Spectral scanner employing light paths of multiple wavelengths for scanning objects, such as bar code symbols, and associated method
Patent 6345765 Issued on February 12, 2002. Estimated Expiration Date: 
June 30, 2020. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.
June 30, 2020. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.Patent ReferencesRemote optically readable system and method Chromatic ranging method and apparatus for reading optically readable information over a substantial range of distances Patent #: 5468950 InventorApplicationNo. 608999 filed on 06/30/2000US Classes:235/472.01, Hand-held (e.g., portable)235/454, Optical235/469Color codedExaminersPrimary: Pitts, Harold I.Attorney, Agent or FirmForeign Patent References
International ClassG06K 007/10AbstractAn optical system, such as a bar code scanner, illuminates an image with a multi-wavelength device. Under a first embodiment, a tunable laser is optically coupled with a prism or other wavelength separation device. As the laser beam wavelength varies, the transmission path through the prism changes, resulting in a scanning of the beam across an image. A photodetector captures light reflected from the image and sends it to a microprocessor for decoding. Under another embodiment, a broad band light source transmits light through a prism, thus shining a "rainbow" on the image. A spectrometer measures reflected light as a function of wavelength and sends the resultant signal to a microprocessor for decoding. Neither embodiment relies on moving parts to scan the image. | |
