Importance

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Abstract

An exceptionally thin, replaceable reader head for an optical code reader has a thin base upon which are mounted both a light source for illuminating the codes in an edgewise direction relative to the base, and a light sensor for receiving light reflected from the codes also in an edgewise direction, the light sensor including an optical fiber for contacting the codes. Detachable electrical connectors for the light source and light sensor, respectively, extend generally in opposite edgewise directions for connection to the electrical circuits of the optical code reader. The base of the reader head contains deformable mounts for fixedly connecting the light source and light sensor to the base, as well as fiber holding structures for holding the optical fiber in a predetermined position relative to the base. In order to reduce the requirement for precise alignment of the optical fiber with the light sensor, the end portion of the optical fiber adjacent the light sensor is of a varying cross-sectional area which increases gradually toward the end.

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First Claim