Automatic exposure single frame imaging systems

Technical Field The present invention relates to systems and methods for reading data such as barcodes and matrix codes, especially to video systems that utilize sensor arrays for single frame imaging, which is automatic. It offers exposure, automatic gain control and automatic focus sensing. Background Technology Although various types of sensor array scanners have provided more complex readings of 2D barcodes and matrix codes, these sensor array scanners are all continuous frame scanners and therefore have high power. Consumption was a problem. Since many sensor array scanners are portable and use batteries, there is a need for a device that is portable, single-frame, consumes less power, and thus extends battery life. In addition, accuracy and reliability, as well as small size and light weight were required. Background of data formats The applications and uses of barcodes and matrix codes are well known and evolving. Barcodes and matrix codes are in the form of "data formats", which, for the current purpose, stipulate that all institutions of data being fixed in the form of machine-readable copies are included. .. Data formats thus include languages, numbers and other symbols, as well as one or two-dimensional barcodes, matrix codes, and graphic codes, which can be printed on paper, plastic cards or metal or other things. It has been etched. The data format is printed with invisible ink, magnetic, electrical and other things. With the use of data formats, initially symbolized data is restored in a variety of ways. For example, a printed barcode is optically scanned to obtain a reflectance value, which is digitized, stored in buffer memory, and then decrypted to restore the data symbolized in the barcode. To. Ignoring any special type of data format, the video is specifically obtained and stored as pixel values for the next processing. The image of barcode and matrix code is a graphic image Although present as, obtained by the use of a CCD scanner, laser scanner, or other suitable device, it has the ability to discriminate between different reflected values of light reflected from the data format. For example, in this way, the barcode forms a black or dark colored bar type element printed on a white or light colored background surface with white or black spaces between the barcode elements. The space is the same color as the background, but may be a different bright color in this example. In other examples, the barcode or matrix code elements are limited in white or light colors, and in black or darker colored spaces and backgrounds. In other examples, such as engraving a laser on a silicon wafer, the result of illumination is dark on a bright relationship in one direction and bright on a dark relationship in another direction. In addition to the pixel values that indicate the reflection value of light (light is to include all electromagnetic waves for this purpose), in other arrays, the display of the pixel value of the reflection value is based on the reflection of sound waves. It may be another medium from a well-structured data format. In an arrangement designed to read based on reflection values, such reflection values are stored as pixel values in a video buffer memory or other storage medium in a bitmap or other form, while pixels for the video. Any data storage format may be used to display the values. Background of Sensor Array Reader As pointed out, traditional arrays that read data formats were based on laser or continuous frame CCD scanners using two-dimensional barcodes. However, these efforts were limited in terms of execution, low power consumption, low cost, and the pursuit of readers to read fast and accurate 2D data formats. For example, a continuous frame reader consumes a lot of power because a continuous frame structure has the need for a sensor array to continuously produce image data. When a microprocessor decodes a barcode, it decodes it from a continuous stream of image data, so you only have to select where you need it. Is. Full frame advances for continuous frame moving video and high resolution Citascan CCD devices required one or two of expensive, oversized configurations, high power consumption, and slow gain response times. These were practically constrained. An object of the present invention is therefore to provide a reader for a new and improved data format that avoids one or more of the disadvantages mentioned above. Further, an imaging system capable of providing one or more of the following is also an object. one. Low power consumption. Single frame imaging one. Automatic exposure control 1. Rapid automatic gain control 1. Automatic focusing sensing and reading implementation 1. Disclosure of Lightweight and Hand-Handable Structural Inventions According to the invention, an auto-exposure image system, such as a data format reader for reading a data format on a target surface, contains many sensor elements. Sensor elements are readable to produce image signals, and at least some of them are located in a two-dimensional array. Optical filters that are effective in reducing the transmission from the exposure illuminator to the illumination, and in other parts of the surrounding optical spectrum, are located on the entire surface of the array. A pair of focal illuminators are arranged to illuminate the target surface with a size, brightness, and location-characterized lighting surface that changes with distance between the data format reader and the target surface. The reading cycle is initiated by a user triggering device that is arranged to operate the focal illuminator and begin reading the selected sensor element. Focusing detectors that respond to image signals from multiple sensor elements are arranged to provide a "focusing" signal when the surface of the illumination is characterized by at least one of the following points: There is. The following points are as follows: (a) size within a predetermined size range (b) brightness within a predetermined brightness range (c) location within a predetermined location range The gain control device is a combination of the above. During the period following the focus signal, it responds to the level of reflected light indicated by the image signal from at least one of the sensor elements, but as it controls image signal amplification. is there. The exposure controller responds to an image signal from at least one of the sensor elements, but responds to a "start" signal in response to the in-focus condition signal to a predetermined level of reflection of illumination from the target surface. It then issues a "stop" signal, enabling the collection of single frames of image data. At least one exposure illuminator is arranged to respond to the focus signal and illuminate the target surface for an exposure period determined by the exposure controller. The data format reader also contains a memory unit, which is associated with the array and stores the image data display of the image signal, and the processing unit is associated with the memory unit and stores the stored image data. It is arranged so that it can be decrypted into a data format. The processing unit also produces an end-cycle signal that is effective in ending the operation of the data format reader cycle for reading the selected sensor element and continuous decoding of the data format, and decrypting it in combination with the output device. It is arranged to create an output signal display of the information in the data format. The reading of the sensor element is stopped by at least one end of the clock signal preparation that makes the coupling of the input power or the timing control of the sensor reading, which is to save power. Also according to the invention, an imaging method for the use of an imaging system that includes an array of sensor elements has the following steps. (a) to supply the power and clock signals needed to read the sensor element selected to supply the image signal; (b) the magnitude, brightness, and variation with distance between the array and the target plane. Illuminate the target with a lighting angle characterized by at least one of the locations; (c) at least one of the sizes within a given magnitude range, the brightness within a given brightness range, and the given Adjust for such distances that cause the lighting surface to be characterized by at least one of the places in the place;

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 1A, 1B, 1C are front, side and top views of an auto-exposure image system in the form of a handheld data format reader, each using the invention. FIG. 2 shows a conceptual diagram of the sides of the optical portion of the reader. It is a block diagram of each part of the data format reader. FIG. 3 shows the details of some of the devices in the system of FIG. FIG. 4 is a side conceptual diagram showing the state of the automatic focusing detection system based on the invention. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a second specific example of a part of the data form reader of FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart useful for explaining the operation of the described data format reader. FIG. 7 is a flowchart useful for explaining the operation of the second specific example according to the invention. Best Mode for Implementing the Invention A specific example of a single-frame auto-exposure image system, in the form of a reader in a data format using the invention, is shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C. FIG. 1A is a conceptual diagram of the front of the data format reader 10. 1B and 1C are corresponding side views and plan views, respectively. The top cover has been removed to see a simplified view of the inner part. Before investigating the special aspect of the present invention, the reader is made up of a small plastic box with a handgrip 12, a trigger device 14, and a battery compartment 16. The data format reader also includes a portion 18 that encloses the top, but may also include a sensor array 20, an illumination array 22, and an illumination lens 24, which are described in detail. Figure 1B or the processor and memory unit 30 and the input / output (I / O) unit 32 are depicted, which may take the form of a packed circuit board that is inserted into the groove after the reader. Grooves 34 and 36 to be added can also use, for example, PCMCIA type cards to allow for additional or advanced operations. As further illustrated in FIGS. 1B and 1C, the data format reader 10 has a data entry keyboard 40 and a display 42. this For those who are familiar with the technology of the field, the above contents may not seem new, but the features of the invention will be shown from now on. In the specific example described, the auto-exposure data format reader 10 was shown, which reads the data format (like a two-dimensional barcode) that resides in a target that is remote from the data format reader. It is designed as. Thus, for example, a barcode is printed on a color or component or letter, and the data format is leaned by the operator and the front of the reader is away from the barcode. As shown in FIG. 1A, the reader 10 contains an array of illuminators with three different functions. Peripheral illuminators, such as 50 in the figure, are located in a frame-type structure and are arranged to illuminate the enclosed target surface. The focusing illuminator, shown in 52, emits an angled beam of light in this embodiment, which intersects and overlaps at a predetermined distance in front of the reader. The distance represents a fixed focal length, which will be explained later. Although the number of exposed illuminators indicated by 54 is large, they are arranged to provide a relatively uniform level of the target surface when switched on during the exposure period for the purpose of reading the data format. Each of the illuminators can be a suitable device, a low cost light emitting diode (LED), and is arranged to create each level of illumination that is determined to be appropriate by the application of the invention. The number, type, arrangement and use of illuminators can be decided appropriately. According to the application, the peripheral illuminator 50 or the in-focus illuminator 52 is used by itself or in combination to provide exposure illumination during the exposure period. The lens 24 of the illuminator has an array configuration and a small lens section in front of each of the illuminators 50, 52 and 54 to provide an appropriate focusing beam configuration for each of the functions already discussed. have. In Figure 1A, the central lens 56 causes the array to sense an image of the illumination reflected from the target plane on the plane of the sensor array contained within assembly 20 and the data format contained. Image communication It is arranged so that it is in focus to make a number. Now, in Figure 2, a simplified block diagram of each part of the reader of the data format using the invention is shown. Includes a conceptual diagram of cross-sections of related optical elements. As shown, the sensor array assembly 20 projects through the lens assembly 24 and the illuminators 50 and 54, and includes the sensor array 21, the optical filter 26, the array control unit 28, and the clock device 29. The sensor array 21 is located behind the center lens 56 and the filter 26. By preparing a filter 26 that is transmitted to the illumination provided by the illuminator, however, it is effective in reducing transmission in other parts of the surrounding optical spectrum, but by the surrounding destination within the exposure period. The effect is reduced. As pointed out, the sensor array assembly 20 has a two-dimensional array 21 of sensing batteries (each utilizing a photodiode and responding to projected and reflected light). The array control unit 28 is a vertical and horizontal readout circuit, a voltage appearing on an electrical or individual sensing battery, and an output amplification device, which is an adjustable gain for coupling the image signal from the sensor array assembly 20. Also equipped with a clock device 29 for timing control of reading an image signal from the selected sensor element at the same time. Suitable for use with data format reader 10. This type of sequence is available in U.S. Patent Application 08/258, 428, as shown in the June 10, 1994 application, the assignee is the same as in this application. The contents of such simultaneous applications are integrated here by reference. Other types of sensor array arrays have been used in the devices of the invention, but the benefits of the cited patent application array types are the overall sensor array, plus related gain control, focus sensing, and The exposure control circuit can be used on a single chip using a known CMOS technology application. For example, the use of existing or new CMOS technologies (or MOSFETs, NMOSs, Bipolars, BiMOSs, BiCMOSs, or other existing or new technologies) is very beneficial. In FIG. 2, the sensor array focuses on the target surface 58 at a distance 59 from the lens 56 through the lens 56. The filter 26 is placed between the lens 56 and the sensor array. It can be stated that the filter 26 is effective in first transmitting light in a certain part of the electromagnetic wave, only in a certain band, and then reducing the transmission of other parts of the surrounding optical spectrum. In this pursuit, it can be said that the sensor array is relatively unresponsive to the reflected light from the surrounding target surface. FIG. 2 is an in-focus state detector arranged to provide a "focus state" signal that can also respond to image signals supplied by many sensor elements and signal the start of data format reading. Contains 62. The focus signal is characterized by the plane of illumination supplied by the focal illuminator having at least one of the following: (a) Size within a predetermined size range (b) Brightness within a predetermined brightness range (c) Location within a predetermined location As indicated by the image signal Figure 3 shows the appropriate image signal. Two sequences for supplying the device 62 are pointed out. In FIG. 3, 56 shows the outline of the array focusing lens, and 21a shows the outline of the array of sensing elements contained within the sensor array assembly 20. 21b constitutes one or two rows of sensor elements supplied separately from the element array 21a. Point out the linear sensor. The linear array 21a is connected to point 48 in FIG. 2 and is under the control of the array control unit 28. FIG. 4 shows the focusing illuminator 52, which supplies the angled light beams 52a and 52b discussed earlier through the lens assembly 24. As shown, these beams intersect at a distance of 59 from the front of the lens 56. At distance 59, a side view of the focus 70 plane of the sensor array of array assembly 20 in combination with the focusing lens 56 is shown. Thus, with the sensor array configuration and special selection of lenses, the data format reader indicates that it is in focus condition, at which time it accurately focuses on the image of the target surface and the sensor elements of array 21. The data format connected to is the same, but if the target surface is in surface 70 at a distance of 59. In addition, the lens 56 is said to provide a reasonable depth of focus, at which time the image of the target surface is of the sensor element at any distance within the depth of the focal range pointed out in 72. The result is a satisfying focus on the top. Once the distance 59 is determined for a special leader design, the beam angle of the illuminator 52 will be adjusted to intersect or overlap at the distance 59, as shown in FIG. In this array, the linear sensor 21b in FIG. 3 first supplies the image signal displayed by the illumination of the target surface by two points of light existing at some position in space when the target surface is on a plane 74 at a distance of 76. To do. Then, as the data format reader moves closer to the target plane and the target plane is within plane 70 at a distance of 59, the two spots of light converge into a single, brighter spot in the center location. To do. The image signal from the linear array 21b thus provides an indication of a single brighter point of illumination and information about its location, thereby providing information on the focus state indication. By providing the degree of error in the in-focus image signal indication, the in-focus indication is corrected by adjusting the depth of the in-focus range 72. Focused finger In continuous distance adjustment to reach the indication, the focus detector 62 is arranged to provide a "focused" signal that can be used to initiate the read and decode cycle. With respect to FIG. 3, the dotted line connection between the sensing element array 21a in assembly 20 and circuit point 48 points to an alternative configuration. As shown in FIG. 2, point 48 presents a connection to the focusing unit 62 (similar to units 60 and 64). Instead of supplying the additional sensing elements needed to prepare the dedicated linear sensor 21b, it is planned to make temporary use of one or more of the elements of the array for focusing purposes. , It is regardless of the basic image sensing function of the array 21a. In the latter arrangement, the desired focus determination is thus without the need to supply a separate linear sensor such as 21b. As shown, FIG. 2 further includes an exposure controller 64, which responds to image signals from one or more selected sensor elements, and at the beginning and end of the exposure period. Arranged to provide available "start" and "stop" signals. The exposure control 64 uses an image signal to supply a stop signal in response to a predetermined level of reflection or illumination intensity. Such a predetermined level or intensity is measured within a period beginning by the start signal supplied by the exposure control device and represents a cumulative indication of the intensity of the reflected light. By converting the image signal received within the period to a voltage display of the cumulative image signal level, and comparing that voltage with the current first voltage, the stop signal is when the cumulative voltage reaches the first voltage. , A stop signal is generated, at which time a predetermined illumination exposure of the target surface is displayed. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the exposure controller responds to the intensity of illumination measured by the current fixed time sample exposure of one or more selected sensor elements. , Set the continuation of time between the start and stop signals. Image signals from such sensor elements are thus targeted during this sample exposure period. The level of illumination reflected from the surface is displayed. By converting the image signal into a gray level signal, an exposure control signal is provided that is an indication of the appropriate duration of the adjustable exposure period. The exposure controller 64a is coupled with the CPU 88 to determine the actual duration of the exposure period represented by the control signal. As shown in Figure 5, the CPU is arranged to access a survey table containing exposure period data associated with the gray level signal values. The actual survey table data is obtained in advance from empirical or other appropriate grounds, but as an indication of the exposure time required to be able to capture the available image data on the single frame activity grounds. , Using the level of reflected light during the first period of a given period. Also, as pointed out in FIG. 2, the gain controller 60 is arranged to respond to the image signal supplied by one or more of the sensor elements of the array assembly 20, and more characteristically the image. In order to control the magnitude of the signal, they are arranged so as to correspond to the level of reflected light indicated by such an image signal. The gain control of this embodiment is achieved by a gain control signal coupled to the adjustable gain output amplifier mentioned above contained within the sensor control unit 28. This allows the magnitude of the image signal supplied by the sensor array to be maintained within a predetermined range, but is then independent of the reflected surrounding illumination indicated by the magnitude level of the selected image signal. is there. As shown in FIG. 2, specific examples of data format readers according to the present invention also include a processing unit 80, a memory unit 82 and an input / output (I / O) module 84. The processing unit 80, which includes the digitizer 86, the CPU 88, and the power handling module 90, receives the image signal from the sensor array assembly 20 and digitizes and supplies the image data for storage in the memory unit 82. Unit 80 controls the exposure period in response to start and stop signals from units 62 and 64. To. In the process of operation, as described further, the processing unit 80 also inserts the peripheral, focal illuminators 50 and 52, and exposed illuminators through the module 90, which also handles the power coupled to the battery. Turn it on and off, and couple the power to operate the sensor array assembly 20. The processing unit 80 is further arranged so as to decipher the data format using the image data stored in the memory unit 82. After subsequent decoding of the data format, it supplies the unit 80 or cycle end signal, which is effective in ending the decoding operation and also ending the reading of the sensor elements to prepare the image signal. Is also effective, but this is by terminating at least one of the couplings of input power and clock signal preparation required together for reading the sensor elements under the control of the array control unit 28. The separately decoded data format information is supplied to the output device 92 through the I / O module 84. The I / O module 84 is arranged to operate the PCMCIA card in the interface grooves 34 and 36 discussed with respect to FIG. 1B, and provides radio, infrared, telegraph or other signal transmission and reception capabilities. It is arranged in. The output device 92 therefore has an I / O unit 84 arranged to supply a data format decoded in a suitable format for use with a special form of the output device, such as wireless or infrared transmission, or the like. An output port for coupling an output signal through a lead wire, antenna or optical device for a suitable device. Modems, speech recognition, handwriting recognition, memory and other additional capabilities or peripheral cards can also be manipulated in the PCMCIA groove. As described above, as revealed by the understanding of the data format reader, the system according to the invention has features such as automatic gain control, automatic exposure, automatic focusing detection, single frame imaging and other features. Operation Now, FIG. 6 shows a flowchart for operating the image system using the invention. Su At Tep 100, the user activates the trigger device 14 of data format 10 shown in FIG. 1B. At step 104, the peripheral illuminator 50 and the in-focus illuminator 52 are attached, and the sensor reading begins. In step 106, the user adjusts the distance between the data format reader 10 and the target surface so that it is within the range 72 of FIG. 4, where the illuminated surfaces intersect and are single. The smaller, brighter side of is also turned into a point of illumination with a central location. In step 108, it is monitored whether the in-focus state reached in step 106 is characterized by at least one of them. (a) The size is within the range of the predetermined size (b) The brightness is within the range of the predetermined brightness (c) The place is within the range of the predetermined place Thus focused, and concentric when this minimally sized state is detected in various ways. When such a change in the illumination surface is reached as a feature, the "focus state" signal is activated in step 10 and all illuminations in the exposure array are turned on. When the exposure illuminator is attached, the exposure controller sends a start signal to the sensor array assembly at 20, which is effective in resetting the cumulative charge on the sensor to the reference charge. The photosensor immediately begins accumulating new charges, as pointed out in step 11. At the same time, the exposure controller and the gain controller periodically measure the charge accumulated in the photodetector sample in steps 113 and 114. The gain control device in step 113 selects a gain of an appropriate size and a branched signal using the sample image data, and applies it to the sensor array amplifier in the array control unit 28. In step 114, the exposure controller monitors the sample image data, and when the sample image data points out that the level of reflected light from the target surface has reached a predetermined level on a cumulative basis, the exposure controller. Generates a stop signal. In response to the stop signal, the accumulated charge on the exposure sensor is measured and converted into a voltage signal. Two-dimensional array of photosensitive cells Known types of sensor arrays that use are allowed to accumulate charge during the exposure period when the sensor element is grounded to a reference voltage level. So, according to the read process, all or selected cells are sampled at the same time and the cumulative charge is measured, but then the data is temporarily stored and continuously from row to row using a shift register array. Is read. In step 115, the exposure illumination is turned off when there are no more cells in the cell that require reading. However, if additional cells were left to be read, the system would return to steps 112 and 113 in this example. The exposure controller then generates a start signal and begins an exposure period for the next group of cells, which is read at the end of that exposure period. After reading the complete frame, the system proceeds from step 115 to step 116, at which point the exposure illumination is turned off. In step 117, the processor unit 80 begins decoding the data format using image data consisting of image signals from the array assembly 20 that has been digitized and stored in the memory unit 82. If the decoding is successful, the data format information decoded in step 118 becomes useful for transmission from the data format reader 10, and a cycle end signal is issued for input power and used by the array control unit 28. The read cycle ends when at least one of the clock signals is cut off. If the decryption is unsuccessful, the read cycle is restarted at step 117, or it is a repetitive start of step 104 as shown in FIG. There is something to note in step 117. If the data format is in fact in the imaging of the target surface, it must be placed in a place in the image where the data format can be deciphered. This matter is indicated in the "2-D barcode positioning" of the US application. Same as before, but using an image with an array of sensing elements, all or some of the following steps are selected. Includes. (a) Place an optical filter in front of the array that is effective in transmitting the light from the exposed illuminator and reducing the transmission of other parts of the surrounding light spectrum; (b) Input power required for reading. And start reading of selected sensor elements that supply the clock signal (c) have an illuminated surface characterized by at least one of magnitude, brightness and location that varies with the distance between the array and the target surface. Illuminate the target surface; (d) The illuminated surface is provided by at least one of a size within a predetermined size range, a brightness within a predetermined brightness range, and a location within a predetermined location range. Adjusting this distance, which causes it to be characterized; (e) Focus when it is pointed out that the image signal from at least one sensing element is characterized as the illumination is characterized as described in step (d). Providing a state signal; (f) Attaching an exposed illuminator in response to the in-focus state signal; (g) Using the image signal from the sensing element selected as an indication of the level of reflected light, from the array Providing a gain control signal that controls the amplification of the image signal; (h) Creating a stop signal when the image signal from at least one sensing element points to a given level of reflection of illumination from the target surface. (i) Turn off the exposed illuminator after full exposure of the sensor cell; (j) For decoding the data format of image data showing the image signal from the array digitized and stored in memory. Processing; (k) Upon successful decoding of the data format, signals the end of the cycle, terminates the sensor reading with at least one end of the input power and clock signal, and the decoded data format. Coupling information with I / O modules; And (1) if the decoding is unsuccessful, repeat from step (d). FIG. 7 is a flowchart corresponding to the second specific example of the present invention. Steps 100 to 108 are the same as before. After determining the focus state in step 108 and generating the focus state signal, an exposure illuminator is attached to this sample exposure period and image data is collected in step 122. To do this, the exposure controller generates a sample exposure start signal, which causes the selected photosensor to be placed at the reference charge and sample to start accumulating charge. At the end of this exposure period, the exposure controller generates a stop signal, some of which is merely a timer for this purpose, by which the cumulative charge of the sample on each selected sensor is as image data. Loaded. In step 124, the exposure controller determines an adjustable exposure period in response to the image data collected during sample exposure. As discussed, the appropriate exposure period is to accumulate the image data from the selected sensor via the exposure unit 64a in FIG. 5 and refer to the final voltage with the survey table stored in the memory 82a. Is determined by. It is commendable that the level of reflected illumination is determined by the reflectance of the target surface, among other factors. Such reflectance may be higher or lower than expected depending on the surface structure and color condition. Therefore, controlling the gain of the image signal from the array is as desirable as the exposure period. This result can be obtained by accumulating the image data from the selected sensor elements via the gain unit 60a in FIG. 5 and by referring to the survey table in the memory 82a for the signal display, which is the first. Gives a value for adjusting the image signal output gain for a special level of illumination reflected during this period. Figure 7 shows step 126, which uses sample image data to determine the appropriate gain adjustment and attempts to apply it to the output amplifier of the sensor array assembly. In step 128 The device captures a single frame of image data. As discussed above, if the sensor array is configured so that all optical sensor cells are matched, exposed, and sampled in parallel to generate a complete frame of data, step 128 is only one. It consists of a ground cycle, exposure, and sampling of cumulative charge on the cell. At step 30, the exposure illuminator is turned off. If only the sensor elements for which the optical sensor array was selected were loaded in parallel in a single cycle, the exposure controller would have many start and stop corresponding to a given exposure time, as pointed out by the dotted path 128. It will generate a signal. After collecting the complete frame of data, the exposure illumination is turned off at step 130. If the data form continues to be decoded in step 132, the data transfer and read cycle involves at least one end of the input power and clock signal used by the array controller, and proceeds to step 134. The simplicity and effectiveness of the operation is enhanced by automatic gain control, automatic shutterless exposure control and automatic focusing state detection. The operational advantages are perfect accuracy, full frame imaging on a single frame, auto-exposure basis and independent of surrounding light levels. The required gain adjustment is perceived in times on the order of 100 microseconds. With single frame imaging, continuous image data is transferred and data processing is avoided. In addition to the hand-held application, the system according to the invention is simple, inexpensive, reliable and highly useful in many other areas. For those who are competent in this field, one would think that improvements would be made without leaving the invention, but Claim emphasizes that all improvements and variants are within the scope of the invention. .. , Exposure and sampling of cumulative charge on the cell. At step 30, the exposure illuminator is turned off. If only the sensor elements for which the optical sensor array was selected were loaded in parallel in a single cycle, the exposure controller would have many start and stop corresponding to a given exposure time, as pointed out by the dotted path 128. It will generate a signal. After collecting the complete frame of data, the exposure illumination is turned off at step 130. If the data form continues to be decoded in step 132, the data transfer and read cycle involves at least one end of the input power and clock signal used by the array controller, and proceeds to step 134. The simplicity and effectiveness of the operation is enhanced by automatic gain control, automatic shutterless exposure control and automatic focusing state detection. The operational advantages are perfect accuracy, full frame imaging on a single frame, auto-exposure basis and independent of surrounding light levels. The required gain adjustment is perceived in times on the order of 100 microseconds. With single frame imaging, continuous image data is transferred and data processing is avoided. In addition to the hand-held application, the system according to the invention is simple, inexpensive, reliable and highly useful in many other areas. For those who are competent in this field, one would think that improvements would be made without leaving the invention, but Claim emphasizes that all improvements and variants are within the scope of the invention. .. , Exposure and sampling of cumulative charge on the cell. At step 30, the exposure illuminator is turned off. If only the sensor elements for which the optical sensor array was selected were loaded in parallel in a single cycle, the exposure controller would have many start and stop corresponding to a given exposure time, as pointed out by the dotted path 128. It will generate a signal. After collecting the complete frame of data, the exposure illumination is turned off at step 130. If the data form continues to be decoded in step 132, the data transfer and read cycle involves at least one end of the input power and clock signal used by the array controller, and proceeds to step 134. The simplicity and effectiveness of the operation is enhanced by automatic gain control, automatic shutterless exposure control and automatic focusing state detection. The operational advantages are perfect accuracy, full frame imaging on a single frame, auto-exposure basis and independent of surrounding light levels. The required gain adjustment is perceived in times on the order of 100 microseconds. With single frame imaging, continuous image data is transferred and data processing is avoided. In addition to the hand-held application, the system according to the invention is simple, inexpensive, reliable and highly useful in many other areas. For those who are competent in this field, one would think that improvements would be made without leaving the invention, but Claim emphasizes that all improvements and variants are within the scope of the invention. .. Includes at least one end of the input power and clock signal used, and proceeds to step 134. The simplicity and effectiveness of the operation is enhanced by automatic gain control, automatic shutterless exposure control and automatic focusing state detection. The operational advantages are perfect accuracy, full frame imaging on a single frame, auto-exposure basis and independent of surrounding light levels. The required gain adjustment is perceived in times on the order of 100 microseconds. With single frame imaging, continuous image data is transferred and data processing is avoided. In addition to the hand-held application, the system according to the invention is simple, inexpensive, reliable and highly useful in many other areas. For those who are competent in this field, one would think that improvements would be made without leaving the invention, but Claim emphasizes that all improvements and variants are within the scope of the invention. .. Includes at least one end of the input power and clock signal used, and proceeds to step 134. The simplicity and effectiveness of the operation is enhanced by automatic gain control, automatic shutterless exposure control and automatic focusing state detection. The operational advantages are perfect accuracy, full frame imaging on a single frame, auto-exposure basis and independent of surrounding light levels. The required gain adjustment is perceived in times on the order of 100 microseconds. With single frame imaging, continuous image data is transferred and data processing is avoided. In addition to the hand-held application, the system according to the invention is simple, inexpensive, reliable and highly useful in many other areas. For those who are competent in this field, one would think that improvements would be made without leaving the invention, but Claim emphasizes that all improvements and variants are within the scope of the invention. ..