect to the preceding scanning pattern, including a scanning pattern that sweeps the entire symbol to be read; and receiving reflected light from the symbol to produce an electrical signal corresponding to data represented by said symbol; wherein said target includes a bar code symbol with at least two rows of bar patterns and one of said subsequent scanning patterns covers the entire symbol with at least two scan lines per row of bar patterns during reading.

Claim 80

Dependent Claim 118 words

A bar code reader, comprising: a light beam scanner generating a light beam directed toward a symbol to be read and moving said light beam along said symbol in a predetermined scanning pattern having a center of rotation; a light detector receiving reflected light from said symbol and generating electrical signals responsive to said reflected light; and means for controlling the angular orientation of said scanning pattern with respect to a center of rotation thereof in response to said electrical signals so as to change the scan path of said light beam from a first scan path to a second and subsequent scan paths in response to said electrical signals so as to create a rotating scan pattern.

Claim 81

Dependent Claim 118 words

A bar code reader, comprising: a light beam scanner generating a light beam directed toward a symbol to be read and moving said light beam along said symbol in a predetermined scanning pattern having a center of rotation; a light detector receiving reflected light from said symbol and generating electrical signals responsive to said reflected light; and means for controlling the angular orientation of said scanning pattern with respect to a center of rotation thereof in response to said electrical signals so as to change the scan path of said light beam from a first scan path to a second and subsequent scan paths in response to said electrical signals so as to create a rotating scan pattern.

Claim 82

Dependent Claim 32 words

The bar code reader of claim 65, wherein the change from said first scan to said second scan path is rotation of the light beam scanning pattern about an axis of rotation.

Claim 83

Dependent Claim 34 words

The bar code reader of claim 65, wherein the change from said first scan path to said second scan path further comprises an increase in the diameter of the envelope of the scan pattern.

Claim 84

Dependent Claim 37 words

The bar code reader of claim 65, wherein the change from said first scan path to said second scan path is rotation about an axis of rotation and an increase in envelope diameter of the scan pattern.

Claim 85

Dependent Claim 31 words

The bar code reader of claim 65, wherein the change from said first scan path to said second scan path is displacement of the center of rotation of the scan pattern.

Claim 86

Dependent Claim 25 words

The bar code reader of claim 65, wherein the change from first scan path to said second scan path comprises change to a Lissajous pattern.

Claim 87

Dependent Claim 133 words

An optical scanning system for reading optically encoded indicia on a target, said system having a reading head which emits a light beam, wherein said indicia is within one of a plurality of symbology classifications, comprising: means for determining if said reading head is in a portable or fixed mode of operation; means for scanning said indicia with the light beam in a first scan pattern on said target and detecting light reflected therefrom; and means for determining the symbology classification of said indicia from said detected light, wherein said means for scanning functions to scan said indicia with the light beam along a second scan pattern on the target and detect light reflected therefrom, said second scan pattern being selected based upon the determined mode of operation and the determined symbology classification.

Claim 88

Dependent Claim 133 words

An optical scanning system for reading optically encoded indicia on a target, said system having a reading head which emits a light beam, wherein said indicia is within one of a plurality of symbology classifications, comprising: means for determining if said reading head is in a portable or fixed mode of operation; means for scanning said indicia with the light beam in a first scan pattern on said target and detecting light reflected therefrom; and means for determining the symbology classification of said indicia from said detected light, wherein said means for scanning functions to scan said indicia with the light beam along a second scan pattern on the target and detect light reflected therefrom, said second scan pattern being selected based upon the determined mode of operation and the determined symbology classification.

Claim 89

Dependent Claim 17 words

A system according to claim 71, wherein said first scan pattern is a rotating Lissajous scanning pattern.

Claim 90

Dependent Claim 39 words

A system according to claim 71, wherein: the reading head is in said fixed mode of operation; and based upon the determined symbology classification, said second scan pattern is either a self-aligning raster pattern or a rotating Lissajous pattern.

Claim 91

Dependent Claim 41 words

A system according to claim 71, wherein: the reading head is in said portable mode of operation; and based upon the determined symbology classification, said second scan pattern is either a stationary raster pattern or a single or rotating line pattern.

Claim 92

Dependent Claim 38 words

A system according to claim 71, wherein said reading head is in said fixed mode of operation, the symbology classification is a one dimensional barcode symbology and the second scan pattern is identical to said first scan pattern.

Claim 93

Dependent Claim 23 words

A system according to claim 71, wherein said plurality of symbology classifications include a one dimensional barcode symbology and a two-dimensional barcode symbology.

Claim 94

Dependent Claim 37 words

A system according to claim 71, wherein said means for determining the symbology classification samples a sequence of bars and spaces within said indicia and determines the symbology classification of the indicia based on said sampled sequence.

Claim 95

Dependent Claim 46 words

A system according to claim 71, further comprising means for determining if said target is presented to said reading head in a presentation mode or a pass-through mode; wherein said second scan pattern is further based upon said determined mode in which said target is presented.

Claim 96

Dependent Claim 45 words

A system according to claim 71, wherein: said first scan pattern has a scan envelope with a first cross-sectional dimension; the second scan pattern has a scan envelope with a second cross-sectional dimension; and the second cross-sectional dimension is different than the first cross-sectional dimension.

Claim 97

Dependent Claim 28 words

A system according to claim 71, wherein: said light beam is scanned along a first scan path or a second scan path to form the second scan pattern.

Claim 98

Dependent Claim 29 words

A system according to claim 71, wherein: said light beam is sequentially scanned along a first scan path and a second scan path to form the second scan pattern.

Claim 99

Dependent Claim 19 words

A system according to claim 81, wherein said second scan path is angularly displaced from said first scan path.

Claim 100

Dependent Claim 48 words

A system according to claim 81, wherein: said second scan pattern has an axis of symmetry; and the axis of symmetry with said light beam scanned along said first scan path is offset from the axis of symmetry with said light beam scanned along said second scan path.

Claim 101

Dependent Claim 52 words

A system according to claim 81, wherein the second scan pattern has a diameter and the diameter of the second scan pattern with said light beam scanned along said first scan path is different than the diameter of the second scan pattern with said light beam scanned along said second scan path.

Claim 102

Dependent Claim 24 words

A system according to claim 71, further comprising means for decoding a signal representing the detected light to obtain information encoded in the indicia.

Claim 103

Dependent Claim 18 words

A system according to claim 71, further comprising a gun-shaped housing in which said reading head is disposed.

Claim 104

Dependent Claim 88 words

An optical scanning system for reading optically encoded indicia on a target, said system having a reading head which emits a light beam, wherein said indicia is within one of a plurality of symbology classifications, comprising: means for scanning said indicia with the light beam in a first scan pattern on said target and detecting light reflected therefrom; means for determining the symbology classification of said indicia from said detected light; and selectively changing an operational parameter of the means for scanning based upon the determined symbology classification.

Claim 105

Dependent Claim 88 words

An optical scanning system for reading optically encoded indicia on a target, said system having a reading head which emits a light beam, wherein said indicia is within one of a plurality of symbology classifications, comprising: means for scanning said indicia with the light beam in a first scan pattern on said target and detecting light reflected therefrom; means for determining the symbology classification of said indicia from said detected light; and selectively changing an operational parameter of the means for scanning based upon the determined symbology classification.

Claim 106

Dependent Claim 17 words

A system according to claim 81, wherein said first scan pattern is a rotating Lissajous scanning pattern.

Claim 107

Dependent Claim 44 words

A system according to claim 87, wherein: said means for scanning subsequently scans said indicia with the light beam in a second scan pattern on the target and detects reflected light therefrom; and said second scan pattern is based upon the determined symbology classification.

Claim 108

Dependent Claim 62 words

A system according to claim 89, wherein: based upon a determination that said symbology classification is a first symbology classification, said second scan pattern is a stationary or raster self-aligning raster pattern; and based upon a determination that said symbology classification is a second symbology classification said second scan pattern is a rotating Lissajous, a single line or a rotating line pattern.

Claim 109

Dependent Claim 33 words

A system according to claim 89, wherein the symbology classification is a one dimensional barcode symbology and the second scan pattern is of a type which is identical to said first scan pattern.

Claim 110

Dependent Claim 23 words

A system according to claim 87, wherein said plurality of symbology classifications include a one dimensional barcode symbology and a two-dimensional barcode symbology.

Claim 111

Dependent Claim 37 words

A system according to claim 87, wherein said means for determining the symbology classification samples a sequence of bars and spaces within said indicia and determines the symbology classification of the indicia based on said sampled sequence.

Claim 112

Dependent Claim 35 words

A system according to claim 87, further comprising: means for decoding a signal representing the detected light to obtain information encoded in the indicia; and a gun-shaped housing in which said reading head is disposed.

Claim 113

Dependent Claim 86 words

An optical scanning system for reading optically encoded indicia on a target, said system having a reading head which emits a light beam, wherein said indicia is within one of a plurality of symbology classifications, comprising: means for determining if said reading head is in a portable or fixed mode of operation; and means for scanning said indicia with the light beam in a scan pattern on said target and detecting light reflected therefrom, wherein said scan pattern is based upon said determined mode of operation.

Claim 114

Dependent Claim 86 words

An optical scanning system for reading optically encoded indicia on a target, said system having a reading head which emits a light beam, wherein said indicia is within one of a plurality of symbology classifications, comprising: means for determining if said reading head is in a portable or fixed mode of operation; and means for scanning said indicia with the light beam in a scan pattern on said target and detecting light reflected therefrom, wherein said scan pattern is based upon said determined mode of operation.

Claim 115

Dependent Claim 30 words

A system according to claim 95, wherein the reading head is in said fixed mode of operation and said scan pattern is a self-aligning raster or a rotating Lissajous pattern.

Claim 116

Dependent Claim 33 words

A system according to claim 95, wherein the reading head is in said portable mode of operation and said scan pattern is a stationary raster or a single line or rotating line pattern.

Claim 117

Dependent Claim 45 words

A system according to claim 95, further comprising means for determining if said target is presented to said reading head in a presentation mode or a pass-through mode, wherein: said scan pattern is further based on said determined mode in which said target is presented.

Claim 118

Dependent Claim 35 words

A system according to claim 95, further comprising: means for decoding a signal representing the detected light to obtain information encoded in the indicia; and a gun-shaped housing in which said reading head is disposed.

Claim 119

Independent Claim 128 words

A method for operating an optical scanning system to read optically encoded indicia on a target, said system having a reading head which emits a light beam, wherein said indicia is within one of a plurality of symbology classifications, comprising the steps of: determining if said reading head is in a portable or fixed mode of operation; scanning said indicia with the light beam in a first scan pattern on the target and detecting light reflected therefrom; and determining the symbology classification of said indicia from said detected light; and scanning said indicia with the light beam in a second scan pattern on the target and detecting light reflected therefrom; wherein said second scan pattern is based upon said determined symbology classification and said determined mode of operation.

Claim 120

Independent Claim 128 words

A method for operating an optical scanning system to read optically encoded indicia on a target, said system having a reading head which emits a light beam, wherein said indicia is within one of a plurality of symbology classifications, comprising the steps of: determining if said reading head is in a portable or fixed mode of operation; scanning said indicia with the light beam in a first scan pattern on the target and detecting light reflected therefrom; and determining the symbology classification of said indicia from said detected light; and scanning said indicia with the light beam in a second scan pattern on the target and detecting light reflected therefrom; wherein said second scan pattern is based upon said determined symbology classification and said determined mode of operation.

Claim 121

Dependent Claim 43 words

A method according to claim 100, wherein: said reading head is in said fixed mode of operation; the symbology classification is a one dimensional barcode symbology; and the second scan pattern is of a type which is identical to said first scan pattern.

Claim 122

Dependent Claim 38 words

A method according to claim 100, wherein said step of determining said symbology classification includes sampling a sequence of bars and spaces within said indicia and determining the symbology classification of the indicia based on said sampled sequence.

Claim 123

Dependent Claim 46 words

A method according to claim 100, further comprising the steps of: determining if said target is presented to said system in a presentation mode or a pass-through mode; wherein said second scan pattern is further based upon said determined mode in which said target is presented.

Claim 124

Independent Claim 96 words

A method for operating an optical scanning system to read optically encoded indicia on a target, said system having a reading head which emits a light beam, wherein said indicia is within one of a plurality of symbology classifications, comprising the steps of: scanning said indicia with the light beam in a first scan pattern on the target and detecting light reflected therefrom; processing the detected light to determine the symbology classification of said indicia; and selectively changing an operational parameter of the scanning system so that the scan pattern is matched to the symbology classification.

Claim 125

Independent Claim 96 words

A method for operating an optical scanning system to read optically encoded indicia on a target, said system having a reading head which emits a light beam, wherein said indicia is within one of a plurality of symbology classifications, comprising the steps of: scanning said indicia with the light beam in a first scan pattern on the target and detecting light reflected therefrom; processing the detected light to determine the symbology classification of said indicia; and selectively changing an operational parameter of the scanning system so that the scan pattern is matched to the symbology classification.

Claim 126

Dependent Claim 37 words

A method according to claim 104, further comprising scanning said indicia with the light beam in a second scan pattern on the target; wherein said second scan pattern is the scan pattern matched to said symbology classification.

Claim 127

Dependent Claim 33 words

A method according to claim 105, wherein: the symbology classification is a one dimensional barcode symbology; and the second scan pattern is of a type which is identical to said first scan pattern.

Claim 128

Dependent Claim 38 words

A method according to claim 104, wherein said step of processing the detected light includes sampling a sequence of bars and spaces within said indicia and determining the symbology classification of the indicia based on said sampled sequence.

Claim 129

Independent Claim 90 words

A method for operating an optical scanning system to read optically encoded indicia on a target, said system having a reading head which emits a light beam, wherein said indicia is within one of a plurality of symbology classifications, comprising the steps of: determining if said reading head is in a portable or fixed mode of operation; and scanning said indicia with the light beam in a scan pattern on the target and detecting light reflected therefrom; and wherein said scan pattern is based upon said determined mode of operation.

Claim 130

Independent Claim 90 words

A method for operating an optical scanning system to read optically encoded indicia on a target, said system having a reading head which emits a light beam, wherein said indicia is within one of a plurality of symbology classifications, comprising the steps of: determining if said reading head is in a portable or fixed mode of operation; and scanning said indicia with the light beam in a scan pattern on the target and detecting light reflected therefrom; and wherein said scan pattern is based upon said determined mode of operation.

Claim 131

Dependent Claim 46 words

A method according to claim 108, further comprising the steps of: determining if said target is presented to said system in a presentation mode or a pass-through mode; and wherein said scan pattern is further based upon said determined mode in which said indicia is presented.

Annuity Stage	Window Opens	Payment Deadline	Surcharge Period Until	Estimated Fee	Status
3.5 Years (Year 4)	1999-04-02	1999-10-02	2000-04-02	$2000.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
7.5 Years (Year 8)	2003-04-02	2003-10-02	2004-04-02	$3760.00	Window Closed / Lapsed
11.5 Years (Year 12)	2007-04-02	2007-10-02	2008-04-02	$7700.00	Window Closed / Lapsed

Laser scanning system and scanning method for reading 1-D and 2-D barcode symbols

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