Patent US6857567B2 successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US6857567B2
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US
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System and method for training and monitoring data reader operators
Assignee: Datalogic Scanning Inc
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Filing: 2001-10-12
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Granted: 2005-02-22
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Expires: 2021-10-12
Abstract
Abstract A scanner or other data reader is equipped with means for determining characteristics of an operator's scanning technique. In a preferred configuration, the scanner is integrated with a weigh scale for obtaining a dynamic weight of an item as the item is moved across the weigh scale. Weight data produced by the scanning/weighing process includes information about the amount of lifting the operator performs on scanned items, the rate of scanning by the operator, and rescanning information. The scanner may be connected to a PC-based training system which uses the scanning technique information to provide feedback to the operator indicating the effectiveness of the operator's scanning technique, and may also provide information to management for analysis. The technique information may be collected by a store controller or other suitable collection device for later analysis and reporting.
Inventors
- 👤 David L. Latimer
- 👤 Craig D. Cherry
- 👤 Alexander M. McQueen
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-09 05:32
CPC Classifications
G; G06; G06K; G06K7/00; G06K7/10; G06K7/10544; G06K7/10821; G06K7/10861; G06Q; G06Q10/00; G06Q10/06; G06Q10/063; G06Q10/0639; G06Q10/06398; G06Q30/00; G06Q30/02; G06Q30/0207; G06Q30/0225
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 90
Claim 1
Independent Claim
99 words
The method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through a read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data corresponding to the item; comparing the read technique data to the optimum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
99 words
The method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through a read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data corresponding to the item; comparing the read technique data to the optimum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of determining whether an EAS tag on the item has been deactivated.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
15 words
A method according to claim 1 wherein the evaluation system comprises a PC-based training system.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
14 words
A method according to claim 1 wherein the evaluation system comprises a POS terminal.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method according to claim 1 wherein the step of providing feedback comprises displaying feedback data on a training system monitor.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
17 words
A method according to claim 1 wherein the step of providing feedback comprises broadcasting an audio message.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
24 words
A method according to claim 1 wherein the step of providing feedback comprises displaying feedback data in graphical form via a visual feedback indicator.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
19 words
A method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of recording the read technique data for subsequent analysis.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
34 words
A method according to claim 1 wherein the step of obtaining optimum read technique data comprises accessing a lookup table containing predetermined optimum read technique data for an item corresponding to the symbol data.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method according to claim 1 wherein the step of providing feedback comprises displaying performance data to the operator indicating effectiveness of the operator's reading technique.
Claim 12
Independent Claim
128 words
A method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through the read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data; comparing the read technique data to the optimum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique, wherein the data reader includes a plurality of windows through which the symbol may be read, wherein the step of monitoring reading technique comprises determining through which window the symbol data was obtained.
Claim 13
Independent Claim
128 words
A method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through the read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data; comparing the read technique data to the optimum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique, wherein the data reader includes a plurality of windows through which the symbol may be read, wherein the step of monitoring reading technique comprises determining through which window the symbol data was obtained.
Claim 14
Independent Claim
133 words
A method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through the read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data; comparing the read technique data to the optmum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique, wherein the data reader is a scanner that produces a plurality of scan lines to read the symbol data, wherein the step of monitoring reading technique comprises determining which scan line was used to read the symbol data.
Claim 15
Independent Claim
133 words
A method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through the read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data; comparing the read technique data to the optmum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique, wherein the data reader is a scanner that produces a plurality of scan lines to read the symbol data, wherein the step of monitoring reading technique comprises determining which scan line was used to read the symbol data.
Claim 16
Independent Claim
119 words
A method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through the read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data; comparing the read technique data to the optimum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique, wherein the step of monitoring reading technique comprises determining a distance from the data reader to the symbol when the symbol data was obtained.
Claim 17
Independent Claim
119 words
A method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through the read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data; comparing the read technique data to the optimum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique, wherein the step of monitoring reading technique comprises determining a distance from the data reader to the symbol when the symbol data was obtained.
Claim 18
Independent Claim
123 words
A method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through the read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data; comparing the read technique data to the optimum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique, wherein the step of monitoring reading technique comprises determining a length of time that the symbol was present in the read volume before the symbol was successfully read.
Claim 19
Independent Claim
123 words
A method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through the read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data; comparing the read technique data to the optimum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique, wherein the step of monitoring reading technique comprises determining a length of time that the symbol was present in the read volume before the symbol was successfully read.
Claim 20
Independent Claim
126 words
A method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through the read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data; comparing the read technique data to the optimum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique; assembling a plurality of data pieces to obtain the symbol data, wherein the step of monitoring reading technique comprises determining how many data pieces were assembled to obtain the symbol data.
Claim 21
Independent Claim
126 words
A method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through the read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data; comparing the read technique data to the optimum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique; assembling a plurality of data pieces to obtain the symbol data, wherein the step of monitoring reading technique comprises determining how many data pieces were assembled to obtain the symbol data.
Claim 22
Independent Claim
115 words
A method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through the read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data; comparing the read technique data to the optimum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique, wherein the step of monitoring reading technique comprises detecting reading motion of the item via a plurality of triangulating cameras.
Claim 23
Independent Claim
115 words
A method of training a data reader operator, wherein the operator passes an item through the read volume of a data reader, comprising the steps of: reading a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data and item identification data; monitoring reading technique to obtain read technique data; sending the item identification data and the read technique data to an evaluation system; obtaining optimum read technique data; comparing the read technique data to the optimum read technique data to determine an effectiveness of the reading technique; providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the reading technique, wherein the step of monitoring reading technique comprises detecting reading motion of the item via a plurality of triangulating cameras.
Claim 24
Independent Claim
122 words
A method of scanning wherein an operator passes an item through a scan volume of a scanner while moving the item across a weigh scale integrated with the scanner, comprising the steps of scanning a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data; obtaining a dynamic weight of the item as the item is moved across the weigh scale; obtaining optimum dynamic weight data for the item from a lookup table containing item weight data corresponding to the symbol data; comparing the dynamic weight of the item to the optimum dynamic weight data to determine an extent of lifting performed by the operator; providing data regarding the extent of lifting to at least one of a training system and a monitoring system.
Claim 25
Independent Claim
122 words
A method of scanning wherein an operator passes an item through a scan volume of a scanner while moving the item across a weigh scale integrated with the scanner, comprising the steps of scanning a symbol on the item to obtain symbol data; obtaining a dynamic weight of the item as the item is moved across the weigh scale; obtaining optimum dynamic weight data for the item from a lookup table containing item weight data corresponding to the symbol data; comparing the dynamic weight of the item to the optimum dynamic weight data to determine an extent of lifting performed by the operator; providing data regarding the extent of lifting to at least one of a training system and a monitoring system.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 17 further comprising the step of monitoring scanning technique with the scanner to obtain scan technique data.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
27 words
A method according to claim 17 further comprising the steps of scanning a plurality of items and calculating an average dynamic weight of the plurality of items.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
28 words
A method according to claim 19 further comprising the step of comparing the average dynamic weight of the plurality of items to a predetermined average dynamic weight standard.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
48 words
A method according to claim 17 further comprising the steps of: producing a weight pulse having a duration equal to a length of time that the item is present on the weigh scale; and determining a scan point within the weight pulse at which the item was scanned.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method according to claim 21 further comprising the step of determining whether rescanning of the item has occurred based on a position of the scan point within the weight pulse.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method according to claim 21 further comprising the step of determining a rate at which the item is moved through the scan volume based on the duration the weight pulse.
Claim 32
Independent Claim
92 words
A method of training a scanner operator to use proper scanning technique, comprising the steps of providing a pre-selected group of items having symbols encoded with symbol data; scanning the symbols one at a time; monitoring scanning technique to obtain scan technique data; sending the scan technique data to a scanning evaluation system; obtaining optimum scan technique data corresponding to the symbol data; comparing the scan technique data to the optimum scan technique data to determine an effectiveness of the scanning technique; providing feedback data indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique.
Claim 33
Independent Claim
92 words
A method of training a scanner operator to use proper scanning technique, comprising the steps of providing a pre-selected group of items having symbols encoded with symbol data; scanning the symbols one at a time; monitoring scanning technique to obtain scan technique data; sending the scan technique data to a scanning evaluation system; obtaining optimum scan technique data corresponding to the symbol data; comparing the scan technique data to the optimum scan technique data to determine an effectiveness of the scanning technique; providing feedback data indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 24 wherein the step of providing feedback comprises displaying the feedback data via a multimedia PC-based application.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
16 words
A method according to claim 24 further comprising the step of recording the scan technique data.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
26 words
A method according to claim 24 further comprising the step of sending the scan technique data simultaneously with item identification data to the scanning evaluation system.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
44 words
A method according to claim 24 further comprising the step of moving an item across a weigh scale during scanning, wherein the step of monitoring scanning technique comprises obtaining a dynamic weight of the item as the item is moved across the weigh scale.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
20 words
A method according to claim 28 wherein the optimum scan technique data includes optimum dynamic weight data for the item.
Claim 39
Independent Claim
110 words
A method of training a scanner operator to use proper scanning technique, comprising the steps of providing a group of items having symbols encoded with symbol data; scanning the symbols one at a time; monitoring scanning technique to obtain scan technique data; sending the scan technique data to a scanning evaluation system; obtaining optimum scan technique data corresponding to the symbol data; comparing the scan technique data to the optimum scan technique data to determine an effectiveness of the scanning technique; providing feedback data indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique. determining whether as EAS tag on an item has been deactivated to determine an effectiveness of the scanning technique.
Claim 40
Independent Claim
110 words
A method of training a scanner operator to use proper scanning technique, comprising the steps of providing a group of items having symbols encoded with symbol data; scanning the symbols one at a time; monitoring scanning technique to obtain scan technique data; sending the scan technique data to a scanning evaluation system; obtaining optimum scan technique data corresponding to the symbol data; comparing the scan technique data to the optimum scan technique data to determine an effectiveness of the scanning technique; providing feedback data indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique. determining whether as EAS tag on an item has been deactivated to determine an effectiveness of the scanning technique.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
114 words
A data reading system for reading symbols on items passed through a scan volume by an operator, comprising a housing; a data reader disposed in the housing for reading a symbol on an item being passed through the scan volume, and for obtaining symbol orientation data and symbol movement data during scanning; a processor integrated with the data reader for processing the symbol orientation data and the symbol movement data, and for determining an effectiveness of a scanning technique; feedback means in communication with the processor for providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique; a weigh scale integrated with the data reader for obtaining a dynamic weight of the item during scanning.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
114 words
A data reading system for reading symbols on items passed through a scan volume by an operator, comprising a housing; a data reader disposed in the housing for reading a symbol on an item being passed through the scan volume, and for obtaining symbol orientation data and symbol movement data during scanning; a processor integrated with the data reader for processing the symbol orientation data and the symbol movement data, and for determining an effectiveness of a scanning technique; feedback means in communication with the processor for providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique; a weigh scale integrated with the data reader for obtaining a dynamic weight of the item during scanning.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
109 words
A data reading system for reading symbols on items passed through a scan volume by an operator, comprising a housing; a data reader disposed in the housing for reading a symbol on an item being passed through the scan volume, and for obtaining symbol orientation data and symbol movement data during scanning; a processor integrated with the data reader for processing the symbol orientation data and the symbol movement data, and for determining an effectiveness of a scanning technique; feedback means in communication with the processor for providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique, wherein the feedback means comprises a visual feedback display located on the housing.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
109 words
A data reading system for reading symbols on items passed through a scan volume by an operator, comprising a housing; a data reader disposed in the housing for reading a symbol on an item being passed through the scan volume, and for obtaining symbol orientation data and symbol movement data during scanning; a processor integrated with the data reader for processing the symbol orientation data and the symbol movement data, and for determining an effectiveness of a scanning technique; feedback means in communication with the processor for providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique, wherein the feedback means comprises a visual feedback display located on the housing.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
20 words
The data reading system of claim 32 wherein the visual feedback display comprises a module removably mounted on the housing.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
16 words
A data reading system according to claim 32 wherein the feedback means comprises a color readout.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
37 words
A data reading system according to claim 32 wherein the feedback means includes a changing color display visible to the operator during operation, wherein the color that is displayed depends upon the effectiveness of the scanning technique.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
21 words
A data reading system according to claim 32 wherein the visual feedback display comprises a visual readout in a graphical display.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
15 words
A data reading system according to claim 36 wherein the graphical display comprises a bar-graph.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
106 words
A data reading system for reading symbols on items passed through a scan volume by an operator, comprising a housing; a data reader disposed in the housing for reading a symbol on an item being passed through the scan volume, and for obtaining symbol orientation data and symbol movement data during scanning; a processor integrated with the data reader for processing the symbol orientation data and the symbol movement data, and for determining an effectiveness of a scanning technique; feedback means in communication with the processor for providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique; a camera for monitoring motion of the item during scanning.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
106 words
A data reading system for reading symbols on items passed through a scan volume by an operator, comprising a housing; a data reader disposed in the housing for reading a symbol on an item being passed through the scan volume, and for obtaining symbol orientation data and symbol movement data during scanning; a processor integrated with the data reader for processing the symbol orientation data and the symbol movement data, and for determining an effectiveness of a scanning technique; feedback means in communication with the processor for providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique; a camera for monitoring motion of the item during scanning.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
109 words
A data reading system for reading symbols on items passed through a scan volume by an operator, comprising a housing; a data reader disposed in the housing for reading a symbol on an item being passed through the scan volume, and for obtaining symbol orientation data and symbol movement data during scanning; a processor integrated with the data reader for processing the symbol orientation data and the symbol movement data, and for determining an effectiveness of a scanning technique; feedback means in communication with the processor for providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique, wherein the feedback means comprises a printer for printing a scanning technique report.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
109 words
A data reading system for reading symbols on items passed through a scan volume by an operator, comprising a housing; a data reader disposed in the housing for reading a symbol on an item being passed through the scan volume, and for obtaining symbol orientation data and symbol movement data during scanning; a processor integrated with the data reader for processing the symbol orientation data and the symbol movement data, and for determining an effectiveness of a scanning technique; feedback means in communication with the processor for providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique, wherein the feedback means comprises a printer for printing a scanning technique report.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
109 words
A data reading system for reading symbols on items passed through a scan volume by an operator, comprising a housing; a data reader disposed in the housing for reading a symbol on an item being passed through the scan volume, and for obtaining symbol orientation data and symbol movement data during scanning; a processor integrated with the data reader for processing the symbol orientation data and the symbol movement data, and for determining an effectiveness of a scanning technique; feedback means in communication with the processor for providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique, wherein the feedback means comprises a video monitor for displaying scanning technique data.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
109 words
A data reading system for reading symbols on items passed through a scan volume by an operator, comprising a housing; a data reader disposed in the housing for reading a symbol on an item being passed through the scan volume, and for obtaining symbol orientation data and symbol movement data during scanning; a processor integrated with the data reader for processing the symbol orientation data and the symbol movement data, and for determining an effectiveness of a scanning technique; feedback means in communication with the processor for providing feedback indicating the effectiveness of the scanning technique, wherein the feedback means comprises a video monitor for displaying scanning technique data.
Claim 56
Independent Claim
108 words
A method of optical scanning wherein an operator passes an item through a scan volume of a scanner while moving the item across a weigh scale integrated with the scanner, comprising the steps of scanning an optical symbol on the item to obtain symbol data; obtaining a dynamic weight of the item as the item is moved across the weigh scale; calculating an average dynamic weight of a plurality of items scanned; comparing the average dynamic weight of the plurality of items scanned to an average dynamic weight standard; providing data regarding an extent of lifting to at least one of a training system and a monitoring system.
Claim 57
Independent Claim
108 words
A method of optical scanning wherein an operator passes an item through a scan volume of a scanner while moving the item across a weigh scale integrated with the scanner, comprising the steps of scanning an optical symbol on the item to obtain symbol data; obtaining a dynamic weight of the item as the item is moved across the weigh scale; calculating an average dynamic weight of a plurality of items scanned; comparing the average dynamic weight of the plurality of items scanned to an average dynamic weight standard; providing data regarding an extent of lifting to at least one of a training system and a monitoring system.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 41 further comprising the step of monitoring scanning technique with the scanner to obtain scan technique data.
Claim 59
Independent Claim
125 words
A method of optical scanning wherein an operator passes an item through the scan volume of a scanner while moving the item across a weigh scale integrated with the scanner, comprising the steps of scanning an optical symbol on the item to obtain symbol data; obtaining a dynamic weight of the item as the item is moved across the weigh scale; comparing the dynamic weight value to a treshold value to make a decision whether the item was slid across the scanner or lifted across the scanner; accumulating total quantities of items slid and items lifted for a plurality of items scanned; providing data regarding the relative amounts of lifting and of sliding to at least one of a training system and a monitoring system.
Claim 60
Independent Claim
125 words
A method of optical scanning wherein an operator passes an item through the scan volume of a scanner while moving the item across a weigh scale integrated with the scanner, comprising the steps of scanning an optical symbol on the item to obtain symbol data; obtaining a dynamic weight of the item as the item is moved across the weigh scale; comparing the dynamic weight value to a treshold value to make a decision whether the item was slid across the scanner or lifted across the scanner; accumulating total quantities of items slid and items lifted for a plurality of items scanned; providing data regarding the relative amounts of lifting and of sliding to at least one of a training system and a monitoring system.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
22 words
A method according to claim 43 further comprising the step of monitoring scanning technique with the scanner to obtain scan technique data.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
91 words
A data reading system, comprising a housing; a reading device disposed in the housing for detecting an aspect of an item being moved through a detection volume of the device; a weigh scale integrated with the reading device and disposed below the detection volume, the weigh scale being operative for detecting a partial weight of an item as it is moved thereacross; means for reporting the partial weight of the item as an indication of operating technique of an operator as to how the operator moves items through the detection volume.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
91 words
A data reading system, comprising a housing; a reading device disposed in the housing for detecting an aspect of an item being moved through a detection volume of the device; a weigh scale integrated with the reading device and disposed below the detection volume, the weigh scale being operative for detecting a partial weight of an item as it is moved thereacross; means for reporting the partial weight of the item as an indication of operating technique of an operator as to how the operator moves items through the detection volume.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
75 words
A data reading system, comprising a housing; a reading device disposed in the housing for detecting an aspect of an item being moved through a detection volume of the device; means for monitoring operating technique of an operator moving items through the detection volume; feedback means in communication with the monitoring means for providing feedback on the operating technique, wherein the feedback means comprises a visual feedback display on the housing visible to the operator.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
75 words
A data reading system, comprising a housing; a reading device disposed in the housing for detecting an aspect of an item being moved through a detection volume of the device; means for monitoring operating technique of an operator moving items through the detection volume; feedback means in communication with the monitoring means for providing feedback on the operating technique, wherein the feedback means comprises a visual feedback display on the housing visible to the operator.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
15 words
A system according to claim 46 wherein the visual feedback display comprises a graphical display.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
90 words
A data reading system, comprising a housing; a reading device disposed in the housing for detecting an aspect of an item being moved through a detection volume of the device; means for monitoring operating technique of an operator moving items through the detection volume; feedback means in communication with the monitoring means for providing feedback on the operating technique, wherein the reading device is selected from the group consisting of: optical reader, bar code reader, CCD imaging data reader, LED reader, CMOS imaging reader, RFID reader, an EAS deactivating device.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
90 words
A data reading system, comprising a housing; a reading device disposed in the housing for detecting an aspect of an item being moved through a detection volume of the device; means for monitoring operating technique of an operator moving items through the detection volume; feedback means in communication with the monitoring means for providing feedback on the operating technique, wherein the reading device is selected from the group consisting of: optical reader, bar code reader, CCD imaging data reader, LED reader, CMOS imaging reader, RFID reader, an EAS deactivating device.
Claim 69
Independent Claim
72 words
A method for providing feedback to an operator at an item handling station including a weigh scale, comprising the steps of monitoring an operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station by measuring a dynamic weight of an item being dragged across the weigh scale; evaluating the operating technique; providing feedback indicative of the operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station.
Claim 70
Independent Claim
72 words
A method for providing feedback to an operator at an item handling station including a weigh scale, comprising the steps of monitoring an operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station by measuring a dynamic weight of an item being dragged across the weigh scale; evaluating the operating technique; providing feedback indicative of the operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station.
Claim 71
Independent Claim
75 words
A method for providing feedback to an operator at an item handling station, comprising the steps of monitoring an operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station; evaluating the operating technique; providing feedback indicative of the operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station; providing a visual display at the item handling station and displaying the feedback directly to the operator on the visual display.
Claim 72
Independent Claim
75 words
A method for providing feedback to an operator at an item handling station, comprising the steps of monitoring an operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station; evaluating the operating technique; providing feedback indicative of the operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station; providing a visual display at the item handling station and displaying the feedback directly to the operator on the visual display.
Claim 73
Independent Claim
82 words
A method for providing feedback to an operator at an item handling station, comprising the steps of monitoring an operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station; evaluating the operating technique; providing feedback indicative of the operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station, wherein the step of evaluating the operating technique comprises determining an ergonomic performance of the operating technique and the step of providing feedback comprises indicating the ergonomic performance.
Claim 74
Independent Claim
82 words
A method for providing feedback to an operator at an item handling station, comprising the steps of monitoring an operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station; evaluating the operating technique; providing feedback indicative of the operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station, wherein the step of evaluating the operating technique comprises determining an ergonomic performance of the operating technique and the step of providing feedback comprises indicating the ergonomic performance.
Claim 75
Independent Claim
87 words
A method for providing feedback to an operator at an item handling station, comprising the steps of monitoring an operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station; evaluating the operating technique; providing feedback indicative of the operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station, wherein the item handling station comprises a device selected from the group consisting of: optical reader, bar code reader, CCD imaging data reader, LED reader, CMOS imaging reader, RFID reader, EAS deactivation device.
Claim 76
Independent Claim
87 words
A method for providing feedback to an operator at an item handling station, comprising the steps of monitoring an operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station; evaluating the operating technique; providing feedback indicative of the operating technique by which the operator handles items at the item handling station, wherein the item handling station comprises a device selected from the group consisting of: optical reader, bar code reader, CCD imaging data reader, LED reader, CMOS imaging reader, RFID reader, EAS deactivation device.
Claim 77
Independent Claim
78 words
A system for data reading, comprising a data reader used by an operator for obtaining identification information from a label or tag on an item; monitoring means for monitoring ergonomics of operating technique as the operator uses the data reader to read items; feedback means in communication with the monitoring means for providing feedback of the ergonomics of the operating technique, wherein the feedback means comprises a visual feedback display on the data reader visible to the operator.
Claim 78
Independent Claim
78 words
A system for data reading, comprising a data reader used by an operator for obtaining identification information from a label or tag on an item; monitoring means for monitoring ergonomics of operating technique as the operator uses the data reader to read items; feedback means in communication with the monitoring means for providing feedback of the ergonomics of the operating technique, wherein the feedback means comprises a visual feedback display on the data reader visible to the operator.
Claim 79
Independent Claim
76 words
A system for data reading, comprising a handheld data reader for obtaining identification information from a label on an item; monitoring means for monitoring operating performance as an operator reads items with the handheld data reader, wherein the monitoring means determines a measured distance from the item and compares the measured distance to an optimum reading distance; feedback means in communication with the monitoring means for providing feedback of the operating performance directly to the operator.
Claim 80
Independent Claim
76 words
A system for data reading, comprising a handheld data reader for obtaining identification information from a label on an item; monitoring means for monitoring operating performance as an operator reads items with the handheld data reader, wherein the monitoring means determines a measured distance from the item and compares the measured distance to an optimum reading distance; feedback means in communication with the monitoring means for providing feedback of the operating performance directly to the operator.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
40 words
A system according to claim 54 wherein the handheld data reader includes a housing with a head portion and a handle portion, wherein feedback means comprises a visual feedback display on the head portion visible to the operator during operation.
Claim 82
Independent Claim
50 words
A method of operating a handheld data reader, comprising monitoring operating performance as an operator reads items with a handheld data reader by determining a measured distance from the item and comparing the measured distance to an optimum reading distance; providing feedback of the operating performance directly to the operator.
Claim 83
Independent Claim
50 words
A method of operating a handheld data reader, comprising monitoring operating performance as an operator reads items with a handheld data reader by determining a measured distance from the item and comparing the measured distance to an optimum reading distance; providing feedback of the operating performance directly to the operator.
Claim 84
Independent Claim
54 words
A method of data reading comprising the steps of providing a data reading systems with first and second windows facing a read volume from different directions; monitoring operating performance as an operator passes items through the read volume by determining and reporting which of the first and second windows accomplished reading of the item.
Claim 85
Independent Claim
54 words
A method of data reading comprising the steps of providing a data reading systems with first and second windows facing a read volume from different directions; monitoring operating performance as an operator passes items through the read volume by determining and reporting which of the first and second windows accomplished reading of the item.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
18 words
A method according to claim 57 further comprising providing feedback of the operating performance directly to the operator.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
31 words
A method according to claim 57 further comprising comparing which window is determined to have accomplished reading of the item to which window constitutes an optimum read corresponding to the item.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
21 words
A method according to claim 57 wherein the data reading system comprises a single housing containing the first and second windows.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
25 words
A method according to claim 57 wherein the step of reporting comprises providing feedback to the operator via a display at the data reading system.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
40 words
A method according to claim 57 wherein the data reading system is selected from the group consisting of: barcode scanning system, optical reader, bar code reader, CCD imaging data reader, LED reader, CMOS imaging reader, RFID reader, EAS deactivation device.
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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) | 2008-02-22 | 2008-08-23 | 2009-02-22 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2012-02-22 | 2012-08-23 | 2013-02-22 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2016-02-22 | 2016-08-23 | 2017-02-22 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |