An optical scanning device for scanning an optical record carrier. The optical scanning device includes: a radiation source system (661; 761); an optical element (1; 101; 201; 301) comprising a first fluid (A) and a second fluid (B; C) separated from each other by a fluid meniscus (16; 116, 138; 216; 316) having an adjustable configuration; and a control system (20; 120; 220; 320) arranged to adjust the fluid meniscus configuration to introduce a first type of wavefront modification. The first type of wavefront modification causes the radiation beam to be redirected from an input radiation beam path (2; 102; 244; 348) onto one of a plurality of output radiation beam paths (24, 26; 140; 246; 350) which each have a different angular displacement (α, β, Ϝ, δ, e) from the input radiation beam path. The control system is further arranged to adjust the fluid meniscus configuration to introduce a second type of wavefront modification. The second type of wavefront modification is arranged to compensate a wavefront aberration of the radiation beam, the compensated wavefront aberration being adjusted in accordance with the angular displacement.

Optical Scanning Device

Apparatus and methods consistent with the present invention provide for identifying and processing mail using an identification code on a mailpiece as a redundant source of identification information in a mail sorting system. In one embodiment, this information is stored in a temporary database and used for the identification and processing of mail in a Remote Bar Code System (RBCS). In this embodiment, the identification code enables the automation of mail sorting and other processing tasks, reducing costs and delays in mail delivery services. In another embodiment, the identification and processing of mail occurs in an Identification Code Sorting (ICS) system. In this embodiment, a long-term database allows for mail sorting and other processing tasks on a national or global level.

Apparatus and methods for identifying and processing mail using an identification code

Apparatus and methods consistent with the present invention provide for reading an identification code from a mailpiece. In one embodiment, there are a reader unit and a reader head assembly connected by an optical cable, which provide for the identification of a mailpiece in an identification code sorting system.

Apparatus and methods for reading an identification code from a mailpiece

Apparatus such as a sewing machine, having means, e.g., a feed dog cooperating with a presser foot, to pass sheet material over a work surface through a work point, is improved by adapting it to automatically steer or guide the sheet material through the machine. A rotatable gripping means such as a contact ring about the work point is arranged to intermittently engage the sheet material, synchronously with the action occurring at the work point. Associated therewith is means for actuating the gripping means into contact with the sheet material and for imparting a controlled rotational movement to the gripping means so that it moves arcuately with respect to the work point thus exerting a guiding action on the sheet material. The gripping means can be located above or below the sheet material and can have opposed to it a cooperating surface to assist it in its clamping and guiding action. The rotational motion of the gripping means can be controlled by means of an optical edge sensor or it can be preprogrammed as by computer techniques. The fact that the rotatable gripping means contacts the sheet material at least over a series of points, preferably over an area at least in part surrounding the work point, and the fact that the position of the gripping means in contact with the sheet material moves relative to the work point in the plane of the sheet material while it is exerting its guiding action, are considered distinguishing characteristics of the invention.

Feed guide for sheet material

An optical reading head is described which is particularly designed to read codes generally formed by fluorescent or phosphorescent bars. The codes are carried by a support, such as an envelope which moves past the head at a relatively high speed. The support carrying the code is illuminated from a light source through a set of outgoing optical fibers, and the modulated light retransmitted by the code markings is conveyed through a set of incoming optical fibers to a processing device. Such a reading head is particularly adapted for use in a postal sorting system.

Williamson David T N

Papers

Optical inspection devices