Passive Optics No-Moving-Parts Barcode Scanners

For the first time, to the best of our knowledge, passive optics no-moving-parts barcode or one-dimensional (1-D) data scanners are reported. The proposed scanners are based on high-speed wavelength selection coupled with a planar wavelength dispersive element (such as a diffraction grating) to produce 1-D spatially scanned beams. The electronically controlled wavelength-encoded beam positioning allows for high-speed barcode or 1-D data handling operations. The demonstrated no-moving-parts barcode scanner designed to operate in the 1550-nm band exhibits high (>25 dB) dynamic range, high angular as well as linear scan resolution, eye-safe operation, and attests to the simplicity and functionality of the proposed scanners for use in barcode reading.