Patent ID: 6491222
Filing Date: 2002-12-10
Classification: G06K

Abstract:
In a system for electro-optically reading bar code symbols by directing a light beam along a first outgoing path through a window toward and across a symbol for reflection therefrom, and by detecting light reflected from the symbol and passing through the window along a second return path, a retro-reflective scan module, comprising:a) a support component constituted of a material transmissive to the light beam and having interior compartments; b) a planar board lying in a plane and supported by the support component; c) a light source and a light sensor respectively situated within the compartments in a side-by-side relationship, the light source being operative for emitting the light beam in a first direction perpendicularly to the plane through the transmissive material of the support component away from the board, and the light sensor being operative for detecting the reflected light in an opposite direction, which is countercurrent and parallel to the first direction, toward the board and for generating an electrical signal corresponding to the detected light and indicative of the symbol; d) a single, generally planar scan mirror mounted for reciprocal oscillating movement in the first path for directly sweeping the light beam across the symbol, and in the second path for directly receiving the reflected light over a field of view across the symbol; and e) a light collector integral with the support component and having a reflective surface for directly collecting the reflected light received by the scan mirror, and for directing the collected light toward the sensor.