Automatic POS-based digital image capturing and processing system employing a plurality of area-type illumination and imaging zones intersecting within the 3D imaging volume of the system

摘要

An automatic digital image capturing and processing system for use in a POS environment, comprising a system having a horizontal housing section, installable within a countertop surface at the POS environment, and supporting at least two area-type illumination and imaging stations for generating and projecting at least two area-type illumination and imaging zones within a 3D imaging volume definable relative to system housing. An object motion detection subsystem automatically detects the motion of objects passing through the 3D imaging volume, and generates motion data representative of detected object motion within the 3D imaging volume. A control subsystem, responsive to the object motion detection subsystem, automatically controls operations within the area-type illumination and imaging stations during system operation. The area-type illumination and imaging zones intersect within the 3D imaging volume, and support automated illumination and imaging of objects passing through the 3D imaging volume, so that digital area-type images of the objects are automatically generated as the objects pass through the area-type illumination and imaging zones within the 3D imaging volume during system operation.