Mouse-shaped device reads 2D codes on parts

In a new approach to the reading of 2D codes, a hand-held 'mouse' device can be used for 'on-the-spot' checking of information encoded on parts during a manufacturing process.

Absolute Vision has launched the DataMouse, a completely new approach to the reading of two-dimensional (2D) codes, using a hand-held device.

The reader can be used for 'on-the-spot' checking of information encoded on parts during a manufacturing process.

Applications include traceability and quality control.

The DataMouse breaks with the tradition that hand-held readers must be pistol shaped, and delivers a number of unique advantages by having a format resembling a computer mouse.

It is compact, portable and more ergonomic than other hand-held readers.

Its innovative design has produced an extremely stable platform for image acquisition.

Operation of the DataMouse is very simple, with a basic training requirement.

The user has only to place the reader over a 2D code marked on a part.

An audible 'squeak' indicates that the code has been read by the system.

The DataMouse encompasses a CCD progressive scan imaging sensor and white light, using Absolute Vision's powerful Medusa software to reliably read 2D codes.

A high-speed USB interface sends near real-time images to the Microsoft Windows GUI, with read data transferred automatically into any Windows application, such as Excel or Access.

The DataMouse significantly lowers the entry-level costs for those manufacturers seeking to meet the latest requirements for part traceability.

"We believe that the DataMouse has the potential to reduce quality control errors to virtually zero," said Charlie Plain-Jones, sales director for Absolute Vision.

"It will become an essential piece of equipment for manufacturers in quality-led industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare and electronics industries." The DataMouse gives perfect reads whatever the colour or texture of the background.

It reliably reads Data Matrix codes on high contrast labels and directly applied marks (DAMs), including dot-peened, on a range of surfaces - polished metals such as steels, alloys and titanium, rubbers and plastics.

It can even cope with marks applied on highly polished cylindrical parts.

About Absolute Vision - the company is a specialist developer of two-dimensional (2D) code reading and machine vision solutions.

2D Data Matrix is a square or rectangular array of dots or cells that stores information in two dimensions (2D).

It has now been adopted in many industries and is quickly becoming the standard marking technology due to its ability to hold more information in a smaller space and the robustness of its reading capability.

Absolute Vision is working towards Investors in People and ISO 9001:2000 accreditations; the company is a member of Solihull Chamber of Commerce and Industry, UK.

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