Optimized barcode decoding in multi-imager barcode readers and imaging engines

An imaging engine for use in a barcode reader, comprising:

• a first imaging assembly configured to capture a first image over a first field of view (FOV);
• a second imaging assembly positioned relative to the first imaging assembly and configured to capture a second image over a second FOV;
• and
• a controller communicatively coupled to the first imaging assembly and the second imaging assembly, the controller configured to:
• calculate a first contrast level within a first region, the first region being within the first image;
• calculate a second contrast level within a second region, the second region being within the second image;
• execute a first barcode-decode operation on the first image when the first contrast level is greater than the second contrast level;
• and
• execute the first barcode-decode operation on the second image when the second contrast level is greater than the first contrast level.

A method of decoding a barcode with a barcode reader having a controller communicatively coupled to a first imaging assembly and a second imaging assembly, the method comprising:

• capturing a first image via the first imaging assembly over a first field of view (FOV);
• capturing a second image via the second imaging assembly over a second FOV;
• calculating, via the controller, a first contrast level within a first region, the first region being within the first image;
• calculate, via the controller, a second contrast level within a second region, the second region being within the second image;
• executing a first barcode-decode operation on the first image when the first contrast level is greater than the second contrast level;
• and
• executing the first barcode-decode operation on the second image when the second contrast level is greater than the first contrast level.