Patent US6039258A successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US6039258A
Expired / Lapsed
US
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Hand-held portable data collection terminal system
Assignee: Norand Corp
•
Filing: 1997-07-17
•
Granted: 2000-03-21
•
Expires: 2017-07-17
Abstract
Abstract A hand-held portable data collection system integrates ideal design features to improve and optimize the data collection process. The operator interface of the hand-held portable data collection system incorporates somatic feedback between the hand-held portable data terminal and the operator, thereby facilitating operation of the data terminal such as reading of optically readable indicia. The hand-held portable data collection system further provides optimal data collection by allowing for variable orientation of the reading field of view of the data file reader allowing for optimal positioning of the reader during the data collection process. Optically readable indicia may be disposed within the reading field of view of the data file reader without having to sight along the terminal as is typical with prior aim and shoot type data readers. The optically readable indicia may be readable regardless of orientational disposition.
Inventors
- 👤 Dennis A. Durbin
- 👤 Arvin D. Danielson
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-09 20:48
CPC Classifications
G; G06; G06K; G06K7/00; G06K7/10; G06K7/10544; G06K7/10821; G06K7/10881
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 113
Claim 1
Independent Claim
70 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting data; and (b) a somatic communications system operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection terminal for tactually communicating with an operator by producing a vibrational signal during hand-held utilization thereof; wherein said somatic communications system produces an output to the operator responsive to movement of said hand-held portable data terminal.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
70 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting data; and (b) a somatic communications system operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection terminal for tactually communicating with an operator by producing a vibrational signal during hand-held utilization thereof; wherein said somatic communications system produces an output to the operator responsive to movement of said hand-held portable data terminal.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
57 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 1 wherein said hand-held portable data collection terminal has at least one central axis therethrough corresponding to a center of mass thereof, said somatic communications system being disposed off of said at least one central axis such that the vibrational signal of said somatic communications system is thereby augmented.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
37 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 1 wherein said somatic communications system includes a data file reader such that operation of said data file reader contributes to the vibrational signal of said somatic communications system.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
18 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 3 wherein said data file reader is a laser scanner.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
39 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 3 wherein said data file reader is a direct illumination laser scanner wherein optically readable indicia is illuminated with a laser without any reflective surfaces interposed in the laser beam path.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
18 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 3 wherein said data file reader is a retro-reflective scanner.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
17 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 3 wherein data file reader includes a photosensitive array.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
17 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 7 wherein the photosensitive array is a charge-coupled device.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
32 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 1 wherein said somatic communications system produces an output to the operator responsive to an input stimulus received by said hand-held portable data terminal.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
35 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 3 wherein said somatic communications system produces an output to the operator responsive to data input received from optically readable indicia read by said data file reader.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
38 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 1 wherein said somatic communications system produces an output to the operator responsive to movement of said hand-held portable data terminal, said movement being characteristic of pre-data collecting operation thereof.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
38 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 1 wherein said somatic communications system produces an output to the operator responsive to movement of said hand-held portable data terminal, said movement being characteristic of data collection operation thereof.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
39 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 1 wherein said somatic communications system produces an output to the operator responsive to movement of said hand-held portable data terminal, said movement being characteristic of post data collection operation thereof.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
26 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 1 wherein said somatic communications system includes a vibrational control system for operatively controlling the vibrational signal thereof.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
33 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 1 wherein said somatic communications system operatively controls the vibrational signal thereof in response to an input stimulus received by said hand-held portable data terminal.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
36 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 1 wherein said somatic communications system operatively controls the vibrational signal thereof in response to data input received from optically readable indicia read by said data file reader.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
71 words
A hand-held portable date collection system for reading data comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting data; and (b) a somatic communications system operatively integrated with said hand-held portable date collection terminal for tactually communicating with an operator by producing a vibrational signal during hand-held utilization thereof; wherein said somatic communications system operatively controls the vibrational signal thereof in response to movement of said hand-held portable data terminal.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
71 words
A hand-held portable date collection system for reading data comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting data; and (b) a somatic communications system operatively integrated with said hand-held portable date collection terminal for tactually communicating with an operator by producing a vibrational signal during hand-held utilization thereof; wherein said somatic communications system operatively controls the vibrational signal thereof in response to movement of said hand-held portable data terminal.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
39 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 17 wherein said somatic communications system operatively controls the vibrational signal thereof in response to movement of said hand-held portable data terminal, said movement being characteristic of pre-data collection operation thereof.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
39 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 17 wherein said somatic communications system operatively controls the vibrational signal thereof in response to movement of said hand-held portable data terminal, said movement being characteristic of data collection operation thereof.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
40 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 17 wherein said somatic communications system operatively controls the vibrational signal thereof in response to movement of said hand-held portable data terminal, said movement being characteristic of post data collection operation thereof.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
27 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 14 wherein said vibrational controlling system is operatively capable of augmenting the vibrational signal of said somatic communications system.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
26 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 14 wherein said vibrational control system is operatively capable dampening the vibrational signal of said somatic communications system.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
26 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 1 wherein said somatic communications system is operatively utilized to assist the operator in reading optically readable indicia.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
100 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting data; and (b) a somatic communications system operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection terminal for tactually communicating with an operator by producing a vibrational signal during hand-held utilization thereof; wherein said data file reader includes a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read, said somatic communications system being operatively utilized to assist the operator in positioning said hand-held portable data terminal such that optically readable indicia appear in the reading field of view thereof.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
100 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting data; and (b) a somatic communications system operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection terminal for tactually communicating with an operator by producing a vibrational signal during hand-held utilization thereof; wherein said data file reader includes a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read, said somatic communications system being operatively utilized to assist the operator in positioning said hand-held portable data terminal such that optically readable indicia appear in the reading field of view thereof.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
60 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim wherein said data file reader includes a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read, said somatic communications system being operatively utilized to indicate to the operator a positioning of said hand-held portable data terminal such that optically readable indicia appear in the reading field of view thereof.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
55 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 24 wherein said data file reader includes a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read, said somatic communications system being operatively utilized to indicate to the operator initiation of reading of optically readable indicia appearing in the reading field of view thereof.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
55 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 24, wherein said data file reader includes a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read, said somatic communications system being operatively utilized to indicate to the operator a successful reading of optically readable indicia appearing in the reading field of view thereof.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
55 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 24 wherein said data file reader includes a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read, said somatic communications system being operatively utilized to indicate to the operator an unsuccessful reading of optically readable indicia appearing in the reading field of view thereof.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
54 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 24 wherein said data file reader includes a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read, said somatic communications system being operatively utilized to indicate to the operator successive reading of optically readable indicia appearing in the reading field of view thereof.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
55 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 24 wherein said data file reader includes a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read, said somatic communications system being operatively utilized to indicate to the operator termination of reading of optically readable indicia appearing in the reading field of view thereof.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
141 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting, processing and transferring data, said hand-held portable data terminal having a housing; and (b) a data file reader operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection system for reading data encoded as optically readable indicia, said data file reader having a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read, (c) said reading field of view of said data file reader extending from the housing in a direction permitting an operator to conveniently position said hand-held portable data terminal such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view when held near hip level.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
141 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting, processing and transferring data, said hand-held portable data terminal having a housing; and (b) a data file reader operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection system for reading data encoded as optically readable indicia, said data file reader having a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read, (c) said reading field of view of said data file reader extending from the housing in a direction permitting an operator to conveniently position said hand-held portable data terminal such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view when held near hip level.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
29 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 31 wherein said hand-held portable data collection terminal is shaped to be comfortably held in one hand during hand-held operation thereof.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
42 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 31, further comprising a display disposed on the upper surface of said hand-held portable data terminal, said display having an optimal viewing angle within which information displayed thereon is readily viewable by the operator.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
39 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 31 wherein the reading field of view of the data file reader is disposed at a non-orthogonal, non-perpendicular, angle with respect to the housing of the hand-held portable data collection terminal.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
108 words
The hand-held portable data collection terminal system of claim 31 wherein the housing of said hand-held portable data collection terminal is generally rectangularly shaped having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge, the reading field of view of said data file reader being sufficiently disposed relative to the housing to permit the operator to conveniently position the reader such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view by directing the reading field of view toward the optically readable indicia wherein the optically readable indicia is viewable by the operator by viewing over the top edge of the housing.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
108 words
The hand-held portable data collection terminal system of claim 31 wherein the housing of said hand-held portable data collection terminal is generally rectangularly shaped having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge, the reading field of view of said data file reader being sufficiently disposed relative to the housing to permit the operator to conveniently position the reader such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view by directing the reading field of view toward the optically readable indicia wherein the optically readable indicia is viewable by the operator by viewing under the bottom edge of the housing.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
108 words
The hand-held portable data collection terminal system of claim 31 wherein the housing of said hand-held portable data collection terminal is generally rectangularly shaped having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge, the reading field of view of said data file reader being sufficiently disposed relative to the housing to permit the operator to conveniently position the reader such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view by directing the reading field of view toward the optically readable indicia wherein the optically readable indicia is viewable by the operator by viewing around the left edge of the housing.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
108 words
The hand-held portable data collection terminal system of claim 31 wherein the housing of said hand-held portable data collection terminal is generally rectangularly shaped having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge, the reading field of view of said data file reader being sufficiently disposed relative to the housing to permit the operator to conveniently position the reader such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view by directing the reading field of view toward the optically readable indicia wherein the optically readable indicia is viewable by the operator by viewing around the right edge of the housing.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
64 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 31 wherein the housing of said hand-held portable data collection terminal is generally rectangularly shaped having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge wherein the reading field of view of the reader is disposed at an angle adjustable by the operator to a preferred position with respect to the housing.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
18 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 31 wherein said data file reader is a laser scanner.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
39 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 31 wherein said data file reader is a direct illumination laser scanner wherein optically readable indicia is illuminated with a laser without any reflective surfaces interposed in the laser beam path.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
18 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 31 wherein said data file reader is a retro-reflective scanner.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
18 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 31 wherein said data file reader includes a photosensitive array.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
17 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 43 wherein the photosensitive array is a charge-coupled device.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
150 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting, processing and transferring data, said hand-held portable data terminal having generally a housing and an upper housing surface; (b) a data file reader operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection system for reading data encoded as optically readable indicia, said data file reader including a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read; and (c) a display disposed on the upper surface of said hand-held portable data terminal, said display having an optimal viewing angle within which information displayed thereon is readily viewable by an operator, wherein said display is capable of digitizing tactile data input simultaneous with operation of said data file reader.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
150 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting, processing and transferring data, said hand-held portable data terminal having generally a housing and an upper housing surface; (b) a data file reader operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection system for reading data encoded as optically readable indicia, said data file reader including a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read; and (c) a display disposed on the upper surface of said hand-held portable data terminal, said display having an optimal viewing angle within which information displayed thereon is readily viewable by an operator, wherein said display is capable of digitizing tactile data input simultaneous with operation of said data file reader.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
29 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 45 wherein said hand-held portable data collection terminal is shaped to be comfortably held in one hand during hand-held operation thereof.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
26 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 46 wherein said hand-held portable data collection terminal is further shaped to be comfortably operable near hip level.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
39 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 45 wherein the reading field of view of the data file reader is disposed at a non-orthogonal, non-perpendicular, angle with respect to the housing of the hand-held portable data collection terminal.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
108 words
The hand-held portable data collection terminal system of claim 45 wherein the housing of said hand-held portable data collection terminal is generally rectangularly shaped having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge, the reading field of view of said data file reader being sufficiently disposed relative to the housing to permit the operator to conveniently position the reader such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view by directing the reading field of view toward the optically readable indicia wherein the optically readable indicia is viewable by the operator by viewing over the top edge of the housing.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
108 words
The hand-held portable data collection terminal system of claim 45 wherein the housing of said hand-held portable data collection terminal is generally rectangularly shaped having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge, the reading field of view of said data file reader being sufficiently disposed relative to the housing to permit the operator to conveniently position the reader such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view by directing the reading field of view toward the optically readable indicia wherein the optically readable indicia is viewable by the operator by viewing under the bottom edge of the housing.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
108 words
The hand-held portable data collection terminal system of claim 45 wherein the housing of said hand-held portable data collection terminal is generally rectangularly shaped having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge, the reading field of view of said data file reader being sufficiently disposed relative to the housing to permit the operator to conveniently position the reader such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view by directing the reading field of view toward the optically readable indicia wherein the optically readable indicia is viewable by the operator by viewing around the left edge of the housing.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
108 words
The hand-held portable data collection terminal system of claim 45 wherein the housing of said hand-held portable data collection terminal is generally rectangularly shaped having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge, the reading field of view of said data file reader being sufficiently disposed relative to the housing to permit the operator to conveniently position the reader such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view by directing the reading field of view toward the optically readable indicia wherein the optically readable indicia is viewable by the operator by viewing around the right edge of the housing.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
64 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 45 wherein the housing of said hand-held portable data collection terminal is generally rectangularly shaped having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge wherein the reading field of view of the reader is disposed at an angle adjustable by the operator to a preferred position with respect to the housing.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
18 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 45 wherein the data file reader is a laser scanner.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
39 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 45 wherein the data file reader is a direct illumination laser scanner wherein optically readable indicia is illuminated with a laser without any reflective surfaces interposed in the laser beam path.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
18 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 45 wherein the data file reader is a retro-reflective scanner.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
18 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 45 wherein the data file reader includes a photosensitive array.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
17 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 57 wherein the photosensitive array is a charge-coupled device.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
19 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 45 wherein said display is capable of receiving tactile data input.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
19 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 45 wherein said display is capable of digitizing tactile data input.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
27 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 45 wherein said display is capable of receiving tactile data input simultaneous with operation of said data file reader.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
43 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 45 wherein said display is capable of receiving tactile data input simultaneous with operation of said data file reader such that said tactile data input includes data for operational control of said data file reader.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
44 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 45 wherein said display is capable of digitizing tactile data input simultaneous with the operation of said data file reader such that said tactile data input includes data for operational control of said data file reader.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
230 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting, processing and transferring data, said hand-held portable data terminal having generally a housing and an upper housing surface; (b) a data file reader operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection system for reading data encoded as optically readable indicia, said data file reader including a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read; (c) a display disposed on the upper surface of said hand-held portable data terminal, said display having an optimal viewing angle within which information displayed thereon is readily viewable by the operator; and (d) the reading field of view of said data file reader being sufficiently disposed relative the optimal viewing angle of said display to permit the operator to conveniently position the reader such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view by directing the reading field of view toward the optically readable indicia without sighting along a line substantially parallel to the upper surface of the housing and such that said display is viewable by the operator within the optimal viewing angle wherein said display displays information concerning the operation of said data file reader.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
230 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting, processing and transferring data, said hand-held portable data terminal having generally a housing and an upper housing surface; (b) a data file reader operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection system for reading data encoded as optically readable indicia, said data file reader including a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read; (c) a display disposed on the upper surface of said hand-held portable data terminal, said display having an optimal viewing angle within which information displayed thereon is readily viewable by the operator; and (d) the reading field of view of said data file reader being sufficiently disposed relative the optimal viewing angle of said display to permit the operator to conveniently position the reader such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view by directing the reading field of view toward the optically readable indicia without sighting along a line substantially parallel to the upper surface of the housing and such that said display is viewable by the operator within the optimal viewing angle wherein said display displays information concerning the operation of said data file reader.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
26 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 64 wherein said display displays information disposed within the reading field of view of said data file reader.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
31 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 64 wherein said display displays an image of optically readable indicia disposed within the reading field of view of said data file reader.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
24 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 64 wherein said display displays information to assist the operator in operating said data file reader.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
33 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 64 wherein said display displays information to assist the operator in positioning said hand-held portable data collection terminal during operation of said data file reader.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
45 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 64 wherein said display displays information to assist the operator in positioning said hand-held portable data collection terminal such that optically readable indicia are readably disposed within the reading field of view of said data file reader.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
21 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 64 wherein said display displays information indicating initiation of reading optically readable indicia.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
22 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 64 wherein said display displays information indicating a successful reading of optically readable indicia.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
22 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 64 wherein said display displays information indicating an unsuccessful reading of optically readable indicia.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
21 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 64 wherein said display displays information indicating successive reading of optically readable indicia.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
21 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 64 wherein said display displays information indicating termination of reading optically readable indicia.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
38 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 64 wherein said display displays information indicating said data file reader is incapable of reading optically readable indicia disposed within the reading field of view of said data file reader.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
262 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting, processing and transferring data, said hand-held portable data terminal having generally a housing and an upper housing surface; (b) a data file reader operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection system for reading data encoded as optically readable indicia, said data file reader including a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read; (c) a display disposed on the upper surface of said hand-held portable data terminal, said display having an optimal viewing angle within which information displayed thereon is readily viewable by the operator; and (d) the reading field of view of said data file reader being sufficiently disposed relative the optimal viewing angle of said display to permit the operator to conveniently position the reader such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view by directing the reading field of view toward the optically readable indicia without sighting along a line substantially parallel to the upper surface of the housing and such that said display is viewable by the operator within the optimal viewing angle, wherein said display is capable of receiving tactile data input simultaneous with operation of said data file reader such that said tactile data input includes data for initiating reading of optically readable indicia disposed within the reading field of view of said data file reader.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
262 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting, processing and transferring data, said hand-held portable data terminal having generally a housing and an upper housing surface; (b) a data file reader operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection system for reading data encoded as optically readable indicia, said data file reader including a reading field of view in which optically readable indicia may be read; (c) a display disposed on the upper surface of said hand-held portable data terminal, said display having an optimal viewing angle within which information displayed thereon is readily viewable by the operator; and (d) the reading field of view of said data file reader being sufficiently disposed relative the optimal viewing angle of said display to permit the operator to conveniently position the reader such that optically readable indicia are disposed in the reading field of view by directing the reading field of view toward the optically readable indicia without sighting along a line substantially parallel to the upper surface of the housing and such that said display is viewable by the operator within the optimal viewing angle, wherein said display is capable of receiving tactile data input simultaneous with operation of said data file reader such that said tactile data input includes data for initiating reading of optically readable indicia disposed within the reading field of view of said data file reader.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
55 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 76 wherein said display is capable of digitizing tactile data input simultaneous with the operation of said data file reader such that said tactile data input includes data for initiating reading of optically readable indicia disposed within the reading field of view of said data file reader.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
47 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 76 wherein said display is capable of receiving tactile data input such that said tactile data input includes data for adjusting disposition of the reading field of view with respect to the housing of said hand-held portable data terminal.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
46 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 76 wherein said display is capable of digitizing tactile data input such that said tactile data input includes data for adjustably disposing the reading field of view with respect to the housing of said hand-held portable data terminal.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
67 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 76 wherein said display is capable of receiving tactile data input simultaneous with operation of said data file reader such that said tactile data input includes data for adjustably disposing the reading field of view with respect to the housing of said hand-held portable data terminal proportional to the coordinate position of said tactile data input on said display.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
68 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 76 wherein said display is capable of digitizing tactile data input simultaneous with operation of said data file reader such that said tactile data input includes data for adjusting disposition of the reading field of view with respect to the housing of said hand-held portable data terminal proportional to the coordinate position of said tactile data input on said display.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
87 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 76 wherein said display is capable of receiving tactile data input simultaneous with operation of said data file reader such that said tactile data input includes data for adjustably disposing the reading field of view with respect to the housing of said hand-held portable data terminal proportional to the coordinate position of said tactile data input on said display wherein the reading field of view of said data file reader is dynamically positioned to impinge upon optically readable indicia.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
88 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 76 wherein said display is capable of digitizing tactile data input simultaneous with operation of said data file reader such that said tactile data input includes data for adjusting disposition of the reading field of view with respect to the housing of said hand-held portable data terminal proportional to the coordinate position of said tactile data input on said display wherein the reading field of view of said data file reader is dynamically positioned to impinge upon optically readable indicia.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
106 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 76 wherein said display is capable of receiving tactile data input simultaneous with operation of said data file reader such that said tactile data input includes data for adjustably disposing the reading field of view with respect to the housing of said hand-held portable data terminal proportional to the coordinate position of said tactile data input on said display wherein the reading field of view of said data file reader is dynamically positioned to impinge upon optically readable indicia, said data file reader being operably responsive thereto such that reading of the optically readable indicia is initiated thereupon.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
107 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 76 wherein said display is capable of digitizing tactile data input simultaneous with operation of said data file reader such that said tactile data input includes data for adjusting disposition of the reading field of view with respect to the housing of said hand-held portable data terminal proportional to the coordinate position of said tactile data input on said display wherein the reading field of view of said data file reader is dynamically positioned to impinge upon optically readable indicia, said data file reader being operably responsive thereto such that reading of the optically readable indicia is initiated thereupon.
Claim 93
Independent Claim
156 words
A method of operating a hand-held portable data collection system, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising a hand-held portable data collection terminal for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said method comprising: (a) mobilizing a hand-held portable data collection terminal by moving the hand-held portable data collection terminal from a dormant position to an active position wherein said movement is characteristic of action preliminary to reading optically readable indicia such that the optically readable indicia is substantially disposed within the reading field of view of a data file reader integrated with the hand-held portable data collection terminal; (b) activating the data file reader upon termination of said movement; (c) thereafter reading the optically readable indicia; (d) repeating step (c) upon an unsuccessful reading of said optically readable indicia; and; (e) terminating the reading of said optically readable indicia upon a successful reading thereof.
Claim 94
Independent Claim
156 words
A method of operating a hand-held portable data collection system, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising a hand-held portable data collection terminal for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said method comprising: (a) mobilizing a hand-held portable data collection terminal by moving the hand-held portable data collection terminal from a dormant position to an active position wherein said movement is characteristic of action preliminary to reading optically readable indicia such that the optically readable indicia is substantially disposed within the reading field of view of a data file reader integrated with the hand-held portable data collection terminal; (b) activating the data file reader upon termination of said movement; (c) thereafter reading the optically readable indicia; (d) repeating step (c) upon an unsuccessful reading of said optically readable indicia; and; (e) terminating the reading of said optically readable indicia upon a successful reading thereof.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
31 words
The method according to claim 86 further comprising the step of indicating to the operator, prior to said termination step, the successfulness of said reading step upon a successful reading thereof.
Claim 96
Independent Claim
162 words
A method of operating a hand-held portable data collection system, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising a hand-held portable data collection terminal for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said method comprising: (a) mobilizing a hand-held portable data collection terminal by moving the hand-held portable data collection terminal from a dormant position to an active position wherein said movement is characteristic of action preliminary to reading optically readable indicia such that the optically readable indicia is substantially disposed within the reading field of view of a data file reader integrated with the hand-held portable data collection terminal; (b) activating the data file reader upon termination of said movement; (c) thereafter reading the optically readable indicia; (d) terminating the reading of said optically readable indicia upon a successful reading thereof; and (e) indicating to the operator the unsuccessfulness of said reading step upon an unsuccessful reading thereof in step (c).
Claim 97
Independent Claim
162 words
A method of operating a hand-held portable data collection system, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising a hand-held portable data collection terminal for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said method comprising: (a) mobilizing a hand-held portable data collection terminal by moving the hand-held portable data collection terminal from a dormant position to an active position wherein said movement is characteristic of action preliminary to reading optically readable indicia such that the optically readable indicia is substantially disposed within the reading field of view of a data file reader integrated with the hand-held portable data collection terminal; (b) activating the data file reader upon termination of said movement; (c) thereafter reading the optically readable indicia; (d) terminating the reading of said optically readable indicia upon a successful reading thereof; and (e) indicating to the operator the unsuccessfulness of said reading step upon an unsuccessful reading thereof in step (c).
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
43 words
The method according to claim 88 wherein said indicating step further comprises indicating to the operator the information relating to the adjustment of the hand-held portable data collection terminal with respect to the optically readable indicia required to obtain a successful reading thereof.
Claim 99
Independent Claim
199 words
A method of operating a hand-held portable data collection system, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising a hand-held portable data collection terminal for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said method comprising: (a) mobilizing a hand-held portable data collection terminal by moving the hand-held portable data collection terminal from a dormant position to an active position wherein said movement is characteristic of action preliminary to reading optically readable indicia such that the optically readable indicia is substantially disposed within the reading field of view of a data file reader integrated with the hand-held portable data collection terminal; (b) activating the data file reader upon termination of said movement; (c) thereafter reading the optically readable indicia; (d) terminating the reading of said optically readable indicia upon a successful reading thereof; and (e) readjusting the position of the hand-held portable data collection terminal after said reading step upon an unsuccessful reading of the optically readable indicia such that the optically readable indicia is disposed within the reading field of view of the data file reader of the hand-held portable data collection terminal and thereafter repeating said reading step.
Claim 100
Independent Claim
199 words
A method of operating a hand-held portable data collection system, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising a hand-held portable data collection terminal for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said method comprising: (a) mobilizing a hand-held portable data collection terminal by moving the hand-held portable data collection terminal from a dormant position to an active position wherein said movement is characteristic of action preliminary to reading optically readable indicia such that the optically readable indicia is substantially disposed within the reading field of view of a data file reader integrated with the hand-held portable data collection terminal; (b) activating the data file reader upon termination of said movement; (c) thereafter reading the optically readable indicia; (d) terminating the reading of said optically readable indicia upon a successful reading thereof; and (e) readjusting the position of the hand-held portable data collection terminal after said reading step upon an unsuccessful reading of the optically readable indicia such that the optically readable indicia is disposed within the reading field of view of the data file reader of the hand-held portable data collection terminal and thereafter repeating said reading step.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
77 words
The method according to claim 89 further comprising the step of readjusting the position of the hand-held portable data collection terminal after said reading step upon an unsuccessful reading of the optically readable indicia, said readjusting step being executed according to the indicated adjustment information such that the optically readable indicia is disposed within the reading field of view of the data file reader of the hand-held portable data collection terminal and thereafter repeating said reading step.
Claim 102
Independent Claim
169 words
A method of operating a hand-held portable data collection system, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising a hand-held portable data collection terminal for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said method comprising: (a) mobilizing a hand-held portable data collection terminal by moving the hand-held portable data collection terminal from a dormant position to an active position wherein said movement is characteristic of action preliminary to reading optically readable indicia such that the optically readable indicia is substantially disposed within the reading field of view of a data file reader integrated with the hand-held portable data collection terminal; (b) activating the data file reader upon termination of said movement; (c) thereafter reading the optically readable indicia; and (d) terminating the reading of said optically readable indicia upon a successful reading thereof; wherein said activating step includes indicating to the user the execution of said activating step by somatically communicating with the operator by producing tactually detectable vibrations.
Claim 103
Independent Claim
169 words
A method of operating a hand-held portable data collection system, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising a hand-held portable data collection terminal for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said method comprising: (a) mobilizing a hand-held portable data collection terminal by moving the hand-held portable data collection terminal from a dormant position to an active position wherein said movement is characteristic of action preliminary to reading optically readable indicia such that the optically readable indicia is substantially disposed within the reading field of view of a data file reader integrated with the hand-held portable data collection terminal; (b) activating the data file reader upon termination of said movement; (c) thereafter reading the optically readable indicia; and (d) terminating the reading of said optically readable indicia upon a successful reading thereof; wherein said activating step includes indicating to the user the execution of said activating step by somatically communicating with the operator by producing tactually detectable vibrations.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
32 words
The method according to claim 92 wherein said reading step includes indicating to the user the execution of said reading step by somatically communicating with the operator by producing tactually detectable vibrations.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
32 words
The method according to claim 92 wherein said terminating step includes indicating to the user the execution of said terminating step by somatically communicating with the operator by producing tactually detectable vibrations.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method according to claim 87 wherein said indicating step includes somatically communicating with the operator by producing tactually detectable vibrations.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method according to claim 88 wherein said indicating step includes somatically communicating with the operator by producing tactually detectable vibrations.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method according to claim 89 wherein said indicating step includes somatically communicating with the operator by producing tactually detectable vibrations.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
79 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting data; and (b) a somatic communications system operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection terminal for tactually communicating with an operator by producing a vibrational signal during hand-held utilization thereof, wherein said vibrational signal is produced by a vibrating device remote from said hand-held portable data collection terminal, said remote vibrating device adapted to be worn by a user.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
79 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting data; and (b) a somatic communications system operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection terminal for tactually communicating with an operator by producing a vibrational signal during hand-held utilization thereof, wherein said vibrational signal is produced by a vibrating device remote from said hand-held portable data collection terminal, said remote vibrating device adapted to be worn by a user.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
98 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting, processing and transferring data, said hand-held portable data collection terminal including a data file reader for reading data encoded as optically readable indicia; and (b) a somatic communications system operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection terminal for tactually communicating with the operator by producing a plurality of tactually distinct vibrational signals during hand-held utilization thereof.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
98 words
A hand-held portable data collection system for reading data in the form of optically readable indicia during utilization thereof in the hand of an operator, said hand-held portable data collection system comprising: (a) a hand-held portable data collection terminal for collecting, processing and transferring data, said hand-held portable data collection terminal including a data file reader for reading data encoded as optically readable indicia; and (b) a somatic communications system operatively integrated with said hand-held portable data collection terminal for tactually communicating with the operator by producing a plurality of tactually distinct vibrational signals during hand-held utilization thereof.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
62 words
The hand-held portable data collection system of claim 99 wherein a first vibrational signal is produced to indicate activation of said data file reader, a second vibrational signal is produced to indicate reading of said optically readable indicia, and a third vibrational signal is produced to indicate a successful reading operation, wherein said first, second, and third vibrational signals are tactually distinct.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2003-03-21 | 2003-09-20 | 2004-03-21 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2007-03-21 | 2007-09-20 | 2008-03-21 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2011-03-21 | 2011-09-20 | 2012-03-21 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |