Exception handling in automated data reading systems

摘要

Disclosed are systems and methods for unassisted (i.e., customer controlled) exception handling in an automated data reader having a read zone. A first imager obtains a first image of an exception item in response to an exception generated in a read zone. An exception handling station receives the exception item, and a second imager located at the exception handling station obtains a second image of the exception item. An image processor receives the images, identities visual object recognition features from each image, and compares the features to determine whether the first and second images represent the same exception item. If so, the exception is cleared, and the item is added to a transaction list.

主权项

1. An automated data reading system comprising:
a data reader defining a read zone and configured to acquire identification information of an item transported through the read zone; a processor configured to determine whether the item has been successfully identified; a first imager to obtain, in response the item not being successfully identified, first image data representing the item positioned near an outlet of the read zone; an exception handling station configured to receive the item, the exception handling station including a second imager to obtain second image data representing the item positioned at the exception handling station; an image processor configured to obtain from the first and second image data corresponding first and second visual object recognition features representing a visual property of the item, and further configured to compare the first and second visual object recognition features to determine whether the item appears in both of the first and second image data; and a housing encompassing the data reader, the housing including an inlet side and an outlet side, wherein the first imager is located within the housing and positioned to project a field of view into the read zone.