Patent ID: 7364077
Filing Date: 2008-04-29
Classification: G06F,H04N

Abstract:
1. A combined optical scanning device and handheld PDA allowing a user to visibly see scanned optical targets during the optical scanning process comprising: a PDA comprised of a camera means for creating an electronic image of an optical target built-in to the PDA housing, a processing means for converting image data into text characters and for text editing consisting of a microprocessor contained within the PDA housing and a program instruction set that is executed on the microprocessor, memory means attached to the microprocessor for storing image data and said program instructions, user input means attached to or interacting with the outside of the housing for control of the scanning processes and display means for visible display of images and text characters; a visibly transparent optical reader housing attached to said PDA such that the optical target for scanning is observable to a user as the user looks through the housing at the optical target; and attached to said PDA so as to suitably interface with the PDA camera means; an optical routing means incorporated into the optical reader housing for translating light from an optical target into the PDA camera means so that a focused image of the optical target may be appropriately collected by the PDA camera means; and an electronic connector means for sending and receiving electrical signals between said optical reader housing and said PDA.